Iceland 3 Day Itinerary

Title: 3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Iceland (June - August)

Day 1: Reykjavik & The Golden Circle

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafes in Reykjavik. We recommend Kaffi Viktoria, located near Hallgrímskirkja church.

  • 9:00 - 12:00: Head out to explore the Golden Circle, an iconic route that covers some of Iceland’s most famous attractions. Stops include Thingvellir National Park (historical and geological significance), Geysir Geothermal Area (see active geysers), and Gullfoss waterfall (spectacular sight).

  • 12:00 - 13:00: Have lunch at one of the restaurants along the Golden Circle route, such as Geysir Restaurant or Friðheimar Farm.

  • Afternoon: Visit Þingvellir National Park again for snorkeling in the Silfra fissure (book in advance). Alternatively, explore the charming village of Stöng, a Viking Age settlement replica.

  • Evening: Return to Reykjavik and enjoy dinner at Dill – one of Iceland’s top restaurants. Don’t forget to try their signature dish: Arctic Char!

Day 2: South Coast & Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón)

  • Morning: Fuel up with breakfast before a long day of travel. Try Bakarí Sandholt, another popular spot in Reykjavik.

  • 8:00 - 14:30: Embark on a guided tour to the South Coast, visiting sites like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Dyrhólaey rock arch, and Vík village. If time allows, explore Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon as well.

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic or stop at a local café en route to refuel.

  • Afternoon/Evening: Travel to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, where you can witness floating icebergs and find black sand dotted with driftwood and glittering diamonds (ice chunks).

  • Dinner: Dine in the charming village of Höfn at a restaurant such as Pakkhús Restaurant.

Day 3: Blue Lagoon & Departure

  • Morning: After breakfast, make your way to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing geothermal spa experience. Book your visit in advance to secure a spot!

  • 12:00 - 14:00: Return to Reykjavik and have lunch at one of the city’s many eateries. Try Café Loki, located near the Viking Museum.

  • Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, explore more of Reykjavik or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Things to Know:

  1. Iceland’s summer season (June - August) offers long days with minimal darkness, making it easier for tourists to explore.
  2. Always carry a waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes. The weather can change quickly!
  3. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s wise to have some local currency (ISK) on hand for smaller purchases.
  4. Tap water in Iceland is safe to drink, so feel free to refill your water bottle.
  5. For non-EU/EFTA citizens, a travel visa may be required to enter Iceland. Check the latest visa requirements for your country on the official website.
  6. Renting a car is a popular way to explore Iceland, but organized tours are also available if you prefer guided travel. Make sure to have comprehensive insurance coverage when renting a vehicle.