3 day itinerary for Iceland

Itinerary

A road trip in Iceland is an adventure of a lifetime, and I’m excited to help you plan an ideal 3-day itinerary. Buckle up, because we’re about to explore some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet!

## Day 1: The Golden Circle

Morning:

• Start in Reykjavik: Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some Icelandic skyr or a traditional lamb soup to fuel up for the day!
• Þingvellir National Park: Head out early to this UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. Walk between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia, and don’t forget to snap some photos of the stunning Öxarárfoss waterfall.

Afternoon:

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Next, drive to the Geysir area (about 50 minutes from Þingvellir). Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes—it's like nature’s own show!
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the nearby café. Try some Icelandic lamb or fresh fish if you’re feeling adventurous!

Late Afternoon:

• Gullfoss Waterfall: Just a short drive from Geysir, this majestic waterfall is a must-see. The power of the water cascading down is breathtaking. Take your time to explore the viewing platforms.

Evening:

• Return to Reykjavik: Head back to the capital (about 1.5 hours). Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant—maybe try some fresh seafood or a traditional Icelandic dish like lamb stew.
• Optional: If you’re up for it, check out the nightlife in Reykjavik or relax in one of the local hot springs.

## Day 2: South Coast Wonders

Morning:

• Early Start: Hit the road early and grab breakfast on the go. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss (about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik). You can walk behind this stunning waterfall—just be prepared to get a little wet!

Mid-Morning:

• Skógafoss Waterfall: Just a short drive away, Skógafoss is another iconic waterfall. Climb the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon:

• Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck: If you’re up for a bit of a hike (about 4 km one way), the abandoned plane wreck on the black sand beach is a hauntingly beautiful sight. It’s a great spot for some unique photos!
• Lunch: Pack a lunch or stop at a nearby café in Vík.

Late Afternoon:

• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: After lunch, head to this famous beach known for its black sands and basalt columns. Be cautious of the waves—they can be unpredictable!

Evening:

• Vík: Spend the night in Vík. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and if the conditions are right, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights!

## Day 3: Glaciers and Lagoons

Morning:

• Drive to Skaftafell National Park: After breakfast, head towards Skaftafell (about 2 hours from Vík). Here, you can hike to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall, known for its unique basalt columns.

Afternoon:

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Continue your journey to this breathtaking lagoon (about 45 minutes from Skaftafell). Take a boat tour among the icebergs if time allows, or just enjoy the views from the shore.
• Diamond Beach: Just across the road, this beach is scattered with glistening ice chunks that have washed ashore—perfect for some stunning photos!

Evening:

• Return to Reykjavik: It’s a longer drive back (about 4.5 hours), so plan for a few breaks along the way. You might want to stop for dinner in a small town or back in Reykjavik.
• Final Night: Celebrate your adventure with a nice dinner in Reykjavik. Try a local craft beer or a glass of Icelandic schnapps to toast to your incredible trip!

And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day road trip through some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, as they can change quickly. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌍✨