Iceland 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Adventure in Iceland: A Comprehensive Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavik Exploration

  • Morning: Arrival at Keflavik International Airport. Pick up your rental car (recommended for exploring Iceland) or take a bus to Reykjavik.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Explore downtown Reykjavik, shop at Kolaportid flea market (open only on weekends).
  • Evening: Enjoy Icelandic cuisine at a local restaurant. Try Hákarl (fermented shark) if you dare!
  • Things to know: Icelandic weather is unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof clothing. English is widely spoken in Reykjavik.
  • Visa Requirements: Iceland is a part of the Schengen Area, so citizens from most countries require a Schengen Visa for stays longer than 90 days within a 180-day period. Check your visa requirements before travel.

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

  • Morning: Thingvellir National Park - witness the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia.
  • Afternoon: Geysir Geothermal Area - see Strokkur erupt every few minutes. Head to Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall.
  • Evening: Visit the Secret Lagoon for a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring.
  • Things to know: The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular tours. Consider booking a guided tour or driving yourself (be aware of road conditions).

Day 3: South Coast Adventure

  • Morning: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss if conditions allow.
  • Afternoon: Visit Reynisfjara, the black sand beach known for its basalt columns and dramatic waves. Explore Vik village.
  • Evening: Drive to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon (closed during winter) or Dyrhólaey peninsula if time allows.
  • Things to know: The south coast is windy and cold, so dress accordingly. Keep a safe distance from the edges at Reynisfjara due to sneaker waves.

Day 4: Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

  • Morning: Drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Take a boat tour (optional) to get closer to the floating icebergs.
  • Afternoon: Visit Diamond Beach, where black sand meets ice crystals washed ashore from the lagoon.
  • Evening: Head back to your accommodation and rest. If time allows, visit Skaftafell Nature Reserve for a hike.
  • Things to know: The road to the glacier lagoon can be icy, so ensure your rental car is suitable.

Day 5: Blue Lagoon and Departure

  • Morning: Drive back to Reykjavik, stopping at the Kerid Crater if time allows.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the Blue Lagoon before your flight. Book in advance for a scheduled visit.
  • Evening: Return your rental car and depart from Keflavik International Airport.
  • Things to know: The Blue Lagoon is very popular, so book your visit early to secure a slot.

Additional Tips:

  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (June - August).
  • Download offline maps for navigation.
  • Purchase the Icelandic Travel Guarantee insurance when renting a car.
  • Respect nature and follow the “leave no trace” principle.
  • Stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts.