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Express Iceland Road Trip: 8 Days

Experience Iceland's iconic Ring Road in just 8 days with this comprehensive self-drive tour designed for travelers who want to see the country's most spectacular highlights in a shorter timeframe. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you on a complete circle around Iceland, visiting the famous Golden Circle, the dramatic South Coast with its black sand beaches and glacier lagoons, the tranquil fishing villages of the East Fjords, the otherworldly landscapes of Lake Mývatn, and the charming northern capital of Akureyri. With highlights including Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir spouting spring, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, and the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, you'll discover why Iceland captivates travelers from around the world. This popular summer self-drive tour balances efficient travel with ample time to explore Iceland's natural wonders at your own pace.

Price from 1559 EUR per person

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TOUR CODE
SD-01
SEASON
May - Sept
travel style
Premium Self-Drive Tours
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Location
Around Iceland, East Iceland, West Iceland, North Iceland, South Iceland
accessibility
Moderate

The Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Iceland & Reykjavík

dAY STARTS IN
DAY ENDS IN
DRIVING DISTANCE
About your day

Welcome to your holiday in Iceland! After you clear customs, you will be transferred to your accommodation in the city centre in Reykjavík. In the afternoon you can explore some landmarks of the city like the Perlan building, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa – Music & Conference Centre. In the evening, the restaurants of Reykjavík will welcome you and afterwards, the bars are open until 1:00am during weekdays and 04:00am at the weekend. Overnight in the heart of Reykjavík.

Attractions of the day
Harpa - Music Hall
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Hallgrímskirkja Church
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Þjóðminjasafn National Museum
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Laugavegur Shopping Street
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Reykjavík Old Harbour
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Day 2: The Golden Circle

dAY STARTS IN
Reykjavík
DAY ENDS IN
Hvolsvöllur/Vík
DRIVING DISTANCE
~290 km/180 miles
About your day

Today your Express Iceland self-drive holiday starts! You will pick up your rental car in the morning and start your day by driving to Þingvellir National park. Because of its beauty and its geological and historical value, Þingvellir was accepted as UNESCO’s heritage site in 2004. After exploring the treasures of the park, head south to see Geysir Spouting Spring and Gullfoss waterfall to complete the “Golden Circle”. Enjoy the afternoon seeing the sizzling hot springs and geysers and the force of the great waterfall. Lastly you make your way to the south coast of Iceland. Stay the night at an accommodation in the Hvolsvöllur/Vík area.

Attractions of the day
Þingvellir National Park
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Gullfoss Waterfall
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Geysir
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Kerið Crater
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Day 3: The South Coast

dAY STARTS IN
Hvolsvöllur/Vík
DAY ENDS IN
Höfn area
DRIVING DISTANCE
~350 km / 217 miles
About your day

Today you will head to the famous Skaftafell National Park. After breakfast you will drive east to the picturesque waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Above the waterfalls looms the mighty Eyjafjallajökull where a great volcanic eruption took place in 2010. Next, you will drive east along the south shore to Dyrhólaey natural reserve. Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high headland into the sea with a viewpoint over the magnificent black sand beach, Reynisfjara, with its massive waves. Continuing your drive towards Skaftafell, you will drive through the wonderful small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Just outside the village, you will find the outstanding canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur. After passing Skeiðarársandur you will arrive at Skaftafell in the Vatnajökull National Park. In the afternoon you explore the place that many people consider the greatest sight of Iceland, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Jökulsárlón is a lagoon that comes from the roots of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. During summertime you can take an optional boat tour on the lagoon that we highly recommend. After Jökulsárlón you will drive to the area of Höfn where you will stay for the night.

Attractions of the day
Seljalandsfoss
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Skógafoss
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Dyrhólaey
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Reynisfjara - Black Sand Beach
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Skógar Folk Museum
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Day 4: East Iceland

dAY STARTS IN
Höfn area
DAY ENDS IN
Egilsstaðir
DRIVING DISTANCE
~270 km / 170 miles
About your day

Time to travel the tranquil and beautiful Eastfjords of Iceland. After passing Djúpivogur, you will see the pyramid-shaped Mt. Búlandstindur on your way to explore the east coast of Iceland. Travel through tranquil coastal villages towards the largest village in the east, Egilsstaðir. In the village of Stöðvarfjörður, you will find a wonderful stone museum, Petra’s Stone Collection. Petra was a fascinating woman who had been climbing mountains and collecting stones and minerals most of her life. Visit the village of Fáskrúðsfjörður, an old French shipping port where street signs are still both in Icelandic and French. Nearby Egilsstaðir, there is a small forest called Hallormsstaðaskógur. In ancient times, it was believed that a large worm monster lived in the lake by the forest, our very own Loch Ness monster. Stay the night around Egilsstaðir (the “capital of the East”).

Attractions of the day
Höfn
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Búlandstindur Mountain
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The Eggs of Merry Bay
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Day 5: Lake Mývatn

dAY STARTS IN
Egilsstaðir
DAY ENDS IN
Mývatn
DRIVING DISTANCE
~290 km / 180 miles
About your day

Today we suggest leaving early from Egilsstaðir. Drive from Egilsstaðir through Möðrudalsöræfi to Lake Mývatn. We recommend that you take route #862 and explore Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. After visiting the waterfall, make your way back to the Ring Road and then to Lake Mývatn. Around the Mývatn area, you will find amazing attractions such as the Námaskarð pass, the lava field of Dimmuborgir, Krafla Volcano and in the evening, the Earth Lagoon. You will stay the night around Lake Mývatn.

Attractions of the day
Dettifoss Waterfall
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Lake Mývatn
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Dimmuborgir
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Skútustaðir Pseudo Craters
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Earth Lagoon
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Day 6: North Iceland

dAY STARTS IN
Mývatn
DAY ENDS IN
Akureyri
DRIVING DISTANCE
~90 km / 55 miles
About your day

Start the day early by exploring Mývatn and surroundings before heading for Akureyri. On your way to Akureyri (the “capital of the North”) stop and enjoy the charming Goðafoss Waterfall. Akureyri is a very charming town located in the Eyjafjörður Fjord. We recommend exploring the Botanical Garden, Akureyri geothermal swimming pool, Hof Culture & Music Center and having ice cream in Brynja Store. From Akureyri, you can take a day tour to Grímsey Island and cross the Arctic Circle or go on a whale watching tour. Drive south from Akureyri into Eyjafjörður Fjord where you’ll find lush farmlands, beautiful churches, the Christmas Garden and a farm that produces its own ice cream! Enjoy a nice dinner at one of many gourmet restaurants to be found in Akureyri. Stay the night in or around Akureyri.

Attractions of the day
Goðafoss
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Akureyrarkirkja Church
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Akureyri Art Museum
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Akureyri
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Akureyri Botanical Garden
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Day 7: West Iceland

dAY STARTS IN
Akureyri
DAY ENDS IN
Reykjavík
DRIVING DISTANCE
~395 km / 245 miles
About your day

Today you will be heading back to the capital. Before finishing your ”ring road”, you might want to take a look at the highlights of West Iceland. Sights along the way are the volcanic crater Grábrók, Hraunfossar waterfalls, Deildartunguhver (the largest hot spring in Europe) and the settlement center in Borgarnes. Please note that driving into Borgarfjörður fjord takes an additional two hours. Once heading back to Reykjavík, you can either take the scenic Hvalfjörður Fjord route or if you want to return directly to Reykjavík take the Route 1 underwater tunnel. Arrive in Reykjavík, return the car and stay the night in central Reykjavík.

Attractions of the day
Grábrók Crater
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Hraunfossar Waterfalls
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Barnafoss Waterfall
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Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
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Day 8: The Blue Lagoon & Departure

dAY STARTS IN
DAY ENDS IN
DRIVING DISTANCE
About your day

This is your last day in Iceland! How time flies when you’re having fun! You will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to Keflavík airport in time for your departing flight. If your departure is in the afternoon, you can either do some last-minute shopping or stop by the Blue Lagoon (optional). Soak in the milky blue water of the Blue Lagoon and enjoy an optional in-water massage which will leave you very relaxed and rejuvenated before your flight back home – a wonderful last memory of Iceland.

Attractions of the day
The Blue Lagoon
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What's included in the tour

Included

  • 7 nights' accommodation (Comfort, Quality or Luxury ) with breakfast included
  • Rental car of your choice for 6 days with unlimited mileage, CDW & VAT
  • WiFi hotspot in your rental car for easy internet access
  • One additional registered driver for each rental car
  • 2x private airport transfer
  • Optional private information meeting with our travel consultant in Reykjavik before your tour starts
  • Big, handwritten, detailed map with route, recommendations and accommodations highlighted
  • Written guides of the regions you will be visiting
  • 24-hour emergency service
  • Taxes and service fee

Not included

  • Flights to/from Iceland
  • Meals, drinks at restaurants and entrance fees (unless otherwise agreed upon)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gasoline

Discover local activities and adventures

Let your personal travel consultant know what other activities catch your eye and we’ll add them to your custom-made trip itinerary.

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Silfra Diving Tour
Glacier Lagoon Kayaking in Iceland
Silfra Snorkeling Tour
Iceland Glacier Walk on Solheimajokull
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour in an Amphibian Boat
Jökulsárlón Zodiac Tour - Sail Among Icebergs & Close to the Glacier
Zodiac Boat Tour – Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Ice Tunnel Iceland Tour - Go Into The Glacier - All Year
Lofthellir Lava Cave Mývatn
FlyOver Iceland

Your route

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adventure today

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Unwind in the perfect accommodations

We handpick accommodations to ensure memorable stays for every type of traveler.

Comfort

Experience a higher level of comfort with our carefully selected comfort accommodations, each offering private facilities including a shower and toilet for your convenience and privacy. These lodges fall under the 3-star hotel category, providing a perfect blend of quality and value. Most properties boast an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of meals without needing to venture far. In Reykjavik, all comfort accommodations are ideally situated in central locations, giving you easy access to the city’s main attractions, shopping districts, and vibrant cultural spots. This category represents a significant upgrade in both comfort and service compared to budget options, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a cozy yet affordable stay. To make your mornings hassle-free, a delicious breakfast is included with your stay.

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Quality

Our quality accommodations feature spacious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, offering the choice of a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, along with a private toilet to ensure maximum comfort and privacy. These rooms represent the best available lodging options, found within prestigious 4-star hotels or the finest, highest-quality lodges across each region. In Reykjavik, all quality accommodations are centrally located, placing you within easy reach of the city’s key attractions, shopping areas, and vibrant dining and cultural scenes. These accommodations provide an elevated experience with superior comfort, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service designed to make your stay truly memorable. To enhance your visit, a complimentary breakfast is included each morning, helping you start your day well-nourished and ready to explore.

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Luxury

Our luxury accommodations feature exquisite suites and premium rooms within top-tier lodges and resorts, offering an elegant and sophisticated ambiance. Designed with refined decor and upscale touches, these accommodations provide a seamless blend of style, comfort, and exclusivity. Personalized services cater to your every need, ensuring a truly indulgent and tailored experience. In Reykjavik, all luxury accommodations are centrally located, placing you at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining, shopping, and key attractions. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an immersive urban experience, these upscale lodgings deliver the perfect base. Classy, elegant, and supremely comfortable, our luxury options strive to provide a first-class stay marked by exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and attention to detail. Every aspect is carefully crafted to make your visit not just memorable, but extraordinary.

Picture of a room that is an example of this type of accommodation

Get a vehicle that fits your needs

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4x4 Kia Sportage
type
SUV Full Size Intermediate
Passengers
5
Luggage
4
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic (Manual option available)
Volkswagen Golf
type
Compact
Passengers
5
Luggage
2
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic (Manual option available)
4x4 Skoda Octavia Wagon
type
Intermediate Wagon
Passengers
5
Luggage
4
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic (Manual Options Available)
4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser
type
SUV Full Size
Passengers
5
Luggage
4
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic (Manual option available)
4x4 Volkswagen Caravelle
type
Minivan
Passengers
9
Luggage
7
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic
4x4 Kia Sorento
type
SUV Full Size
Passengers
5
Luggage
4
Doors
5
TRANSMISSION
Automatic

Good to know

Prepare for your adventure with these essential tips and information for a smooth journey.

Contact us
Can I drive in Iceland with my foreign driver’s license?

Yes. Visitors can drive in Iceland with a valid driver's license from their home country. If your license is not in Latin script, an international driving permit is recommended.

What if I need to cancel my tour?

We regret that we are unable to offer a full refund in the case of cancellation. The cancellation fee depends upon the length of notice and type of booking. Please refer to our Booking Information section “Cancellations.”

How does the booking process work?

When you have submitted your booking and personal details through icelandunlimited.is a travel consultant will view the booking. They will crosscheck your booking and send you confirmation within 48 hours. Your credit card will be charged with a 20% deposit at that time. If our travel consultant is unable to obtain confirmation then an alternative will be offered. If you do not accept the alternative or Iceland Unlimited is not able to offer you an alternative, no charge will be made on your credit card. When your booking has been confirmed and your credit card has been charged, Iceland Unlimited will issue vouchers for your travel arrangements. Travel documents will not be delivered until full payment has been made. It’s optional whether we post your travel documents or arrange for you to pick them up on arrival to your holiday destination.

Is tap water safe to drink in Iceland?

Absolutely. Iceland has some of the purest and cleanest drinking water in the world—straight from natural springs. No need to buy bottled water.

Comfort
Luxury
Quality