Itinerary for 3 day trip to Iceland

Iceland is such a magical place, and I’m excited to help you plan a fantastic 3-day itinerary for your family. With a 12-year-old in tow, we’ll make sure to include some fun and engaging activities while keeping it budget-friendly. Let’s hit the road!

Day 1: Golden Circle Adventure

Morning:

Start Early: Grab a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a local café. Icelandic pancakes are a must-try!
: Drive about 45 minutes to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. There are easy walking paths, and your 12-year-old will love the chance to see the Silfra fissure!

Lunch:

Pack a picnic or stop at a local café in the nearby town of Laugarvatn. The geothermal bakery there is a hit!

Afternoon:

: Next, head to the Geysir area (about 50 minutes from Þingvellir). Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes—it's like nature’s own show!
: Just a short drive away, this stunning waterfall is a must-see. There are viewing platforms, and the sight of the cascading water is breathtaking.

Evening:

Return to Reykjavik: Head back to the capital (about 1.5 hours). Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some local fish and chips or pizza to keep it simple.
Relax: Spend the evening strolling around the city center, maybe check out the or the .

Day 2: South Coast Wonders

Morning:

Breakfast: Fuel up for the day with breakfast at your hotel or a local bakery.
: Drive about 1.5 hours to this iconic waterfall. You can walk behind it for a unique perspective—just be prepared to get a little wet!

Lunch:

Stop at a nearby café or pack a lunch to enjoy at the waterfall.

Afternoon:

: Just a short drive away, this waterfall is one of the largest in Iceland. Climb the stairs for a stunning view from the top!
: Head to Vik (about 30 minutes from Skógafoss). The black sand beach and basalt columns are incredible. Just keep an eye on the waves; they can be unpredictable!

Evening:

Dinner in Vik: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. There are some great options for families, including pizza and burgers.
Stay Overnight in Vik: Consider booking a cozy guesthouse or hotel for the night. The views are stunning!

Day 3: Glacier and Lagoon Fun

Morning:

Breakfast in Vik: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before hitting the road.
: Drive about 30 minutes to this accessible glacier. You can take a short hike to get up close to the ice. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a guided glacier walk (check for family-friendly options).

Lunch:

Pack a lunch or stop at a café on your way to the next destination.

Afternoon:

: Drive about 1.5 hours to this breathtaking lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Your 12-year-old will be amazed! You can also take a boat tour if you want to get closer to the icebergs (check for family rates).
: Just across the road, this beach is scattered with glistening ice chunks washed ashore. It’s a perfect spot for some fun photos!

Evening:

Drive Back to Reykjavik: It’s a longer drive (about 4.5 hours), so plan for some breaks along the way. You can stop at a local diner for dinner or grab something on the go.
Final Night in Reykjavik: Enjoy a relaxing evening, maybe treat yourselves to some ice cream or a local dessert to celebrate your adventure!

Tips for Your Trip:

Car Rental: Make sure to rent a car with enough space for everyone and your luggage. A 4x4 is great for exploring more rugged areas.
Pack Smart: Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly. Don’t forget snacks and entertainment for the car rides!
Stay Flexible: While this itinerary is packed with fun, feel free to adjust based on your family’s pace and interests.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Iceland! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✨