Iceland in 10 days | Ring Road, the most complete route

SUMMARY AND MAP OF THE RING ROAD IN 10 DAYS

Before going into detail, we leave you with a summary of the route, map, and then the preparations. before your trip along the Ring Road.

• Day 1: Arrival in Keflavik and Reykjanes Peninsula
• Day 2: Route through the Golden Circle
• Day 3: Black Beach and Southern Waterfalls
• Day 4: Skaftafell National Park
• Day 5: Jökulsarlon Lagoon and East Fjords,
• Day 6: Touring the East
• Day 7: Lake Myvatn and Húsavik
• Day 8: Whale watching and heading west
• Day 9: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Iceland's last full day in 10 days
• Day 10: Reykjavik and back home

PREPARATIONS ROUTE THROUGH ICELAND IN 10 DAYS

Before starting your trip to Iceland, it is important that you make some preparations to ensure the best experience. First of all, make sure you are clear about the style of travel you are going to do, budget what you would like to allocate and organize everything in advance.

Vehicle rental and accommodation

If you are going to tour Iceland by car and hotels book as far in advance as possible It's possible, since the options aren't very extensive, and the cheapest options sell out quickly. However, to tour the island in a campervan, you won't need as much planning; just rent the camper in advance.

• Lava – Company of car rental recommended
• GoCamper – Company of camper rentals recommended and with the code viajeros5 you have a 5% discount.

✹ Still don't know when you'll travel? Lee Best time to travel to Icelandwe tell you month by month what the weather is like and how many hours of light you will have.

How to pay in Iceland

In Iceland the official currency is the Icelandic krona (ISK), so I recommend you carry a card that do not charge commissions for currency exchangeIceland is already an expensive country, and it doesn't make sense to spend more because of bank fees.

The good news is that you won't need cashYou can pay for absolutely everything with a card, even at automatic gas stations or roadside stands. In fact, it's not even essential to carry a physical card, as almost everything can be paid for with your mobile phone.

At this time, the best card there is It's Trade Republic, we'll tell you why and you get €10 as a gift at ▷Trade Republic for travel

What to pack on a 10-day trip to Iceland

If there's one thing that can affect your experience in Iceland, it's the weather. And not because it's bad, but because it's totally unpredictableYou can start the day with sunshine, continue with hurricane-force winds, and end with rain (or all at once).

That's why packing well is key to ensuring the weather doesn't ruin any of your moments. Even in summer, You will need warm clothing, a raincoat, and comfortable shoes.. To make sure you don't miss anything important, we recommend you take a look at our guide on clothes for iceland, where we tell you what to bring depending on the time of year and the type of route you're planning to take.

Travel insurance for Iceland

Travel insurance is not required for a 10-day trip to Iceland as a European citizen, but it is recommended. We've written an article to clarify why it's worth purchasing and what the differences are with the European Health Insurance Card, which is used to healthcare in Iceland is not free.

✹ Does it work? the European Health Card? read the differences between TSE vs. Travel insurance

What is the Ring Road? The ideal 10-day route through Iceland

La Ring Road, or Highway 1, is Iceland's main road. Its name literally means "ring road" because surrounds the entire island in a circular shapeIt is 1.322 kilometers long, fully paved, has a single lane in each direction, and the maximum speed limit is 90 km/h.

One of the peculiarities of Iceland is that the center of the country, known as the Highlands, It is only accessible by 4x4 and during the summer monthsFor this reason, most routes through the country—including this 10-day itinerary—mainly follow the Ring Road, combining it with secondary roads to reach certain points.

If you are going to explore it on your own, don't miss these Tips for driving in Iceland, with useful information about signs, speed limits, gas, insurance and more.

ICELAND IN 10 DAYS | Detailed itinerary

Ready to discover the best of Iceland in 10 days? Let's get started!

Day 1: Arrival in Keflavik and Reykjanes Peninsula

• (I.e. Guest House Pavi
• 🚐 Reykjavík Campsite

Tu 10-day route through Iceland starts at Keflavik International Airport, located about 50 km from downtown Reykjavik. If your flight arrives late, the most convenient option is to take a nap at the airport or sleep in a nearby hotel. Some accommodations offer free transfers, see this article about Hotels near Keflavik We leave you several recommended options.

However, if you arrive early and feel like starting off strong, you can pick up your vehicle and start driving. explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the airport itself is located. It is a quiet area but with a impressive volcanic landscape, perfect for starting to connect with the geological character of the country.

Some highlights you can visit are the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, the bridge between continents (symbolizing the meeting of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates) or the flow of the Fagradalsfjall volcano, whose last eruption was in 2022.

On this same peninsula is also the famous Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous hot springs. Although many people visit it immediately upon arrival, we personally believe it's best left for the end of the trip, as a perfect reward before returning home. Of course, book in advance, as it is usually full.

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

• 🚗 Distance 170km
• 🏨 Hotel Elderstar
• 🏕️ Camping Reykholti

El golden circle It is probably the most popular area in Iceland, largely due to its proximity to Reykjavik. Daily excursions depart from the capital and are visited by both those who have only a few days and those who are planning a long trip. 10-day route through Iceland.

complete guide to visit the Golden Circle in your journey

Although it's not one of our favorite areas in the country, it has some spectacular stops that deserve to be on any itinerary. One of them is the Thingvellir National Park, where you can literally walk between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. In addition to its geological significance, it holds great historical significance: the world's first parliament was founded here.

Another essential stop is the Strokkur geyser, which throws out a column of water every few minutes. It's surrounded by steaming pools and hot springs that make the whole landscape look like something from another planet. And, of course, you can't miss a visit to Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most powerful waterfalls. Its power is impressive, and the sound of the falling water is one that will stay with you forever.

👉 Extra if you have time: If you finish the Golden Circle tour with daylight left, you can take advantage of the opportunity to hike to the Reykjadalur hot springs, a simple route that leads to a natural river in which you can batheIt's about 3 km each way, and it's one of the most special places to relax surrounded by nature.

Do you want to discuss something with other travelers? We have a WhatsApp group that you can join Join you.

Day 3: Southern Waterfalls and Reynisfjara Black Beach

• 🚗 Distance 130km
• 🏨 Hotel the barn
• 🏕️Vík municipal campsite

This day of your 10-day route through Iceland It's full of waterfalls, some of the most beautiful in the country. In this southern region, there are so many that many don't even have names, but there are a few must-see stops.

Start by seljalandsfoss, a waterfall where you can walk behind the water. Bring a raincoat and overpants because you'll end up soaked. It's very close. Gljúfrafoss, hidden inside a crevice in the rock, and Gluggafoss, much less known, but very charming.

A few kilometers away is Skogafoss, one of the most iconic in the south. It's 60 meters high, and it's common to see rainbows if it's sunny. From the parking lot, you can continue walking to Kvernufoss, a waterfall hidden in a canyon, much less touristy and beautiful.

In the afternoon, follow the Ring Road up to the famous black beach of Reynisfjara, with its basalt columns, Hálsanefhellir Cave, and the Reynisdrangar rock formations. Try to go at lunchtime or at the end of the day to avoid the crowds.

If you have time to spare, you can extend the day to Dyrhólaey cliffs, with spectacular views of the south coast.

Before going to sleep, you can visit the town of Vik, to go up to its church and enjoy beautiful views or dine in one of its restaurants.

Day 4: Glaciers, moss fields, and hiking in Skaftafell

• 🚗 Distance 140km
• 🏨 Hotel Skaftafell ⚠️ Very little accommodation in the area
• 🏕️ Recommended Camping: Svinafell

This will undoubtedly be one of the most spectacular days of your 10-day Iceland itineraryJust looking out the window as you approach the glacier area, you'll understand why.

You can start with two quick stops: Gígjagjá, a lava cave with a curious shape from the inside, and the Fjadrárgljúfur canyon, which is easily reached from the parking lot. Shortly after, you will cross the Eldhraun Moss Fields, a volcanic landscape covered in moss as lush as it is fragile. It's forbidden to step on it, but there are marked areas where you can view it up close without damaging it.

The main course of the day is the Glacier trekking in Skaftafell National Park, one of the most incredible activities you can do in Iceland. There are several companies that offer similar routes, but if you can, choose the 5 hour excursion: You'll spend more time on the ice and enjoy the experience much more. In this article, we'll give you a comparison of the best glacier treks in Iceland for you to choose the option that best suits you.

Keep in mind Book in advance. The groups are very small.

If you prefer a more relaxed plan, you can go to the Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue, accessible with a very easy walk from the parking lot. And if you have some energy and light left, there are two short trails that leave from the Skaftafell Visitor Center: one leads to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, which inspired Reykjavik Cathedral, and the other to the viewpoint Sjónarnípa, with spectacular views over the glacier.

Day 5: Jökulsarlon Lagoon and East Fjords,

• 🚗 Distance 315km
• (I.e. Tehúsid Hostel
• 🏕️ Egilsstadir municipal campsite

Today we have to get up early, because it is the day with the most kilometers behind the wheel of this whole day. 10-day route through IcelandThe tour continues along the Ring Road eastward.

The first is the Fjallsárlón lagoon, right on the road and perfect for a quick break overlooking a glacier. A little further on you'll reach two of The most iconic places in South Iceland: Diamond Beach, where blocks of ice rest on the black sand and the impressive Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where huge chunks of ice float. And, if you're lucky, you might even see some seals swimming among them.

If you fancy something different, you can tour the lagoon in kayak, zodiac or amphibious boat to get even closer to the ice blocks. An unforgettable experience.

Before arriving at Höfn, and if you have time and you like hiking, you can include in your route the Múlagljúfur canyon. Is one of the most spectacular treks in southern Iceland, with stunning views.

The next stop is Vestrahorn, a dramatically shaped mountain situated by the sea, where it is reflected in the wet sand creating one of the most photogenic landscapes in the country. You have to pay to enter, but it's totally worth it.

From here the first few kilometres begin along the Eastern Fjords, one of the most beautiful stretches of the Ring Road routeIf you're lucky enough to have a clear day, prepare for a succession of scenic drives.

The final destination of the day is the Egilsstadir area.

After such a full day, how about ending it in Vök Baths? Buying tickets at GetYourGuide you save a few euros

Day 6: Exploring East Iceland 

• 🚗 Distance 270km (maximum)
• (I.e. Tehusid Hostel
• 🏕️ Egilsstadir municipal campsite

After having lived almost a year in this area, I can't help but leave you with several suggestions for this Day 6 of your 10-day Iceland itineraryThe ideal is to choose according to your desire, the weather, and the pace you want to take. Here they are our favorite recommendations:

• Visit Seyðisfjörður, one of the most beautiful villages in Iceland, famous for its colorful street in front of the church and for having appeared in films such as La vida secreta de Walter MittyThe road down to the fjord alone is worth the trip, with several spectacular waterfalls along the way. You can see it here. Everything to do in Seydisfjordur.

• If you travel between late May and early August, you are in the middle of puffin season. One of the Best places to see puffins in Iceland It's right here, in the Borgarfjarðarhöfn area. There are accessible, uncrowded neighborhoods with stunning sea views.
• Another option is to visit Hengifoss, one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland, with its characteristic reddish color due to the layers of clay between the basalt. If you're looking for something more alternative, you can visit Strutsfoss, much less known, or do the Waterfall Circle, a circular route that passes five waterfalls and a spectacular canyon. The best part: you don't need a 4x4 to get there.

When you return to Egilsstadir I think you deserve have a delicious pizza for dinner  Askur to finish the day.

Day 7: Canyons, waterfalls, and otherworldly landscapes

• 🚗 Distance 275km
• (I.e. Cape Hotel Húsavik
• 🏕️ Camping 66.12 North

Today we continue to move forward in this 10-day route through Iceland heading north, with several impressive stops. The first is the spectacular Studlagil basalt column canyonIts geometric shape and color make it look like something from another planet. It has become very popular, but it remains less visited than other places in the south.

From there, we resumed the path towards the lake Myvatn, but first we make a detour to see Dettifoss, the largest waterfall in Europe.

When you arrive at Myvatn, you will immediately notice that you are entering an area of ​​strong geothermal activity: fumaroles everywhere and an intense smell of sulfur that seeps through the windows.

There is so much to see in the surrounding area, so we leave you this complete guide to what to do in Myvatn, where we explain all the most interesting points with a map.

Among the must-sees: the geothermal area of Hverir, with its fumaroles and boiling mud pools, and the walk through the lava field in Leirhnjukur, which is reached with a small detour of about 10 km.

To close the day, drive to Husavik, known as the whale-watching capital of Europe. The scenery leading up to it is still a marvel.

If you go with a good budget, the perfect end to the day is a bath in the GeoSea hot springs? Buying tickets at GetYourGuide you save a few euros

Day 8: Whales, hidden hot springs, and heading west

• 🚗 Distance 330km
• (I.e. Guesthouse Tangahú
• 🏕️ Camping Saeberg

This is one of the great days of your 10-day route through Iceland, and starts in Húsavik, a picturesque fishing village and the best place in the country to see whales.

Take a stroll through its small port and prepare for an unforgettable experience: the whale watching tour By traditional boat or zodiac. Sailing through the fjord and seeing these giants of the sea is an unforgettable experience. We've been there four times and would still go again.

After the tour, continue to Akureyri, making a stop at Godafoss, a powerful and photogenic waterfall, perfect for a short visit.

On the way west, you can stop at Fosslaug, a free natural hot spring next to a waterfall, ideal for a quick dip if the weather permits.

Are you traveling to Iceland in the winter? The north of the country is the best area to see the auroras. We have written a guide about How to see the aurora in Iceland and how to photograph them.

And if you still want more, you can take two highly recommended detours: one towards Hvitserkur, a volcanic rock shaped like a rhinoceros, and another to Kolugljúfur canyon, a little-known corner with spectacular views.

Day 9: Touring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• 🚗 Distance 250km
• (I.e. Kast Guesthouse
• 🏕️ Camping Laugargerdisskoli (open only in summer)

We are approaching the end of this 10-day route through Iceland, and today we're going to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, north of Reykjavik, one of the most scenic and complete areas in the country. Many call it "Iceland in miniature" because it condenses volcanoes, cliffs, beaches, glaciers and charming towns into a small space.

Coming from the north, a good first stop is Stykkisholmur, a quiet fishing village with a lighthouse perched on top and views of an archipelago of islets. From here you can continue along the peninsula until you reach the mythical kirkjufell mountain, one of the most photographed in the country thanks to its perfect conical shape and photogenic waterfall next to it.

At the end of the peninsula the imposing Arnarstapi cliffs, where rock formations and the force of the sea create a stunning landscape. Nearby you can also visit the curious Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a narrow gorge that can be reached by walking a few minutes from the road.

To close the day, at the end of the tour around the southern part of the peninsula, make a stop at the Ytri Tunga beach, one of the best places to see seals resting on the rocks by the shore.

If you want more details about this area, here is our complete guide to Everything to see in Snaefellsnes.

Day 10: Reykjavík and return home

• 🚗 Distance 200km
• ✈️ Back home

We have reached the last day of this 10-day route through IcelandWhat you can see today will depend on your flight time, but if you have a few hours to spare, you can still take advantage of some very interesting things to do.

On the way to Reykjavik, we recommend stopping at Raudhals, a little-known lava field We found it by chance and loved it. It's very close to the main road and perfect for stretching your legs.

Once in the capital, you can stroll through some of its most emblematic places such as the modern concert hall Harpor the famous church Hallgrímskirkja, visible from almost the entire city. Reykjavik has more atmosphere than you might imagine in a country with barely 300.000 inhabitants.

And if you feel like saying goodbye to Iceland with a special plan, here are some ideas according to time, energy and budget that you have:

• Make a free tours through the center for learn about its history and curiosities.
• Relax in Sky Lagoon, our. Icelandic hot springs favorites.
• Or live an immersive experience in FlyOver Iceland, a flight simulator that flies over Iceland's most unique landscapes.

Alternative option: If you have a full day on the 10th and you don't feel like finishing the route by visiting Reykjavik, you can also add another day or to the eastern fjords or to the south to make a hiking trail like ThakgilI recommend not sleeping too far from Reykjavik on your last night to be close to the airport and avoid potential weather problems. You never know in Iceland!

And up to here our 10-day route through IcelandWe hope this itinerary has helped you plan your trip and that you enjoy it as much as we did.

If you would like to continue preparing your adventureOn our blog you'll find more practical information, tips, accommodation recommendations, and much more. You can check out all of our Guides for traveling to Iceland to continue fine-tuning your route.

Bon voyage!

Start preparing your adventure in Iceland

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