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Iceland self-drive vacation: a flexible adventure!

Updated: Oct 9


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Iceland is the perfect destination for a self-drive trip, allowing you to explore breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. From glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and hot springs, this itinerary combines must-see sights with the freedom to create your own adventure.


This is a honeymoon itinerary that some friends of mine just returned from. They had a great time!





Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik – Reykjanes Peninsula

  • Pick up your rental car and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, with its volcanic craters, lava fields, and geothermal areas like Gunnuhver.

  • Optional stop at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing dip.

  • Stay: Hotel Örk, Hveragerdi



Day 2: Golden Circle

  • Visit Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between tectonic plates. Continue to Gulfoss Waterfall and the Geysir Hot Springs.

  • Tip: Stop at Efstidalur dairy farm for delicious ice cream and skyr.

  • Stay: Hotel Örk.





Day 3: South Coast – Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

  • Explore Thjorsardalur Valley and visit the scenic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Don’t miss the iconic black sand beaches of Vik.

  • Stay: Hotel Klaustur.





Day 4: Vatnajokull National Park & Jokulsarlon Lagoon

  • Discover the glaciers of Vatnajokull National Park and take in the stunning Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with its floating icebergs.

  • Stay: Lilja Guesthouse, near Vatnajokull.





Day 5: East Fjords

  • Drive through the East Fjords, with its dramatic coastline and charming villages. Stop at Djupivogur to see the unique seabird egg sculptures.

  • Stay: Fosshotel Eastfjords (their favorite hotel!)





Day 6: Lake Myvatn & Dettifoss

  • Visit Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and explore the geothermal wonders around Lake Myvatn, including boiling mud pools and lava fields.

  • Stay: Hotel Laxa.



Day 7: Godafoss & Akureyri

  • See the impressive Godafoss Waterfall before heading to Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital. Stroll through the town’s gardens and enjoy its cultural scene.

  • Stay: Hotel Kea, Akureyri.



Day 8: West Iceland – Skagafjordur to Borgarnes

  • Visit the horse-breeding region of Skagafjordur, then explore the volcanic landscapes of Borgarfjordur, including Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

  • Stay: Hotel Hamar, Borgarnes.





Day 9: Snaefellsjokull National Park

  • Explore Snaefellsjokull Glacier, the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, and the basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi.

  • Stay: Reykjavik for your final night.



Day 10: Departure

  • Head to the airport for your flight home, with memories of Iceland’s stunning landscapes and natural beauty.


This self-drive trip offers the best of Iceland with flexibility and freedom. You'll see iconic sites while enjoying the freedom to explore hidden gems along the way! I loved crafting this trip for Ethan & Malaiyah. Let me know if you'd like me to help you put together the perfect itinerary for you.

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