Iceland’s Ring Road: A 7-Day Itinerary for First-Timers

This is Iceland which means fire and ice, magnificent sceneries and sights, intriguing and multifaceted culture. And the best way to ride on this Nordic island nation; by driving around or better still going on a road trip around the famous Ring Road. The following Iceland Ring Road 7-day plan is ideal for those travelers who have never been to Iceland, as this guide will give you a bit of everything that Iceland has and what it is famous for: waterfalls, glaciers, towns, and geothermal areas. – Iceland’s Ring Road

Why Choose a 7-Day Ring Road Trip?

Seven days Ring Road trip make a good start to discover the cost Iceland. It offers enough time to visit different parts of the island without hurrying while at the same time, it creates space for the traveler to go on a whim and enjoy a 5-minute attraction say. What you are about to see is an incredible display of landforms; volcanic craters, black sand beaches, geothermal pools, and even falls, all in a week’s time.

This guide offers the main attractions: Golden Circle, breathtaking Jö on glacier lagoon, impressing fjords of Eastern region, and the beautiful town Akureyri. Welcome to Iceland – Here are the tips for every first-time traveler!

Planning Your Iceland Ring Road Adventure – Iceland’s Ring Road

Sticking to the Ring Road is easy, but there are some important considerations before you hit the road. Here’s what you need to consider:

The title of this podcast is the best time to drive Iceland’s ring road.

The situation here in Iceland is quite volatile when it comes to weather; people should be wise while choosing the right time to visit. Each season offers a unique experience:

• Summer (June-August): Summer time with long days that more or less feel like most of the time is daylight, warm temperatures, all routes are open. Larger crowds and prices will be higher. This is the best travelling period for trekking, staying at the tent and exploring the highlands.
• Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): Less crowded, less expensive, and the possibility to witness the aurora borealis during shoulder seasons. Since weather conditions can be rarely predicted some of the roads can be closed.
• Winter (November-March): Discover Iceland during the snowy season with an ice caves, snowy scenery and the incredible Northern light show. However, days are relatively small, the need for driving might be tricky, and some routes are impassable.

Here’s a quick table summarizing the pros and cons of each season:

Season	Pros	Cons
Summer	Long daylight hours, mild weather, all roads open	Larger crowds, higher prices
Spring/Fall	Fewer crowds, lower prices, Northern Lights possible	Unpredictable weather, some roads closed
Winter	Stunning winter scenery, ice caves, Northern Lights	Short daylight hours, challenging driving conditions, many roads closed

Choosing Your Vehicle for Iceland’s Ring Road

The type of vehicle you will use will greatly determine your Ring Road trip. Here are the main options:

• 2WD vs. 4WD: A 2WD is adequate for driving the Ring Road when on a summer holiday. Thus if you are planning to travel in the other seasons or F-roads (mountain roads), then having an SUV or a 4WD vehicle is compulsory.
• Campervan vs. Rental Car: Those traveling in campervans can locate anywhere with an authorized campsite and thus they can significantly cut the cost of hiring a hotel. However, rental cars are more comfortable, and they are ideal for use when it comes unforeseen weather conditions.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Vehicle Type	Pros	Cons
Campervan	Flexibility, cost-effective, close to nature	Less comfortable, limited space, weather dependent
Rental Car	Comfort, safety, suitable for all weather	Higher accommodation costs, less freedom

Tips for renting a vehicle in Iceland:

• Book your vehicle well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider purchasing gravel protection insurance, as Iceland’s roads can be rough.
• Familiarize yourself with Iceland’s driving rules and regulations.

Essential Packing for Your Ring Road Trip

Given the rather changeable weather in Iceland, packing for your trip can be something of an art. Here are some essentials:

• Layered clothing: Take clothing layers so you can bundle up when its cold, and then take some off when it gets warm.
• Waterproof outerwear: Rain suit – A waterproof jacket and pants are needed in rains or snows since the clothes get soaked.
• Sturdy hiking boots: When walking the nature of Iceland, wearing comfortable and water resistant hiker shoes is a must.
• Swimsuit: Do not pack a swimming suit for the geothermal hot springs and pools all over Iceland!
• Camera gear: You should not fail to take photos of the beautiful scenic view.

Other useful items:

• Headlamp or flashlight: Chosen for use while adventures are exploring caves or while they are moving around campsites at night.
• Reusable water bottle: Let me mention thatTM Iceland TM has safe drinking water, and it is quite tasty.
• Snacks: Make sure to have some snacks during the trip as the points of purchase of the products are quite rare.
• First-aid kit: Ensure that you are ready for a few bruises.

Day 1: Reykjavik & the Golden Circle

This tour starts from Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. It is lovely walking around it in the morning: the buildings are painted in various colors, there are quite atypical stores and interesting museums.

Exploring Reykjavik

• Hallgrímskirkja church: This church, which, probably, has become one of the symbols of the city with its rather nontraditional tower, has different opportunities for observing the city.
• Harpa Concert Hall: This is another lovely building face-lit at night, its glass frontage provided a picture of the bedroomsky and harbour.
• Tjörnin Pond: This is a calm pond usually surrounded by ducks and may sometimes have swans.
• Reykjavik’s museums: To explore the history and culture of Iceland visit the Nation Museum of Iceland or the Saga Museum.

Did you know? The thing is, Reykjavik has the honor to be the northernmost capital city in the entire world!

Golden Circle Highlights

In the afternoon, embark on the classic Golden Circle route, a loop that showcases some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders:

• Þingvellir National Park: The annual holiday celebration will be held in this territory which represents the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates – UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trek across the continents and learn more about this region since it was the location of the founder of the Icelandic Parliament in 930 AD.
• Geysir Geothermal Area: Visit the area to see the Strokkur geyser blow basin of hot water few minutes out of the ground repeatedly.
• Gullfoss waterfall: Visit the impressive Gullfoss waterfall that drives its waters through an especially rugged gorge.

Tip: Make sure to invest suitable time at each of the Golden Circle stops as there is a lot of exciting landscape to tour.

Accommodations in areas of interest in the Golden Circle

• Hotel options in Reykjavik: Many hotels exist in the area ranging from the budget accommodation to high end accommodation such as guest house and hotels.
• Guesthouses and farm stays: You should also try local Icelandic homely guesthouses and farmhouses apart from the hotels in the city.
• Camping: Some of the campsites favorable for a more natural experience are found around the Golden Circle enclose.

Recommendation: If you are planning to get out of the usual tourist traps then consider booking accommodation in a farm stay or guest house.

Day 2: South Coast Wonders

Be ready to be astonished by the contrasts of southern coast of Iceland – waterfalls and black sand, glaciers that start at the ocean.

Waterfalls Galore

Today, you’ll encounter some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls:

• Seljalandsfoss: This waterfall is somewhat different from the others because one can actually go behind the water curtain.
• Skógafoss: A characteristic waterfall with a diverse vertical wall of water and a possible rainbow in sunshine. There are stairs to the top to get have panoramic views.
• Kvernufoss: A small gem tucked in a small chasm. This waterfall is not very far from the trail head, but the view from the top is well worth the walk.

Tip: To see the waterfalls one MUST pack an umbrella or something that will help keep dry as you are going to get wet.

Black Sand Beaches

Iceland’s south coast is renowned for its striking black sand beaches:

• Reynisfjara: These tubes and groins are designed to dissipate the force of waves, and also to support the sea walls of basalt columns and islets. Caution: Stay away from the water as much as possible because sneaker waves are very deadly.
• Dyrhólaey: A right headland with stunning views over the coastal scenery, the arched sea-stacks, and seabird colonies.

Did you know? The black sand which is a common element of the region’s sandy beaches is made up of volcanic rocks and lava fragments.

Optional Glacier Hike

To expand your tour, you may go for glacier walking on Sólheimajökull glacier. Occasional and standardized individual guides are offered and allow one to try walking on the ice, observe crevasses, and study glaciers.

Accommodation near Vík í Mýrdal

• Vík í Mýrdal: This friendly village has different types of lodging facilities including guesthouse and hotels.
• Farm stays and cottages: Relax in countryside comfortable farm house or cottage accommodation.
• Camping: There are several camping sites which are sited along the southern part of the coast where one can obtain beautiful scenery.

Recommendation: As you would wish to visit Reynisfjara beach and other tourist attraction the most appropriate accommodation place is Vík í Mýrdal.

Day 3: Glaciers and Ice Caves

Today, you will go outside the world of lava fields and explore an even more severe side of Iceland – glaciers and ice caves.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is specifically an impressive glacial lagoon situated through which icebergs of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier float free. To stand closer to these fascinating ice formations and to watch seals in the water, take a boat trip around the lagoon.

Did you know? I must note that Jökulsárlón is the deepest lake in Iceland, with depth of over 248 meters (814 feet).

Diamond Beach

A few hundred meters from the entrance to Jökulsárlón lies so- called Diamond Beach , where icebergs end up on the black sand, sparkling in the light. That is a photographer’s dream come true or more appropriately a photojournalist’s fantasy.

Tip: Diamond beach is best shot during golden hour in the morning or before the sunset in the evening.

Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajökull National Park is Europe’s largest glacier Vatnajökull. Visit Skaftafell nature reserve, where you can walk to the beautiful Hviturufss waterfall framed with basalt sea arch or do beautiful walking trails with glacier views.

Ice Cave Tour (Sometimes, if available/ In Season).

If you are traveling in winter, from November to March in particular, you must take the chance and visit a natural ice cave in the heart of Vatnajökull glacier. To compliment our tours, guided tours are also available to ensure every customer has an enthralling experience.

Important: Depending on the weather, the ice cave tours are conducted only in winter. As these tours can get fully booked ahead of time, it will be a good idea to book your tour in advance.

Where to stay near Höfn

• Höfn: The tourism sector in this beautiful fishing town has a range of Hotels, Guest House and Apartments to suit the clients requirements.
• Farm stays: You will then spend the night in a warm and friendly farm with hosts who are Icelanders.
• Camping: Many camping places are available throughout the region including the best views of surrounding terrains.

Recommendation: Spend your night here in Höfn since it will be convenient to visit the impressive glacier lagoon – the Jökulsárlón, together with other sites in the region.

Day 4: Eastern Fjords & Wildlife

Today’s ride starts you along the east coast of Iceland and immense mountains drop steeply to the sea to form stunning fjords.

Scenic Driving

Prepare for sights to behold particularly whenever you are trailing along constantly winding roads leading to the ocean’s edge. The Eastern Fjords have rugged terrain and terrains, many mighty cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and beautiful fishing villages located deep in picturesque bays.

Tip: Don’t rush yourself; you may also relax and have a good time while you drive. There is a number of ways to pull over and take pictures at Entrances pull-off and amazing overlooks.

Djúpivogur

Don’t miss the town of Djúpivogur because this is a beautiful harbor town that is noted for its arts and serenity. Langabúð art installation is the display of birds of the region in the form of large eggs; 34 in total.

Fun Fact: Currently, Djúpivogur is a rather small town, which, however, was established back in the 16th century.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife viewing is also good around the East Fjords. Keep an eye out for:

• Seals: Sometimes found lying on rocks in the shore line.
• Reindeer: These magnificent animals are wild and can be found graze in the highland areas near the roads sometimes.
• Puffins: These lovely birds breed during the period from May to August and if you are lucky to visit the place during this fying season you will find them nesting on cliffs.

Tip: You should carry a pair of binoculars which makes the wildlife viewing even more exciting.

Accommodation destinations in the east fjords

• Guesthouses and hotels: There are quite a few attractive guesthouses and hotels in the East Fjords and it is definitely recommendable to stay in a local guesthouse or hotel.
• Farm stays: Get to enjoy the live Icelandic stockmanship and get to touch the animals while exploring the classic farming of the region.
• Camping: There are many campgrounds in the East Fjords and everybody will be able to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the area.

Recommendation: It can be quite different to rent an apartment in a small village, where people mostly fish or harvest, as an example, octopuses.

Day 5: Myvatn & Geothermal Wonders

Many of the sights of the Lake Myvatn region are indeed gothic, thanks to volcanic activity – it’s definitely worth preparing to be amazed.

Lake Mývatn

This is a geologically young, shallow water lake famous for avian populations and geothermal features. Visit six pseudo craters at Skútustaðagígar that were created by steam explosions when lava filled a wetland.

Birdwatching Paradise: Suffice to say that bird watchers will love the Lake Mývatn area. The bird to look out for are the Barrow’s Goldeneye, the Harlequin Duck, and the Gyrfalcon.

Hverir Geothermal Area

Hverir is a geothermal area with boiling mud, hot springs, fumaroles and colorful sulfuric sediments that make the site most spectacular. Hike only on the trails and feel the strength of the ground you stand on.

Caution: Do not step outside the paint lines and be careful with what you are doing to the environment. The ground may be any freshman; it is burning in some ad some places, it is very shaky.

Dettifoss Waterfall

Be ready for a spectacle of the most stunning sight, in fact, Europe’s most powerful waterfall-Dettifoss. Just the amount of water coming down the river is incredible enough for any one of them.

Tip: Make sure you explore both the eastern and western side of the waterfall. The east side also allows for closer sightings than the west side but affords an even less restricted view.

Mývatn Nature Baths

That being said, spend a day taking a tour and, at their end, treat yourself to the Mývatn Nature Baths. These are thermally active water bathing pools that provide an alternative to the much crowded place that is Blue Lagoon with natural water from the geothermal area with various minerals and wonderful views.

What places to staynearby Mývatn lake

• Hotels and guesthouses: There are many hotels and guesthouses in the Lake Mývatn since there are so many activities to do in the region.
• Farm stays: Enjoy a diversified Icelandic farm stay visit the unique nature views of the lake.
• Camping: There are some places, where tourists can rent a tent and living in a very close contact with nature, near Lake Mývatn there are several campsites.

Recommendation: You can make a stay in a guest house or any hotel close to the lake with easy access to different sites in the region.

Day 6: North Iceland & Akureyri

Today, you will learn more about the spectacular scenery and beautiful towns of North Iceland – the major of which is Akureyri – rich in cultural life and appealing bucket views.

Goðafoss Waterfall

To kick off any trip to Iceland, you should begin the day with a visit to Goðafoss, the famous waterfall known as the waterfall of the gods. According to the Icelandic saga, when Iceland converted to Christianity in the year 1000 the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði was said to have thrown all his Norse god status to this waterfall.

Photography Tip: Get different views of the Goðafoss. The areas for the spectators are breezy with the best view and a short trial to get to the to bottom of the falls.

Akureyri

Akureyri located at the harbor of the fjord called Eyjafjörður, is a picturesque town which gives a calm impression. The town is very beautiful with many well illuminated streets, beautiful botanical gardens and excellent museums and art galleries.

Must-sees in Akureyri:

• Akureyri Church: This impressive looking church, which was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, is among the sights that can be seen in the town.
• Akureyri Botanical Garden: See the variety of plants that are located in the Arctic and alpine tundra areas.
• Akureyri Art Museum: Explore and buy modern art made by the Icelandic artists and other artists of the world.

Did you know? Fun facts: Akureyri itself can pride itself with having the world’s northernmost botanical garden!

Whale Watching Tours which takes starts from at Húsavík

If you want to have a shot and trying to see the whales, there is a town known internationally especially for whale watching, it is called Húsavík, and it is called the Whale Watching Capital of Iceland. Offshore waters are again home to hump back whales, minke and even blue whales sights.

Best time for whale watching: Although whales can be watched throughout the year, the best time is between April and October.

Where to stay in Akureyri

• Hotels: Tourists will find many hotels in Akureyri ranging from cheap hotels to expensive hotels.
• Guesthouses: Feel like in home in a guesthouse where you can often get recommendations from an owner of the house.
• Apartments: If you would like more space and have cooking and other service privileges, try an apartment.

Recommendation: It is recommended to choose a hotel or a guesthouse in centrality located for convenient to explore the city of Akureyri and its restaurants and cafés.

Day 7: West Iceland & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today, you will head for the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula, dubbed The Miniature Iceland because you get to see almost every type of landscape that Iceland boasts of, from the mountain capped glacier and volcanic peak, black sand beaches, and lava fields, to fishing villages.

Snaefellsjökull National Park – Iceland’s Ring Road

Snaefellsjökull National Park is largely centered on the magnificent Snaefellsjökull glacier-volcano rising up to 1,446 m or 4,744 ft above sea level. Check out the cultural essence shared by touring through more park territory including: steep cliffs, lava deserts as well as volcanic cones.

Literary Connection: There are many places which have got their identity in the different literature works like in Jules Verne’s book ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ this mountain, Snaefellsjökull recognized as the starting point to the core of the Earth.

Kirkjufell Mountain – Iceland’s Ring Road

Kirkjufell mountain which has symmetrical cone shape and nearby waterfall is widely photographed mountain in Iceland. It is a hike destination and tourists take photos of the surrounding stretches across this region.

Game of Thrones Fans: Most people of “Game of Thrones” fans would know Kirkjufell by its other name – Arrowhead Mountain.

Charming Villages – Iceland’s Ring Road

Visit two of the beautiful fishing towns of Iceland, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar famous for its colorful and pretty architecture of docks and towering cliffs. A leisurely stroll along this coast is possible followed by the sightseeing of the interesting rock formations and rich colonies of birds.

Tip: Be sure to take your seafood dinner with a view of this beautiful place in one of the restaurants in Arnarstapi or Hellnar villages.

Drive back to Reykjavik – Iceland’s Ring Road

And as it is with each day of our Ring Road tours, after a day exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula it is time to head back to Reykjavik. Savor on the great moments and the fruits you have made through the whole process.

Tips for Driving Iceland’s Ring Road

Circumnavigating the island is an unforgettable adventure, however, anyone who plans to take a car for the Ring Road should be ready for what the roads in Iceland have in store for them.

Navigating Iceland’s Roads – Iceland’s Ring Road

• Road conditions: I found that the Route 1 or the Ring Road to be quite smooth, although as with the roads in any country they depend on season and region. Just expect to find gravel roads, low clearances like bridges, and sometimes even potholes.
• F-roads: F-roads are off-road driving tracks which must be used in a 4WD car and are available only between May and October. Always consult on the road status before going to F-roads.
• Speed limits: Within towns and cities the maximum authorized speed is 70 km/h (43 mph on the paved roads and 60 km/h (37 mph on gravel roads. It is possible to overlook subtle changes of the weather and terrain and this normally means that one should always adapt to the prevailing conditions.
• Single-lane bridges: It is common to come across single carriageway bridges when circumventing the country on the Ring Road. Slower, give way to the traffic proceeding in the opposite direction.
• Sheep and other animals: Other considerations include taking caution when crossing areas were there are sheep, horses or any other animals that become Updates common in rural areas.

Important: It is also important you check the road status and the forecasted weather conditions before you get into your car and drive. For real-time information on road closures and condition, the website used is road.is.

Budgeting for Your Ring Road Trip – Iceland’s Ring Road

Still, Iceland can be an expensive place to visit, however, it’s possible to travel on the cheap. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

• Accommodation: For budget traveler you should plan to spend around 10000-25000 ISK a night at a guesthouse or hotel. Camping is much cheaper with campsites varying from of 1,500 ISK – 3,000 ISK per person per night.
• Food: Eating out can be expensive. Think about self-catering, that means buying groceries at super markets, for examples Bónus or Krónan.
• Gas: The prices for the gasoline from oil in Iceland are generally much higher than those in most countries. Expenditure on fuel should also be taken into consideration when drawing a financial plan.
• Activities: Climbing over glaciers, visiting ice caves or going for whale-watching will cost you extra money. Select only those interests that you are able to spend on and that which you have lots of interest in.

Tips for saving money:- Iceland’s Ring Road

• Travel during the shoulder seasons: The overall average costs tend to be lower during spring and autumn.
• Cook your own meals: Since the client has complete control over what he or she is taking, self-catering can really cut down on food expenses.
• Look for free activities: Looking for a hike, getting lost in nature, visiting waterfalls can be done for free with great enjoyment.
• Purchase a camping card: If you are going to camp, buy a Camping Card since it gives you admission to a plethora of campsites in Iceland.

Responsible Travel in Iceland – Iceland’s Ring Road

Iceland’s environment is fragile hence sensitive to human interference. Practice responsible travel by following these guidelines:

• Leave no trace: Carry out all your litter, keep to the signed paths, and do not approach the animals.
• Respect nature: Do not pluck flowers, scare up birds, or disturb natural objects or formations.
• Support local businesses: Support home-based businesses such as hotels, eating places, and tour companies.
• Conserve water and energy: Don’t waste water or energy in the house.

There is a large amount of things a tourist can do responsibly and thereby contribute to the preservation of natural landscapes of Iceland.

Conclusion – Iceland’s Ring Road

Road tripping through Iceland’s stretch of Circling Road will be one of the most amazing experiences that would heist you out of your comfort zone out to embrace the stunning wilderness of the country. This 7 dayinerary would be ideal for first time visitor to Iceland given that traveler can enjoy the main attractions while still finding time to for a bit of exploration.

Starting from the most famous Golden Circle and the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, the dramatic eastern coast and the lovely Akureyri town. Please, try not to miss any details, pack according to the weather forecast and go amazing things to happen.