11 day itinerary
Iceland
Personalized with:I want to travel at relaxed self drive
Itinerary
An 11-day self-drive itinerary in Iceland sounds like a fantastic adventure. With its stunning landscapes, unique geological features, and charming towns, you’re in for a treat. Let’s get started on your relaxed journey through the land of fire and ice!
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive at . Pick up your rental car and head to , which is about a 45-minute drive.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel or guesthouse. Take a leisurely stroll around the city center. Visit , the iconic church, and enjoy the view from the top.
- Evening: Have dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb or fresh seafood. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant nightlife if you’re up for it!
Day 2: Golden Circle
- Morning: Start your day early and head to . Walk between the tectonic plates and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Afternoon: Drive to to see the Strokkur geyser erupt. Then, visit , one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.
- Evening: Return to . Enjoy a relaxing evening at the (book in advance) for a soothing soak in the geothermal waters.
Day 3: South Coast to Vik
- Morning: Depart and head towards the South Coast. Stop at and waterfalls. Don’t forget to walk behind for a unique perspective!
- Afternoon: Visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara near Vik. Marvel at the basalt columns and sea stacks.
- Evening: Check into your accommodation in Vik. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll along the beach at sunset.
Day 4:
- Morning: Drive towards . Stop at the stunning for some breathtaking views.
- Afternoon: Visit and take a short hike to , known for its unique basalt column formations.
- Evening: Head to . Take a boat tour among the icebergs if time allows. Spend the night in the nearby town of .
Day 5: East Fjords
- Morning: Drive through the scenic East Fjords. Stop at charming fishing villages like and .
- Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning coastal views and perhaps spot some reindeer along the way.
- Evening: Arrive in , the largest town in the East. Have dinner and relax for the night.
Day 6: North Iceland -
- Morning: Depart and head towards . Stop at , Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and take in the dramatic scenery.
- Afternoon: Visit , known for its geothermal activity and unique landscapes. Explore the and the .
- Evening: Arrive in , the “Capital of the North.” Enjoy dinner and explore the town.
Day 7: Whale Watching and
- Morning: Drive to , known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Take a morning whale-watching tour (book in advance).
- Afternoon: Visit the and enjoy lunch in town.
- Evening: Return to for the night. Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local café or bar.
Day 8:
- Morning: Depart and head towards the . Stop at the charming town of .
- Afternoon: Explore the . Visit the iconic and the nearby waterfall.
- Evening: Check into your accommodation in the area. Enjoy dinner and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if the conditions are right!
Day 9: West Iceland
- Morning: Visit the charming village of and take a walk along the coastal cliffs to .
- Afternoon: Explore the and the nearby .
- Evening: Head back towards . Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city.
Day 10:
- Morning: Explore the . Visit the and the geothermal area at .
- Afternoon: Relax at the if you didn’t get a chance earlier, or explore the nearby town of .
- Evening: Return to for your last night. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.
Day 11: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in .
- Afternoon: Return your rental car at the airport and head home with unforgettable memories of Iceland!
This itinerary allows you to explore the stunning landscapes of Iceland at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to soak in the beauty and culture. Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, as they can change rapidly. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨