Ultimate 7-Day Iceland Travel Itinerary For Nature Lovers

Explore the Land of Fire and Ice with our detailed 7-day Iceland travel itinerary! Discover Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and more.

Iceland is an adventurer’s paradise, packed with stunning landscapes, cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, and vast glaciers.

If you’re looking to embark on a week-long road trip to explore this natural wonderland, here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your journey.

After traveling to more than 40 countries, we can confidently say that Iceland is among the top five most beautiful countries we’ve visited.

Iceland is worth visiting even if you aren’t into nature trips or hiking. There is nothing like driving along the vast countryside and marveling at stunning waterfalls.

In this post, we share our 7-day Iceland travel itinerary. Please keep in mind that we took this trip during the first week of November, in the fall.

The weather in Iceland changes depending on the time of year you visit, which can impact your experience.

7-Day Iceland Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

Getting to Reykjavik is fairly easy if you are coming from the East Coast of the United States. A non-stop flight from New York or Boston takes around 5 hours. If you’re flying from London, it’s about a 3-hour non-stop flight.

Once you’ve cleared customs and collected your luggage, head to the car rental area at the airport to pick up your vehicle. We highly recommend renting an SUV, especially during the fall or winter, as the roads can get icy.

Iceland is best explored by road, and having your own vehicle will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The roads in Iceland are very well maintained and one of the best we’ve driven around the world.

Drive to your accommodation in Reykjavik or an airport hotel nearby and check-in. There are plenty of options ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels.

If you arrive early in the day you can spend the rest of the day exploring Reykjavik.

Start with a stroll along the harbor, where you can see the striking Harpa Concert Hall with its colorful glass facade. Then head to the old town to see the Parliament House and the modern City Hall by the lake.

If you arrive at night, consider staying at a hotel near the airport, especially if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon first thing in the morning.

On our first night, we stayed at the Courtyard by Mariott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport Hotel. This charming, small hotel near the airport was perfect after a long day of flying and had plenty of parking.

Day 2: Blue Lagoon & Afternoon In Reykjavik

Start your day with a relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas.

Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik and around 20 minutes from the airport, it offers convenient access for travelers.

The Blue Lagoon’s milky blue waters, rich in minerals, provide a unique and rejuvenating experience.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as it can get quite busy. We booked the Comfort ticket which includes a towel, 1 free drink, and 1 face silica mud mask at the Mask Bar.

We highly recommend starting your trip at the Blue Lagoon. While it might feel a bit touristy, it is worth the visit.

After your morning soak, head back to Reykjavik to visit the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church. This towering structure is one of the tallest buildings in Iceland and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation tower.

We had the opportunity to listen to a classical music concert in the church, which made the experience even more special.

Next, stroll down Skólavörðustígur, also known as Rainbow Street, leading up to Hallgrimskirkja. The colorful pathway is lined with charming shops, cafes, and galleries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk.

Finish your day by having dinner at one of Reykjavik’s many fine restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some traditional Icelandic dishes like hákarl (fermented shark) or lamb soup.

Day 3: The Golden Circle

Start your Golden Circle tour with a visit to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Here, you can walk between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia at the Almannagjá fault and see the site of Iceland’s historic parliament, Alþingi.

You can park your car at the visitor center, use the bathrooms, and grab a snack at the cafe.

Next, head to the geothermal area of Haukadalur to see the famous Strokkur Geysir. This geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air.

Continue to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most magnificent waterfalls. The Hvítá River cascades into a deep canyon, creating a stunning, powerful display of nature’s force.

If time permits, make a stop at the Kerið Crater. This volcanic crater lake is known for its vibrant blue water and striking red volcanic rock.

We stayed by the Golden Circle in the impressive Ion Adventure Hotel, located in a beautiful setting with stunning views of the surrounding lava fields.

After a long day, take a dip in the outdoor hot pool to recharge and watch the sunset. You can also unwind in the sauna at the Lava Spa.

The hotel’s Northern Lights Bar is an excellent place to relax and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Day 4: Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach in Vik

Drive towards the charming village of Vik, making your first stop at Seljalandsfoss. This waterfall is unique because you can walk behind it, offering a rare and exhilarating perspective.

Just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss, you’ll find Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem tucked away behind a cliff. This lesser-known waterfall is equally impressive and less crowded.

Trust us, you’ll want to get your shoes wet and walk between the rocks to get closer to this waterfall. It was one of the top highlights of our trip.

Keep driving a couple of miles to reach Skógafoss, another of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls. On a sunny day, you can see a rainbow form at the base of the waterfall.

Climb the 527 metal stairs to the top for a stunning view of the cascade and the surrounding landscape.

At first, we hesitated about climbing the stairs because they looked daunting, but we were so glad we did. The view from the top is breathtaking, and the path itself is incredibly peaceful.

Arrive in Vik and visit the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The contrast of the black volcanic sand, the basalt sea stacks, and the roaring Atlantic waves create a dramatic and unforgettable scene.

After a very eventful day, we checked in to Hotel Kria in Vik. This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a great location for exploring the area.

Day 5: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Ice Cave Tour

Drive to Jökulsárlón, where you’ll see the stunning glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. The surreal landscape is a photographer’s dream and offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s icy wilderness.

Just across the road from the lagoon is Diamond Beach, where icebergs that have drifted out to sea are washed ashore, creating a stunning contrast against the black sand.

Book an ice cave tour for an unforgettable adventure. The crystal-clear blue ice caves, formed by the melting and refreezing of glacier water, are a natural wonder that you can explore with a guided tour.

We stayed in the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views. The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring the nearby attractions.

Remember to ask the front desk to put you on the Northern Lights wake-up call list, so you don’t miss a chance to see this natural phenomenon.

Day 6: Return to Reykjavik

After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey back to Reykjavik. The drive offers more opportunities to stop and explore, so take your time and enjoy the scenic route.

Spend your last evening in Reykjavik enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife or indulging in a relaxing dinner. Visit a local bar or café, and take in the city one last time.

On our last night, we stayed at the The Edition Hotel. This iconic hotel offers luxurious accommodations and is located in the heart of the city, making it a great base for your final night in Iceland.

Day 7: Fly Back Home

Pack your bags and head to the airport for your flight home.

Reflect on your incredible journey through Iceland and the many memories you’ve made along the way.

Tips For Your Iceland Adventure

• Northern Lights Wake-Up Call: Always ask the front desk of your hotel to put you on the Northern Lights Wake-Up Call list. This way, if the elusive aurora borealis makes an appearance during the night, you won’t miss it.
• Pack Layers: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers to stay warm and comfortable, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.
• Rent a 4×4 Vehicle: Some of Iceland’s roads, especially those in remote areas, can be challenging. Renting a 4×4 vehicle will ensure you can navigate the terrain safely.
• Book in Advance: Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon and ice cave tours can fill up quickly. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
• Respect Nature: Iceland’s natural beauty is fragile. Always follow local guidelines and respect the environment to help preserve these stunning landscapes for future generations.

This 7-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, showcasing the best of Iceland’s natural wonders.

From the vibrant city life in Reykjavik to the serene beauty of the countryside, your trip through Iceland will be an unforgettable experience.

Safe travels!