Itinerary ● Highlights of Iceland in 2 Weeks.
More in-demand than ever before, record numbers of tourists descend upon Iceland throughout the year to experience the island in all its spell-binding beauty.
For those who cherish the natural world, Iceland is heaven on Earth. Everything your heart could desire from grandiose towering waterfalls, fairy-tale canyons and extensive ice caves carved into gigantic glaciers are abundant.
So much so, one trip will never be enough to indulge in the full Icelandic experience.
📚 Resources.
Planning your unforgettable Icelandic adventure is easy with the help of the Interactive Price Guide.
💰 14-day itinerary from £1,535 per person.
Reykjavik ● 3 nights.
Your first port-of-call is the colourful capital of Reykjavik. This tiny city serves as a charming base to explore the famed Golden Triangle and the Blue Lagoon, two of the most popular attractions in Iceland.
Reykjavik is worthy of exploration, showcasing vibrant, quirky murals painted on many townhouses, laid-back cafes, and lively bars that welcome tourists to socialise with locals and absorb their culture. Icelandic people are exceptional hosts, so don't hesitate to have a chat!
The towering Hallgrimskirkja is a futuristic spectacle that must be seen to be believed. A modern masterwork, this stunning church dominates the skyline of the city. Its architect drew inspiration from the rugged rocks, glaciers and mountains to create an evocative tribute to Iceland’s wholly unique and spellbinding landscape.
💰 Dorms from £27.00 per night.
💰 Dorms from £41.00 per night.
Located about a 40-minute drive Reykjavik is a natural wonder that you have no doubt heard all the hype about. The enchantments of the Blue Lagoon (📷) must be experienced first-hand to be believed. These geothermal pools are a by-product of constant volcanic activity — prevalent across Iceland, whose waters are reputed to be rich in minerals beneficial those suffering from skin conditions or joint pain.
Admission tickets aren't so cheap, however. Expect to pay roughly €70.00 per person to access the spa; parking is included at no additional cost.
A famous driving circuit in Iceland is the nearby Golden Circle; encompassing explosive geysers, stunning national parks, and some of the best waterfalls anywhere on Earth. Highlights include the other-worldly landscape of Thingvellir National Park, home to the majestic falls of Öxarárfoss (📷) and the astounding Gullfoss (📷), which cascade thunderously down the dramatic cliff-face.
Vik ● 2 or 3 nights.
A 2½ hour drive south-east of Reykjavik, the tiny coastal town of Vik serves as your base for exploring some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes Iceland has to offer. The town itself is a sleepy village of just 318 residents, allowing for a tranquil getaway.
With that said, a consistent high influx of tourists leads to astronomical prices for accommodation during summer in particular. Try to plan ahead and snag a space in the great hostel situated in the heart of town.
The black sands of Reynisfjara (📷) lure travellers to brave the wind-battered southern coast to explore the rugged landscape of this astounding beach. The stacks of ballast columns that cling to the edge of land are remnants from a time when the area was being shaped by the lava, which flowed across the region.
💰 Dorms from £30.00 per night.
Will you ever tire of being in the presence of incredible waterfalls? Definitely not here. Perhaps the best double-bill of falls can be found less than an hour outside of Vik.
The enchanting falls of Seljalandsfoss (📷) and Skógafoss (📷) separated by a mere 25 minute drive. Pictures speak a thousand words, and simply taking a look at each of these waterfalls should be enough to evoke similar emotions of magic and enchantment that are conjured up in fairy-tales.
Scratch beneath the surface in the immediate vicinity to uncover two of the best hidden gems. Located adjascent to Seljalandsfoss, the stunning Gljúfrabúi (📷) entices visitors to strap on their hiking boots and navigate the narrow canyon that conceals this mystical cascade.
Similarly obscured, Kvernufoss is a stone’s throw from Skógafoss, but inhabits terrain far less trodden. Walk behind this elegant single-drop waterfall and revell in the peaceful serenity of the landscape.
If possible, allow time in your itinerary to explore amazing Fjaðrárgljúfur (📷). Complete with verdant mossy cliffs and waterfalls, it’s easy to fall in love with in this mystical place.
Hof + Vatnajokull* ● 1 or 2 nights.
Depending upon when you have decided to visit Iceland, a 2 night stop-over in Hof is recommended for those who wish to explore the jaw-dropping ice caves of Vatnajokull (📷) inside Iceland's largest glacier.
You definitely don't want to skip out on at least a day in Hof at all times of year. The unique beauty of the area is home to some of the best gems in the country.
In summer, make sure to visit the Jökulsárlón (📷) glacial lake at the fringes of Vatnajokull. Boat tours offer you the chance to drift away on the tranquil blue waters whilst admiring the backdrop of staggering icebergs.
💰 Rooms from £90.00 per night.
Charming Hofskirkja (📷) flourishes in all its glory during summer. The verdant sloping roof of this traditional turf structure is nestled into the landscape as if plucked from a fantasy novel.
A short 20-minute drive away, the dramatic Svartifoss (📷) cascades elegantly from jagged rock, surrounded by hexagonal ballast columns which create a surreal backdrop. Slightly off the well-worn path, peaceful isolation and tranquility can be found here.
Visitors who brave the chill during winter are in for an unforgettable experience when visiting Vatnajokull National Park (📷). Expansive ice caves lay woven beneath the surface of the colossal Vatnajokull glacier, offering the opportunity to roam vast icy caverns with an expert guide. You can't explore the caves alone for safety reasons, so make sure to secure a place on a tour, such as those at Extreme Iceland.
💡 In summer the caves are not safe to visit. If this applies, you may wish to shorten your stay.
Seyðisfjörður ● 2 nights.
Nestled between mountains at the innermost point of a dramatic fjord, the setting of Seyðisfjörður is absolutely stunning. A row of colourful fisherman’s houses align the banks of the fjord, creating the base of this tiny rural community. Flanked by seven monumental peaks, hiking trails guide your ascent to jaw-dropping vistas high above the settlement.
During summer, LungA Art Festival sees the community come together with vibrant contemporary art and concerts that will add a bit of cultural fun to your travels.
Your time outside of Seyðisfjörður is all about waterfalls. In fact, some of the best hidden gems in Iceland are tucked away here. Incredible Hengifoss (📷) and Litlanesfoss are back to back, and definitive highlights. A colourful cliff-face backdrops Hengifoss, giving insight to different layers of volcanic rock that Iceland consists of.
Closer to town, Gufufoss create a misty pool below as they plunge from the cliff-top, creating a truly magical spectacle. Nearby, hike the trail to the enchanting Fardagafoss if you want to uncover a gem for yourself.
Akureyri + Diamond Circle ● 3 nights.
The area to the east of Akureyri is often dubbed the Diamond Circle owing to the astounding natural beauty on display. Often inclusive of Myvatn, the Diamond Circle is home to more geothermal spots such as Hverir and is replete with waterfalls.
An inland drive of 4 hours seperates Seyðisfjörður from our next stop on this itinerary. Positioned at the feet of imposing mountains, Akureyri is the second largest urban area in Iceland. Shelter from strong winds creates one of the milder climates in the country despite its close proximity to the Arctic Circle.
A 3 day stay allows you plenty of time to explore the Diamond Circle. Drive down to Mývatn, a volcanic lake where you will find the Mývatn Natural Baths — geothermal hot springs with supposed healing properties thanks to bubbling lava tubes below the surface. Whilst in the area, seek out the elusive Grjótagjá Cave (📷) and uncover a true magical gem.
💰 Dorms from £30.00 per night.
Grundarfjörður ● 1 or 2 nights.
An otherwise arduous 5 hour drive between Akureyri and your next stop will be made easier by the incredibly scenery of the road, so don't hesitate and pull-over along the way for some well deserved pit stops!
The quaint falls of Kirkjufellsfoss (📷) slope elegantly into the tranquil pool below, back-dropped by one of the most recognisable and iconic peaks in the country — Kirkjufell.
Skarðsvík Beach at the eastern tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a beach whose sand presents a distinct rusty tint; best enjoyed in summer-time. Skarðsvík and Vatnshellir Cave are the two main draws for extending your stay.
💰 Dorms from £45.00 per night.
🎀 Rounding off…
On the way back to Reykjavik, you will have a chance to reflect on your travels across the unparalleled landscapes that you have traversed. Conquering canyons, waterfalls, enormous glaciers and plenty of time spent relaxing in re-vitalising thermal baths.
Make sure to give your car a quick clean before you return it to the car hire company, and be wary that some cars are leased on a 'full-to-full' basis, wherein the car is supplied with a full tank of petrol on the precedent that it will also be returned with a full tank.
Regardless of when you travel to Iceland, one trip will never be able to sum up its countless wonders. Summer and winter expeditions are completely different experiences, channelling two opposing sides of the natural beauty found here. Multiple visits may be a necessity if — or when — you fall madly in love with this spell-binding dreamland.
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