5 Days in Iceland: A Complete Itinerary for an Epic Trip

Key takeaways:

• Five days in Iceland is enough to experience stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, ice caves, geothermal spas, and iconic locations like Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. 

• Summer offers extended daylight for sightseeing, while winter brings the northern lights, ice caves, and frozen landscapes.

• Many travelers opt for a road trip, exploring highlights like the South Coast and the Golden Circle.

• Reykjavik, the capital city, is also a great base for day trips and guided tours.

• South Coast tours are especially popular in winter, offering guided experiences to ice caves, frozen waterfalls, glacier lagoons, and prime northern lights viewing spots.

How Many Days in Iceland Is Enough?

While some may recommend longer stays for a complete Ring Road experience, five days in Iceland is enough to experience many of the highlights. Enjoy the ethereal dance of the northern lights in winter and the endless daylight of the midnight sun in summer. 

It's the perfect duration for a taste of Iceland's wonders, especially if you focus on specific regions and tailor your itinerary to the season. No matter when you visit, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable adventures await.

Attractions You Must See in Iceland During 5 Days

If you have five days in Iceland, focusing on the most iconic and breathtaking sites will make your trip unforgettable. You can experience a wealth of places across the South, West, North, and even the Highlands. Here are the top five must-see attractions:

• The Golden Circle

  • Thingvellir National Park: Walk between two continents at this UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Geysir Geothermal Area: Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.

  • Gullfoss Waterfall: Witness the power of this massive, multi-tiered waterfall.

• South Coast Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach

  • Seljalandsfoss: A waterfall with a unique pathway behind the cascading water.

  • Skogafoss: A mighty waterfall with a staircase leading to a panoramic view.

  • Reynisfjara Beach: A striking black sand beach with towering basalt columns.

• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

  • Marvel at massive icebergs floating in the lagoon.

  • Stroll along Diamond Beach, where glistening ice chunks contrast with black sand.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula

  • Visit Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain.

  • Explore Snaefellsjokull National Park, home to a glacier-capped volcano.

• Blue Lagoon

  • Relax in the world-famous geothermal spa with its mineral-rich, milky-blue waters.

If, however, you are looking to get your adrenaline-pumping with some Icelandic adventure, you could embark with ease, year-round, from the capital on horseback-riding, snowmobiling, glacier hiking, quad-biking  and lava caving trips.

There are also a wealth of sightseeing tours that head the South and West in just a day. Most notable of these are the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. All of these places will immerse you in the country's magnificent nature, and show you a wealth of unique and breathtaking sites.

Some excursions will even take you as far as the Highlands; this tour, for example, will allow you to spend a day hiking in Landmannalaugar, through its magnificent rhyolite mountains. It also provides you with the opportunity to bathe in the local natural hot springs, surrounded by highland landscapes.

Your Summer Guide to an Amazing Five Days in Iceland 

Summer in Iceland offers extended daylight hours for sightseeing and activities. Maximize your time and experience the best things to do in Iceland with multi-day tours and vacation packages. You can also rent a car to allow flexibility as you travel.

Best 5-Day Summer Road Trip Options

Consider these self-drive tour options to get your planning started. You can also enjoy a variety of meet-on-location options with your own transportation. Some include:

• South Coast Tours and Glacier Adventures: Drive along Iceland’s stunning South Coast and explore icy wonders with the Katla Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hiking at Skaftafell. Don’t miss the Jokulsarlon Boat Tour to sail among towering icebergs.

• Golden Circle Tours and Snaefellsnes: Combine iconic sites with adventure by Snorkeling in Silfra between tectonic plates in Thingvellir before exploring the diverse landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

• North Iceland and Wildlife Tours: Head north for dramatic scenery and a Whale Watching in Husavik tour, where you can spot humpback and minke whales. Visit geothermal hotspots and lava fields along the way.

• Highlands Tours and Adventures: Rent a 4x4 and journey into the Highlands, then amp up the thrill with Snowmobiling on Langjokull. Wrap up your trip by unwinding with a Blue Lagoon Comfort ticket to enjoy the geothermal spa.

A five-day road trip offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, letting you experience Iceland’s best sights at your own pace.

Best 5-Day Summer Itinerary from Reykjavik 

Reykjavik, a vibrant and culturally rich capital, is a must-see for any Iceland itinerary. No matter the duration of your Iceland vacation, allow at least half a day to explore its cultural sites, unique architecture, and captivating street art. 

Reykjavik’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Iceland.  Numerous day tours depart from the city, offering easy access to natural wonders. Here’s a potential itinerary for your visit:

• Day 1: Explore Reykjavik

  • As visitors discover all the things to do in Reykjavik, many find themselves wishing for more time to soak in the city's charm. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing a Reykjavik City Card for access to museums, galleries, and swimming pools, along with free public transport and discounts.

  • For an easy and immersive introduction to the city, Hop-On, Hop-Off buses and food tours are also great options.

• Day 2: Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon

  • The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, Iceland’s most famous natural wonders.

  • Relax at the famous Blue Lagoon Spa: Book a Blue Lagoon Round-Trip Transfer and Comfort Ticket for a hassle-free experience.

• Day 3: South Coast Adventure

  • The South Coast Tour from Reykjavik: Explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and breathtaking glacier viewpoints.

• Day 4: Unique Adventures

  • Go Inside the Volcano from Reykjavik: Descend into the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano for a rare underground adventure.

  • The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik: Spot whales, dolphins, and puffins on a thrilling marine safari from the Old Harbour.

• Day 5: Snaefellsnes Peninsula or Adventure Activities

  • The Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik: Discover black sand beaches, lava fields, volcanic craters, Snaefellsjokull glacier, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.

  • Adventure seekers can embark on horseback riding, snowmobiling, glacier hiking, quad biking, and ice-caving trips from Reykjavik. 

  • Popular day trips include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Reykjanes peninsula, and the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Some tours even venture into the Highlands, like the Landmannalaugar hiking tour.

For those with a bigger budget, consider a sightseeing tour by plane or helicopter from Reykjavik's Domestic Airport to more remote areas. A tour to Akureyri, for example, opens up the incredible sites of Lake Myvatn and Game of Thrones filming locations.

This itinerary ensures a balance of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking landscapes, making the most of your summer trip to Iceland.

Your Winter Guide to an Amazing Five Days in Iceland

Five winter days in Iceland offer stunning snowy landscapes and arctic adventures. Though nights are long and days short, there's plenty of excitement. 

Many visit Iceland in the winter for the northern lights, a breathtaking sight when the skies are clear. While five days give you a good chance, storms, and overcast skies can make sightings uncertain. Enjoy a Five-Day Ultimate Winter Package in Iceland to make the most of your time.

Best 5-Day Winter Road Trip Options

If you're comfortable driving in winter conditions, a self-drive adventure gives you the flexibility to explore Iceland at your own pace. Enjoy a Five-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour or meet on location for excursions offered year-round.

Some adventure tours are available year-round, letting you experience Iceland’s winter landscapes in unique ways:

• Katla Ice Cave Tour: Venture inside a stunning natural ice cave beneath the Katla volcano.

• Snorkeling in Silfra: Float between two continents in crystal-clear glacial waters at Thingvellir National Park.

• Snowmobiling on Langjokull: Speed across a vast glacier for an exhilarating winter thrill.

• Blue Lagoon: Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa.

• Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour: Available from January through October, this guided hike lets you explore breathtaking glacial landscapes.

There are also shorter self-drive options to include in your five-day plan, such as: 

• Three-Day South Iceland Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour: Make your way down the South Coast and explore ice caves along the way.

• Four-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of the Golden Circle: Visit iconic sites while chasing the aurora borealis.

A winter road trip in Iceland offers breathtaking snowscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the magic of the northern lights, making for an unforgettable adventure.

Best 5-Day Winter Itinerary from Reykjavik

For those who prefer to stay in Reykjavik and take guided tours, this itinerary provides a mix of adventure and relaxation:

• Day 1: Explore Reykjavik

  • Walk through the city's charming streets, visiting Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture.

  • Try Icelandic cuisine at a cozy local restaurant.

• Day 2: Golden Circle Excursions and Northern Lights Tours

  • Take a guided tour of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

  • In the evening, join a northern lights tour by bus, boat, or super jeep.

• Day 3: South Coast Adventure

  • Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.

  • Walk along the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach.

  • See the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach.

• Day 4: Ice Caving or Snowmobiling

  • Enjoy a Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier.

  • Alternatively, go snowmobiling on a glacier for an adrenaline-filled experience.

• Day 5: Blue Lagoon and Departure

  • Relax in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters before heading to the Keflavik airport.

  • Enjoy a final meal in Reykjavik if time allows.

This plan ensures a balance of adventure and relaxation while maximizing your chances of seeing the northern lights and experiencing Iceland’s stunning winter landscapes.

Top Activities to Enjoy with 5 Days in Iceland

With five days in Iceland, you have enough time to experience some of the country's most breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling adventures. Here are some top activities to consider during your trip.

1. Explore Ice Caves

One of the biggest draws to guests to Iceland in winter is the crystal ice caves that open underneath Vatnajokull Glacier between mid-October and March (note that many operators don't start tours until November). 

These incredible formations allow guests to see the electric blue world inside an ice cap as it naturally occurs. The best way to see the ice caves is by taking a multi-day tour, where your guide may have some flexibility when you organize trips to them. 

Several tours go along the South Coast to the incredible glacier lagoon, which includes ice-caving components. These can be conducted over a two-day South Coast winter trip or a three-day northern lights and ice cave tour.

This five-day vacation package gives you the chance to see an ice cave while also immersing you in the South Coast and Golden Circle. It also focuses on finding the northern lights and includes Blue Lagoon admission.

2. Discover Iceland via Self-Drive Options 

Of course, if you are renting a car and driving yourself, there are several self-drive options that can help you carve out the best route or decide what to do in Iceland. 

Please note, however, that Icelandic road and weather conditions can be quite dangerous in winter, so only confident, skilled drivers should consider renting a car, and even then, only a four-wheel drive.

Those eager to plumb the depths of an ice cave and see the magnificent Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon should look into this five-day self-drive that covers the South Coast and Golden Circle. It also has the potential for many classic Icelandic attractions to be added to the journey.

A seven-day tour option skips the ice caves and grants you the opportunity to see north Iceland in winter by taking you to the stunning Myvatn region. 

You'll have the opportunity to witness endless snowscapes, geothermal energy seething through ice, vast frozen lakes, and the popular sites of the north clad in their winter colors.

A five-day trip to Iceland offers more sightseeing, adventure, and culture than a long weekend, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its nature and history.

3. Alternative Iceland Adventures

If you don’t want to worry about ice cave tour cancellations, there are plenty of other exciting activities to fill your five days in Iceland.

For an adrenaline rush, consider a snowmobile tour on Langjokull Glacier, departing from Gullfoss Waterfall. This adventure takes you across vast icy landscapes, offering an unforgettable view of Iceland’s wintry wilderness.

A lesser-known but thrilling experience is dog sledding in North Iceland. A two-hour dog-sledding package in the stunning Myvatn region lets you race across snowy landscapes with a team of huskies while also enjoying an up-close meeting with these friendly animals. 

Frequently Asked Questions About 5-Day Trips to Iceland

Here are some of the most common questions about spending five days in Iceland.

Is 5 Days Enough to See Iceland?

Yes, five days is plenty to see Iceland’s highlights, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, and northern lights. While a week is ideal, you’ll still experience stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and rich culture.

Can I See the Northern Lights With 5 Days in Iceland?

Yes, if you visit between late September and mid-April, you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights in Iceland. To increase your chances, check the aurora forecast, head to dark, cloud-free areas, and be patient.

Can You Do Ring Road in 5 days?

Covering the full Ring Road in five days is possible but can feel rushed. Instead, consider focusing on specific regions, like the South Coast and Snaefellsnes peninsula, or North Iceland, for a more enjoyable experience.

How Much Money Should You Take to Iceland for 5 days?

For five days in Iceland, budget about 1,500 USD to 3,000+ USD per person, depending on your travel style. This does not include flights and larger expenses like glacier hikes, private tours, or luxury accommodations. 

Is 5 Days in Iceland Enough to See the Northern lights?

Yes, 5 days in Iceland is enough to see the northern lights, but it depends on the season and weather. The best time is from late September to early April when nights are dark. To maximize your chances, stay in areas with little light pollution, check the aurora forecast, and book a Northern Lights tour. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, having multiple nights increases your chances. Many tour operators offer a free rebooking if you don’t see them on your first attempt.

How to Make the Most of Your 5 Days in Iceland

Spending five days in Iceland gives you the perfect opportunity to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic beaches and geothermal hot springs. Whether you choose a self-drive adventure, a guided tour, or a mix of both, planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your time.

To maximize your trip:

• Prioritize key attractions like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Blue Lagoon.

• Consider guided multi-day tours or self-drive tours to explore more remote areas.

• Pack appropriately for the season, especially in winter when conditions can be unpredictable.

• Stay flexible—weather in Iceland can change quickly, so have backup plans for outdoor activities.

No matter your itinerary, five days in Iceland will leave you with unforgettable memories. Want to extend your trip a little longer? Enjoy a Seven-Day Summer Self-Drive Adventure or One-Week Guided Winter Circle of Iceland Tour to experience more of the stunning scenery.

Have you been to Iceland, or are you planning your own five-day adventure? Which attractions are at the top of your list? Let us know in the comments!

• See also: What To Do With 7 Days in Iceland