Itinerary for 3 day trip to Iceland

Iceland is such a magical place, and I’m thrilled to help you plan a family-friendly, relaxed 3-day itinerary. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Golden Circle Adventure

Morning:

Start with Breakfast in Reykjavik: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a cozy café like , where you can try traditional Icelandic dishes. The rye bread and smoked salmon are a hit!
: After breakfast, head to (about a 45-minute drive). This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only stunning but also rich in history. You can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates! There are easy walking paths, and the kids will love exploring the unique landscapes.

Afternoon:

: Next, drive to the (about 50 minutes from Þingvellir). Here, you can watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes! It’s a thrilling sight for both kids and adults. There are also some nice walking paths and picnic spots if you want to enjoy a packed lunch.
: Just a short drive away is the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. The roar of the water and the stunning views are sure to impress everyone. There are viewing platforms that are easily accessible, making it a great spot for family photos!

Evening:

Return to Reykjavik: Head back to Reykjavik (about 1.5 hours). You can have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like the Icelandic Street Food, where you can try delicious soups in bread bowls.
Relaxing Evening: If the kids still have energy, take a stroll around the city center, perhaps visiting the or the .

Day 2: South Coast Wonders

Morning:

Breakfast and Departure: After breakfast, pack some snacks and head out early to explore the South Coast. Your first stop is (about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik). You can walk behind the waterfall, which is a fun experience for the whole family!

Afternoon:

: Continue to Skógafoss (about 30 minutes from Seljalandsfoss). This waterfall is one of the largest in Iceland, and you can climb the stairs to the top for a breathtaking view. There’s also a lovely café nearby for a quick lunch.
: Next, head to Reynisfjara (about 30 minutes from Skógafoss). The black sand beach and basalt columns are mesmerizing! Just keep an eye on the waves, as they can be unpredictable. The kids will love exploring the beach and looking for interesting rocks.

Evening:

: Drive to the charming village of (about 20 minutes from Reynisfjara) for dinner. There are several family-friendly options, like the , where you can enjoy pizza or burgers.
Stay Overnight in : Consider staying overnight in to break up the journey and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Day 3: Glacier and Lagoon Fun

Morning:

Breakfast in : Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or a local café.
: After breakfast, take a short drive to (about 30 minutes). You can take a family-friendly glacier hike with a guide, which is a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s icy landscapes safely.

Afternoon:

or : After your glacier adventure, head towards the (if you want a more famous spot) or the in Flúðir (if you prefer a more relaxed, less touristy experience). Both are great for families, with warm, soothing waters. The has a more natural feel, while the is more luxurious.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the café at the lagoon or pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings.

Evening:

Return to Reykjavik: After a relaxing soak, head back to Reykjavik (about 1.5 hours from the or 1 hour from the ).
Final Dinner: For your last dinner, consider a family-friendly spot like the , where you can enjoy fresh seafood or classic Icelandic dishes.
Evening Stroll: If you have time, take a leisurely evening stroll around the city, perhaps visiting the iconic for a final view of the city.

And there you have it! A delightful, family-friendly itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of Iceland at a relaxed pace. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨