7 Days In Iceland Itinerary

You're about to uncover how to make the most of seven days in Iceland without breaking the bank. This carefully crafted itinerary combines iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path gems, allowing you to experience both the tourist favorites and local secrets. From the erupting geysers of the Golden Circle to the secluded fjords of the east coast, you'll discover the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Let's explore how to turn this Nordic dream into an achievable reality.

Key Points

• Day 1-2: Explore Reykjavík, visit Blue Lagoon, and take a Golden Circle tour covering Þingvellir, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Day 3: Drive to Snaefellsnes Peninsula to see Kirkjufell Mountain, Búðakirkja Church, and explore Snaefellsjökull National Park.
• Day 4: Head east to Lake Mývatn area for geothermal wonders, visit Goðafoss waterfall, and relax in Mývatn Nature Baths.
• Day 5-6: Travel southeast to witness Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Diamond Beach, and take ice cave or boat tours.
• Day 7: Return to Reykjavík via South Coast, making stops at key attractions before departure from Keflavík Airport.

Arriving in Reykjavík & The Golden Circle

When planning your arrival in Iceland, you'll land at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located 49km southwest of Reykjavík.

Take the Flybus or Airport Direct shuttle to the city center for around $30, or save money with public bus 55 at 2300kr. Consider stopping at the Blue Lagoon en route, but book ahead for timed entry.

Skip the expensive taxis – shuttle buses from Keflavik to Reykjavik are efficient and affordable, with options to visit Blue Lagoon along the way.

Store your luggage at BSI Bus Terminal while exploring Reykjavík's walkable center. Start with breakfast at Sandholt or Brauð & Co, then visit Hallgrímskirkja for city views. The compact city layout makes it easy to explore major attractions on foot around Lake Tjörnin.

For the Golden Circle, either self-drive the 300km loop in 6-8 hours or join a guided tour ($90-150). Don't miss Þingvellir National Park, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Stock up at Bonus supermarket before your drive to save on food costs.

Exploring the Rugged Snaefellsnes Peninsula

After exploring the Golden Circle, head northwest to the dramatic Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature" for good reason.

You'll discover glaciers, volcanoes, black beaches, and lava fields all packed into a 90km stretch. The peninsula's diverse landscapes and terrain make it a perfect representation of Iceland's natural features. Plan for a full 10-12 hour day to see the highlights.

Start at Kirkjufell Mountain and its adjacent waterfall for that iconic Game of Thrones shot, then drive to the black Búðakirkja Church.

Continue to Arnarstapi's basalt cliffs and the Gatklettur stone arch before reaching Snaefellsjökull National Park. Don't miss Djúpalónssandur's black pebble beach and the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave.

Base yourself in Grundarfjörður or Stykkishólmur. If you're visiting June-September, you can combine this with a ferry trip to the Westfjords from Stykkishólmur.

Northern Iceland's Natural Wonders

Northern Iceland packs some of the country's most dramatic natural wonders into one compact region.

You'll discover Europe's most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss, thundering through Jökulsárgljúfur canyon with its 193 m³/s flow. Don't miss the historic Goðafoss waterfall, spanning 30 meters wide.

At Lake Mývatn, you can explore otherworldly landscapes of pseudocraters and bubbling mud pools.

Take a budget-friendly dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths, a less expensive alternative to the Blue Lagoon. The surrounding Krafla volcanic area offers free hiking through steaming lava fields and past the turquoise Víti Crater lake. Adventurous travelers can explore the unmade highland trails in super jeeps.

Make time for the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, where well-marked trails lead you through forested paths and past unique basalt formations.

The canyon's distinctive shape and accessible hiking routes make it a memorable stop.

Eastern Fjords & Hidden Gems

While Iceland's eastern coastline may seem remote, this region rewards travelers with some of the country's most dramatic and least-visited natural wonders.

You'll discover spectacular basalt formations at Stuðlagil Canyon, which was revealed in 2009 after water levels dropped from a nearby hydroelectric plant.

Don't miss the 420-foot Hengifoss waterfall, showcasing striking red clay layers between basalt. The 2.7-mile hike can be slippery but passes the equally impressive Litlanesfoss with its hexagonal columns.

For coastal views, head to Stokksnes Peninsula's black sand beach or spot puffins at Borgarfjörður Eystri from April to August. The area is home to the majestic Vatnajökull Glacier visible between dark mountain peaks.

Stop in Seyðisfjörður to admire colorful wooden buildings, and if you're interested in geology, visit Petra's extensive mineral collection in Stöðvarfjörður.

The Viknaslodir Trail offers a challenging 34-mile trek for serious hikers.

Glacier Adventures at Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón stands as Iceland's most spectacular glacier lagoon, where massive blue icebergs break free from Vatnajökull and drift serenely through turquoise waters.

You'll discover this natural wonder 236 miles from Reykjavík, nestled within Vatnajökull National Park.

For the best experience, book a 35-minute zodiac boat tour (May-October) to weave between towering icebergs and spot seals basking on ice floats.

If you're visiting in winter, don't miss the ice cave tours (September-April).

Summer adventurers can opt for kayaking or join a 3-hour guided glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull – all equipment provided. The lagoon has grown impressively since the 1970s, now covering an area of 25 square kilometers.

While you're there, take the short walk to Diamond Beach, where gleaming icebergs wash up on black sand.

Remember to dress warmly and wear waterproof gear, regardless of season.

Discovering Thórsmörk & The Highlands

After experiencing Iceland's glacial wonders, head inland to Thórsmörk, a hidden valley that serves as a hiker's paradise nestled between three massive glaciers.

You'll need either a 4×4 vehicle or a Super Jeep tour to cross the unbridged Krossá River and access the region's network of trails. The challenging F-roads leading to this area showcase untamed highland terrain.

For a full-day adventure, tackle the Fimmvörðuháls Trail, where you'll pass 26 waterfalls and the volcanic craters formed during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption.

If you're short on time, try the 4.3 km Valahnukur Hike for panoramic glacier views.

Base yourself at Midgard Camp in Hvolsvöllur or book mountain huts in advance for multi-day treks.

Visit between June and September when trails are snow-free, and pack waterproof gear – the weather can change quickly in the highlands.

Urban Delights & Final Hours in Reykjavík

Back in Reykjavík, you'll discover the perfect blend of Nordic charm and modern city life without breaking the bank.

Start with a free walking tour through the historic district, taking in the 19th-century Parliament House and Aðalstræti 10, Iceland's oldest building. For culture on a budget, explore the outdoor Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden or follow the Street Art Trail through Laugavegur. Visit the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture, a stainless steel dreamship representing hope and progress along the waterfront promenade.

Explore Reykjavík's historic heart on foot, where centuries-old architecture meets contemporary art in Iceland's charming capital.

Make the most of your final hours by catching panoramic city views from Hallgrímskirkja's tower or Perlan's observation deck.

If you're heading to the airport, stop at the Blue Lagoon en route. For evening entertainment, join the locals at Kaffibarinn or grab a late-night coffee at Reykjavík Roasters.

Don't forget to pick up affordable souvenirs like woolens and lava salt along Laugavegur Street.

The Wrap Up

You've now experienced Iceland's most spectacular sights in just seven days. By following this budget-friendly route, you've maximized your time while keeping costs down through efficient planning and strategic accommodations. Don't forget to check seasonal road conditions and book ahead for better deals. This itinerary lets you see the major highlights without breaking the bank, proving that Iceland's natural wonders are accessible to smart travelers.