12 day itinerary for Iceland

Itinerary

Iceland is a stunning destination with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and plenty of adventure. Here’s a fun and engaging 12-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in this incredible country. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

Morning: Arrive at Keflavik International Airport. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café before heading to Reykjavik.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel or guesthouse. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik. Don’t miss Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church with a fantastic view from the top!
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb or fresh seafood.

## Day 2: Golden Circle

Morning: Start your day early and head out to the Golden Circle. First stop: Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Afternoon: Next, visit the Geysir Geothermal Area to see the Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes. Then, head to Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.
Evening: Return to Reykjavik and relax. Maybe check out a local bar for some live music!

## Day 3: South Coast Adventure

Morning: Drive along the South Coast. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall!
Afternoon: Continue to Skógafoss, another stunning waterfall. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up the stairs for a panoramic view. Then, visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara near Vík.
Evening: Stay overnight in Vík. Enjoy a nice dinner and, if the conditions are right, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights!

## Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park

Morning: Head towards Vatnajökull National Park. Stop at the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon for some breathtaking views.
Afternoon: Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and take a boat tour among the icebergs. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore.
Evening: Stay overnight in Höfn, a charming fishing town. Enjoy some fresh lobster for dinner!

## Day 5: East Fjords

Morning: Drive through the scenic East Fjords. Stop at picturesque villages like Djúpivogur and Seyðisfjörður.
Afternoon: Explore the stunning landscapes, including mountains and fjords. If you’re lucky, you might spot some reindeer!
Evening: Stay overnight in Egilsstaðir. Enjoy a quiet evening and perhaps a soak in a local hot spring.

## Day 6: North Iceland – Akureyri

Morning: Head towards Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. On the way, stop at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall.
Afternoon: Visit the charming town of Akureyri. Explore the botanical gardens and enjoy lunch at a local café.
Evening: Stay overnight in Akureyri. Check out the nightlife or relax at a local hot tub.

## Day 7: Lake Mývatn

Morning: Explore the Lake Mývatn area. Visit the geothermal area of Hverir, with its bubbling mud pots and steam vents.
Afternoon: Check out the Mývatn Nature Baths for a relaxing soak with a view. Don’t miss the unique lava formations at Dimmuborgir.
Evening: Stay overnight in the Mývatn area. Enjoy a quiet dinner and stargazing if the skies are clear.

## Day 8: Húsavík and Whale Watching

Morning: Drive to Húsavík, known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
Afternoon: Go on a whale-watching tour! You might see humpback whales, minke whales, and even orcas.
Evening: Return to Akureyri for the night or stay in Húsavík. Enjoy a seafood dinner and share stories of your whale encounters!

## Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Morning: Drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stop at the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall for some stunning photos.
Afternoon: Explore Snæfellsjökull National Park, where you can hike and enjoy the dramatic landscapes. Visit the charming village of Arnarstapi and see the unique rock formations.
Evening: Stay overnight in the area. Enjoy a cozy dinner and perhaps some local craft beer.

## Day 10: West Iceland – Borgarfjörður

Morning: Head to Borgarfjörður. Visit the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.
Afternoon: Explore the Deildartunguhver hot spring, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. You can also visit the historic site of Reykholt.
Evening: Stay overnight in Borgarnes. Enjoy a nice dinner with views of the fjord.

## Day 11: Back to Reykjavik

Morning: Drive back to Reykjavik. On the way, stop at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes to learn about Iceland’s history.
Afternoon: Spend your last full day in Reykjavik shopping for souvenirs and visiting any sites you may have missed, like the Harpa Concert Hall.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Celebrate your Icelandic adventure!

## Day 12: Departure

Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a last stroll around Reykjavik or a visit to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak before heading to the airport.
Afternoon: Depart from Keflavik International Airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of Iceland!

And there you have it! A fun-filled 12-day itinerary that covers the best of Iceland’s natural wonders, charming towns, and unique experiences. Make sure to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture every moment! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✨