Iceland, the enchanting land of fire and ice, is a destination that promises adventure at every turn. Imagine standing in front of majestic waterfalls, soaking in geothermal hot springs and gazing at the ethereal Northern Lights – all in just seven days!
With this travel tip, I’ll take you on a journey through an unforgettable week exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
From the iconic Golden Circle to the stunning south coast, get ready for practical tips to help you experience Iceland like never before.
This trip is all about adventure, natural beauty, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Are you ready to dive into Iceland’s most iconic spots?
There are not many destinations who are so unique and have the following to offer.
7 Day Iceland Itinerary
Get ready for the Ultimate Travel Experience, recommended by Niek de Haan – your go-to Reliable Traveler:
From my travels, I’ve learned that picking the right destination doesn’t have to be a hassle or take forever. That’s exactly why I started Reliable Traveler.
Join me on this amazing 7-day adventure through Iceland, where you’ll find the perfect mix of excitement, stunning landscapes, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Discover Iceland Like Never Before
Days 1-3: Reykjavik – The Heart of Iceland’s Culture and Nature
Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, is where rich culture meets jaw-dropping nature. With its modern architecture and the surrounding volcanic landscapes, it’s the perfect launchpad for your Icelandic adventure.
Start your journey at Hallgrímskirkja Church, one of the city’s must-see landmarks. Climb to the top for panoramic views that will take your breath away. Trust me, the sight of the colorful rooftops against the backdrop of the mountains is something you won’t want to miss.
Then, hit the Golden Circle!
First up is Thingvellir National Park, where you can literally stand between two tectonic plates. It’s a wild feeling! Next, check out the Geysir, the geothermal hot spring area, and don’t forget to snap a pic of Gullfoss, the powerful waterfall that plunges into a canyon. It’s nature at its most magnificent.
To wrap up your first few days, treat yourself to the Blue Lagoon. Soaking in those warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning lava fields is the ultimate way to relax after all that exploring. You’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and ready for more!
Read as well our travel tip: Sky lagoon vs Blue Lagoon
Highlight: Whale Watching Tour
Get ready to dive into the amazing world of Iceland with a fantastic Whale Watching adventure! Set sail from the charming Old Harbour in Reykjavik for 3 to 3.5 hours of exploration in the stunning Faxaflói bay. Keep your eyes peeled for Minke and Humpback whales, playful dolphins, Harbour porpoises, and if you’re lucky, even the elusive Killer whales!
As you soak in the breathtaking views of Reykjavik’s majestic mountains, picturesque islands, and vibrant birdlife, you’ll feel the magic of this incredible place. The boats are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring cozy warm overalls, spacious cabins, a friendly bar to grab a drink, and complimentary Wi-Fi to share your adventure with friends back home.
Days 4-5: South Coast – Glaciers, Volcanoes, and Waterfalls
After soaking in the sights of Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, it’s time to head to Iceland’s South Coast for an adventure you won’t forget. This area is packed with glaciers, volcanoes, and some of the most stunning waterfalls you’ll ever see.
First stop: Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls. You can hike to the top for an epic view of the landscape below. Then, swing by Seljalandsfoss, where you can actually walk behind the waterfall for a unique perspective. Just be ready to get a little wet!
Next up, it’s time to explore Sólheimajökull Glacier. I highly recommend taking a glacier hike or even trying ice climbing. It’s an adrenaline rush and an incredible way to get up close and personal with Iceland’s icy beauty.
Don’t forget to visit Reynisfjara beach near Vík! The black sand, striking basalt columns, and crashing waves of the North Atlantic create a landscape that’s straight out of a postcard. It’s rugged, wild, and absolutely beautiful.
Day Tour: Iconic Glacier Hike, South Coast & Waterfalls
Experience the magic of Iceland with a journey that begins at the iconic Skogafoss Waterfall, famous for its majestic 60-meter drop and its cameo in Game of Thrones. Listen to captivating stories about hidden treasures waiting to be discovered behind the falls!
Next, brace yourself for an exhilarating hike on the Solheimajokull Glacier. This adventure not only showcases Iceland’s stunning ice landscapes but also offers a safe yet thrilling experience as you explore one of its magnificent glaciers. Don’t forget your hiking boots—comfort is key for this 2.5-hour trek!
Afterward, relax on the breathtaking Reynisfjara black sand beach, renowned for its unique basalt columns and enchanting rock formations. Your guide will share intriguing legends that bring this remarkable location to life.
Finally, you’ll conclude our adventure at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, nestled beneath the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. If weather permits, step behind this natural wonder’s curtain for a unique perspective.
Get ready for an unforgettable day filled with awe-inspiring sights and rich stories—this is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Days 6-7: Vatnajökull Glacier, Ice Caves, and the Northern Lights
For your final days in Iceland, you’ll want to experience the majestic Vatnajökull Glacier and explore the enchanting ice caves. As Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull is a sight to behold, and its blue-hued ice caves are an absolute must-see.
Join a tour to one of the ice caves and walk through stunning tunnels of blue and white ice. It’s like stepping into another world, and it’s definitely a highlight of any trip to Iceland.
Next, make your way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You can take a boat tour among the floating icebergs, and don’t forget to check out Diamond Beach nearby, where icebergs wash ashore. The views are stunning and perfect for some unforgettable photos.
If you’re visiting during the winter months, make sure to chase the magical Northern Lights before you leave. Iceland is one of the best places to see this incredible natural phenomenon, and there are plenty of tours that will take you to the best spots for viewing.
Highlight: Katla Ice Cave Adventure
Stepping into the Katla Ice Cave is like entering a whole new world! The colors of the ice are absolutely breathtaking—you’ll see stunning shades of black ice and vibrant blue ice that will leave you in awe. This place is truly one of a kind. Nestled in the Kötlujökull Glacier, which is part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, this cave is named after the powerful volcano Katla that lies beneath it.
Your adventure kicks off in the charming village of Vík, where you’ll hop into a Super Jeep that whisks you away to the ice cave. Once you arrive, you’ll gear up with crampons and a helmet, ready to explore this natural wonder. Plus, you’ll have an expert guide with you who will share fascinating insights about the glacier and how this incredible ice cave was formed by Mother Nature herself.
This experience is unforgettable! Just be prepared for a bit of chill—literally! But don’t worry, the beauty you’ll witness inside makes it all worth it.
How to Travel Through Iceland
- Reykjavik to Golden Circle: Drive from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle (about 1 hour). Make sure to visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss.
- Golden Circle to South Coast (Vik): Drive from the Golden Circle to Vik (2-3 hours) along Route 1, where you can stop at Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Reynisfjara Beach.
- South Coast (Vik) to Vatnajökull Glacier: Drive from Vik to Vatnajökull Glacier (3-4 hours), enjoying the scenic views along the way.
- Vatnajökull Glacier to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: It’s a quick 30-minute drive from Vatnajökull Glacier to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
- Jökulsárlón to Reykjavik: Finally, drive back to Reykjavik (5-6 hours), retracing your route along Route 1.
Niek de Haan’s 7 Day Iceland Itinerary
I’ve discovered that choosing the ideal destination doesn’t need to be a struggle or consume a lot of time. This is precisely the reason I launched Reliable Traveler.
Come along on this incredible 7-day journey across Iceland, where you’ll experience an exhilarating blend of breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever!
As we wrap up an incredible week in Iceland, it’s hard not to reflect on the breathtaking landscapes, the rich culture, and all the unforgettable experiences. From strolling through the charming streets of Reykjavik and soaking in the rejuvenating waters of the Blue Lagoon to marvelling at the majestic waterfalls of Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, each moment was a delight.
We ventured into the dramatic landscapes of Þingvellir National Park, where you can literally walk between tectonic plates, and chased the captivating Northern Lights—an experience that left us in awe.
Of course, no journey is without its challenges. There might be days when unexpected weather changes throw off your plans. But these moments add to the adventure and remind us that travel is all about flexibility and embracing the unexpected. Plus, every obstacle led us to discover hidden gems off the beaten path—like a cozy little café.
This is a stunning island and remember that Iceland has something for everyone. With its diverse activities ranging from hiking and glacier climbing to simply soaking in natural hot springs, it’s a destination that can satisfy all types of adventurers.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this overview of a 7-day itinerary. Happy planning!
