7 Days Iceland Itinerary

Iceland’s terrain can be tricky, and trying to cover the whole country in one trip isn’t realistic. Driving often takes longer than you’d expect, with winding roads through volcanic fields and waterfalls that make you want to stop every few miles. But those stops are what make Iceland so special. Whether you’ve got 5 days or two weeks, planning your time wisely will help you see the best of it without feeling rushed. Here’s how to plan an Iceland itinerary that hits the highlights and keeps things manageable.

Perfect one week in Iceland Itinerary overview

This 7-day Iceland itinerary, based on the Rough Guide to Iceland, takes you through volcanic fields, fjords, and glaciers. You’ll relax in hot springs, watch geysers erupt, and experience Iceland’s stunning natural beauty. It’s a trip you won’t soon forget.

For more inspiration:  5 days in Iceland - 10 days in Iceland - 14 days in Iceland

• Day 1: Airport, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik stay
• Day 2: Waterfalls, Reykholt, drive to Stykkishólmur
• Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufell, coastal villages
• Day 4: Golden Circle, geysers, hot springs
• Day 5: South Coast waterfalls, black beaches
• Day 6: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach
• Day 7: Canyon hikes, return to Reykjavík

Day 1: Reykjavik

Velkomin til Íslands! Touch down at Keflavik International Airport, where your Icelandic adventure begins. After breezing through customs, pick up a reliable 4x4 vehicle. You’ll appreciate the extra power later when the roads get wilder—but for now, it’s an easy drive.

Let's cross one of the most popular Icelandic destinations off your checklist right off the bat. The famous Blue Lagoon is just 20 minutes from the airport and will give you a first impression. Relax, regain your energy, and start to soak in the atmosphere - you're officially in Iceland.

Feeling refreshed, hop back in the car and head to Reykjavik, about a 45-minute drive away. Park downtown (it can be tight, but there’s usually a spot if you’re patient) and check into your digs. From here, the rest of the day is yours.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

Reykjavík may be small, but it will fulfill your every accommodation need. Here are the best areas to consider when choosing where to stay.

• Downtown (Miðborg): If you want to be in the heart of the action, Reykjavík city center is the place to be. You'll be steps away from lively bars, top-notch restaurants and cultural attractions, but be aware that it can get a little noisy, especially on weekends.
• Vesturbær: West of the city center, Vesturbær offers a quieter, residential style, yet is close to the heart of the action. It's ideal if you want to feel like a local but still have easy access to Reykjavík's main attractions.
• Laugardalur: Although a little further from the city center Laugardalur is ideal for families or if you want a more relaxed vibe. It is home to the city's largest park and the famous Laugardalslaug pool, and the city center is a quick bus ride or a 30-minute walk away.
• Browse hundreds of accommodations in Reykjavik at any budget.

Day 2: Reykjavik to Stykkishólmur

Today, you’re diving headfirst into Iceland’s rugged magic. First stop: the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar seems to flow straight out of the lava itself, while Barnafoss rages nearby, tearing through the rocks in a wild, narrow rush.

Next, step back in time at Reykholt, the old stomping grounds of Snorri Sturluson, the saga writer. Picture him soaking in the hot spring as he crafted tales of gods and heroes. Then head to Deildartunguhver, a bubbling, steaming powerhouse of a hot spring—the most powerful in Europe, no less.

If you’ve got a little extra time, detour to Borgarnes for a seafood lunch by the sea or tackle the hike to Eldborg crater, a perfectly shaped volcanic cone rising stark out of a black lava field.

On your way to the coast, stop at Gerduberg, where nature decided to go geometric with rows of towering basalt columns. As the day fades, make your way to Stykkishólmur.

Where to stay in Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a small but charming coastal town, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of Iceland’s west coast. Here you'll find plenty of fantastic and cozy accommodations.

• Harbor Area: For the best views and easy access to boat tours, stay near the harbor. You’ll wake up to the sight of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water, and it’s a short walk to the town’s seafood restaurants and shops.
• Old Town: If you're after a bit of history, the Old Town is where to stay. This area is peaceful, scenic, and just a short stroll from the harbor and local museums.
• Outskirts of Stykkishólmur: Just a few minutes’ drive from the town center, the outskirts offer a more tranquil, nature-filled experience. Stay here if you’re after sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and a bit more space.

Day 3: Snaefellsnes

Today you'll journey through the unspoiled landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Start at Berserkjahraun, a winding, moss-covered lava field that feels like stepping into another world.

Then visit the iconic Kirkjufell volcano and its enchanting Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. It's picture-perfect: a sharp peak rises dramatically above the ground, reflecting in a gentle cascade below. At Skardsvik, you'll see a golden beach surrounded by dark lava - a stunning contrast in this land of extremes.

Then climb to the top of Saxhóll Crater, where you'll have stunning views of lava fields and distant mountains.

At Londrangar, jagged sea cliffs rise from the ocean like sentinels guarding the shore. Visit the Snæfellsjökull Visitor Center and Malarrif Lighthouse before heading to the coastal village of Arnarstapi, where grandiose cliffs drop into the sea.

End the day at Ytri Tunga Beach, where seals bask on the cliffs and the wild Icelandic coastline stretches endlessly into the distance.

Day 4: The Golden Circle

Now, here we are getting close to the halfway point of your Iceland itinerary for 7 days. Today, you’ll dive into Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle. 

Start at Thingvellir National Park. Walk between continents - literally - along the rift valley, where North America and Eurasia slowly drift apart. You’ll also be standing on the very ground where Iceland’s first parliament was established centuries ago.

Next, stop by Laugarvatn. Take a breather at one of the cafés and try some geothermal-baked rye bread. If you're up for it, soak in the naturally heated pools overlooking the lake before heading back on the road.

Your journey continues to the bubbling Geysir geothermal area, where hot springs hiss and the famous Strokkur geyser shoots boiling water high into the sky every few minutes.

A short drive away is the stunning Gullfoss waterfall. Stand at the edge and feel the mist as the powerful river cascades into a deep canyon - it’s one of those jaw-dropping, can’t-miss moments in Iceland.

To wrap up the day, unwind with a dip in the Secret Lagoon, and after all that adventure, you'll be ready for a restful night surrounded by the peaceful Icelandic countryside.

Where to stay on the road

When exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle, there are several great towns and cities to use as a base:

• Selfoss: Located right along the ring road, Selfoss is a great halfway point between Reykjavík and the Golden Circle. It has a relaxed small-town atmosphere with good accommodation options. From here it's only a 30-40 minute drive to Tingvellir National Park and other Golden Circle attractions.
• Hveragerði: Known for its geothermal activity, this small town located just off the Ring Road is about 45 minutes from Thingvellir. It is close to the Golden Circle route, making it a great base for both relaxation and adventure.
• Flúðir: If you want to stay closer to the action, Flúðir is a fantastic choice. This small village is close to the Secret Lagoon and about 20 minutes from Gullfoss and Geysir.

Day 5: South coast of Iceland

Today, you’re heading along Iceland’s jaw-dropping South Coast. Start with Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall you can walk behind—don’t forget your raincoat! Just around the corner, the hidden gem Gljúfrabúi waits, tucked inside a narrow canyon for those willing to get a little wet.

Next is the mighty Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. If you feel up to it, climb the stairs next to it to admire the view from the top. Nearby, the Skógar Museum offers a glimpse into Iceland's history, and a short walk will take you to the more secluded Kvernufoss waterfall.

Continue to Dyrhólaey, where cliffs and arches rise dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll get sweeping views of black sand beaches and puffins (in summer). Just down the road is the famous Reynisfjara Beach and the hauntingly beautiful Reynisdrangar sea stacks—watch the waves here, they’re no joke.

End the fifth day of this Iceland itinerary for 7 days in Vik, grab a bite to eat, and then drive through the eerie Eldhraun lava field to reach Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Settle into your apartment for the night and immerse yourself in a world of wild Icelandic scenery.

Where to stay in Vik

Vik packs a punch when it comes to stunning landscapes and places to stay. But don’t expect a luxury scene here – it's more about cozy guesthouses and rustic charm. Here's a breakdown of the main areas to consider:

• Vik Town Center: For convenience, it’s hard to beat staying right in Vik. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, a grocery store, and that iconic black church perched on the hill. Perfect if you like being close to basic amenities while still having a great base for day trips.
• Reynisfjara Beach area: If you want to wake up with a view of those dramatic basalt columns, staying near Reynisfjara Beach is the way to go. You’ll be a little removed from the center, but the trade-off is direct access to one of Iceland’s most famous beaches. Just remember, the waves here are no joke – keep your distance.
• Surrounding countryside: For a more off-the-grid experience, head to the hills or farms outside Vik. These spots are ideal if you’re looking for solitude and don’t mind driving a bit to get to the main sights. Plus, this area is perfect for catching the northern lights in the winter months.

Day 6: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Today's day in Iceland will take you deep into the wilderness, where glaciers meet the sea and canyons seem straight out of a fantasy novel. Start your day at Skaftafell Nature Reserve, where endless hiking trails loop through valleys and jagged mountain peaks frame every view.

Next, you'll head to Mulaglufur Canyon, a hidden gem (yes, that's what we said) that is worth every step. This canyon is like a secret: misty waterfalls tumble down the steep cliffs, and the silence is broken only by the murmur of the water.

But the grand finale? Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive chunks of ice drift into the sea and seals swim carelessly by. Cross the road to Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash ashore like scattered jewels glittering on black sand. Linger here until sunset and the sight is simply magical.

Day 7: Reykjavík

Your last day in Iceland is another opportunity to take in the beauty of the country before heading back to Reykjavík. Start your morning at Dverghamrar, a curious cluster of basalt cliffs that, according to popular lore, are home to elves. Nearby is the Foss a Sidu waterfall, gracefully tumbling down the sheer cliffs.

Next, hike along the edge of Fjadrargljufur Canyon, one of the country's most striking natural wonders. The canyon stretches for miles, its steep moss-covered walls framing the winding river below. The view from the top is unforgettable, so take your time.

Afterward, stop at Laufskalavarda, a lava ridge where travelers place stones for good luck on their journeys. It's a tradition, so why not add your own to the collection?

On your way back to Reykjavík, make one last stop at Selfoss or Hveragerdi for a snack or a dip in a hot spring. By evening, you will return to Reykjavík and your Icelandic adventure will be complete, with departure the following day.

How many days is enough for Iceland?

You could technically drive the Ring Road in 17 hours, but you'd miss out on so much of what makes Iceland special. Most people recommend at least 7 days to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. If you want a more relaxed pace, 10 days for an Iceland itinerary is ideal.

With 7 days, you'll have time to explore the Ring Road and visit must-see spots like Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the Myvatn geothermal area.

If you're short on time, a 5-day itinerary focused on the South Coast and Golden Circle lets you hit some of the highlights. But if you can swing it, a two-week trip gives you the chance to explore remote areas like the Westfjords and really experience Iceland's ever-changing weather and landscapes.

When's the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland's weather changes a lot depending on when you visit, which is part of its charm.

In the summer May through August, you'll get nearly 24 hours of daylight thanks to the midnight sun, giving you long golden hours. Winter, on the other hand, brings the Northern Lights, but the days are much shorter—just 4-5 hours of daylight in December.

The shoulder seasons, like September and March through April, offer a bit of both: September has mild weather and autumn colors, while March-April brings longer days and the start of spring.

What's the best time to visit the Northern Lights?

The reality is that aurora visibility depends on several factors. You need clear skies, solar activity (which follows an 11-year cycle), and low light pollution. The moon phase also affects visibility—a full moon can make the lights harder to see. If you're hoping for the best chance to see them, try visiting during the equinox months—March, April, September, or October—when solar activity is higher.

The best time to catch the lights is usually between 10:30 PM and 1:00 AM, but it's worth checking real-time aurora forecasts. For clearer skies and less light pollution, head to North Iceland—places like Thingvellir National Park, Lake Myvatn, or the Westfjords are great spots to catch the Northern Lights.

What's the best time to visit to see wildlife?

Iceland's wildlife can be spotted year-round, but there are certain times when you'll have the best luck.

Puffins are most commonly seen from mid-May to mid-August, especially during the summer months (June-August) when millions gather on coastal cliffs like those in the Westman Islands and Borgarfjörður Eystri.

Whales are active from April to September, with Minke whales arriving in April, Humpback whales in May, and Blue whales starting in June (see more of our whale watching tips). Arctic Foxes are visible year-round, but they're easiest to spot in the summer when their brown coats stand out against the lush vegetation.

Seals can be found at any time of year—Harbor seals have their pupping season from June to July, while Grey seals pup from September to October. Finally, Reindeer are best seen in the East Fjords during the winter months when they move down from the highlands to lower elevations.

The best holidays and festivals in Iceland

You haven't truly experienced Iceland until you've taken part in some local celebrations.

• Winter Lights Festival (February): A three-day event in Reykjavík where you can see light displays and art installations throughout the city.
• Þorrablót (January-February): A midwinter feast celebrating Viking traditions. Locals gather to enjoy preserved foods like hákarl (fermented shark) and svið (singed sheep's head), with traditional songs and Brennivín schnapps.
• Menningarnótt (August): Reykjavík's Culture Night brings together over 100,000 people for street parties, music, art exhibits, and food festivals. The day ends with fireworks over the harbor.
• Icelandic National Day (June 17): A national celebration of Iceland's independence from Denmark with parades, traditional costumes, and street performances.
• Þjóðhátíð (August): Vestmannaeyjar's National Festival sees thousands camping in a volcanic valley with bonfires, traditional songs, and fireworks. The highlight is the "hillside illumination" in the summer night.

How to get around in Iceland

Getting around Iceland is fairly easy, but having your own vehicle gives you more flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Public transit connects major towns and tourist spots but can be limited outside these areas.

How to rent a car in Iceland

Renting a car is simple but can be in high demand during the summer months. Major international rental companies are available at Keflavík International Airport and in Reykjavík. You may find better rates through Rentalcars.com.

You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card for the deposit, and you must be at least 20 years old (23 for larger vehicles). Don't skimp on insurance — while basic CDW is mandatory, you'll want to consider extra coverage for those uniquely Icelandic hazards like gravel roads, ash, and sandstorm damage.

Driving in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is fairly straightforward but comes with a few unique challenges. Gas stations are self-service and automated - make sure your credit card has a PIN. In remote areas, you might find unmanned stations, so fill up when you can and download those offline maps.

F-Roads, marked with an "F" prefix, are mountain roads that require 4x4 vehicles and are only open during summer months. Attempting these in regular cars is both illegal and dangerous.

When planning your Iceland itinerary, remember that winter driving can be tricky, with icy roads and short daylight hours. Check road conditions on road.is before you head out, and avoid stopping on the road to photograph the Northern Lights — a common tourist mistake.

Parking in cities vs. Parks

Parking is different in cities and nature spots. In Reykjavík and Akureyri, you'll pay for parking in city centers using mobile apps or meters. Parking is usually free at natural attractions, but popular sites can fill up quickly during peak season. Some sites have started charging parking fees to manage overtourism.

Use designated parking areas near natural attractions. Parking on vegetation isn't just bad form - it damages the delicate arctic ecosystem and can land you with a hefty fine.

What to eat in Iceland

Icelandic food is shaped by the country's tough climate and isolation, with hearty dishes like fish stews and lamb preparations. Lately, there's also a growing food scene mixing traditional ingredients with modern twists.

Traditional Icelandic dishes

Including local cuisine in your Iceland itinerary helps you experience the country's culture, here are some uniquely Icelandic dishes.

• Kjötsúpa: You haven't really experienced Iceland until you've tried this hearty lamb soup. Loaded with tender meat, root vegetables, and herbs, it's exactly what you need after a day of exploring in the cold.
• Hangikjöt: This isn't just any smoked lamb - it's cured using birch and dried sheep dung smoke. Yes, you read that right. It's traditionally served at Christmas, and the unique smoking process creates a flavor you won't find anywhere else.
• Rúgbrauð: They call this dense, slightly sweet rye bread "thunder bread" for a reason. It's traditionally baked in the ground using geothermal heat, and modern bakeries still make it daily. Try it with butter and hangikjöt.
• Plokkfiskur: This comforting fish stew combines flaky white fish with potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce. It's a staple in Icelandic homes and showcases why Icelandic seafood has such a stellar reputation.

How to eat on a budget in Iceland

You don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy authentic Icelandic food. Look for lunch specials at restaurants—they usually offer the same great dishes for a lower price. Hot dog stands are also a cheap and popular way to try Icelandic fast food. If you're staying at a guesthouse, you can save by cooking your own meals using local ingredients from stores like Bónus.

Food festivals and markets

Hlemmur Food Hall in Reykjavik is a great spot to try both traditional Icelandic food and international dishes. It's a laid-back place to sample a variety of local flavors.

The Artisan Food Fair at Harpa in the spring is perfect if you're into small-batch cheeses, meats, and other locally made goods. During the summer, the Reykjavik Street Food Market is a fun weekend stop, with food trucks serving up everything from traditional Icelandic dishes to fusion creations, often at better prices than sit-down restaurants.

Our favorite restaurants in Iceland

Here's our pick of the best places to eat in Iceland:

• Tjöruhúsið (Ísafjörður): This cozy spot in the Westfjords serves fresh fish dishes that change daily, depending on what's caught that morning. It's a great place to experience local dining.
• Slippurinn Eatery (Vestmannaeyjar): Located on the Westman Islands, this seasonal restaurant focuses on local ingredients like seafood and foraged herbs, offering modern takes on traditional dishes.
• Fiskfélagið (Reykjavík): A great place to enjoy Icelandic seafood with a global twist. This Reykjavik restaurant combines local ingredients with creative, modern flavors.
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Reykjavík): A Reykjavik institution, this hot dog stand has been serving locals and tourists since 1937. Their lamb, pork, and beef hot dogs with onions and remoulade are an Icelandic fast food classic.
• Íslenski Barinn (Reykjavík): This casual pub serves up traditional Icelandic dishes, including updated versions of classics like whale steak and puffin. It's a good spot for trying something new.

Hiking in Iceland

Iceland's trails are easy to follow, with most routes marked by yellow-topped wooden stakes. In glacier areas, look for tall metal poles that remain visible even in deep snow. Trails are color-coded by difficulty: blue for easy, red for moderate, and black for the more challenging hikes.

Fun fact: There are no mosquitoes in Iceland! The changing temperatures and the soil's unique composition make it impossible for them to complete their lifecycle, which makes summer hiking much more enjoyable.

Best hikes for your Iceland itinerary

Too many hikes in Iceland to list them all here, but here are a few of our favorites.

Easy trails for families

For something easy, try the 2.5km Öxarárfoss waterfall trail in Þingvellir National Park. It's a short, well-maintained path. If you're looking for coastal views, the Arnarstapi to Hellnar cliff walk in Snæfellsnes is a good choice, with sea arches and bird colonies during the summer.

Moderate day hikes

The Reykjadalur Hot Spring Valley trail is an 8km round-trip hike that ends with a dip in natural hot springs. If waterfalls are more your thing, check out the Svartifoss trail in Skaftafell, which offers great views of glaciers and unique basalt columns.

Challenging mountain trails

If you're up for a challenge, hike to the summit of Kristínartindar in Skaftafell. It's a steep climb with a 1000m elevation gain, but the views of the Vatnajökull glacier are worth it. The Glymur waterfall hike is another tough one, with rope climbs and river crossings on your way to Iceland's second-highest waterfall.

Multi-day treks

The Laugavegur Trail is a classic, a 55km trek that takes you through mountains, deserts, and glacial valleys. For something a bit more off the beaten path, the Víknaslóðir trails in the East Fjords offer a more remote, 5-7 day hike with stunning coastal views.

How safe is Iceland to visit?

Iceland consistently ranks among the world's safest countries, with remarkably low crime rates and high living standards. The locals generally speak excellent English and are genuinely helpful to travelers. While natural hazards exist, you're in good hands with the country's highly efficient emergency services.

Is it safe to visit a volcano?

Visiting Iceland's volcanoes can be perfectly safe if you take a few precautions. The country has monitoring systems in place that keep an eye on volcanic activity, so you'll get alerts when needed. When a volcano is active but safe to view, there are designated viewing areas at safe distances.

• Install the 112 Iceland app for emergency services
• Get the Safe Travel Iceland app for real-time alerts
• Register your travel plans through these platforms before any volcano visits
• Follow local guidance on safe viewing distances
• Wear appropriate gear including sturdy boots (and gas masks if recommended)
• Leave the lava sample collecting to the scientists

Guided vs self-guided visits

While exploring on your own offers flexibility, guided volcano visits bring major safety benefits and deeper insights. Professional guides know the terrain like the back of their hand, understand warning signs, and stay connected with monitoring stations. They're trained for emergencies and carry proper safety gear.

Going solo? You'll need to do your homework: register with SafeTravel.is, stick strictly to marked paths, and respect those barriers. First-timer or visiting during active periods? Do yourself a favor and book a guided tour.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Iceland can be expensive if you're not careful with your spending, but with a bit of planning, it's manageable. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Food and Restaurant Costs: A simple lunch like soup or a sandwich will cost around 2500-3500 ISK ($18-26). For dinner at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around 4000-6000 ISK ($30-45). If you're trying to save, grocery stores like Bónus or Krónan are great for stocking up. A loaf of bread costs about 400 ISK ($3), and sandwich ingredients for four days will cost around 5000 ISK ($37).
• Tour Costs: Standard Golden Circle tours usually run between 12,000-15,000 ISK ($90-110) per person. If you want something more adventurous like glacier hiking or ice caves, those will be around 20,000-35,000 ISK ($150-260). Northern Lights tours are about 13,000 ISK ($95), and multi-day tours around the Ring Road generally range from 65,000-120,000 ISK ($480-890), depending on how long you go.
• Accommodation Costs: If you're staying in a hostel, dorm beds will cost you about 6000-8000 ISK ($45-60) a night. Guesthouse rooms range from 15,000-25,000 ISK ($110-185), and mid-range hotels are around 25,000-40,000 ISK ($185-300). Camping is the most budget-friendly option, at around 2000-3000 ISK ($15-22) per person.

Tips to save money on your Iceland itinerary

Visiting Iceland on a budget is totally doable with a little prep. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (May or September) when prices are lower but the weather is still good. A Camping Card for 159 EUR will give you access to lots of campsites for up to 28 nights.

To save on food, shop at the supermarkets and bring your own lunch for day trips. Booking tours directly with local operators (instead of through resellers) can save you some cash. If you're comfortable driving, rent a car and explore places like the Golden Circle on your own—it's cheaper than booking a tour. Plus, many of Iceland's natural attractions are free.

Visiting parks

Iceland's national parks and protected areas are free to visit, which makes them different from many other places. The main parks—Vatnajökull, Þingvellir, and Snæfellsjökull—don't charge any entrance fees. However, you'll usually need to pay for parking at major attractions, which costs about 750-1000 ISK (around $5-7 USD) per day.

Most parks are open year-round, 24/7, although the visitor centers have limited hours. In winter (October to April), some highland areas and interior roads can be closed because of snow, and facilities like restrooms might be unavailable.

Camping regulations

Let's talk camping rules - they've changed significantly since 2015 to protect Iceland's delicate ecosystem. Wild camping is now off the table unless you've got explicit permission from the landowner. And if you're planning to sleep in a campervan or motorhome, you'll need to stick to official campsites.

Most campsites allow stays of 1-2 weeks, though this can vary by location. During the busy summer months (June-August), some campsites may shorten stay limits to manage crowding. There are over 200 official campsites across Iceland, mostly open from late May to September, with some available year-round near major towns.

That said, camping is definitiely one of the best things to do in Iceland.

How to get to Iceland

Getting to Iceland is pretty straightforward. Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main airport and has good connections to cities across Europe and North America. Reykjavík Airport is smaller and mostly handles domestic flights.

Once you land, you can easily get to Reykjavík by taking the Flybus or Airport Express. Both run regularly and are timed to match flight arrivals, so you'll be in the city in about 45 minutes.

Do you need a visa?

Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so if you're from the US, Canada, the UK, or the EU, you don't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. Just make sure you have:

• A passport that's valid for at least 3 months after your planned stay
• Proof of sufficient funds for your trip
• A return ticket or onward travel plans

What to pack for Iceland

Iceland's weather can change on a dime! It's one of those places where you don't want to under pack.

Must haves for winter

You'll need serious cold-weather gear here. Pack a warm hat, waterproof and windproof outerwear, scarf, and proper gloves - and when we say windproof gloves, we mean it. Iceland's winds are no joke.

Invest in sturdy, waterproof boots with good insulation (a reputable brand like Sorel or Columbia) for dealing with snow and ice, and thermal base layers come in handy.

Must haves for summer

Summer is all about layers. Good hiking boots, sunscreen (even if it's chilly), swimwear for the thermal pools, and a lightweight day pack will cover you for most situations. Be ready for changing weather throughout the day.

Year round things to pack for Iceland

You'll need a swimsuit no matter when you visit—there's nothing like relaxing in a geothermal pool in Iceland. Also, pack a power adapter (230V, European style), a reusable water bottle (Iceland's tap water is great), and a waterproof phone case.

Photography gear tips

If you plan to take photos, Iceland's weather can test your gear. It's a good idea to bring weather-sealed equipment, as well as cleaning supplies. A solid tripod is helpful for capturing the Northern Lights or long exposures of waterfalls.

A versatile lens kit with both wide-angle and telephoto lenses will serve you well. For landscape photography, consider bringing graduated ND filters to deal with the dramatic lighting. Note that drones aren't allowed just anywhere.

Planning your Iceland itinerary

Planning your Iceland itinerary can be overwhelming - there’s so much to see, and seven days will fly by. From thundering waterfalls and relaxing in geothermal lagoons to hiking through volcanic landscapes, our customized itineraries ensure you don't miss a thing. We’ll guide you through top attractions like the Golden Circle and secret spots only locals know about. Plus, we can help you choose the perfect time to visit, whether it's the northern lights in winter or the endless days of summer.

With Iceland's unpredictable weather and rugged terrain, planning is key. We offer first-hand advice on everything from navigating the country's winding roads to packing gear suitable for the ever-changing conditions. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on the adventure.