Your Guide to Spending Nine Adventurous Days in Iceland
Soak in geothermal baths, hike breathtaking waterfalls plus Europe’s biggest glacier, snorkel between tectonic plates, explore Reykjavík and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, venture through the famous Golden Circle, and more while witnessing Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes.
In May 2024, after months of planning, I led my family on a thoughtfully curated itinerary designed for the standard adventure seeker. Since returning, I have tweaked and perfected it.
Without further ado, here is my handcrafted Iceland itinerary—built for adventure, ease, and unforgettable experiences. This itinerary is also best followed during the summer months.
Day 1: Arrival, Blue Lagoon & Reykjavík
Arrival: Land at KEF in the early morning, go through customs, and pick up your 4x4 rental car.
Note: A 4x4 car is suggested, and legally required to drive on certain roads.
Blue Lagoon: Start your trip to Iceland by relaxing in their famous, milky blue geothermal spa and regenerating after your flight. The average person spends 2-4 hours here, and reservations can be made on their official site.
Tip: Bring something to put your hair up, or leave in conditioner!
Note: It’s recommended to book in advance during high season, and suggested to make a reservation for 2.5 hours after landing. Keep in mind that if you have any issues with travel, you could miss your reservation.
Reykjavík: Stop in Iceland’s capital for a quick lunch, or head straight to your accommodations.
Rest: Use this time to beat jet lag if you’re coming from far away, run to the grocery store, explore Akranes, or do anything else necessary to prepare for an epic week.
🏠Lodging: Near Akranes. There you will be centrally located between the Golden Circle and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s about an hour's drive from Reykjavík, or 1-1.5 hours from the Blue Lagoon.
Extra: We stayed at this tiny home Airbnb and LOVED it. It’s suitable for four guests, is a 20-minute drive from Akranes, comes equipped with games and cooking supplies, and has Icelandic horses on the property.
Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss: This small but iconic waterfall and mountain duo create a top photo stop in the region because of their unique visual combination. Walk down to the bottom of the waterfall for the epic shot. *This is the only stop of the day that you will have to pay to park.
Búðakirkja: Rebuilt in 1848, this striking black church near Kirkjufell stands in stark contrast to its surroundings. Nearby, follow the path toward the sea (to the right of the church you’ll see a sign for Frambúðir) and take in the otherworldly landscape– where it feels like you’re stepping onto Mars.
Lóndrangar Cliffs: Make a quick stop to check out the dramatic coastline with basalt sea stacks home to hundreds of birds.
Malariff Lighthouse: Take one last nearby stop featuring a lighthouse alongside the sea, a black sand beach, and two nearby small museums.
Note: Before heading back towards Akranes, stop inside the Visitor Center at Malarrif for a quick educational lesson, bathroom break, and water refill, but keep in mind they are only open from 11 am-4 pm.
Glymur Waterfall (Optional): Glymur, Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, is a rewarding hike that takes about 3-4 hours round-trip. Even if you’re short on time, you can still enjoy part of the trail and turn back at your own pace. And if you’re visiting during the summer, then don’t worry about it getting dark- it won’t.
Note: Despite its popularity, we didn’t see a single other tourist here. Also, be sure to check the status of the “log” on the sign in the parking lot—if the log at the top isn’t up, you’ll need to return the same way you came, rather than complete the full loop.
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Guðlaug Geothermal Pools (Optional): Head to Akranes, where there’s a free, two-story hot pool with views overlooking the ocean.
Note: If you hope to do one of the two optional activities, then make sure to get an early start to your day and leave the Malariff Lighthouse by 4 pm.
🏠Lodging: Same as night 1 (near Akranes).
Day 3: Snorkeling & The Golden Circle
Silfra Snorkeling: Kick off your day with a unique experience—snorkeling between two tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacier runoff, where the water stays a brisk 2–4°C year-round. Don’t worry, a dry suit will keep most of you warm! This one-of-a-kind experience is only possible here, and a guided tour is required.
Tip: Book a 9 AM tour to fit in a full day of adventure, and park in Lot P5 for easy access to both Silfra and the main walking path.
Note: Silfra is located inside Thingvellir National Park.
Thingvellir National Park: After drying off, stroll along the scenic path nestled between the North American and Eurasian plates, and follow the signs to the notable Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as "Golden Falls" in English, Gullfoss is Iceland’s most visited waterfall—and for good reason. Its sheer size, powerful cascades, and thundering roar make it a truly breathtaking, otherworldly sight. And if you’re lucky, you’ll see a rainbow appear above.
Geysir Geothermal Area: Experience some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. While the Great Geysir no longer erupts, its neighbor, Strokkur, steals the show—erupting every 6–10 minutes in a spectacular display of geothermal power.
Note: The three locations above are the most popular stops that make up the Golden Circle. Some people chose to add the Kerid Crater, but we didn’t because of the additional time it requires.
Drive to Vik: From Geysir, it will be about a 2-hour drive down to the small yet popular southern coastal town of Vik.
Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse (Optional): On the way, stop at Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse to enjoy a unique dining experience inside a geothermally heated greenhouse, where fresh tomatoes are the star of every dish—from homemade soup to refreshing tomato-based drinks.
Tip: Reservations can fill up weeks in advance, so plan ahead if this sounds extra interesting! I would recommend a reservation for 15:30 to ensure you have plenty of time at the sites above.
🏠Lodging: Near or in Vik.
Day 4: Waterfalls & Hikes
Iceland has over 10,000 waterfalls, and today you’ll visit three of its most popular ones.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Here, you have the unique and rare opportunity to walk behind this powerful cascade as long as there is no snow or ice.
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall: Just next door to Seljalandsfoss, tucked inside a canyon, surrounded by moss-covered cliffs, is this roaring and misty waterfall.
Skógafoss Waterfall: You can’t miss a trip to one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Be sure to take the stairs up to the viewing platform for a different view.
Note: Definitely visit all three waterfalls, and don’t forget your waterproof gear + a change of clothes and shoes!
Fimmvörðuháls Trailhead: A stunning canyon-side hike that begins at the top of the stairs beside Skógafoss. The first few kilometers are relatively flat, with few up and down parts.
Tip: You can turn around at any point, and be aware of time if you plan on booking anything for the late afternoon!
Note: If walking along the Fimmvörðuháls Trailhead doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, then opt for one of the options below.
Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool: Warm up in a nearby, free, outdoor geothermal pool surrounded by lush greenery, mountains, and located below a glacier. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Skógafoss, but in the opposite direction as Vik.
Vík Horse Adventure (Optional): Book a late afternoon tour to ride an Icelandic horse through the scenic black sand beach through Vik Horse Adventure. It’s a one-hour easygoing ride that you don’t want to miss.
Vik Lava Show (Optional): If bad weather is dampening your day, then head to the indoor Lava Show to see a live demonstration. It’s the only live show of its kind, and spots can fill up quickly on a rainy day.
Dinner Suggestion: The Soup Company! A family-owned restaurant serving a delicious array of soups and pastas. All soups come with a free refill and unlimited butter and bread.
🏠Lodging: Same as night 3 (near or in Vik).
Day 5: Ziplining, Visiting a Plane Wreck & Black Sand Beaches
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck: Start your morning with a 1.5-2.5 hour roundtrip walk to a former US Navy plane that crashed in Iceland’s black sand. Arrive early to avoid crowds and get your steps in, or take the shuttle that runs from 10 am-5 pm daily for an additional fee.
Note: The site is quite incredible with a minimal crowd. We arrived shortly at the parking lot before 8 am and were able to have the area to ourselves for over 20 minutes. The site becomes full of tour groups once the shuttle buses begin.
Skool Beans: Refuel with a late-morning coffee, tea, or bite to eat at this well-known hipster coffee shop built inside a school bus.
Note: Check their operating hours online as they can be limited
Vik i Myrdal Church: Head up to the charming red-roofed church for a panoramic view.
Reynisfjara Beach: A trip to Vik is not complete without visiting this famous black sand beach with basalt columns and towering sea stacks. The columns are associated with several tales, including the tale of two trolls who were turned to stone.
Note: Take caution here as the rising tides can be deadly.
Ziplining: Zipline and explore your way through a canyon adventure with Zipline Iceland! The tour consists of a hike through a breathtaking river canyon, four zipline rides, safety gear and briefing, round-trip transportation to and from the meeting location, amazing guides, and a surprise activity at the end for those who are brave enough.
Note: The ziplines are not very high, but it’s still quite a fun activity perfect for thrill-seekers aged 8-99. Tours last between 1.5-2 hours and depend on weather conditions. You can book directly on their site here.
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Heimaey Island: There won’t be time to do it all, but if you’re a nature or bird lover, then head to the port and take a 35-minute ferry ride to see puffins (seasonal).
Tip: This would be an ideal activity to begin your day with. The port is about an hour from Vik, and the driving route also passes the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck. In case you missed them the day before, the route also passes Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool, and Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls.
Note: This is seasonal (April-September), and the best chance to see them is during the morning and evening. It’s also recommended to book ferries in advance.
Dinner suggestion: Black Crust Pizzeria! A delicious pizzeria serving both traditional and black crust style pizzas and more.
🏠Lodging: Same as nights 3 and 4 (near or in Vik).
Day 6: Canyons & Glaciers
Be prepared for a long day driving, but it is well worth everything you will experience! And if you only do one thing on this list, it must be the Vatnajökull Glacier hike.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (Optional): On your way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, stop for a breathtaking, one-hour round-trip canyon walk.
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Skaftafell Waterfall (Optional): Also on the way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a scenic, roughly 90-minute round-trip hike to yes, another famous waterfall.
Note: Get an early start if you choose to add one of the activities above.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Take an amphibian boat or kayak tour among large, floating icebergs and learn a bit about the lagoon while keeping an eye out for playful seals! In the parking lot, you can grab lunch at one of the food trucks, but bring some snacks to have in the car, as you don’t pass many options on the road.
Note: These can be booked in advance through Arctic Adventures, with various lagoon excursions available, each lasting a different duration.
Diamond Beach: Famous for its glacier ice chunks scattered along the black sand shore, Diamond Beach is a short walk from the Glacier Lagoon parking lot.
Tip: Keep your car parked in the Glacier Lagoon parking lot so you don’t have to pay for parking again in the Diamond Beach parking lot.
Note: This beach may look less extreme during the summer months because of the sun melting the ice, but because of its close proximity to the lagoon, I recommend still checking it out if you have time.
Vatnajökull Glacier: Be prepared for an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime 3-hour guided glacier hike on top of Europe’s largest glacier with Tröll Expeditions Skaftafell. They have boots, clamp-ons, and ice axes for everyone.
Tip: We scheduled ourselves for a 2 pm tour, and it fit really well into our day! There are longer tours available, too.
🏠Lodging: Same as nights 3, 4, and 5 (near or in Vik).
Day 7: Return to Reykjavík & Sky Lagoon
Drive to Reykjavík: It’s about a 2.5-hour drive to the capital from Vik.
Sky Lagoon: Soak in another geothermal bath along the seaside just outside Reykjavík. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here.
Tip: Check in first to your lodgings, or head straight to the lagoon from Vik and pay the small fee for luggage storage.
Note: You can upgrade your ticket to experience the seven-step rituals, an Icelandic bathing practice with hot and cold experiences. Expect an additional 30-45 minutes for the experience.
Explore Reykjavík: Visit landmarks, grab dinner, and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Hallgrimskirkja: Iceland’s tallest church and the capital’s biggest attraction.
Tip: You can pay to go to the top for 360-degree views
The Sun Voyager: This landmark carries a symbolic meaning for Icelanders and is located near the water.
Rainbow road: A rainbow-painted road leading to Hallgrimskirkja.
Murals: Keep an eye out for colorful murals scattered around the city
Magic Ice Reykjavík: Drop in for a drink at the ice bar and see a gallery of frozen art.
Lunch suggestion: Grab a tasty meal from Icelandic Street Food or try an Icelandic-style hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur.
Dinner suggestion: Íslenski Barinn - The Icelandic Bar! A delicious restaurant that has an extensive menu of the country’s dishes and delicacies, including whale, puffin, fermented shark, and more classic options such as burgers and lamb. Be prepared for a wait!
Tip: Get the tasting platter as an appetizer! I also made a reservation here on Day 1 when we were passing through the capital for lunch.
🏠Lodging: Stay in Reykjavík.
Day 8: Free Day in Reykjavík
Breakfast suggestion: Brauð & Co! Grab a treat from this highly rated bakery, known for its delicious pastries. They offer a variety of cinnamon roll flavors, flaky croissants, fresh-baked breads, coffee, and more!
Choose from activities such as:
Going on a whale-watching tour
Visiting the Perlan Museum
Taking part in an Icelandic Food tour
Scheduling a full-day snowmobiling tour that departs from Reykjavík
Visiting a volcano eruption site with a small-group tour
Lunch suggestion: Stop by the Hlemmur food hall, where you can find a variety of vendors indoors.
Dinner suggestion: ROK! A nice restaurant serving Icelandic tapas-style dishes. It’s recommended to get 2-4 plates per person, so it’s an ideal place to try several different things.
Tip: Make a reservation in person in advance to be guaranteed a table.
🏠Lodging: Same as night 7 (in Reykjavík).
Day 9: Travel Day
Safe travels!
