A holiday to Iceland is like a dream come true. It’s a destination packed with true natural wonders that are almost pristine, from stunning landscapes, and waterfalls to the northern lights and more.
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The best way to travel around is on a road trip in Iceland with a campervan. Believe it or not, Iceland is a country that’s best enjoyed by car, or on the road, and with a 10-day itinerary in Iceland you’ll have plenty of time to explore its natural wonders without rushing.
Iceland is a stunning country, no doubt about that, and a road trip allows you to go at your own pace, make any stops you want, and explore hidden gems that aren’t in the guides. This article explores a 10-day itinerary in Iceland that will allow you to explore the best of this beautiful country.
From the capital, Reykjavik, to the most impressive glaciers and volcanoes, here’s the itinerary.
Preparing for your 10-day Iceland road trip
Before you set off driving, it’s important to prepare properly for the trip. If you’re renting a car, choose one that’s suitable for Iceland’s conditions. A 4×4 is ideal if you plan to go to the more remote areas, like the Icelandic Highlands.
Road conditions in Iceland aren’t necessarily bad, but the weather can be changeable. Many roads have spots of ice, are slippery, or are closed during bad weather so make sure you check the conditions before you set off.
What to pack for an Iceland road trip
Luggage is often overlooked when it comes to road trips. Since you’re driving, you’ll be able to fit everything you need into the car.
Be sure to make an Iceland packing checklist to be sure you don’t leave anything important behind. Don’t forget warm clothing, sturdy footwear, a good GPS, and a camera.
10 day Iceland itinerary: day by day
Here’s a 10-day itinerary in Iceland that will take you through the most stunning places in the country. It includes some of the country’s best natural attractions and some scenic roads.
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik
Your first stop in Iceland is Reykjavik, the country’s capital. Chances are that you will arrive at Keflavik International Airport, and from there it’s an easy drive to Reykjavik via Route 41, a stunning coastal road with incredible views.
Once you get there, take your chance to explore the capital, visit the popular Hallgrímskirkja church, stroll around the old harbor, or try the local cuisine. There’s plenty of things to do in Reykjavik.
Day 2: The Golden Circle
For the second day, there’s no better option than to do the Golden Circle sightseeing route. It’s a 300km loop that is home to three of the most beautiful attractions in Iceland: Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area (home to the Strokkur geyser), and the Thingvellir National Park.
It’s easily reachable from the capital by road, and it’s usually a day trip but you can do it in four hours. Of course, on a self-guided road trip, you can take as much or as little time as you want to.
After that, you can stay near Selfoss to continue your journey the next day.
Day 3: South Coast to Vik
If you are staying in Selfoss, or the area around you just need to look for Route 1 to Hella and from there it’s easy to get to Vik. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls are also in the South Coast area so be sure to make time to stop at these stunning cascades.
Before Vik, you can make stops along the way and explore the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. Once you arrive, spend the night in Vik, and go for a walk around the charming town overlooking the sea.
Day 4: Vik to Höfn
The drive from Vik to Hof is often regarded as the most stunning drive on the island since it offers the best views of the Skaftafell glacier, which you can and must visit, as well as views of the sea.
For this you need to stay on Route 1, you can take a detour through Route 204 and back to the main road for a unique drive.
You can easily explore Vatnajökull National Park and many other attractions, and stay overnight in Höfn, which is known for its fresh lobster.
Day 5: Höfn to Egilsstadir
This is another incredible drive with some breathtaking stops along the way like the Skútafoss waterfalls, Hvalnes beach, and the lighthouse, plus some amazing viewpoints.
Tour the eastern fjords and enjoy the mountain scenery and small fishing villages. You can spend the night in Egilsstadir, the capital of East Iceland, or around the area.
Day 6: Egilsstadir to Mývatn
On day six, you have an important decision to make. You can head to the Lake Myvatn area by staying on the main road, which is Route 1, or taking the 927 detour, which takes you all the way to the coast.
The detour route is more off-the-beaten track than the other one and you can face more challenges when it comes to weather, especially in winter.
Once you’re there, you can find accommodation near Lake Myvatn and explore the geothermal area, visit the lava caves and soak in the thermal baths.
Day 7: Mývatn to Akureyri
Now, head to Akureyri, which is a stunning town in Iceland. The drive there is unique too, you can stop in several local villages and try the traditional food.
Visit Goðafoss waterfall and explore the town of Akureyri, known as the capital of the north. It’s famous for its whale watching tours so don’t miss this while you’re here. Spend the night in Akureyri where there are plenty of options for accommodation.
Day 8: Akureyri to the Snæfellsnes peninsula
Discover the varied landscapes of the Snæfellsnes peninsula on the eighth day of your Iceland road trip. You can visit the Snæfellsjökull glacier and stay overnight on the peninsula.
There are many camping areas around but the Stykkishólmur Campsite is highly recommended.
Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Reykjavik
Day nine of your 10-day itinerary in Iceland is dedicated to exploring the charms of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Here you will be able to walk alongside impressive cliffs and rock formations carved by the sea.
Start the day by checking out the coastal villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and don’t miss Djúpalónssandur Beach, which is famous for its black sand and giant rocks.
In the afternoon, head back to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend your last night. On the way, stop at the fishing village of Stykkishólmur, a charming place with colourful houses and spectacular views of the sea.
For your last night in Iceland, stay in a central hotel in Reykjavik.
Day 10: Return home
Once in Reykjavik, take the opportunity to take a last stroll through its streets, enjoy dinner in one of its cosy restaurants and, if you’re lucky, see the northern lights from the city.
You can also do some last-minute shopping and visit other places you missed in Reykjavik. When you’re ready, it’s time to head home.
