From dramatic waterfalls and black sand beaches to glacial lagoons and geothermal wonders, this route offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, this itinerary ensures you won’t miss any of Iceland’s must-see sights.
Suggested Itinerary
- 2 nights in Reykjavik
- 1 night in Vik i Myrdal
- 1 night in Höfn
- 2 nights in Myvatn
- 1 night in Akureyri
- 1 night in Reykjavik
Reykjavik – The Perfect Starting Point
Begin your journey in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital, where modern culture meets Viking heritage.
- What to See: Explore the towering Hallgrimskirkja Church and its panoramic views, stroll along Laugavegur Street for shopping and dining, or marvel at the contemporary design of the Harpa Concert Hall.
- Museums: Dive into Iceland’s history at the National Museum of Iceland or learn about the country’s volcanic geology at Perlan Museum, complete with a man-made ice cave.
- Dining: Sample Icelandic lamb, Arctic char, or seafood at local favorites like Messinn or Fiskmarkaðurinn.
Spend two nights here to explore Reykjavik before picking up your rental car and hitting the road.
Reykjavik to Vik i Myrdal – 2.5 Hours
Leave Reykjavik and head along the scenic south coast to Vik i Myrdal, home to black sand beaches and towering cliffs.
Stops Along the Way
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: A unique waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water.
- Skogafoss Waterfall: Known for its dramatic 60-meter drop and frequent rainbows.
- Katla Ice Cave: Take a guided tour to explore this stunning natural ice cave near the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The surreal blue ice and intricate formations are unforgettable.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Famous for its basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Spend the night in Vik, a quaint village nestled between mountains and sea.
Vik i Myrdal to Höfn – 3 Hours
Continue your journey along the southern coast to Höfn, a fishing town and the gateway to Vatnajökull National Park.
Stops Along the Way
- Fjadrargljufur Canyon: A dramatic, lush canyon carved by glacial rivers.
- Vatnajökull Glacier: Europe’s largest glacier, offering opportunities for glacier hikes and ice cave tours.
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: A surreal lagoon dotted with floating icebergs. Nearby, Diamond Beach showcases glittering chunks of ice washed up on black sand.
Spend the night in Höfn, known for its langoustine dishes.
Höfn to Myvatn – 6 Hours
Travel through the East Fjords and into the volcanic landscapes of the Myvatn region.
Stops Along the Way
- The East Fjords: Pass through quaint villages like Djupivogur, surrounded by towering mountains and fjords.
- Dettifoss Waterfall: Europe’s most powerful waterfall, renowned for its sheer force and raw beauty.
- Hverir Geothermal Area: A Mars-like landscape with bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.
Spend two nights in Myvatn, the heart of Iceland’s geothermal activity.
Myvatn – Geothermal Wonders
Use your second day in Myvatn to explore its unique volcanic features and relax in its serene surroundings.
- Myvatn Nature Baths: Unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Dimmuborgir Lava Fields: Explore bizarre lava formations known as the "Dark Castles."
- Krafla Volcano: Visit the crater and surrounding lava fields to see the impact of past eruptions.
Myvatn to Akureyri – 1.5 Hours
Drive west to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, known for its lively culture and picturesque setting.
Stops Along the Way
- Godafoss Waterfall: Known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," this picturesque site is one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks.
- Eyjafjordur Fjord: Enjoy stunning views of Iceland’s longest fjord as you approach Akureyri.
Spend the night in Akureyri, exploring its charming streets, botanical gardens, and local shops.
Akureyri to Reykjavik – 4.5 Hours
Complete your journey by driving back to Reykjavik, but not without some last memorable stops.
Stops Along the Way
- Hraunfossar Waterfalls: A series of cascading waterfalls flowing over lava fields.
- Barnafoss Waterfall: A dramatic and unique waterfall just a short walk from Hraunfossar.
- Borgarnes: A charming town ideal for a lunch break or a visit to the Settlement Center, which tells the story of Iceland’s Viking history.
Spend your final night in Reykjavik, reflecting on your incredible journey.
Practical Tips for Your Ring Road Adventure
- Flights: Begin and end your trip at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located just outside Reykjavik.
- Transportation: Renting a car is essential for this trip, as it offers flexibility and access to Iceland’s remote locations. Ensure you rent a vehicle suitable for Iceland’s roads and weather conditions.
- Packing: Bring warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and swimwear for hot springs.
- Season: Summer offers long daylight hours and accessible roads, while winter showcases Northern Lights and fewer crowds.
A Journey Like No Other
Iceland’s Ring Road is more than just a road trip; it’s an exploration of the raw and untamed beauty that defines this incredible island. From glacial lagoons and volcanic craters to thundering waterfalls and geothermal springs, this adventure promises unforgettable memories at every turn. Book your flights, accommodations, and car rental today to experience the magic of Iceland!
[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "undefined", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop
