So you’ve carved out one week in Iceland and you want to make it count. Good news—you can see waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, a volcanic peninsula, and still have time for a soak in the Blue Lagoon without feeling like you’re racing a tour bus. This 7 day itinerary for Iceland is based on exactly what we did, and it worked beautifully for our family.
We started right after landing, driving straight to the Blue Lagoon, then stayed the first two nights near Selfoss. From there, we explored the South Coast, did the Golden Circle, then drove west to Arnarstapi for two days on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Finally, we wrapped up our trip with two nights in Reykjavik. Want to know the highlights? Where to eat in Iceland? The best hotels in Reykjavik and beyond? Buckle up—we’re road tripping Iceland in 7 days.
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How to Travel Around Iceland
The best way to explore Iceland—especially if you’re following a flexible 7-day itinerary—is by renting a car. Iceland’s top natural attractions are spread out across the island, and a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and detour to hidden gems.
We opted for a rental car and highly recommend it if you’re comfortable driving. The main roads, especially the Ring Road (Route 1), are well-maintained and easy to navigate most months (winter can by iffy). For a summer road trip, a standard 2WD car was sufficient, but if you’re planning to travel in winter or venture onto Iceland’s F-roads (mountain roads), a 4WD vehicle is essential. We had a small AWD SUV from Avis.
Driving in Iceland is relatively straightforward. Roads are generally quiet, and signage is clear. Keep in mind that the weather can change rapidly, so always check the weather before long drives. Also, gas stations are few and far between in rural areas, so it’s a good habit to fill up when you can.
Parking in towns like Reykjavik and near major attractions is usually easy, though some areas may charge a small fee. Many rural attractions have free parking lots nearby.
If you’re flying into Keflavík International Airport, most major car rental companies operate directly from the terminal or just outside, with shuttle service provided. Book your vehicle in advance—especially during peak seasons—to ensure availability and the best price.
Day 1: Arrival + Blue Lagoon + Selfoss Stay
You’ll probably land early. After the red-eye, we made a beeline for the Blue Lagoon. Is it touristy? Sure. But it’s also one of those “pinch-me” moments that just feels right after a long flight.
📍 Blue Lagoon Tip: Book ahead. We chose the Comfort Package and it was plenty. You’ll get a towel, drink, and that silica mask everyone’s Instagrammed. And don’t forget your waterproof phone pouch for pictures!
After the soak, we drove an hour to our rental just outside Selfoss—quiet, cozy, and surrounded by horses and mossy lava fields.
🛏️ Where to Stay: Cabin with Hot Tub & Views – Beautiful, modern cabins with views for days.
🍴 Where to Eat Iceland – Selfoss: Try Þrastalundur, just outside of town for Icelandic pizza and more.
🩴🩱Some packing list items I was happy to have on our 7 day itinerary to Iceland was a swimsuit and flip flops. On our October trip, the deck very cold when we went from the cabin to the hot tub. Sandals were a must.
Day 2: South Coast Stunners
This was our long day on the road—but 100% worth it. We left early and hit all the hits:
- Seljalandsfoss – You can walk behind this one. Bring a raincoat.
- Skógafoss – Taller, louder, dramatic. Take the stairs to the top if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Sólheimajökulll Glacier – A Striking glacier in southern Iceland, known for its dramatic ice formations.
- Solheimasandur Plane Wreck – An iconic and eerie site on Iceland’s black sand beach
- Reynisfjara Beach – Basalt columns and thunderous waves. It’s powerful and kind of eerie—in a good way.
- Vik, Iceland – A charming coastal village known for its dramatic black sand beaches.
We considered heading all the way to the glacier lagoon but stopped around Vik to keep it reasonable.
🍴 Where to Eat Iceland – Vik:
- The Soup Company’s lava bread + curry soup combo is weirdly unforgettable.
- Black Crust Pizzaria is a cozy, quirky spot where visitors can enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas.
- Smiðjan Brugghús in Vík is a lively brewpub known for its craft beers and hearty burgers.
Day 3: Golden Circle + Back to Selfoss
Today we looped through the Golden Circle—classic for a reason.
- Þingvellir National Park – You’re literally walking between tectonic plates.
- Brúarfoss – Brúarfoss has vivid turquoise stream cutting through a narrow, rugged gorge.
- Geysir – Yes, it still erupts every 8 minutes.
- Gullfoss – This two-tiered waterfall is massive and mesmerizing.
- Kerid Crater – A striking volcanic caldera filled with vibrant blue water.
- Reykjadalur Hot Spring – (if time allows) A unique experience of soaking in a naturally warm river surrounded by misty hills and Icelandic countryside.
A Golden Circle Iceland Map with Attractions
We were happy to get back to our rental and relax that night.
🍴 Where to Eat Iceland – Golden Circle:
- Friðheimar – Tomato greenhouse, fresh soup, and bloody Marys with a basil twist.
- Efstidalur Farm – Family-run dairy farm where you can enjoy homemade ice cream while watching cows through the parlor windows.
Day 4: Drive to Arnarstapi + Begin Snaefellsnes Magic
Time to swap the south for the wild west. We packed up and made the scenic drive to Arnarstapi on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula—sometimes called “Iceland in Miniature” for good reason.
🛏️ Where to Stay:
- Arnarstapi Hotel – Right near the cliffs. Basic but clean, with unbeatable views.
- Cottage Getaway – For those looking for a cozy stay with a kitchen and more space.
🍴 Restaurants on Snaefellsnes Peninsula:
- Bjargarsteinn Mathús – a cozy seaside restaurant known for its upscale Icelandic dishes and views of Kirkjufell mountain.
- Narfeyrarstofa – in Stykkishólmur has fine dining with a quaint atmosphere.
- Arnarbær – A seasonal restaurant in Arnarstapi was one of my favorite places to eat in Iceland. Excellent pizza!
Day 5: Explore Snaefellsnes Peninsula
This was slower-paced and gave us time to soak in Iceland’s quieter beauty. Snaefellsjökull, the glacier-topped volcano (yes, that one—the name of mountain on Snaefellsnes Peninsula), towers over much of the area.
✅ Must-see Snaefellsnes Peninsula sights:
- Arnarstapi Cliffs – You’ll spot natural arches and sea birds.
- Djúpalónssandur Beach – Black pebbles and remnants of a shipwreck.
- Búðakirkja – That iconic black church in the lava field.
- Saxhóll Crater – An easy climb with metal stairs leading to panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields.
- Svörtuloft Lighthouse – A striking orange beacon offering breathtaking views of Iceland’s rugged western coast.
- Öndverðarnesviti – A picturesque lighthouse on the westernmost tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
- Skarðsvík Beach – Striking golden-sand cove on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
- Svöðufoss – A peaceful, lesser-known waterfall near the Snæfellsjökull glacier.
- Kirkjufell – The “Instagram mountain.” Prettier in person.
If you’re a photographer—or just someone who gets oddly emotional at beautiful places—you’ll love this loop.
🗺️ Map of Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Google Maps was enough, but the printed one from our rental was a nice backup.
Day 6: Drive to Reykjavik + Explore the City
We left Arnarstapi in the morning and reached Reykjavik around lunchtime.
🛏️ Hotels in Reykjavik:
- Kvosin Downtown Hotel—walkable, stylish, and family-friendly.
- Fosshotel Barón – Centrally located and walkable to Reykjavik’s best restaurants, shops and attractions.
- Island Apartments – Great location with kitchenette and more family-friendly.
We spent the afternoon wandering:
- Hallgrimskirkja Church – Ride the elevator to the top for views.
- Laugavegur Street – Great for quirky shops, coffee, and people-watching.
- Sun Voyager Sculpture – Especially stunning at sunset.
- Harpa Concert Hall – A striking glass building on Reykjavik’s waterfront, hosting concerts and cultural events.
- Punk Rock Museum – The Punk Rock Museum celebrates Iceland’s gritty punk music scene with raw exhibits & personal stories.
- Whale Watching Tour – A chance to spot humpbacks, minke whales, and dolphins while surrounded by the icy North Atlantic.
- Perlan Museum – A blend of natural wonders with immersive exhibits.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – Reykjavik’s famous hot dog stand where locals and tourists line up.
🍴 Where to Eat Iceland – Reykjavik:
- Braud & Co. – Cinnamon rolls. Just trust me.
- Reykjavik Fish – Deliciously fabulous fish and chips.
- Kopar – A cozy harborside restaurant known for its rustic Icelandic dishes with a gourmet twist.
- Seabaron – The Seabaron is a casual, no-frills spot by the old harbor where you can warm up with their legendary lobster soup.
- Baka Baka – A charming bakery-restaurant hybrid offering creative sourdough sandwiches, hearty soups, and standout pastries.
Day 7: Reykjavik Continued + Departure
Depending on your flight time, you can squeeze in more Reykjavik fun. If you have time, consider the National Museum of Iceland, take a morning stroll by the harbor, or take a city tour. We took a walking food tour in Reykjavik and loved it.
One last tip—grab some chocolate-covered licorice or local skincare from the airport shop. Icelandic souvenirs are weirdly great.
Final Thoughts on This 7 Day Itinerary for Iceland
Planning a road trip Iceland 7 days long can feel overwhelming. But with the right pace—and plenty of snacks—it’s incredibly doable. From waterfalls to volcanic coastlines, this route covers so much of what makes Iceland unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking for hotels in Iceland with epic views, wondering where to eat in Iceland that’s actually good, or mapping your route with a solid plan, this itinerary is your starting line.
You’ve got one week in Iceland. Let it be legendary.
Iceland Itinerary FAQs: What You Need to Know Before Your 7-Day Trip
1. What is the best time to visit Iceland?
The best time depends on what you want to experience. Summer (June to August) offers long daylight hours, mild weather, and accessible roads—perfect for road trips. Winter (November to March) is best for seeing the Northern Lights and experiencing snowy landscapes, but weather conditions can affect travel.
2. Do I need a 4WD vehicle in Iceland?
If you’re sticking to paved roads and visiting in summer, a 2WD car is usually fine. However, if you’re traveling in winter or planning to drive on F-roads (gravel mountain roads), a 4WD is essential. Always check road conditions in advance.
3. Is it safe to drive in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is considered one of the safest countries to drive in. Roads are well-maintained, but weather can change rapidly, especially in winter. Drive cautiously, avoid off-road driving (it’s illegal), and use sites like road.is for real-time conditions.
4. Do I need travel insurance for Iceland?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially with unpredictable weather and active outdoor adventures. Make sure it covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and rental car damage.
5. Can I drink the tap water in Iceland?
Absolutely. Icelandic tap water is some of the purest in the world. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it anywhere—there’s no need to buy bottled water.
6. What currency is used in Iceland?
Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted—even in small towns and at gas pumps. Some remote places may only accept chip-and-PIN cards.
7. How expensive is Iceland?
Iceland is known for being pricey. Food, fuel, and accommodations can be expensive. Save money by shopping at local grocery stores, booking accommodations early, and cooking some of your own meals.
8. What should I pack for Iceland?
Even in summer, weather can be cold and wet. Pack layers, waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, and a windproof jacket. Don’t forget swimwear for geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon or local hot springs. Here is a more detailed packing list to Iceland with a FREE pdf.
9. Do I need to tip in Iceland?
Tipping is not expected in Iceland. Service charges are included in restaurant and hotel prices, but rounding up the bill is appreciated for excellent service.
10. Are there any cultural customs I should know?
Icelanders are friendly, honest, and environmentally conscious. Respect nature, stay on marked trails, and never drive off-road. Leave no trace, and be mindful of quiet hours, especially in rural areas.