There’s something special about seeing Iceland from behind the wheel. The open road stretches endlessly through lava fields, coastal cliffs, and mountains that shift with the weather. Every turn feels like a new adventure waiting to happen. When I decided to explore Iceland by car, I knew it would be the best way to truly experience the country’s raw beauty. Here’s how my seven-day road trip unfolded, and how you can plan your own unforgettable journey through the land of fire and ice.
Preparing for the Journey
Before setting off, I picked up my vehicle from Iceland Car Rental right in Reykjavik. Their team was friendly, helpful, and offered great advice on driving conditions. I went for a 4×4 SUV since it was late spring, and the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable even then. Studded winter tires aren’t always necessary at that time of year, but I liked the reassurance of having a sturdy car that could handle gravel roads and occasional patches of snow.
Packing light but smart is key. I brought warm layers, a rain jacket, hiking shoes, and a reusable water bottle (the tap water in Iceland is some of the cleanest in the world). I also downloaded offline maps and checked the weather daily on vedur.is, just in case the road conditions changed.
Day 1: Reykjavik to the Golden Circle
The first day was about easing into the adventure. Leaving Reykjavik early, I drove toward the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most famous routes. My first stop was Þingvellir National Park, where you can literally walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The next stop, Geysir, lived up to its name with boiling water shooting high into the sky every few minutes. Finally, Gullfoss waterfall roared with incredible power, mist rising into the cold air as the sun peeked through the clouds.
After a full day, I stayed overnight in a cozy guesthouse nearby and had my first taste of traditional Icelandic lamb soup. It was simple, hearty, and exactly what I needed after a long drive.
Day 2: South Coast Adventures
The second day took me along Iceland’s beautiful South Coast. This stretch is packed with waterfalls and black sand beaches that look like something from another planet. I stopped at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall itself, and then Skógafoss, which is even more powerful up close. Both are incredible and only a short drive apart.
Later, I visited Reynisfjara Beach near the town of Vík, famous for its dramatic basalt columns and crashing waves. The wind was fierce but standing there, surrounded by the sound of the ocean, was unforgettable. That night I stayed in Vík and watched the sun slowly dip below the horizon, turning the sky into soft shades of pink and gold.
(Photo: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach)
Day 3: Glaciers and Ice Lagoons
Heading further east, the landscape shifted again. I made my way to Skaftafell National Park, part of the vast Vatnajökull Glacier area. Hiking trails here are amazing, offering close-up views of blue-tinted ice and volcanic rock. I continued to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift peacefully in the water before washing up on the nearby Diamond Beach. The contrast of white ice against black sand is breathtaking.
This was one of the highlights of the trip, and I took my time exploring the area. It’s worth spending a few hours here to fully appreciate how otherworldly it feels. I stayed overnight in Höfn, a small fishing town known for its delicious langoustine dishes.
(Photo: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon)
Day 4: The East Fjords
The drive along Iceland’s East Fjords was quieter and slower, but every curve of the road revealed new scenery. Narrow fjords, tiny fishing villages, and the occasional herd of reindeer made it a photographer’s dream. This part of the country feels more remote, and that’s what makes it special.
I stopped in Djúpivogur for coffee and wandered the harbor before heading further north.
The road winds through mountains and along the sea, so take your time and enjoy the ride. I spent the night near Egilsstaðir, where I found a hidden hot spring called Vök Baths. Soaking in the warm water while surrounded by cool air was the perfect way to relax after a long drive.
Day 5: The North and Lake Mývatn
By day five, I reached northern Iceland, home to some of the country’s most unique landscapes. The area around Lake Mývatn is filled with geothermal activity, bubbling mud pools, and volcanic craters. I hiked around Hverfjall crater and visited the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, which locals say are the homes of elves.
The nearby Mývatn Nature Baths are a great alternative to the Blue Lagoon if you prefer fewer crowds. Watching the sunset from the warm, mineral-rich water was magical. The following morning, I set off early toward Akureyri, the charming northern capital.
Day 6: Akureyri to the West
Akureyri has a laid-back, friendly vibe. I spent some time exploring local cafés and the botanical gardens before beginning the drive westward. The route toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is long but beautiful, passing through valleys and farmland dotted with Icelandic horses.
On the way, I stopped at a few viewpoints and small villages before settling into a guesthouse on the peninsula. The Snæfellsnes area is sometimes called “Iceland in Miniature” because it has everything: glaciers, cliffs, beaches, and even lava fields.
(Photo: Akureyrarkirkja (church of Akureyri))
Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Return to Reykjavik
My final day was spent exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Highlights included Kirkjufell Mountain, Arnarstapi’s sea cliffs, and Djúpalónssandur Beach. The scenery was so dramatic that I found myself stopping every few kilometers just to take another photo.
After a week on the road, I made my way back to Reykjavik feeling both tired and completely in awe of Iceland. Driving myself allowed me to set my own pace, stop when I wanted, and truly appreciate the country’s vast and ever-changing beauty.
Reflections and Tips for Future Travelers
A self-drive trip around Iceland is an incredible way to connect with the landscape and culture. While it’s easy to navigate, it’s important to stay flexible and keep an eye on weather conditions. Always check for updates on road.is, especially in winter months.
Choosing a reliable vehicle makes all the difference.
Reading car rental reviews in Iceland before booking helped me feel confident about my choice, and I couldn’t have asked for a smoother experience.
Iceland’s beauty lies in its unpredictability, and having your own car gives you the freedom to embrace it fully. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls, hiking to a glacier, or soaking in a natural hot spring, a road trip here feels like stepping into another world.
