12 day itinerary
Iceland
Personalized with:Hiking/exploration, solo travel, budget
Itinerary
Iceland is a stunning destination, perfect for solo travelers who love hiking and exploration. With 12 days at your disposal, you can cover a lot of ground while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly itinerary for your adventure:
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive at . Take the Flybus or a shuttle to (about 45 minutes).
- Afternoon: Check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse. Explore the city center, visit (the iconic church), and stroll around the colorful streets.
- Evening: Grab dinner at a local eatery (try some Icelandic lamb soup) and enjoy the vibrant nightlife or relax at a cozy café.
Day 2: Golden Circle
- Morning: Rent a car or join a budget tour. Start your Golden Circle adventure! First stop: . Hike between the tectonic plates and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Afternoon: Head to to see the Strokkur geyser erupt. Then, visit , one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls.
- Evening: Return to . Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner and maybe check out a local hot spring like the Secret Lagoon (if time allows).
Day 3: South Coast to Vik
- Morning: Drive along the South Coast. Stop at and waterfalls. Don’t forget to hike behind for a unique view!
- Afternoon: Visit the black sand beaches of near Vik. Hike up to the arch for stunning views.
- Evening: Stay overnight in Vik. Enjoy a budget meal at a local café.
Day 4:
- Morning: Head to . Hike to , known for its basalt columns.
- Afternoon: Explore the area and consider a glacier hike (book in advance for budget options).
- Evening: Stay overnight in the nearby town of Höfn. Try some local seafood for dinner.
Day 5: East Fjords
- Morning: Drive through the scenic East Fjords. Stop at small fishing villages like .
- Afternoon: Hike in the beautiful landscapes of the East Fjords. Consider the hike to for stunning views of .
- Evening: Stay overnight in Egilsstaðir or Seyðisfjörður. Enjoy a cozy dinner.
Day 6: North Iceland -
- Morning: Drive to , the capital of North Iceland. Stop at , Europe’s most powerful waterfall, on the way.
- Afternoon: Explore . Visit the botanical gardens and the church. If you’re up for it, hike up to the nearby mountain for panoramic views.
- Evening: Stay overnight in . Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7:
- Morning: Head to . Explore the geothermal areas, including and the (a budget-friendly alternative to the ).
- Afternoon: Hike around the pseudocraters at and visit .
- Evening: Stay overnight in the Mývatn area. Enjoy a simple dinner.
Day 8: and Whale Watching
- Morning: Drive to , known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Join a budget-friendly whale-watching tour (book in advance).
- Afternoon: Explore the charming town and visit the .
- Evening: Return to for the night. Enjoy dinner and relax.
Day 9: West Iceland -
- Morning: Drive to the . Stop at the iconic and waterfall.
- Afternoon: Explore . Hike to the glacier or along the coastal cliffs.
- Evening: Stay overnight in the area (consider budget guesthouses). Enjoy a local meal.
Day 10: More of Snæfellsnes
- Morning: Visit and hike the coastal trail to Hellnar. Enjoy the stunning rock formations.
- Afternoon: Explore the black church at and the nearby lava fields.
- Evening: Return to . Enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.
Day 11:
- Morning: Explore the . Visit the (book in advance) or relax in the geothermal waters at the nearby .
- Afternoon: Hike in the area, exploring the dramatic landscapes and coastal cliffs.
- Evening: Return to for your last night. Enjoy a nice dinner and maybe some live music!
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in .
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your amazing Icelandic adventure!
Tips for Budget Travel:
- Consider cooking some of your meals if your accommodation has kitchen facilities.
- Use public transport or carpooling options when possible.
- Look for free hiking trails and natural attractions, as Iceland is full of them!
I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your Icelandic adventure! Each day is packed with exploration and stunning sights, perfect for a solo traveler like you. Enjoy every moment! 🌍✨