4 day tours in iceland

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

The Ultimate 4 Days In Iceland Itinerary

May 30, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Planning to spend 4 days in Iceland and looking for the perfect itinerary? We’ve got you covered. Despite being a small country, Iceland has an incredible amount of beauty and adventure to offer.

The island is one stunning natural wonder after the next. Even your drive from one place to the next will have you staring out the window in awe.

Exploring Iceland in a long weekend will allow you the time to cover some of the country’s most extraordinary sites, while still leaving you with plenty to keep you coming back for more.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Our Iceland itinerary will have you visiting thundering waterfalls, brilliant white icebergs, black sand beaches, and canyons that look like something out of a fairytale. Iceland’s landscape is incredibly diverse making each stop unique and fascinating.

No matter what time of year you are visiting you’ll have more than enough activities to keep you busy.  Feel free to alter this Iceland itinerary as you see fit given your own time constraints and energy levels. Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

We definitely recommend renting a car for your 4 days in Iceland. It is possible to book tours that will take you to a number of stops on this itinerary, however in order to complete this itinerary in full or adjust your schedule as you see fit, most people find a car is the ideal option for getting around the country. This will allow you the chance to explore Iceland’s natural beauty on your own terms.

Driving in Iceland is not cheap, but we guarantee it will enhance your overall trip experience. Do take note, that unlike in the United States, many of the rental cars have a manual transmission, so if you don’t know how to drive a manual car, double check to make sure your rental car has an automatic transmission!

We’ve been to Iceland many times and are very fond of the country. The information you’ll find in this Iceland itinerary is the information we wish we had on our first visit to the land of fire and ice. We hope our past experiences will help make planning your trip a little easier!

4 Days In Iceland Map:

If you’re more of a visual person, we’ve provided this road trip map for your 4 days in Iceland below so it’s easier for you to see where each stop is located. For the driving route, check out the link to the map. This map will show you an idea of where all of the stops are along this route!

Click Here For Iceland in 4 Days Map

Day 1: Begin Your 4 Days In Iceland In And Around The Capital City

Stop 1: soak in a natural river at reykjadalur hot springs.

After a long flight and drive from Keflavik to Reykjavik, there’s no better way to start your trip than stretching your legs and getting your blood pumping on a beautiful hike. If you’ve ever wanted to bathe in a hot river in the middle of nature, you’ll be excited that the Reykjadalur Hot Springs is the first stop on your Iceland itinerary.

No matter what time of year you are visiting Iceland, bring a swimsuit! Understandably, it does seem counterintuitive to bring a swimsuit to a country called Iceland, but we guarantee you won’t regret having one handy.

Located in South Iceland, just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, Reykjadalur Hot Springs is the perfect quick nature escape from the capital. The hike to the hot springs is roughly 45 minutes-1 hour, and is easy to moderately difficult. The hike starts with a relatively steep uphill climb before leveling out.

The path is well maintained and clearly marked. Your hike will take you through a valley filled with steam, past a cascading waterfall and many grazing sheep.

As you approach the hot springs you’ll be greeted with the distinct smell of rotten eggs, which is attributed to the sulfur in the boiling water surrounding the hot springs. The boiling water is mesmerizing, but don’t touch it. The real prize is waiting for you, just mere steps away.

When you reach the part of the river that is safe for bathing, you can change on a wood platform with partitions. Privacy is lacking, but no one cares. Everyone is there to relax and have a good time.

Find your perfect spot in the river and enjoy bathing while the sheep suntan 10 yards away. The best spots in the river are right up against the rock piles dividing the river into sections. There you’ll find the deepest pockets of water.

In summer, the water in this section of the river resembles that of a Jacuzzi and is perfect for bathing. As the weather gets colder, you may need to hike a little further upriver to find a spot warm enough to enjoy for extended periods of time.

Arrive in the early morning or late evening (when you can enjoy the midnight sun in the summer) to avoid the biggest crowds. There is nothing quite like bathing in a river surrounded by stunning nature, and you’ll no doubt be glad you made this stop to kick off your 4 days in Iceland.

This is one of the best stops around Iceland’s Ring Road . If you happen to be driving in Iceland , you will want to ensure that you make time to see it! 

Stop 2: Downtown Reykjavik

Now that you’ve had a taste of Iceland’s natural outdoor beauty, we suggest taking a walk around downtown Reykjavik to explore the colorful capital. Laugavegur is the main shopping street downtown filled with shops, café’s, restaurants, galleries, etc. You can do anything from buying Icelandic wool sweaters to enjoying a delicious cup of coffee on this street.

Laugavegur along with Bankastræti and Austurstræti streets will take care of your shopping needs. There are also a number of wonderful museums in and around Reykjavik including Perlan, the former water towers turned observation deck and “Wonders of Iceland” museum, the Reykjavik Maritime Museum along the harbor, the underground Settlement Exhibition with an excavated longhouse, and the Arbær Open Air Museum where you’ll find preserved old Icelandic buildings with sod roofs.

A day in downtown Reykjavik would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, designed by architect Gudjón Samúelsson with an outside meant to resemble the basalt columns found in Iceland’s nature. It’s the tallest building in downtown Reykjavik and as a result is very difficult to miss. The area in front of the church is dominated by a statue of the famous Leifur Eiriksson, the first European to set foot in North America even before Christopher Columbus.

The inside of the church is minimalistic in design and not particularly grand, though the large pipe organ inside is eye-catching. The real draw of the church however is the spectacular 360 views you’ll find at the tower up top.

Entrance to the church alone is free, but admission to the tower is 1000 ISK per person. Once you pay at the church shop you’ll take an elevator up to the tower where you can take your time enjoying the views over all of Reykjavik and beyond.

Another stop you’ll want to make while in Reykjavik is to the Harpa Concert Hall, the beautiful concert venue downtown with 714 honeycomb-like glass panels that light up at night. Like Hallgrimskirkja, the design was meant to resemble basalt columns. The site is somewhat controversial as it was an expensive project completed shortly after the 2008 financial crisis with money that many people felt should have been invested elsewhere.

Whether or not its completion was warranted, it stands today as an architectural beauty, recipient of the Mies Van der Rohe award for architecture and home to festivals, concerts of all music genres, conferences and more. Even if there are no concerts happening during your visit, it’s worth wandering the impressive building to admire the architectural work.

For those with a sweet tooth we’ve got a couple of locations you won’t regret visiting. The first is the Brauð & Co. bakery where you’ll delight in the most delicious pastries. The cinnamon and vanilla rolls and chocolate croissants are particularly fantastic and addicting.

The name of the bakery is not well marked on the building, but the outside is very distinguishable with its colorful street art, and the smells waft down the street so it can’t be missed! Our other suggestion is Valdis ice cream. The idea of eating ice cream in a cold climate can sound strange and yet Icelanders absolutely love their ice cream all year round.

This is a tried and true favorite of both locals and visitors alike. There are a large variety of flavors that are constantly changing. It’s hard to go wrong with this delicious ice cream.

Stop 3: Relax In The Hot Tubs At The Local Swimming Pool

Every town in Iceland has at least one swimming pool complex (Reykjavik has many), and there’s no better way to finish off an adventurous day than with a soak in one or all of the multiple hot tubs of differing temperatures. This is the perfect way to spend one of your four days in Iceland!

There are a couple things you should know about the public swimming pools. After you pay to use the pools (1030 ISK for adults), you’ll leave your shoes outside the locker room on a shoe rack.

You’ll be given a wristband or key to lock your individual locker. When you enter the locker room, don’t be alarmed if everyone is naked. In fact it’s a requirement that you shower naked before putting on your bathing suit and getting in the pool.

In Iceland, it’s entirely normal, and no one is paying attention to you anyway, so there’s no need to feel self-conscious. Most of the showers are communal, but if you’d feel more comfortable with some privacy there are sometimes a handful of shower stalls with doors. When returning from the pool you also have to dry yourself completely after showering before you can enter the locker room area.

We suggest heading to Laugardalslaug, the largest of Reykjavik’s pool complexes located right next to Iceland’s National Soccer Team Stadium. This complex is made up of an indoor pool, an Olympic sized heated outdoor pool, a kiddie pool with a slide, hot tubs of varying temperatures (38°C, 42°C, and 44°C) as well as a salt water hot tub. For those daring souls perhaps trying to recover from aches and pains, there is a cold tub as well, though as you might expect, it gets far fewer visitors.

This pool complex is a favorite of locals and tourists at all times of the year. And in the winter, there’s nothing quite like sitting in a steaming hot tub, surrounded by snow while reflecting on the adventures of your day.

Stop 4: Try To Catch A Glimpse Of The Elusive Northern Lights

If you’re visiting Iceland in the winter, we highly suggest driving out of town to try to see the lights or paying for a tour. The Northern Lights have the potential to be seen from September-April. A strong Northern Lights show makes your heart want to leap out of your chest with excitement, but the Northern Lights are inconsistent and elusive.

One minute the sky is dancing in brilliant hues of green and purple, and the next, clouds are obscuring anything and everything in the sky. In Iceland, there’s precipitation approximately 300 days a year on average, meaning the sky is more often than not cloudy or at least slightly overcast.

This makes the northern lights search particularly frustrating when you know there’s solar activity, but the lights are hidden behind clouds. Sometimes patience wins out, and the clouds will part long enough for you to see the lights; sometimes it never clears, and you’re just out of luck.

If you’re hoping to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, you have two options. Your first is paying to take a guided Northern Lights Tour . These tour guides are extremely knowledgeable and seek out the Northern Lights for a living, so they know the best places to wait and watch.

Remember though, nature is the only one in control of the Northern Lights, so even with a guide there is no guarantee you’ll see the lights. If you don’t see the lights on your first trip, most tour companies allow you to rebook a second trip at no extra charge.

The other option is to take your car, drive away from the city lights and search for the lights yourself. Dark, clear skies give you the best chance of seeing the lights so the longest nights of the year will give you the highest percentage of both.

You can track the aurora strength and visibility yourself, and you can continue to check it throughout the night as it continuously updates. The Northern Lights are a remarkable sight and worth taking a chance on!

Where to stay in Reykjavik:

Affordable: Hotel Klettur  Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Fosshotel Reykjavik  Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Hotel Borg  Check rates: Booking.com

Day 2: Explore The Waterfalls Along Iceland’s South Coast

Stop 1: hrunalaug hot springs.

Hrunalaug is one of the many fantastic natural hot springs in Iceland, perfect for bathing and relaxing. Everything about this spot and its surrounding nature is picturesque and ideal, however recent surges in tourism and visits to the sites by large tour buses have worn down the site to the point where the owner considered bulldozing the whole thing down. The natural hot spring was built up to accommodate humans, but it remains very small and is not designed for large groups of people.

A small little turf hut acts as a changing room. Behind the hut is a small two-person rectangular hot pot that is designed almost more like a bathtub. To the left of the changing room as you face it is a slightly larger pot, but even that only holds perhaps 8-10 people.

As a result of the limited space, early morning and late evening is the best time to visit the natural hot spring to avoid the biggest crowds. The hot pot is also particularly popular because it is known to maintain a comfortable water temperature all year long. It is the perfect stop when spending 4 nights in Iceland!

If you’re fortunate enough to get one of the coveted spots in the hot spring, you’re in for an incredibly enjoyable experience soaking up the welcome heat of the water while gazing out at the undeniable natural beauty around you. 

We cannot express the importance of keeping this location clean, being respectful and picking up after yourself. For the most part, the changing hut and pools are clean and well maintained mostly thanks to the owner who comes by now and then to see to its upkeep. But as we mentioned, this wonderful natural hot spring is at risk of being shut down for good, so please play your part in preserving it so it can remain for future visitors to enjoy.

Stop 2: Visit The Þjóðveldisbærinn Saga-Age Farm

Have you ever wanted to learn more about how the Vikings lived? Well now is your chance at the Þjóðveldisbærinn Saga-Age farm, an impressive replica of Stöng, the excavated manor farm in Þjórsárdalur. You might find their buildings to be more charming and majestic than you had expected.

The reconstructed Settlement farm was built in honor of the 1100th anniversary of the Settlement of Iceland and opened in 1977. The idea was to provide an example of a medieval Icelandic farm, and it was thought a replica of Stöng would be the best representation of a farm from that time period.

Stöng was located dangerously close to the volcano Hekla. It is thought that the farm and the rest of the surrounding settlement was destroyed and abandoned after the 1104 Hekla eruption, however, Hekla also erupted many other times in later years, so the exact time of its final destruction and abandonment is unclear. Despite being covered in white volcanic ash, the remains of Stöng underneath were remarkably well preserved.

The farm was reconstructed with much love and care in an attempt to get every detail both on the interior and exterior exact and preserve an important piece of Icelandic history. Of course, without a full original to copy, there are aspects of the reconstructed work that had to be imagined, estimated, or pulled from story and folklore, but by all accounts, the finished result is remarkably accurate. You won’t regret immersing yourself in this fascinating piece of history when seeing Iceland in 4 days!

Stop 3: Admire One Of The Highest Waterfalls In Iceland At Haifoss

Right on the edge of the highlands in South Iceland sits Haifoss, an impressive 400-foot waterfall. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland. Haifoss thunders down right next to its partner waterfall, Granni (which translates to neighbor).

Though Granni’s flow is slightly less powerful, the two waterfalls side by side are a sight to behold. Haifoss by itself eclipses most other waterfalls you’ll see in your lifetime. The two waterfalls are located in a gorge created by the Fossa River.

It is possible to hike down to the falls if you’re spending a significant amount of your day at the waterfall and its surrounding valley, but the view from the top is incredible, and easily accessible from the parking lot. From the parking lot, you can walk along the edge of the gorge taking in the waterfalls from multiple viewing points which is the perfect thing to do with 4 days in Iceland!

In the winter, Haifoss is usually inaccessible unless you are driving there in buses or jeeps designed for winter weather and icy gravel roads. Don’t attempt the drive unless you are in an appropriate vehicle. Even in summer, the gravel roads are rocky and full of potholes and require slow driving and patience.

Because of its distance from the more popular Golden Circle stops along the South Coast, and the rockiness of the road, the gorge is never crowded, and there’s always plenty of time and room to take pictures and take in the waterfalls in all their glory. If you can brave the drive to get there, the view at the end of the road is unforgettable, and you won’t regret making the drive, however bumpy.

Stop 4: Relax In The Hidden Oasis of Gjain

Gjain is a stunning valley that you won’t want to miss during your 4 days in Iceland, particularly in the summertime when the vegetation is at its peak. The valley truly comes alive with beauty. It’s full of a whole collection of small waterfalls, brilliant blue pools of water, carved out shallow caves, green growth of all kinds, flowers and birdlife.

When the weather is nice it’s the perfect place to bring a blanket and have a picnic. Because it’s a valley it feels very private and secluded giving you a welcome peace and quiet to your experience. It becomes your own little slice of paradise.

You’ll hardly ever find crowds here as it’s off the main road and not a stop that general tour buses make. The valley is beautiful at other times of year as well but it can just become harder or impossible to reach in the winter as the roads and paths turn icy.

Getting to Gjain is fairly straightforward from Haifoss. You’ll continue back down the road the way you came then turn right when you reach the fork in the road instead of heading all the way back to road No. 32.

To reach both Gjain and Haifoss it’s recommended you have a 4×4 with ground clearance because of the bumpy roads. The drive itself isn’t anything particularly spectacular as you pass through expanses of lava fields and rock, but it makes arriving at this hidden oasis even more spectacular and magical. It is a must see when visiting Iceland in 4 days!

Stop 5: Walk Behind A Thundering Waterfall At Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss, a 200-foot waterfall, is right off the Route 1 (Ring Road) on the South Coast of Iceland. There is no hiking required to see this waterfall. This is one of the most famous Waterfalls In Iceland! It is the perfect stop when spending 4 days in Iceland because there are multiple waterfalls nearby!

It is just a short walk from the parking lot, and it can even be seen from farther away as you drive up to it along the Ring Road. Though Iceland is graced with an endless display of stunning waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss’s unique quality is that it is possible to walk behind the waterfall.

A path leads from the parking lot up to the front of the waterfall and then loops around the sides and back so you get a view of the waterfall from every angle. We suggest wearing raingear, as you’ll likely get wet, particularly on a windy day.

With a waterfall as powerful as Seljalandsfoss, the spray is far-reaching. It is entirely worth walking the loop though, and being that up close and personal makes you appreciate the sheer size and power of the waterfall.

Seljalandsfoss is fed by the famed glacier-capped volcano Eyjafjallajokull that erupted in 2010 disrupting air traffic across Europe. The waterfall is relatively narrow, but its power is mighty as is evident when standing behind it inside the cave in the cliff. In the summer, the cliff and ground surrounding Seljalandsfoss are a brilliant green, and everything is dotted with yellow wildflowers creating a colorfully picturesque landscape.

Though the path gets wet, particularly on the backside of the waterfall, it is a well-marked path, and easy to navigate. In the winter, when the snow turns to ice and the path gets slippery, the path is often partially closed off. This is for your own safety.

Don’t try and circumvent the restricted area. Though closures may alter your experience, it isn’t lessened.

Seljalandsfoss is beautiful even in winter. For much of the winter, everything is coated in white, and the impressive waterfall becomes part of a winter wonderland. No matter when you visit, this waterfall should top your 4 day trip to Iceland!

Stop 6: Find Seljalandsfoss’ Hidden Neighbor Gljufrabui

Gljufrabui is often overlooked as it is slightly hidden and is smaller than its towering neighbor, Seljalandsfoss. However, we suggest that anyone completing this 4 day Iceland itinerary should take some time to explore this hidden gem as well. Why not when it’s right next door!

Gljufrabui is within walking distance of Seljalandsfoss. When you finish your loop around Seljalandsfoss, head to the right (if you’re facing the parking lot), and walk until you hit the campground.

On your right will be a sign for the waterfall, and you’ll see a cavern with a river running through it. To get to the waterfall you’ll have to walk through the river, so be prepared with waterproof boots or a change of shoes.

Oftentimes the river rocks will rise out of the water just enough for you to step from rock to rock and avoid getting anything more than the soles of your boots wet. After heavy rain though, the water level rises and it becomes a bit trickier to maneuver your way into the cavern. Once inside the cavern, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful waterfall that looks as if it’s pouring through a skylight in nature’s ceiling.

The sun lights up the cavern, illuminating the green, mossy walls and highlighting the streaming, crystal clear water. There’s a giant boulder in the middle of the cavern, which is easy to climb and perfect for taking pictures.

When you’re done you’ll exit the cavern that same way you came in. Just be careful to wait your turn and make sure no one is on the rocks trying to enter the cavern at the same time.

It’s also possible to view the waterfall from above, looking down on the waterfall from the skylight opening. The pathway up the hill though is steep.

Particularly after it rains the path becomes muddy and slippery, so if you go this way, use caution. Though the waterfall is of course still beautiful when viewed from above, the best view is from inside the cavern where you’re surrounded and almost consumed by your natural surroundings.

Stop 7: Climb To The Top Of The Impressive Skogafoss Waterfall

Skogafoss is just a 25-minute drive from Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui. It is also visible from the road and is easily accessible from the parking lot. At 197 feet, Skogafoss is roughly the same height as Seljalandsfoss but its width is an impressive 82 feet.

This is our favorite waterfall in Iceland, and a trip hasn’t begun until we see this site! It is truly the best!

The Skoga River flows along a wide pebbled path leading right up to the waterfall. The path is flat and easy to walk. The waterfall is forceful, and you will get unrelentingly sprayed as you approach it from its base, so you’ll want to consider wearing water resistant clothing.

But the feeling of standing that close to such a powerful force of nature is incredible. You might even see a rainbow on a sunny day, adding its finishing touch on an already stunning waterfall.

After you’ve spent some time appreciating the enormity of the waterfall from its base, you can climb the steps to view the waterfall from above. There are a little over 500 stairs to the top of the waterfall. It is definitely a quadricep workout, but the view is worth it.

From the viewing platform, you can see the Skoga River which flows to the top of the waterfall before plummeting over the edge. This is a much less photographed view of Skogafoss, but it’s still remarkable.

After spending some time viewing the waterfall from above, most people head back down the staircase to the parking lot. However, there is a hiking trail that follows the Skoga River back into the valley, and it’s filled with additional waterfalls if you’re up for a long, extended day hike. Assuming you’re returning to the parking lot, you’ll turn back to face the staircase and be greeted with a beautiful, sprawling view of South Iceland below.

Stop 8: Walk To The Secluded, Picturesque Kvernufoss Waterfall

Right next door to Skogafoss is the waterfall Kvernufoss. Kvernufoss is one of South Iceland’s less frequented gems. Fewer tourists know of its existence, but it’s certainly not lacking in beauty.

To get to Kvernufoss, you’ll take the same exit off the Ring Road as you would to get to Skogafoss, but instead of following the signs to the left for Skogafoss, continue straight down Skogar to the end of the road and turn right. You’ll park near Hotel Edda and walk the rest of the way into the valley. In the summer, it takes about 10-15 minutes to reach the waterfall.

The walk is comfortable, requiring very little in the way of elevation hiking or rocky terrain. From the hotel you’ll climb a short ladder over a fence and make your way back into the valley where the path is clearly marked. You might even run into a few Icelandic horses grazing by the river.

The waterfall itself is similar in looks to its neighbor, Seljalandsfoss. You can even walk behind it too! This is one of our favorite hidden gems to visit with 4 days in Iceland as it is so close to other waterfalls!

The whole valley is beautiful. It’s green and lush in summer, and sparkling white in winter. Best of all, it’s not overcrowded with tourists at any time of year. 

Though the path is easily navigated in the summer months, in the winter, it is often covered in ice and can be dangerous. Bring crampons to stabilize your feet on the slippery ground and exercise caution. It might be best to view the waterfall from farther away.

Where to stay in/near Vík:

Affordable/Mid-range: Þ akgil Campground . Check rates: thakgil.is

Mid-range: The Garage Apartments . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Hotel Kria . Check rates: Booking.com

We have an entire article about Where To Stay In Vik Iceland so if you are searching, this is the place to check out even more detailed suggestions! 

Day 3: Black Sand Beaches And Plane Wrecks

Stop 1: explore the eerie remains from the solheimasandur plane wreck.

This popular tourist destination is the result of a DC-3 US navy plane running out of fuel and crashing on Solheimasandur Beach in 1973. Fortunately everyone survived, but the body of the plane was abandoned. The white wreckage of the plane lies in sharp contrast with the black sand of the beach, and together they make for hauntingly beautiful photographs.

There is a designated parking lot for visitors to the plane wreck located right along the Ring Road just 10 minutes down the coast from Skogafoss. Though at one time you could drive right up to the plane wreck you now have to walk 2 miles from the parking lot.

The path is flat and relatively easy, but will take you roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour each way. There is very little to see besides vast expanses of rocks and black sand, and on a windy day the walk can be particularly frustrating, as you have to fight the wind resistance as well.

If there is one thing to skip on your 4 days in Iceland, this would be it, as it takes quite a bit of time to go see! It is still epic, but if you are looking to save time, this is what we suggest cutting out!

The plane doesn’t come into sight until the end of your walk. Get your camera ready, and be prepared to photograph the wreckage. There are a lot of tourists and slim windows for getting pictures without other people in them.

So bring a friend and catch up on life as you hike to this unique, beautiful wreckage stranded in the middle of the beach. If you’re willing to power through the walk, it’s worth the trip.

Recently a shuttle bus has been provided to the plane for 2500 ISK round trip or 1500 ISK one way giving you roughly an hour to explore the wreck before you head back if you choose the round trip ticket. This is a fairly new development however that is still being tested out, so don’t depend on it being a reliable mode of transportation on your trip. As we said, if you’re willing and able (and the weather isn’t too bad), walking to the wreck can actually be quite enjoyable. 

Stop 2: Climb The Basalt Columns At Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

One of the most famous stops on your 4 days in Iceland itinerary is Reynisfjara Beach, known for its signature black sand and towering basalt columns. This beach is among Iceland’s most impressive black sand beaches, and was even featured in the TV show Game of Thrones .

There are so many incredible spots along the beach to enjoy. However you should be aware that the beach is developing a reputation for its large sleeper waves. So take your pictures, but be aware and don’t let your desire for the “perfect” photo affect your judgment.

The beach and its surrounding waters boast an impressive collection of rock formations including the cliff of basalt columns that seems to rise out of the sand. This is a prime photograph location and you’ll see many tourists climbing the uneven columns to pose for a picture.

When facing the roaring Atlantic Ocean, to the left are the Reynisdrangar rock formations. These pointy basalt pillars rise straight out of the ocean, like man-made sculptures in the water. To the right is the Dyrholaey rock formation, an arched bridge-like formation with a large hole in the bottom.

Stop 3: Mulagljufur Canyon

Mulagljufur Canyon is one of Iceland’s lesser-known canyons along the South Coast, but it is certainly a gem to see during your 4 days in Iceland! Once you reach the gravel parking area you’ll hike along a moderately difficult trail for roughly 1.5 miles to reach the canyon.

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. You will get wet crossing rivers and squelching through mud, but the views are more than worth it. Trekking to Mulagljufur is the perfect way to leave the South Coast crowds behind and marvel at the beauty that nature has created.

Though steep canyon walls and flowing rivers would be enough to draw anyone in, this canyon also offers a look at two beautiful waterfalls, Hangandifoss and Mulafoss. At 50m, Mulafoss is perhaps not the most impressive of the waterfalls you’ll experience along the South Coast, but it carries its own beauty streaming from the canyon walls.

Hangandifoss on the other hand is quite tall at 123m and paired with the imposing canyon walls, it would surely be a well-trafficked South Coast staple if it were more easily accessible and clearly marked. For now, be thankful it is neither as you’ll feel particularly special getting to appreciate the magnificence of the waterfall all on your own.

Stop 4: Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Though Fjallsarlon is smaller and less frequented than its neighbor Jokulsarlon, these are exactly the reasons that this glacier lagoon is magical. This lagoon is a must-see during your 4 days in Iceland, and if you could only pick one glacier lagoon, it should be this one!

You’ll find this gem on the south end of the Vatnajökull glacier (Europe’s biggest glacier outside of the Arctic) just 15 minutes down the road from Jokulsarlon, and yet many tourists don’t even know of its existence. You’re also unlikely to find the big tour buses here, meaning you’re free to absorb your natural surroundings in relative peace and quiet.

In the silence you can sit along the edge of the water and listen to the ice breaking and colliding as the scene slowly but constantly continues to shift. Though there’s still a lagoon separating you from the glacier, at Fjallsarlon your experience with the majestic, calving glacier is far more intimate.

Fjallsarlon is conveniently located right off the Ring Road just before you reach Jokulsarlon. Once you park you’ll have to walk a short distance to reach the edge of the water, but you’ll be face to face with sparkling icebergs in no time.

Because Fjallsarlon is smaller in size, you might find that standing on the shore and taking in the views is enough to give you a complete experience at the lagoon. If however you wish to get even closer, you can take a boat tour which will allow you to navigate through the icebergs on a small boat with a knowledgeable guide.  The actual time spent on the boat is roughly 45 minutes.

Stop 4: Watch The Floating Icebergs At Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Next up on your 4 days in Iceland itinerary is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . This stop is so vastly different from anything else you’ll have seen along the rest of the coast. Located on the east part of the South Coast, Jokulsarlon is a stunning lagoon filled with floating icebergs.

The lagoon is ever-changing as the surrounding glacier continues to melt and new ice blocks fall. During the summer, you can take a boat tour through the lagoon and get an up close view of the icebergs.

All year long you can view the lagoon from the shore, walking along its edge to see the icebergs from varying angles. The enormous glacier looms large in the background.

Across the street is a black sand beach called Diamond Beach. It sets itself apart from other black sand beaches like Reynisfjara Beach, because the entire beach is covered in clear sparkling ice. Pieces of the icebergs floating in the glacier lagoon break off and wash ashore, scattering themselves around the beach. This is such a cool stop on your 4 day trip to Iceland!

The contrast of the black sand against the clear ice is striking and makes for some powerful photographs. The beach becomes even more fairytale-esque at sunset when the sky is painted yellow. As the day comes to a close you’ll be thrilled you continued your drive up the coast to this natural beauty. Don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Guide To Iceland’s Glacier Lagoon!

Where to stay in/near Hofn:

Affordable/Mid-range: Old Airline Guesthouse . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Glacier World-Hoffell Guesthouse . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range/Luxury: Dima Studio Apartments . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 4: Visit A Striking Mountain Before Driving Back To Reykjavik To End Your 4 Days In Iceland

Stop 1: marvel at the imposing vestrahorn mountain.

You’ll begin the last of your 4 days in Iceland with a trip to one of the country’s most striking mountains. Think jagged snow-capped mountains seemingly rising from the edge of the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by dunes of pitch-black sand spotted with tufts of brilliant green sea grass.

When the lupines are in bloom the scene is even more fantastic, adding various shades of purple to the mixture. It’s impressive and picturesque to say the least.

When a thin layer of water covers the beach you can see the reflection of the mountain and yourself as you appear to be walking on water. It makes for a truly stunning photograph. Be careful though as you photograph from the beach as the waves can sneak up on you if you’re not careful and they have the potential to be high and strong.

The mountain itself is called Vestrahorn or perhaps you might have heard it referred to by its nickname, Batman Mountain. You’ll find this mountain on the Stokksnes Peninsula roughly 10.5 miles east of Hofn where you’ll have spent the night the previous day. About half of that distance will be driven on the Ring Road before branching off on a gravel road.

Typing in Vestrahorn Mountain into your GPS will take you to the exact location. When you reach the Viking Café you’ll have to pay the 800 ISK entrance fee. The fee is well worth the sites you’ll see.

This is also the perfect spot to catch a dramatic sunrise or sunset as the brilliant colors light up the mountain. It’s also a great spot for Northern Lights viewing given the right weather conditions, because the sky is so dark out at the beach.

Stop 2: Walk The Edge Of the Magical Fjadrargljufur Canyon

As if you haven’t seen enough picturesque landscapes during the course of your 4 days in Iceland, the next stop on your Iceland itinerary is at the magical Fjadrargljufur Canyon. This impressive canyon was thought to be formed at the end of the last Ice Age by a glacial river that carried sediment with it ultimately creating a 100-meter deep slice through the earth. The whole canyon is lined with moss that is a vibrant green in the summer with flowers blooming in the spring and summer.

In the winter the landscape is sometimes covered in lacy snow making it a whole different kind of magical. You’ll have to be careful though and potentially bring crampons to make your way over icy patches in the winter. Even when there’s no snow and the moss is more of a brownish color, you can’t help but find beauty in the canyon anyway.

A river runs down the center and you might even spot a waterfall or two as you wander along. Walking the edge of the canyon is a breathtaking experience, but we implore you to please stay on the designated path. At various points along the designated path, you’ll find viewpoints, each with a view seemingly more beautiful than the last.

As long as the water level remains low, you also have the option of walking down to the base of the canyon along the water. If you choose this option you’ll definitely need waterproof shoes.

In 2015, Justin Bieber released the music video for his song “I’ll Show You” in which he was seen frolicking around various Iceland locations including Fjadrargljufur. This video brought a surge of attention to the small island, but not all of it was positive. The number of tourists visiting the canyon surged and many of the visitors, following in Justin Bieber’s footsteps, were not respectful of the fragile landscape of the canyon.

As a result, the vegetation and stability of the edge of the canyon were severely damaged. Eventually, the Icelandic Environment Agency closed the canyon to visitors in an attempt to reverse some of the damage, some of which will take decades to restore. It has also been closed down in the springtime when the ice and snowmelt make the path too muddy and dangerous.

For now, the canyon is again open to the public but will only continue to remain open if people respect the environment and let nature thrive. If the canyon happens to be closed during your visit, you’ll just continue the drive west back towards Keflavik to end your 4 day Iceland itinerary.

Stop 3: Visit The Blue Lagoon

To finish off your 4 days in Iceland with a bang, we’re recommending you go to the Blue Lagoon , one of Iceland’s most famous attractions/activities and a hot spot for tourists and even celebrities. Another reason why it’s crucial you pack your swimsuit for your 4 days in Iceland!

This stop is in a great area and actually on our list of Best Places To Stay In Iceland . In this post, we offer suggestions for where to stay around the Ring Road!

The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located in Grindavik, only 13.5 miles from the Keflavik International Airport, making it the perfect final stop on your Iceland itinerary before heading to catch your flight home. You’ll need to book well in advance on the Blue Lagoon website to guarantee a time slot due to a heavy increase in tourism. Despite the crowds and hefty prices, this is an experience that is definitely worthy of a visit at least once.

Contrary to popular belief, this geothermal slice of heaven is not actually a natural hot spring. Though Iceland is filled with natural hot pots, this particular lagoon is actually a man-made lagoon resulting from activity at the nearby geothermal power plant, Svartsengi.

Though that sounds less than glamorous, the water is truly wonderful, safe to enjoy and is renewed every 48 hours. In fact it might just be the most relaxing, healing experience you’ll have during your 4 days in Iceland.

Like the public swimming pool complexes you’ll be required to shower naked prior to entering the lagoon, however there are private shower stalls available. When you’re showered and ready to go, it’s time to enter the Blue Lagoon and bask in its glorious waters. It is possible to enter the lagoon from the inside and swim to the outside so you don’t have to brave the cold air walking to the water.

You should take note, that while the water is wonderful for your skin due to its mineral richness, it is terrible for your hair. It will very quickly dry out your hair so we suggest keeping it dry (and tied up if it’s long) or if you’re set on getting it wet, prepare to condition it like crazy afterwards.

We are not kidding, getting your hair wet here sucks!!! And it will take 3-4 washes to get your hair back to normal! How do we know? Because we have made that mistake before.

The temperature of the Blue Lagoon varies, but you can always find an area of the huge lagoon that’s a suitable temperature for you. It’s easy to spend hours relaxing in the water.

As tourism has expanded, so has the Blue Lagoon and all that it offers. There is a bar in the lagoon itself where you can buy drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) without having to get out of the water. They charge the amount to your wristband and you’ll pay on your way out.

There are also a number of restaurants on the property as well as additional spa experiences you can pay extra for. Though the Blue Lagoon welcomes an enormous number of tourists these days, you don’t feel cramped when in the lagoon. There’s plenty of space and the number of guests allowed in is limited.

This is definitely a pricey experience as the lowest entrance package is $55-$95 depending on the time of day you visit, and the price seems to be constantly rising as tourism increases. However there is no doubt you’re in for a wonderful time in these blue waters surrounded by natural lava and moss.

As we said before, it’s an experience we think you’ll want to have at least once in your life. And boy will you feel good on your plane ride home!

From the Blue Lagoon you’ll drive the relatively short distance to the Keflavik International Airport to catch your evening flight home. If you are not flying out until the next day, you have the option of driving back to Reykjavik to spend the night, or staying in Keflavik for a quick and easy drive to the airport in the morning.

Where to stay in Keflavik:

Affordable: A. Bernhard Guest House . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Hotel Jazz by Keflavik Airport . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Hotel Berg by Keflavik Airport . Check rates: Booking.com

The Golden Circle And Why It Was Left Off Our Iceland Itinerary

If you’ve begun planning a trip to Iceland, you’ve likely heard of The Golden Circle , one of the most famous and heavily trafficked tourist routes in the country. This route includes the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss (the golden) Waterfall, and the Strokkur geyser with additional optional stops at places such as Kerið crater and the Secret Lagoon.

We’ve chosen to leave the Golden Circle off of our itinerary because of its heavy tourist crowds, and because there are equally if not more spectacular spots to explore throughout the rest of Iceland that are more peaceful and isolated.

That being said, the stops along the Golden Circle are still wonderful and probably exceed many other natural wonders you’ll see in your lifetime. Because of that we wanted to provide you with information on the Golden Circle and leave it up to you whether you want to include it and swap it out for other stops currently included in our Iceland itinerary. If you decide to include it, at the very least it can make for a great introduction to all that Iceland’s nature has to offer.

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Iceland’s first parliament was formed back in 930 AD. It was conveniently accessible from all corners of the country by horse or foot. This is where the chieftains met to create and change the country’s laws.

Meetings continued to be held there until 1798. The parliament would later be moved to Reykjavik in 1844.

Thingvellir National Park is also the site of a giant rift valley, which marks the meeting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Between the impressive rift valley, unbelievably clear waters, and Oxararfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park is certainly a beautiful stop.

Your next stop will be Geyser, the geothermal hot spot. While the actual Geyser is no longer active, its neighbor, Strokkur still erupts at 5-7 minute intervals. Crowds of tourists gather around Strokkur in anticipation of its burst of water and steam shooting up into the air.

While the main attraction is the geyser, the surrounding landscape is full of pots of boiling water. As you might expect, the water would be dangerously hot to the touch, so steer clear and enjoy the natural phenomenon at a safe distance.

You’ll wrap up the three stops with Gullfoss Waterfall. In the summer months, it is common to see a rainbow arching over the waterfall, earning it the name Golden Waterfall.

Though Iceland spoils you with an abnormally large number of impressive waterfalls, Gullfoss is rightfully among the top. It’s an impressive sight at any time of year. The waterfall has both upper and lower viewing platforms, and we suggest spending some time at both.

Where to stay along the Golden Circle:

Affordable: Selfoss Hostel . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Icelandair Hotel Fludir . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Ion Adventure Hotel . Check rates: Booking.com

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to spend 4 days in Iceland, the enchanting land of fire and ice. We have no doubt you’ll leave Iceland with an abundance of unforgettable experiences and more fantastic pictures than you can count. We hope you find this Iceland itinerary to be helpful as you plan your trip, and encourage you to comment below with any questions or stories you might have of your own Iceland adventures.

Reader Interactions

June 6, 2021 at 10:06 pm

This 4 day drive trip looks amazing!!!!! I did your GOT in Ireland and that was amazing a couple of years ago. so driving this 4 day adventure works for me. Thank you you guys are awesome with . Going the end of June 2021.

June 7, 2021 at 4:05 am

OMG!!!!!! REALLY!!! That is so amazing to hear! The GOT trip is sooooo fun I am glad you loved it! Enjoy! You won’t regret this itinerary!

June 27, 2021 at 4:51 am

Hi, I stumbled onto your site and finds it very informative and very useful. Thank you! I assumed this 4 days itinerary is more suited for the summer months. If it’s winter months (late Nov/early Dec), which places of interests would you drop due to shorter day light hours?

Given a choice, which waterfall (Seljalandsfoss vs Skogass) is preferred?

June 28, 2021 at 3:23 am

Hello! So this itinerary can be done pretty much all year round!! The only trouble may be hiking to the hot spring river which is difficult in winter. The two waterfalls are within 15 min drive of each other so you don’t have to choose just one! you can EASILY do both!!!!

August 24, 2021 at 11:08 pm

Hello, thank you for providing such useful guides on Iceland. We’re headed there for 10 days next month and was thinking of doubling the time in this itinerary. Do you think it’s overkill or should we spend time elsewhere?

I’m worried that 10 days on the full ring road would be too rushed

August 27, 2021 at 8:24 pm

Hello! you could EASILY double the time of this itinerary! We stay near Skogafoss area for 4 days on our trips! And then an additional 2+ in glacier lagoon area! You can easily double it! If you wanted, you can add a trip to Westman Islands which is nearby and easily doable in 10 days OR you can ‎Visit Snaefellsnes Peninsula for a day or two which is still nearby! I totally approve doing this over 10 days!

February 14, 2022 at 11:12 pm

Hi planning for end of June early July for a 4 day trip as our day 1 we arrived late evening so definitely not counted. We would still like to do the golden circle though, do we do this at the start after Reykjavik? Thank you your itinerary is amazing .

February 15, 2022 at 7:14 pm

Hello!!!! so YES! You do this at the start after Reykjavik! That is my suggestion!!! Do that part on your first day when you get started and then continue with this itinerary! Cut out parts you don’t have time for!

May 16, 2022 at 2:16 pm

HI – great site and most informative. For the four day itinerary, did/would you overnight in one or two spots and do day trips. Or spend three/four nights in different places. I have three clear days after arriving and a half day before leaving. Thoughts?

May 30, 2022 at 7:50 pm

I would overnight in the Vik/south coast region!! Thank you!

June 3, 2022 at 2:50 am

We’ve never been to Iceland, so we are totally lost! Find this itinerary and it is so complete, we feel like just doing it! Only question, is how does this vary from the Golden Circle. Would you recommend this itinerary or the Golden Circle? What important stops would we miss if we do this versus the Golden Circle?

June 4, 2022 at 8:47 pm

Personally i do not like or suggest the golden circle, i highly suggest this much more! golden circle is alright, but very touristy, a lot of driving, and this just generally has more epic sites! you won’t regret skipping it, i promise!

June 2, 2023 at 8:59 pm

Hello! I would love to do this itinerary for January to celebrate my 50th birthday. I have been looking through the flights. If I leave late from Houston, I arrive early morning, but I do not know to what city I should come. Which would you suggest, and since it is winter which stops should I do? I most definitely want to see the Northern lights! But also like all the scenery you have suggested. I did notice your post was in 2021. Is it still this amazing?

June 3, 2023 at 1:55 pm

Hello! Yes this is still amazing! I have done this route twice in 2022, once including in winter! I think you should fly into Keflavik Airport which is the closest one to Reykjavik. And then you can do this itinerary or some version of it in winter! Most of these stops are doable in winter!

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The Perfect 4-Day Iceland Itinerary: What to Do & All You Need to Know

Last Updated: July 26, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith 1 Comment

If this post accomplishes anything, I hope it’s showing you that with this Iceland itinerary 4 days is still long enough to get a taste of this amazing country.

Iceland is the kind of place you could really use at least a month to explore (and would never get bored or cease to be amazed). However, even with just 4 days in Iceland you can see and do some awesome, otherworldly stuff. (But if you do want to see more of the country and have more time, check out my full 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary .)

Iceland is diverse and vast, but there are a lot of amazing things to see and do even in and around Reykjavik. You definitely won’t feel like you’re just killing time if you stay around the capital for your entire 4 days.

Table of Contents

Getting to Iceland

Iceland, small and remote that it is, is still surprisingly easy to get to, especially if you come from the East Coast. You can find quick (and often reasonably priced!) direct flights from many U.S. cities (and some Canadian ones).

For instance, Reykjavik is just a quick 4.5-hour flight from Boston where I live so it’s no sweat for us to just pop over for a long weekend. We save our sweat for the geothermal pools, thank you very much. You can also get direct flights to Iceland from:

• Washington D.C.
• New York City
• and Toronto
• (Not to mention all the many European cities on their list)

Icelandair also offers a superb stopover program so you can sample Iceland for free while en route to other European destinations. Think of it as a fun-sized little taster, only covered in hot dog mustard instead of chocolate. Use this stopover opportunity to simply check off a new country, see if Iceland is somewhere you want to spend more time, or just to see all you can see in the time you have available.

The Icelandair Stopover program

The first time I visited Iceland I did so as part of the Icelandair Stopover program. My group of friends and I were headed to Prague for a few days and then on to Oktoberfest in Munich via Icelandair. When booking my flight it asked me if I would like to spend a few days in Iceland at no extra charge.

Obviously, the answer was a resounding YES! (or, you know, just a regular tap on the ol’ trackpad). I love sampling new places, especially when I can do so for free! The world is my Costco and each city in it a small piece of cheese on a toothpick.

When flying to Europe from the United States via Icelandair, every single flight connects in Reykjavik, Iceland. Whether you decide to stay on that plane and continue on to Europe, or get off to see what the heck the big deal is with those hot dogs, is totally up to you. (Pro tip: hot dogs!)

And this is Icelandair’s Stopover program – the chance to add a “stopover” in Iceland at no extra charge. Meaning: your flight will cost the same even if you choose to stay over in Iceland for a few days before continuing on.

How does it work?

When booking your flight on Icelandair, simply check the box that says you want to add an Iceland stopover to your flight plan and, if so, how many nights you want to stay. (You can choose between one and seven nights.) Then, continue booking your flight as always!

It’s as simple as that. Then, you’re free to spend those four days (or however long you choose) however you like. Since the Iceland portion of your trip is all on your own expense, you are free to book whichever hotels, restaurants, and activities you want. (Though Icelandair often has phenomenal package deals!) * No, I am not affiliated with Icelandair in any way I just really love this airline and everything they offer.

You can add a 4-day Iceland stopover to your trip on the way to Europe, on the way home from Europe, or both! Icelandair’s Stopover program is all about helping you test the waters, and as you’ll see, damn those waters are warm!

However, I do want to add that Iceland is AMAZING in and of itself and is absolutely worth a dedicated visit even if you’re not heading elsewhere in Europe. Please do not feel like you should only bother with Iceland if you’re “already headed that way.” It truly is a magical place.

Iceland in 4 days

There’s a lot to see and do here for a country that boasts more sheep than people, but you can still cover so much of it in just a few days. With this Iceland itinerary-4 days, you’ll be able to see Iceland’s tippity-top highlights, the absolute must-sees and -dos, and get in so much ethereal adventure.

With just 4 days in Iceland, you’ll want to stay in the western part of the country, relatively in and around Reykjavik. From here, you can enjoy the country’s vibrant capital city, easily visit some of the most popular sites, get in some unforgettable outdoor adventure, some much-needed relaxation, delicious food, cool bars, and so much more!

You will not feel deprived when you leave the Land of Fire and Ice. The only thing my latest Iceland trip lacked was a quirky musical duo playing “Jaja Ding Dong.” (If you haven’t watched Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga on Netflix, do it now .)

Don’t miss some huge money-saving Iceland tips at the bottom of this post!

4 days in Iceland: When to go

Obviously, if you’re visiting Iceland on a stopover, when you spend your 4 days in Iceland will largely depend on the rest of your trip. However, if you’re visiting Iceland on its own, you have a few options:

Visiting Iceland in the winter

While it’s much colder and much snow-ier at this time, visiting Iceland in the winter does have its advantages. First and foremost is the chance to see the Northern Lights, a bucket list for many including myself. (I’ve managed to see them twice, both times from the plane while flying into Iceland.)

The Northern Lights technically occur in Iceland between September and May, but your best chance of seeing them is between October and April.

Winter in Iceland also means the chance to go glacier hiking , snowmobiling, ice cave exploring , and more that you can’t do in the summer. Plus, you can still do most of the most popular things too – hot springs, horseback riding, etc. However, keep in mind that the amount of daylight will be slim.

Visiting Iceland in the summer

Okay so Iceland in the summer is still cold, but the lack of snow and wintry conditions on the island’s western coast makes most outdoor adventures a bit easier and urban exploring more enjoyable.

Summertime is Iceland’s most popular season for visitors and you can see and do just about everything Iceland is famous for. Plus, when visiting in the summer you get to experience 24-hour daylight which is THE COOLEST! (Just remember to bring your sleep mask.) The sun does set, but it’s never fully dark out.

Spending 4 days in Iceland in the summer is going to be your ideal time as all of the activities you’ll want to partake in will have their least chance of being affected by weather. Many of Iceland’s outdoor adventures depend on the weather conditions and may force last minute cancelations. Visiting in the summer means you probably won’t have to deal with this (as you would more so during the rest of the year).

And if you do plan on visiting in the summer, be sure to check out my post on what to pack for Iceland in the summer . It checks all the boxes and even includes a free printable checklist for you!

Visiting Iceland in the fall and spring

When I visited Iceland in the fall, it was cold and cloudy and rainy for the entirety of my visit. It was not fun; it was not beautiful; I did not see the Northern Lights as I was hoping to. I did see a rainbow. From what I’ve read, this seems to be the norm in Iceland during the fall months.

I personally have not visited Iceland in the spring, but from what I gather it’s a lot like spring here in Boston. By that I mean, it shouldn’t even be called “spring” as it is nothing like the “spring” you’re imagining. It’s more like an extended winter.

It can be cold and rainy or even snowy in Iceland late into April and road conditions are not ideal. However, because some of the snow is already melting, the waterfalls are at their mightiest during this time!

Iceland itinerary 4 days: where to stay

If you’ve only got 4 days in Iceland, I highly recommend staying in downtown Reykjavik. This way, you’ll have the benefit of convenience as well as a solid base from which to explore outwards. Don’t try to move around too much—it’s really unnecessary and will only complicate your trip.

Center Hotels Plaza

My personal recommendation for where to stay in Reykjavik is the Center Hotels Plaza . This is where I stayed on my most recent visit to Iceland (2021) and I found it to be fantastic in every way.

Its location is perfect. You can walk everywhere you want to go in Reykjavik and it’s convenient for tour pickup and drop off. It’s right around the corner from Iceland’s famous hot dog stand. (What? This is totally a perk! I ate there four times in four days!) It’s also just a couple of blocks away from the Kolaportid flea market, the Harpa, and the harbor if you’ll be taking any water-based tours.

The staff is so nice and helpful. They offer a great breakfast every morning and luggage storage if you need it. We had great city views and the rooms were just what we needed. Read more reviews here on Tripadvisor then book your room here !

Note : “Center Hotels” is the name of the chain and “Plaza” is this particular location that I stayed at. You may see a number of Center Hotels in Reykjavik so I just wanted to clear that up. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay at any of the others though.

Iceland hotel tips

Big pro tip here: splurge on the early check-in. Regardless of where in the U.S. you’re coming from, your flight will land in Reykjavik at either 6:10, 6:15, 6:30, or 6:40 AM. That’s just the way it is. And since most hotels don’t allow you to check in until something like 2:00 PM, you’ll have to make a choice.

Sure, powering through the jet lag sounds like the best option. (Narrator: “It was not the best option.”) But really, you’ll fare much better with a nap and a post-airplane shower, if your hotel offers early check-in that is. I’m just saying, at least consider it.

Secondly, keep it simple—stay in Reykjavik. On my first trip to Iceland I wanted to stay somewhere outside the city in the hopes of maybe seeing the Northern Lights during my quick stay. All five of us stayed at Hotel Laxnes in Mosfellsbær. The hotel was great, but this decision had its downsides.

• The notoriously unpredictable fall weather was more than uncooperative so the Lights were a no-go anyway.
• It’s way outside the city so getting to and from there (especially in the middle of the night) was a bit of a hassle. (Our flight to Prague was at 1:00 AM.)
• It’s pretty remote so we had just one option for dinner: a Domino’s Pizza we could walk to. Where we spent $75 US on two medium pizzas and a 2-liter of Sprite.
• We missed out on really getting to explore Reykjavik.

So while this is definitely doable, I would still recommend just parking it in Reykjavik, especially if this will be your first time to Iceland.

Read more: How to Pick the Perfect Hotel for Your Trip Every Time

Iceland vacation rentals

Besides hotels, there’s always the option of booking a vacation rental if that’s more your thing. I have a few friends who have done this in Iceland and it’s always a popular option. You can check out available Iceland vacation rentals here .

4 days in Iceland: How to get around

Iceland has really nailed the concept of tourism. So, one of the many great things about Iceland is how easy it is to get around, even on just a short stopover. You’ll have no trouble seeing and doing everything you want during your 4 days in Iceland.

Renting a car in Iceland

For longer stays in Iceland, most people rent their own cars, allowing them the freedom to explore every piece of this beautiful country at their own pace. If this is your wish for your 4-day Iceland itinerary, you can absolutely do this!

You’ll have full control over where you go and when you do it. You’ll be able to head out into the countryside and check out some amazing waterfalls , meet some sheep, see it all. Maybe you even want to go explore some of Iceland’s World War II sites . (Yes, Iceland played a part in the war that many don’t know about! Click that link for more info.)  

If this is something you’re interested in for your 4-day Iceland itinerary, check out car rental options in Iceland here at RentalCars.com .

Getting around without a car

Otherwise, you can absolutely spend 4 days in Iceland without renting a car of your own. For any tours you book, transportation to and from Reykjavik (and even pickup and drop off at your hotel) will probably be included. Just one less thing you need to think about!

Transportation between the airport and Reykjavik is also down to a science. The whole thing is very quick and smooth–like what I imagine it feels like to be whisked from the back of a limo into a grand opera house while being shielded from the paparazzi. For this, you’ll want to book your airport transfer with one of Iceland’s airport transfer companies. You can book private cars or simply a seat on one of their shared shuttles.

I have used both Grayline and Flybus (part of Reykjavik Excursions) and they were both fantastic. For what it’s worth, it’s been a while since I’ve used Grayline and I used the Flybus on my most recent visit. (Keep in mind that the Reykjavik airport is actually 45 minutes or so outside the city in the middle of nowhere. So, no, calling an Uber is out of the question. But also because Uber doesn’t exist here.)

At the time of publishing, both companies charge about the same price for this service. Don’t forget to book transportation both from and back to the airport lest you get trapped in the land of geothermal spas and delicious hot dogs. Oh no… that would be awful…

Getting aro und in Reykjavik

If you’re staying in downtown Reykjavik, you can walk just about anywhere you want to go. However, if you’re looking to head into the outskirts of Reykjavik beyond reasonable walking distance, you have options.

You or someone from your hotel can easily call a taxi for you (but know that since this is Iceland that taxi ride is going to be much more expensive than you’re probably used to). You can also utilize Iceland’s public bus system which is much cheaper. Get bus schedules and routes here .

Icel and itinerary 4 days

So what should you do with your time in Iceland? You have so many options! This 4-day Iceland itinerary will narrow them down for you and cover a wide range of site and activities. (Feel free to steal in whole!)

Depending on your travel schedule, you may need to amend this itinerary a bit, but it (and Iceland) is quite flexible. Most, if not all, of these tours and activities operate multiple times, every day, year round.

Iceland itinerary day 1: exploring Reykjavik

If you choose to power through the jetlag (go you!), your first day in Iceland will start around 6:00 am. If that’s the case, drop off your bags at your hotel and go get yourself some much-needed sugar and caffeine.

Brauð & Co

First things first, walk over to Brauð & Co (Bread and Co.) for coffee and some of the most delicious pastries you’ll ever have. (On my latest 4 days in Iceland, we stopped here a few of those days, and one day we went back for seconds.)

Everything I’ve had here is phenomenal, especially the rhubarb cake and the vanilla roll. The staff is so friendly and all the goodies are freshly made. It’s the best way to start all 4 of your Reykjavik mornings.

Ex plo re Reykjavik

There’s a good chance you’ll have much of the city to yourself at this hour. Take advantage of this and check out all there is to see in Reykjavik without lots of other people. (This is a good time to go see the famous Sun Voyager sculpture.)

Spend some time just walking around the city, checking out the architecture and street art, and making friends with all the street cats begging for pets. Or, if you’re into walking tours, join this VIP Reykjavik walking tour . (It has a 5-star rating with over 4,200 reviews!)

The Handknitting Association of Iceland

This is also a great time to pop into the Handknitting Association of Iceland and pick up some ahh-mazing (and warm) handmade Icelandic goods. Want to take home a lopapeysa, one of the famous Icelandic sweaters? Get the real thing here.

The Handknitting Association of Iceland hand knits (obviously) all of these sweaters from pure Icelandic wool. They are handmade locally with love and care and will be the best quality you can find. While many other shops around Reykjavik sell lopapeysa, the ones you’ll find are often imposters, many of them made in China or elsewhere and certainly not from true Icelandic wool. This is the only place you can go where you know you’re getting the real thing.

These sweaters are truly special and make the absolute best Icelandic souvenir. However, do know that their prices reflect their quality. Prepare to spend between $100 – $200+ US for one of these. (Totally worth it! Especially if you live in arctic New England like me!) The good news is that you can get a refund on all the tax money you spend here! Instructions for this are at the bottom of this post.

The Handknitting Association also sells many other items like scarves, mittens, hats, figurines, and so much more. (I bought a scarf too and it’s possibly my favorite purchase ever.) I highly recommend stopping here early in your trip so you can take advantage of your purchases while you’re here.

More ways to buy

Fun fact: the Handknitting Association didn’t have my size in the design I wanted, so I ordered it instead and they knitted one specially for me! It wasn’t available for my trip unfortunately, but it arrived at my house in Boston just two weeks later (and with a hand signed card from the woman who knitted it). Talk about warm and fuzzies!

Also, if you don’t see your size in a design you like, you can also ask them to call their other location.

Hallgrímskirkja

While you’re out and about, stop by Reykjavik’s famous Hallgrímskirkja , the tallest church in Iceland. Both the exterior and interior are interesting, but don’t miss the elevator to the top where you can get awesome views of downtown Reykjavik and beyond (on a clear day).

Kolaportið Flea Market

If you’re in Reykjavik on a weekend you can stop by the Kolaportið Flea Market . It’s only open on Saturdays and Sundays and it’s relatively small but you can still find some neat stuff in there from local vendors.

Grab some famous Icelandic hot dogs

When it’s time for lunch, be sure to stop by Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur , the famous Icelandic hot dog stand. Iceland is famous for their hot dogs, and when you try one you’ll know why. They are fantastic! And cheap in a land where nothing is cheap! I eat one every day I’m there.

Icelandic hot dogs are made from lamb and they are far superior to regular ol’ dogs. You can choose from a wide variety of toppings, though they will all be different from what you’re used to. Yes, they have mustard, ketchup, mayo, etc., but they serve all Icelandic versions of these. However, the Icelandic versions are way better.

The traditional way to order one is “with everything” which means it’s topped with: crispy fried onions and chopped raw onions, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade (a kind of sauce made with mayo, mustard, herbs, and capers). Even if none of that sounds appetizing, I still say try it. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, after all. (Pretty sure Aristotle was talking about Iceland’s hot dogs here.)

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is just a small kiosk on a corner in downtown Reykjavik. (Right around the corner from the Center Hotels Plaza !) There’s often a line but it’s always worth the short wait.

Sægreifinn – The Sea Baron Restaurant

Still hungry? Head a few blocks west along the water and stop by the Sea baron . This tiny seafood shack has probably the best soup I’ve ever had in my life (and many others agree). You absolutely must try the lobster curry soup here. (Again, I visited here on 2 of my 4 days in Iceland. I like what I like, shut up.)

And if that isn’t enough, do know that everything here is good. You can pick which kind of fish you want from the display case and they’ll cook it right up for you. It’s all amazing and deliciously prepared.

Hólavallagarður Cemetery

If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys visiting cemeteries around the world, definitely check out Reykjavik’s Hólavallagarður Cemetery (also known as the Old Cemetery). It dates back to just the 1800s, but the place is so neat.

Hólavallagarður Cemetery is basically a forest, which is interesting because Iceland is a virtual land without trees. Huge twisty trees sprout from the graves here giving this place a truly hauntingly beautiful vibe.

Happy Hour in Reykjavik

Happy hour in Reykjavik is a pastime of its own. Iceland has many cool bars and a seriously interesting craft beer scene. But, as you’ll discover, Iceland is not cheap, especially when it comes to alcohol.

Your new best friend will be the Appy Hour app. This app shows you which bars in Reykjavik have happy hour specials, what they are, and when they are happening so you can bar hop accordingly. Get it here on Google Play or the App Store .

Lebowski Bar

And while you’re out, don’t miss the Lebowski Bar , arguably Iceland’s most famous bar. This bar is full-on Big Lebowski themed from top to bottom. There are bowling alleys on the wall, rugs on the bar, and a long menu of white Russians.

I’m not gonna lie to you – I have tried watching The Big Lebowski like five times and I fall asleep every time. I am not one of the ones who “get it.” However, I do love an over-the-top theme and a white russian! So even if you’re not a fan of the film, it’s still a fun place.

Iceland itinerary day 2: Horseback riding & Golden Circle

Now that you’re more rested, it’s time to seek out some beautiful Icelandic adventure. The second of your Iceland itinerary 4 days is going to start off with a bang whinny.

Horseback riding in Iceland

Iceland’s horses are an adorable and well-known symbol of this country. They are smaller than “regular” horses, have the playful personalities of puppies, have a gait that no other breed has, and you can’t deny they’re the studliest of all the horses. Case in point:

Maybe he’s born with it? Yes, Icelandic horses are true natural wonders and they are so fun to watch. They jump and play and roll around on the ground. They’re friendly and loveable and, let’s be honest, they’re the Fabios and Cindy Crawfords of the horse world. They are highly protected and are the direct descendants of the horses the Vikings brought to Iceland in the 9 th century. I call them Thorses.

If you’re out driving around Iceland, you’ll no doubt spot many of these horses in the fields. But if you stick around Reykjavik during your 4 days, you could potentially miss out on meeting these babies. However, you can (and should) book a horseback riding excursion.

Like I said, Icelandic horses have a gait that is unique to them. While your ordinary, run-of-the-mill horse has three gaits—walk, trot, and gallop—the Icelandic horse has five. Nowhere else can you experience the tölt and pace of the Icelandic horse. This is a lot more exciting if you’re already a horse person.

Also, horseback riding in Iceland is a great way to access some remote country areas, see some waterfalls, and get up close with Iceland’s lunar landscape. Plus, Icelandic horses are patient and therefore perfect for riders of all skill levels. Even riders with absolutely no skill level whatsoever.

Icelandic horseback riding tours

Icelandic horseback riding tours typically include roundtrip transportation, rain gear if necessary, helmet, and rubber boots, but check with your tour company to make sure so you can plan accordingly. Because of timing, in order to fit in both horseback riding and the Golden Circle tour (which I’m about to explain) into one magnificent day, I recommend booking this combination tour .

It includes both activities, hotel pickup and drop off, and the express Golden Circle tour so you can concentrate on the highlights and not a bunch of other stuff you might not be interested in. This is what my friends and I did and it worked out great!

However, if you’d like to try to book all of your excursions separately, here are some of Iceland’s top horseback riding tours to choose from:

• Red Lava Horse Riding Tour From Reykjavik – Top rated tour, 2 hours, beautiful scenery in the Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, includes pickup and drop off
• Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik – Highly rated, 2 hours, you can opt for pickup and drop off
• Private Horse Riding Tour in Thoromodsdale from Reykjavik – Also highly rated, half-day tour, includes refreshments, private guide for your group, intimate experience

Golden Circle tour

You’ve probably heard by now that touring the Golden Circle is one of the top things to do in Iceland. And I totally agree! With just 4 days in Iceland, this tour shows you some really cool stuff and introduces you to some of Iceland’s iconic landscapes—geysers, waterfalls, tectonic plates, etc.

All Golden Circle tours cover three significant sites all within 62 miles of Winterfell. I mean Reykjavik:

1. Þingvellir National Park is where the Vikings established the world’s first democratic republic in the year 930. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some Game of Thrones filming locations.

2. Gullfoss is Iceland’s most famous and iconic waterfall (in a land with more waterfalls than unpronounceable words). Gullfoss is also the largest waterfall in Europe (when ranking by volume).

3. The Geysir geothermal area is the last and stinkiest stop on the tour. No, not geyser , Geysir—the geyser from which all geysers worldwide got their name. Like Kleenex or Band-Aid. This is the name brand product right here.

And right next to Geysir is Strokkur, the geyser that erupts every five to ten minutes without fail. At this site you’ll see a number of geysers, big and small, and a bunch of random pools of boiling water that smell like broken sewer pipes. As stinky as Iceland’s geothermal areas are, seeing the earth boil right in front of you is still pretty incredible. It’s like Earth soup.

Golden Cir cle tours

A tour of the Golden Circle is always a must-do on any Iceland itinerary and is a great introduction to the unique landscape that is Westeros. I mean Iceland. You’ll see waterfalls, geysers, mountains, rainbows, and of course Game of Thrones filming locations.

Again, I highly recommend booking this combination tour that includes both Icelandic horseback riding and the Golden Circle highlights tour. But if you’d like to book them separately, here are some of Iceland’s most popular Golden Circle tours:

• Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik – Definitely the most popular Golden Circle tour in Iceland, 7 hours, includes local guide and all transportation (hotel pickup and drop off from certain locations only, Center Hotels Plaza is one of them! I’m just saying.)
• All the Golden Circle tours to choose from – check out this full list that features many different kind of Golden Circle tours. You can filter the results at the top according to your needs.

Iceland itinerary day 3: Volcano hike & best meal of your life

Day 3 of your 4 days in Iceland is going to make up for all the time you spent sitting down yesterday (on a horse, on a bus). Then, it’s going to end with the delicious reward you’ve earned.

Fagradalsfjall volcano hike

You may have heard, in March of 2021 (and then again in 2022 and 2023) the Fagradalsfjall volcano began erupting and putting on a real show for Icelanders. Previously, this volcano in the Geldingadalir Valley had actually been dormant for over 6,000 years. This eruption is the area’s first active volcano in 800 years. So, obviously this has been a major coup for Iceland’s tourism.

Also obviously, yours truly is going to get as close as she (safely) can. And now I’m recommending you do the same!

The Fagradalsfjall volcano is conveniently located on the Reykjanes peninsula, also known as the part of Iceland where the Keflavik airport and the Blue Lagoon are located. So, not that far from Reykjavik, yay! This makes a day hike to the volcano super accessible even on just a short visit.

If you have your own car you can drive to the site and hike yourself. However, I highly recommend going with a trained guide. The environment is fragile and the volcano—because it’s, umm, an erupting volcano—is unpredictable and makes the conditions in the area potentially very dangerous.

Hike Fagradalsfjall with a guide

Going with a guide ensures you won’t go into a dangerous area, will leave when the conditions get too bad (i.e., poisonous air), and will be as safe on your hike as possible. He/she/they will guide you to the best viewpoints and to some other very cool (but like super duper hot) areas. But they’ll also give you tons of freedom so you never feel corralled at all.

You’ll get to see the unbelievable lava fields that are still red hot and smoking. We got to see hot red lava bursting out of the erupting volcano and hear the roar of the eruption (my favorite part). You’ll see so much amazing scenery. It’s definitely one of the coolest things to do in Iceland right now and was hands down one of my all-time favorite hikes .

Iceland graciously offers a number of well-reviewed volcano hikes. Choose from these:

• Volcano Eruption Site Hike Including Pickup from Reykjavik (7 hours) – Includes roundtrip transportation from Reykjavik and a half-day volcano hike to the new eruption sites at Fagradalsfjall and Meradalir.
• Volcano Hike with a Geologist Small-Group Tour (6 hours) – Hike up to Iceland’s newest volcano in the company of a geologist/volcanologist guide.
• Volcano Tour on Reykjanes Peninsula Including Icelandic Snacks (4-6 hours) – Check out the new lava fields and craters created by the Fagradalsfjall eruption up close. (They’re so cool!)
• Private Fagradalsfjall volcano tour for your group – this tour is great if the thought of hiking in a group gives you anxiety. (Like, maybe you’re not a strong/fast hiker or just prefer to go at your own pace.) This tour includes a private guide for your group, gas masks (if necessary), crampons if you need those too, trekking poles, and free energy bars. Plus, your guide carries a gas meter as well to stay on top of the air quality. This is actually a fantastic deal!

Seltún Geothermal Area

The eruption of Fagradalsfjall isn’t random—the entire Reykjanes Peninsula is literally bursting with geothermal activity. Another great place to see some of that up close is at some of the surrounding geothermal areas.

Just a short drive from the volcano you can visit (for free) the Seltún Geothermal Area and/or the Gunnuhver Hot Springs (though they are in opposite directions so you might have to choose). Personally, I visited the Seltún Geothermal Area and it was such an unexpected treat. The kind of treats that are covered in mud and smell like rotten eggs, that is.

At Seltún, you get to see the boiling mud pits, the hot springs, and the many different colors up close thanks to the boardwalks and walking paths. There are informational signs explaining the pits and restroom facilities on site making this a real pit stop .

If you’re driving yourself, there is a free parking lot at the site right off the main road. However, there are also a number of Fagradalsfjall volcano hikes that include a stop at a geothermal area afterwards. These combo tours also include a few other notable sites in the area like the Reykjanes Lighthouse, the Bridge Between Continents, and Kleifarvatn Lake.

Iceland geothermal tours

This combo tour is the route I took and it was perfect . Choose from these volcano hikes + geothermal tours:

• Fagradalsfjall Active Volcano Hike & Geothermal Tour from Reykjavik –This 10-hour tour covers everything . You get to visit the lake, hike to the erupting volcano, visit both Gunnuhver and Seltún geothermal areas, see the lighthouse, and walk across the bridge that connects the Eurasian and American continents.
• Guided volcano hike and the Reykjanes Peninsula – This awesome volcano hike tour includes most of the things already mentioned, but also includes stops at the beautiful Grænavatn lakes and the cliffs of Krisuvikurberg. This tour also includes trekking poles, headlamps, and crampons.
• Half-Day Afternoon/Evening Volcano Hike from Reykjavik – If a full day of outdoor adventure is not your thing, check out this half-day (6-hour) tour. It covers a Fagradalsfjall volcano hike and a visit to the Seltún Geothermal Area.

Dinner at Apotek

Now that you’ve had some time to shower (…the smell of eggs out of your hair) and rest after your day of adventure in Iceland, it’s time for more happy hour. If craft beer is your thing, don’t miss Skúli Craft Bar .

This intimate little joint has a big selection of beers you’ve never heard nor can pronounce. I literally just told them to fill a flight with some beers. All delicious, all interesting. Afterwards, head to Apotek for what just might be the best meal of your life. (At least, it was for me!)

Apotek is no doubt a splurge, but one definitely worth making. The food here is phenomenal and so are the drinks, the service, the atmosphere, and everything else. For dinner, my husband and I had:

• Waffle bites – Cured sea trout, lamb shoulder, and duck confit… all on waffles with delicious toppings and sauces. Amazing.
• Arctic char on a Himalayan salt block
• Rack of lamb
• Lamb rump steak
• The Skyr Fantasia (skyr fromage, skyr mousse, strawberry and lime gel, lime sponge cake) – I am a lover of all things skyr.
• And I have no idea what my husband got for dessert but this is what it looked like:

They also serve their super fancy, award-winning cocktails in some hilarious mugs. Look, I cannot recommend this place enough. It was superb, top to bottom. And while the place is pretty big and walk-ins are welcome, I would definitely make reservations so you don’t miss out.

They also serve lunch, brunch on the weekends, and afternoon tea every day of the week.

Iceland itinerary day 4: Wildlife watching & the Blue Lagoon

Iceland is wild, yes, but even the capital city of Reykjavik is surrounded by abundant wildlife. If your 4 days in Iceland take place between April and September, you’ll have some easy opportunities to see it for yourself.

Whale watching

One of the most popular things to do in Reykjavik is to go on a whale watching tour. Iceland is home to more than 20 species of whales, but here you’ll most likely see minke whales, humpback whales, and even orcas! Whale watching tours in Iceland take place year round, but between April and September is when you’re going to have the best viewing experience.

Whale watching tours operate outside of Reykjavik Harbor, within walking distance from most downtown area hotels. They last between 2-3 hours and are such fun experiences. I personally am a big fan of whale watching and I’m lucky that I live in Boston and get to see whales on a pretty regular basis. However, if you’ve never taken a tour like this, you definitely should!

Check out these Iceland whale watching tours:

• The original classic whale watching tour in Reykjavik – This 3-hour tour is the most popular and has 95% success rate of seeing whales during the summer months. You’ll have a knowledgeable guide and overalls, raincoats, and blankets will be provided.
• Small-group RIB whale watching cruise – If you want a more intimate experience, check out RIB tours. These tours use much smaller boats and fit just 12 people max. This 2-hour speedboat tour spends more time wildlife viewing and less time traveling.

Take a puffin tour

If you’ve seen whales before and want something different and unique to Iceland, check out puffin tours instead. Iceland is home to between 8-10 million Atlantic puffins from May until August and many of them can be seen on a quick tour from Reykjavik Harbor. (They even have combination whale and puffin cruises !)

These adorable little birds spend their summer on a small island off Reykjavik’s coast and you can take a trip out there with a local nature guide. You won’t be able to step onto the island yourself, but your guide will get you as close as is safe for the birds so you can get great views of them.

Because the boats are much faster and the destination is set, these tours are much shorter than the whale watching tours. They take just one hour, so that might be something to consider if you have to choose between the two.

Pro tip : some of the puffin tours include binoculars for you to use, but keep in mind that you’ll probably have to share. Instead, just bring a small pair of your own . You may want them for the volcano hike and whale watching as well.

Blue Lagoon

Now that you’ve spent your morning on the water, it’s time to get in the water. Specifically, some superheated geothermal milky blue water in the middle of nowhere.

The Blue Lagoon is arguably the most well-known tourist site in Iceland. And while many people may be turned off by this fact and think it’s going to be “too touristy,” I can assure you that it is, in fact, amazing and every bit worth a visit.

First of all, don’t listen to the haters. If you want to do the most popular thing for visitors to do in Iceland, go for it! The Blue Lagoon is fantastic and you’ll have such a fun time. It’s unique and interesting, hot and relaxing, and definitely an activity you’ll never forget. I’ve been multiple times and I still love it.

Before you book your day at the Blue Lagoon though, definitely check out my post on visiting the Blue Lagoon and all you need to know before you go . It has all the info, tips, cool hidden things not to miss, and more.

As always, if you’re driving yourself, you can show up to the Blue Lagoon any ol’ time. But if not, you’ll need to book a Blue Lagoon tour. These tours include admission to the Blue Lagoon as well as round trip transportation to and from downtown Reykjavik.

Your 4 days in Iceland is sadly coming to a close. Back in Reykjavik, hit up happy hour somewhere new and stop by one of Reykjavik’s well-loved eateries. Grab some more soup (at Svarta Kaffið ), some fish ‘n’ chips (at Reykjavik Fish ), and/or maybe even end your trip with this awesome Reykjavik walking food tour .

Iceland itinerary 4 days – tips:

I have a few additional notes to add to this 4-day Iceland itinerary that I hope will save you tons of money and time. Or at least recoup some that you spent on hot dogs and petting cats on the street.

Don’t forget about the Northern Lights

Remember, if you visit in the winter months, you can add a Northern Lights tour to this itinerary! And because the late hour at which they take place, you probably won’t even have to sacrifice anything else. Turns out you can have it all!

The Northern Lights can best be seen in Iceland from October to April, so if you’re visiting during that time, check out these Iceland Northern Lights tour options . (But this one, the midnight adventure , is the most popular!)

Buy in bulk

One of the great things about Iceland’s tours is that you can mix and match until the Icelandic horses come home. You can book all separate tours if that’s what works best for you, or you can book tours that include two, three, or more activities all together. Like, say, a Golden Circle + Blue Lagoon + Kerid volcanic crater tour .

This is a very popular and convenient way to plan your Iceland itinerary for 4 days. There are tons of options and combinations too. Take a look through the many Iceland tour options to see which ones are perfect for your needs.

Get your money back!

If you’re a non-Iceland resident, you are automatically eligible for tax-free shopping while in Iceland. The way it works is: you do your shopping in Iceland as normal (lopapeysas, other souvenirs, etc.), submit your receipts at the airport, then get your tax money back. It’s that simple.

When you make a purchase in Iceland, make sure the store fills out the information on the tax-free form and staples the original receipt to the form. Do this everywhere you buy items you plan to take back to the U.S. (or wherever home is). All of the shops will have these forms and know exactly what to do with them. And if you forget, there’s a good chance the clerk will ask if you’re collecting tax-free forms. To which you’ll answer: OMG YES I forgot thank you for reminding me!

They will give you a little brochure-sized folder to keep them all in. Back at the airport before you depart, stop by the International Refund Point to submit these receipts and forms. You’ll get a refund for all the tax money you paid on these items (known as a VAT refund). (And if you’re like the guy who checked out before me at the Handknitting Association who spent over $1200 US, that will be a lot .)

A few things to note:

• Your total purchase at each store much be at least 6.000 ISK (that’s around $46 US) – so make sure if you’re going to buy a couple of something, do it at one place.
• You must submit your forms at the airport before checking your bags because you might need to show the items you purchased. So, enter the airport, head to the refund point, then check in for your flight.
• Only physical items that you are taking back home qualify. So, meals at restaurants, tours, services, hotels, etc. do not count.
• The tax in Iceland is already included in the price you see on the tag. So, you’re actually getting a portion of the original price back. Woohoo!
• You’ll get your money back as a direct deposit to your credit card. (They say this will take about 4 to 6 weeks to get your refund back, but for me it was 4 to 6 months. Who knows! Just don’t expect it immediately.)

I hope this 4-day Iceland itinerary shows you how much amazing stuff you can fit into just a short visit and helps you plan your trip. Have Iceland questions? Let me know in the comments below! Have a great time in Iceland!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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VOLCANIC ERUPTION & EARTHQUAKES ON REYKJANES – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

4-Day Highlights of Iceland Tour Package | Experience the Land of Ice & Fire

From: EUR 979,52 Original price was: EUR 979,52. EUR 881,57 Current price is: EUR 881,57.

TOUR DETAILS

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

SMALL GROUP

maximum 19 guests

FREE PICK UP

within Reykjavík

chargers next to every seat

FULLY GUIDED

English commentary

Book until September 15th and SAVE 10% with promocode

*no matter the travel date

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes with our 4-Day Highlights of Iceland Tour Package. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you through the stunning South Coast, the iconic Golden Circle, the enchanting Silver Circle, and the picturesque Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

• What do you want to enjoy in Iceland?
• Majestic waterfalls of various shapes and forms?
• Unique black sand beaches?
• Sólheimajökull Glacier and its iceberg-filled lake?
• Relaxing geothermal waters?
• Lava caving?
• Playful seals at Ytri Tunga?
• Thrilling geysers and hot springs?
• Soothing geothermal spas?
• Unique geothermal bakery experience?
• Look no further - this tour package covers it all in just 4-days!

Day 1 | South Coast Waterfalls, Black Beach, Glacier & Glacial Lake

Begin your adventure with the captivating beauty of Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls , followed by the awe-inspiring Skógafoss Waterfall . Each cascading torrent offers a unique vantage point to experience Iceland’s raw natural power, with opportunities to walk behind Seljalandsfoss for an immersive perspective (keep in mind that path behind the falls is open in good weather conditions only for safety reasons).

Continue exploring the glacial beauty of Sólheimajökull Glacier and lagoon , a mesmerizing expanse of ice and volcanic ash. The enchanting Reynisfjara Black Beach , with its striking basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves, is a stark contrast to the peaceful village of Vík . You will also visit the dramatic cliffs and panoramic views at Dyrhólaey , where during summer puffin colonies reside. This day promises an unforgettable introduction to Iceland’s dramatic South Coast.

Optional Activity:

No Pre-Booking Required

After exploring four incredible attractions located on the South Coast you will arrive in Hveragerði, a town renowned for its vibrant geothermal activity. Not only will you have the chance to witness a smaller version of Geyser, but you can also indulge in a relaxing dip in the warm, naturally heated waters.

Be sure to pack your swimwear and end your day in the famous Icelandic geothermal pools! There is no better way to enhance your evening! Hot Tubs are located at or by your hotel and entrance is included.

OVERNIGHT STAY IN HVERAGERDI - town famous for Geothermal Activity

Day 2 | Golden Circle Geothermal Wonderland

Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle offers an unforgettable exploration of geological marvels, cultural heritage sites, and dynamic geothermal activity. This journey encapsulates the essence of Iceland’s diverse landscapes within a compact route.

The excursion begins with a stop at Hveragerði Geothermal Park, known for its hot springs and the Eilífur Geyser , which started erupting in 2016. Eilífur is the youngest and slightly smaller cousin of the Strokkur Geyser, which you will encounter later in the day. At the park you will also have a chance to try hverabrauð – Icelandic rye bread baked using geothermal heat in the on-site bakery. 

Next, you’ll visit the stunning Kerið Crater , a volcanic crater lake renowned for its striking blue-green water and vibrant red slopes. This natural wonder offers a unique perspective on Iceland’s volcanic activity and provides excellent photo opportunities.

Then it´s time to visit the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall , one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. The cascading waters of Gullfoss create a stunning spectacle as they plunge into the rugged canyon below.

As you continue, you’ll be captivated by the Haukadalur Geothermal Area where you will witness explosive power of Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air.

The day culminates at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical and geological significance. Here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic rift valley. Þingvellir is also the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament, Alþingi, established in 930 AD, making it a place of profound cultural heritage.

Pre-Booking Required

Before concluding the day, take a relaxing break at the Hvammsvík Spa. Nestled in a serene coastal setting, this geothermal spa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.

Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, providing a rejuvenating experience amidst your adventurous journey. Entrance, towel & wading shoes rental, & welcome drink are included

OVERNIGHT STAY IN REYKJAVIK - short pit stop before heading West

Day 3 | Silver Circle with Lava Caving

Exploration of the Silver Circle encompasses a diverse array of natural wonders, each with its own unique story. This journey through Iceland’s western countryside promises to captivate and inspire with its stunning landscapes and rich history.

Begin your adventure at the verdant Glanni Waterfall , a picturesque cascade where local folklore suggests that elves dwell. The serene beauty of this waterfall sets the tone for the wonders to come.

Next, experience the geothermal power of Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe . The intense steam and bubbling waters here are a testament to Iceland’s geothermal activity and provide a fascinating glimpse into the forces shaping the island.

Continue to the historical site of Reykholt, once home to the famous medieval scholar and chieftain Snorri Sturluson. Here, you can visit Snorralaug, an ancient geothermal pool that has been used since the 10th century , adding a layer of historical depth to your journey.

The enchanting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls are next on the itinerary. Hraunfossar, or the “Lava Falls,” is a series of stunning waterfalls that emerge from beneath a lava field, creating a mesmerizing display of water flowing over the rugged landscape. Nearby, Barnafoss, or the “Children’s Falls,” offers a more turbulent and dramatic scene, with its waters rushing through narrow, rocky channels.

The serene landscapes of Húsafell provide a peaceful interlude, where you can explore the area’s natural beauty and try your hand at lifting the famous Húsafell stones , a traditional test of strength.

Finally, delve into the depths of Viðgelmir Lava Cave , one of Iceland’s largest and most impressive lava tubes. This ancient cave offers a fascinating underground adventure, with its stunning rock formations and rich geological history.

OVERNIGHT STAY IN BORGARNES

The Capital of West Iceland

Day 4 | Snæfellsnes peninsula

The final day of your 4-day Iceland tour package takes you to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a place often described as “Iceland in Miniature.” This magical area inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

First, visit Ytri-Tunga , a golden sandy beach where seals bask and frolic. Next, see the famous “black church” at Búðakirkja , a popular wedding venue built in the 19th century.

Then, explore Arnarstapi, an old fishing village with dramatic black lava rock formations and the rock arch at Gatklettur. Further west, admire the towering volcanic rock pinnacles at Lóndrangar, home to seabirds like puffins and Arctic terns.

Stroll on the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur , known for its smooth pebbles called the “Pearls of Djúpalón.” The final stop is Kirkjufell, the “Church Mountain,” the most photographed peak in Iceland and featured in “Game of Thrones.”

Discover the best of the “Land of Fire and Ice” on this 4-day Iceland Tour Package, covering the South Coast, Golden Circle, Silver Circle, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Book your seat today!

DURATION 4 DAYS

Minimum age 10 years old, availability: all year, free cancellation: 24 hours prior travel, difficulty: relaxed/moderate.

• Professional tour guided in English in a minibus
• Pick up and drop off within Reykjavik - (CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS)
• Entry fee to the Geothermal Park with tasting of geothermal bread (Hverabrauð)
• Entry fee to the Kerið Volcanic Crater
• Entry fee to the Viðgelmir Lava Cave with all the safety equippment
• Accommodation for 3 night in a double or a twin room with private bathroom and breakfast included
• Free Wi-Fi on bus and USB chargers next to every seat
• Entry to the Hvammsvik Hot Spring SPA including 1st drink of your choice, towel and wading shoes rental
• Lunch & Dinner – we make scheduled stops so that guests can buy lunch or snacks during the tour

Know Before You Go

• Pickup takes place between 08:30 – 09:00 – so please be ready from 8:30 at your pick up location
• Tour is operated under all weather conditions: please bring warm, wind & waterproof clothes
• Duration of the tour is 4 days and 3 nights
• Estimated arrival time in Reykjavík on Day 4 is around 19:30 (Depending on weather and road conditions)
• If you are a single traveler then a Single Room Supplement is mandatory
• Hiking boots are highly recommended

Proper footwear when walking on uneven and slippery surfaces increases your safety and comfort. If you do not own proper footwear (solid shoes reaching above your ankle) you can rent them during booking process

• Luggage allowance

Each guests can bring one small carry-on and checked-in size luggage. For your convenience, it is recommended that you pack lightly for this tour, in a small suitcase or backpack. 

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Any questions? We will be happy to assist you!

You can also find answers to FAQ below

When you complete your booking, you’ll be asked to choose a pick up and drop off location. Where possible, we will collect you directly from your hotel .

Some parts of the city have traffic restrictions, so you’ll need to go to a designated bus stop for collection instead if your hotel is in that area.

This link will tell you which bus stop is closest to your accommodation.

There’s a 30-minute window for collection while we pick up other passengers from their locations.

At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at the same place unless you choose to get off at another stop instead – that’s your choice! Drop off can also take up to 30 minutes.

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so you’ll need to prepare appropriately, whatever the time of year for your tour.

That means choosing the right clothes (light layers), shoes (sturdy and waterproof) and coats (windproof & waterproof). And not wearing jeans, just in case it rains!

We’ve prepared a detailed guide for you to read, full of tips and tricks to help you know what to wear, what to bring and what to leave behind! 

If you’re booking a multi-day tour of up to three days, the maximum “carry-on” bag size is 22 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm or 22 x 18 x 10 inches)

If your multi-day tour is longer than three days, then your ticket includes “carry-on” (see above) and 24 inch “checked” baggage sized no bigger than 60 x 41 x 23 cm (24 x 16.4 x 9.2 inches)

For shorter tours, you can choose to add “checked” baggage for an additional fee during the booking process.

If you want to guarantee bringing a larger bag on a shorter tour, it is best to book in advance. Oversized luggages can not be taken on board but need to be stored prior the tour at either our office or at one of the public luggage lockers dotted across Reykjavík ( CHECK LOCATIONS & PRICES ).

If you wish to store your luggage at our office please contact us by email at [email protected]

At Nicetravel, we choose our overnight accommodations with care to make the best use of your time in Iceland, with reasonable drive times between stops.

You’ll enjoy a private room with en suite bathroom facilities and breakfast, WiFi, towels and, in most cases, a kettle for a morning brew.

Outside the capital, most Icelandic hotels are comfortable and unfussy, with friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable staff.

Enjoy the scenery while relaxing at the end of each day!

Hotel rooms are sold based on two adults sharing, so single-room occupancy is more expensive as a result.

If you are a solo traveler, we will not assign you a room with a stranger, so the single supplement fee becomes applicable.

If you are two people traveling together and staying in the same room but paying separately, the single supplement fee is not applicable.

Simply add the name of your travel companion in the “special requirements” section when completing your booking.

For couples or groups traveling together, rooms will be assigned according to the number of people who have booked together.

Depending on availability at each location, you may request twin beds if that is your preference.

Larger groups will be accommodated in combinations of triple, double and twin rooms – three people in a triple room, four people in two doubles or twin rooms, five people in one triple and one double, and so on.

If a person in your group would prefer a single room, you must select “single supplement fee” for them when booking.

Solo travelers must pay a single supplement fee in all instances.

Breakfast is included at each overnight location, featuring bread and butter, preserves, boiled eggs, cooked meats, fruits, yoghurts, tea, and coffee.

All other meals are at your own expense.

As the tour continues around the country, you can grab lunch and dinner at each of the scheduled stops, and we’ll offer recommendations if you want them!

Yes. We monitor the weather and road conditions on the tour route to maximize your chance to see Iceland’s attractions at their best.

That means we may change the order or timing of the stops to take advantage of the weather (avoiding rain or snow showers where possible) and “ golden hour” photo opportunities .

If we receive a weather alert from the Icelandic Meteorological Office or roads are closed by the local authorities, we must cancel tours for your safety.

Iceland’s weather is very changeable, meaning changes may occur quickly. If we have to cancel tours, we will send you an email notification immediately .

So please check your email inbox before heading out to the collection point, particularly if the weather looks bad in the city.

Sometimes the weather is worse outside the city, or vice versa!

We schedule our tours carefully to ensure you see Iceland’s natural marvels in daylight, even in the winter when there are more hours of darkness.

Many attractions are also illuminated, adding another layer of magic to the natural splendor! During shortest days, these places are usually visited at dusk or 

In the winter months, tours will begin and end in darkness, but rest assured, you will see all the places you want to see!

Everyone who comes to Iceland in the winter hopes to see the Northern Lights.

This mesmerizing cosmic spectacle is a bucket-list experience, with magical splashes of multi-colored lights dancing across the heavens.

But it’s important to remember that it’s a natural phenomenon, requiring certain levels of solar activity and clear, dark skies.

That means there’s no guarantee that you’ll be lucky enough to see them while you’re in Iceland. 

Our selected hotels are in the remote Icelandic countryside, ideal for spotting the Aurora Borealis, with far less artificial light than in the city.

Wake-up calls can be requested if the Northern Lights are spotted later at night.

Here’s more information on seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

Yes, you’ll find modern changing facilities with cubicles, showers and lockers to store your valuables.

Yes. Towels are provided as part of your admission price. If you’ve forgotten to bring your swimsuit, you can rent one, but it’s not guaranteed that all sizes are always available.

It’s best to bring your bathing suit to ensure you don’t miss your chance to enjoy a soothing soak in one of Iceland’s glorious geothermal pools!

On average, we will cover 200-300 kilometers each day, with four to five hours of driving.

We schedule our tours as evenly as possible, with driving distances between each stop varying from 45 minutes to a couple of hours.

You’ll have around 30 to 60 minutes to explore each location, with most attractions just a short walk from the parking lot.

As with everything in Iceland, the precise timings of the tour will depend on weather and road conditions on the day, as our priority is to keep you safe while exploring Iceland.

If you want to bring small children on our tours, we will provide booster seats to ensure their safety and comfort.

Important: bringing children younger than the minimum age stated for each trip is not permitted; please check carefully before submitting your booking.

Please contact us by email ( [email protected] ) at least 12 hours in advance, with the subject line “Booster seat + your booking reference number”.

After the final stop on the tour, we will return to the city. There is no specific time or drop off location – this can differ from the pick up spot. 

You’re free to ask the guide to drop you off in the city center, or back at your collection point, whichever is the most convenient for your evening plans.

You can expect to be dropped off within 30 minutes after the scheduled end of the tour.

All our scheduled group tours are guided in English. Though it is possible to book a private tour guided in other languages. We will try to accommodate your request the best we can!

Adults (16+): EUR 979,52

Teenager (14 - 15): EUR 911,92

Children (10 - 13): EUR 878,12

Select your pickup option

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• Options Price: EUR 0,00

Confirm and Submit Your Booking

Have Questions? We will be happy to assist you!

+354 419 0100 | [email protected]

NICETRAVEL operates tours in Iceland ranging from day tours to multi-day tours. In our offer you will find classic Golden Circle Tours , Ring Road Iceland Tours and unique Westfjords Iceland Tours .

All our services are of course fully licensed by the appropriate Icelandic authorities

Nicetravel ehf

Fiskislóð 45M, 101 Reykjavík

ID. 650712-0800 | TAX. 120367

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Guaranteed Departures

Book worry free! We require no minimum number of participants to run any of our tours!

When booking with Nicetravel you can rest assured your tour will not be cancelled by us unless rare force majeure events occur (i.e. violent storm, volcanic eruptions, strikes)

If you find a bookable date on our website this means departure is confirmed

Free Pick Up Service From Reykjavík

We offer pick up and drop off within the city of Reykjavik. We can pick-up directly from many hotels and guest houses in Reykjavik as well as from the Reykjavik cruise ship terminals.

Parts of Reykjavík City Center are closed for the commercial traffic. Please note, that your pick up might be from one of the dedicated meeting points

Lava Formations

Explore Iceland’s astonishing lava formations on our tours

On our tours of Iceland, you’ll see an ever-changing country packed with breathtaking geological marvels, including beautiful basalt columns, jagged pinnacles, and jet-black lava flows. Home to some of the fiercest volcanoes ever known, more than a third of the world’s recorded lava since the Middle Ages has poured across Iceland! On our Ring Road and South Coast tours , you’ll see how lava has shaped the country into what it is today, where more than 30 active volcano systems have created astonishing sights like Stuðlagil Canyon , the Eldhraun lava field, and the black sand beach at Reynisfjara .

See the “Arch with a Hole” summer home to Puffins

Offering some of the best views on the South Coast, Dyrhólaey (Door Hill Island) is a spectacular promontory rising more than a hundred meters high above the Atlantic. Close to the most southerly point in Iceland, fierce waves pound the shores below. You’ll enjoy phenomenal panoramic views of towering stone arches, gleaming glaciers, brooding volcanoes, and Iceland’s famous black sand beach, Reynisfjara . If you look closely, you’ll see the Reynisdrangar too!  In the summer, thousands of puffins and other seabirds flock here, so it’s an excellent spot for bird watching!

Blue Lagoon

Take a dip at Iceland’s famous Geothermal SPA

Experience a spa day like no other with a trip to Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon . This geothermal paradise guarantees relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploring. Some of our Golden Circle & Ring Road tours include an option to visit here, where you can lie back in the warming waters, admire the astonishing views of the jet-black lava fields, exfoliate, and enjoy a drink at the swim-up bar. Close to the airport and the city, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to sample the best of Iceland’s famous hot pots, where the mineral-rich healing waters will send you to heaven! 

Whale Watching

Enjoy an unforgettable whale watching tour in Iceland!

With more than twenty types of whales visiting Iceland every year, it’s one of the best places in the world to take a whale watching tour. When we visit Akureyri in North Iceland on our Ring Road tours , get ready to spot humpbacks, minke whales, orcas, dolphins, and porpoise s . If you’re lucky, you might see a Blue whale, the most enormous creature ever known! Whales and other cetaceans come to Iceland to feed in the nutrient-rich waters, and some stay all year round now. Imagine the joy of seeing whales and dolphins in the wild – you can do that when you visit Iceland!

Explore the land of ten thousand waterfalls on our tours!

Iceland is covered by glaciers and snow-capped mountains, so that means there’s a lot of crystal-clear meltwater tumbling over cliffs and rushing to the sea. Some say there are over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, and you’ll see some of the most famous falls on our Golden Circle , South Coast , and Ring Road tours . There are hidden waterfalls, multi-tiered falls, widescreen cascades where rainbows dance on sunny days, and even waterfalls where you can walk behind the waters! We’ll show you some of the best fosses in Iceland – and they’re all easy to reach too!

Volcanic Craters

See Iceland’s spectacular volcanic craters on our tours!

Iceland is less than 20 million years old, created by underwater volcanoes rising up along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge with a pipeline of molten magma straight from the Earth’s burning core. Dozens of volcanoes dot the country, and many are still active, which means you can explore fascinating volcanic formations at different geological stages! On our Golden Circle tours, you’ll see the multicolored crater at Kerið. Grábrok Craters are included in itineraries for our Westfjords Tours . There are countless more craters to be seen on our Ring Road and Silver Circle tours!

Seal Watching

Go seal spotting while you’re on tour in Iceland!

Iceland is a haven for several seal species, with little colonies of these captivating creatures dotted around the country. On our South Coast & Glacier Lagoon and Ring Road tours , you’ll have a chance to spot them at Jökulsárlón, where seals are often seen basking on the floating icebergs. Iceland’s coastline features golden sandy beaches where Harbor and Gray seals make their home, including Ytri-Tunga , a stop on our  Snaefellsnes tour in West Iceland.

Notably the highest chances to see them is when taking one of Westfjords Tours . It’s your best chance to see these gorgeous creatures in their natural habitat!

River Rafting

Take a ride on a thrilling river rafting tour experience!

Iceland’s fast-flowing glacial rivers offer you a fantastic adventure experience when you join one of our adrenaline-pumping river rafting tours. Jump on sturdy rafts not far from Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle , and paddle through the twisting turns of the Brúarhlöð volcanic rock canyon on the White River! Soak up the stunning scenery as you float downstream, safe in the hands of expert guides, with all the equipment you’ll need provided. It’s one of the most exciting adventure activities you can take in Iceland!

Northern Lights

Want to see the Northern Lights? Then book an Multi-Day Tour during winter time!

Seeing a display of the magical Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, and Iceland is one of the most beautiful places in the world to witness this colorful cosmic spectacle. Clear, dark skies are needed to see the Northern Lights at their best, far away from streetlights. So when you book a winter multi-day tour , you’ll have the best chance to see the Northern Lights when you stay overnight in the remote Icelandic countryside. The darker the nights get, the brighter the lights can be seen. Choose one of our winter tours for an experience you’ll never forget!

Lava Caving

Iceland is a hotbed of volcanic activity formed by superheated lava and molten rock from countless eruptions over millions of years. When the lava stops flowing, the top crust cools more quickly, leaving hollow caves and tunnels behind. You can explore these incredible underground spaces when our Silver Circle tours visit The Cave at Víðgelmir in West Iceland. Enjoy a 90-minute expedition on well-lit walkways with expert guides and learn about stalagmites and stalactites in colorful caverns. Viking outlaws used these places as hideouts – now you can explore here too!

Golden Circle

See Iceland’s most famous sights

Tour the Golden Circle to see the glittering jewels in Iceland’s crown. In one convenient day trip from the capital, you’ll see the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal wonders of Geysir , and the spectacular rift valley at Þingvellir National Park . The Golden Circle offers you the best of Iceland’s natural beauty and history, where you can walk in Viking footsteps between two continents! Stand back as a geyser erupts at Haukadalur Geothermal Area every few minutes and admire the view at Gullfoss, a tremendous two-tiered waterfall fed by glacial meltwater.

Explore Iceland’s unique ice caves on our exciting tours!

More than a tenth of Iceland is covered by glaciers, making it the perfect place to get a close look at these astonishing frozen wonders. On our South Coast tours , you can opt for an unforgettable Ice Cave experience at Vatnajökull . Iceland’s glaciers are constantly changing, so your ice cave trip will be unique – nobody else will see the same sight again! Strap on some crampons and discover fascinating ice formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, and spectacular blue ice caves, safe in the hands of our experienced glacier guides. Tours operate between late October to April. 

Hot Spring Bathing

Take a dip in Iceland’s famous geothermal spas on our tours

Enjoying a dip in a geothermal hot spring spa or pool is a daily ritual for Icelanders, like going to a coffee shop or a bar. There are dozens of natural hot spring spas, swimming pools, and outdoor hot pots all over the country, waiting for you to jump in and relax! Our Golden Circle tours include options to visit the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík, while our Silver Circle tours include an authentic stone-walled hot pot in a remote canyon! Our Ring Road tours also feature several geothermal swimming pools around the country, where the locals love to relax too.

Take our tours of Iceland to admire its gorgeous glaciers

Close to the Arctic Circle and just 300 miles wide, Iceland is the perfect place to explore glaciers and ice caps. These frozen blue wonders can be seen easily as you explore Iceland on our Ring Road tours . That’s because outlet glaciers and glacier tongues reach down from  Sólheimajökull on the South Coast and from Vatnajökull in the East right down to the coast, making it easy to get up close to these majestic sights. Centuries of snow and ice have created these incredible glaciers, but they are retreating now due to climate change. Don’t miss your chance to see these marvels while you can!

Glacier Hike

Experience an adventure like no other on a Glacier Hike tour

Did you know that a tenth of Iceland is covered in glaciers and that 269 of them have been named? Iceland is the ideal place to come if you want to explore these natural wonders at close quarters. That’s because our South Coast tours visit Sólheimajökull in South Iceland, where you can strap on crampons and take an unforgettable stroll across this ever-changing environment. Gaze at incredible ice formations, crossing crevasses, and exploring ice caves, all in the hands of knowledgeable expert guides. Note : Our Glacier Hike tours operate between April and October.

Iceland is a country filled with incredible water features, including hot springs, waterfalls, and glacial rivers. But did you know that the word “geyser” comes from here? On our Golden Circle tours , you’ll see the “OG” of geysers everywhere at the Haukadalur Geothermal area. While Geysir has fallen silent recently, nearby Strokkur erupts in steam explosions and spray every few minutes, sending superheated water flying high into the sky. Geysir means “gush” in Icelandic, and that’s where the name comes from! If you book a package with stay in Hveragerði you can also admire smaller cousin of Strokkur that erupts every 15-20 minutes.

Geothermal Areas

Discover Iceland’s active geothermal areas on our tours

Iceland’s fiery volcanic origins mean it’s a hothouse of geothermal activity with several colorful geothermal areas you can explore on our tours. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, close to the airport, and you can visit the Haukadalur Geothermal Area on our Golden Circle tours . On our Silver Circle tours , you can see the most powerful hot spring in Europe at Deildartunguhver . And if you choose one of our Ring Road tours , you’ll see the almost alien landscapes at Hverir , where fumaroles fizz and hot pools bubble and boil! Feel the ground tremble and smell the sulfur!

Iceland is a “country in the making” formed by volcanoes and earthquakes and sculpted by gigantic glaciers.

That offers you a variety of breathtaking and unique landscapes, such as Stuðlagil and Fjaðrárgljúfur , two of the most stunning places in Iceland! At Stuðlagil, you’ll see twisting basalt columns line a gorgeous glacial river canyon, a magnificent location that has only recently been discovered. Fjaðrárgljúfur (Feather River Canyon) is a surreal sight – a marvelous sheer-walled river canyon covered in blankets of velvet-green moss. 

Our tours will take you straight to the most spectacular sights in Iceland, but there are ways of getting even closer if you want to! At the Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón), you can jump into an amphibious vehicle for an unforgettable tour around the lagoon, sailing amongst the glittering giants.

Imagine the thrill of seeing these gigantic chunks of multi-coloured ice from just a few feet away! Where else will you get a chance to cruise between towering icebergs as they sway around the spectacular lagoon? Don’t miss this magical experience! Note: Boat tours are available from May to October.

Bird Watching

Everyone wants to see Iceland’s famous puffins when they visit in the summer months (late May until mid-August) . Iceland is also home to countless more species of birds, some of which stay all year round.

On our South Coast and Ring Road tours, you’ll also have a chance to see Arctic terns, kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills. Lake Mývatn in North Iceland attracts thousands of ducks each summer, making it a bird watcher’s paradise! Look out for the Barrow’s Goldeneye, Harlequin ducks, gyrfalcons, gannets, and ptarmigans! Our Westfjords and Snæfellsnes tours also include visits to bird-filled cliffs along the route.

Visit the “original” Geyser on our Golden Circle tours

Iceland’s fierce volcanic activity fuels gushing geysers all around the country, and the most famous hot spring is Geysir , one of the highlights of our Golden Circle tours . Geysir was the first erupting hot spring discovered by Europeans, and its name is the Icelandic word for “gush”, giving its name to all hot springs worldwide. Geysir is quiet these days, but Strokkur sends hot water and vapor high into the sky every few minutes! You won’t have to wait long to see it blow sky-high. So get your camera ready – this will be one of the best photo opportunities you’ll have in Iceland!  

Gullfoss Waterfall

Discover the glorious Gullfoss on our Golden Circle tours

One of the highlights of the famous Golden Circle route , Gullfoss is a thundering two-tier waterfall fueled by Langjökull , the “Long Glacier”, which you’ll see far inland if it’s a clear day. Tumbling more than thirty meters into a dramatic rock canyon, Gullfoss is one of the most thrilling waterfalls in the country, and you can see the falls from several viewing platforms. Watch out for rainbows on sunny days, and wear waterproofs – millions of gallons of water crashing over the cascade creates lots of spray!

Traditional Architecture

See the famous turf-roofed buildings!

Traditional Icelandic architecture is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and integration with the natural environment. During our tours you will be able to see couple of its examples. 

Enjoy an evening and overnight stay in the capital of the North

Akureyri is the unofficial “second city” of Iceland, located in the far north about six hours from Reykjavik, nestling at the end of the longest fjord in the country.

Sólheimajökull Glacier & Lagoon

See the slowly disappearing glacier and a glacial lake forming in front!

Sólheimajökull is a magnificent glacier located on the South Coast of Iceland. It is an outlet glacier that descends from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Sólheimajökull is famous for its breathtaking ice formations, including deep crevasses, ice caves, and dramatic ice ridges. 

The glacial environment of Sólheimajökull provides a unique opportunity to witness the effects of climate change, as the glacier has been receding in recent years. This caused new Glacial Lagoon to appear on the map of Iceland, where huge chunks of ice slowly float on its surface.

Húsafell Canyon Baths

Bathe like Icelanders did in the old days!

This place offers a unique and natural relaxation experience, nestled within a stunning canyon surrounded by lush greenery. This is a spellbinding place that has to be seen to be believed, with three geothermally-heated pools of varying temperatures (30-41°C or 86-105°F), a cold-water pot and a cooling waterfall, all designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment. 

These are traditional and authentic Icelandic bathing pools , inspired by the age-old ways used by the locals in this area for a thousand years. Sustainably built in the traditional stone-bath style in an off-grid location, it’s a unique combination.

Rauðisandur Red Beach

Find yourself on the Westernmost Beach in Europe!

Rauðisandur is a stunning golden sandy beach located in the Westfjords region of Iceland. Its name translates to “Red Sand,” but the beach is actually a unique blend of golden, beige, and reddish hues . The vast expanse of Rauðisandur stretches for nearly 10 kilometers and is backed by stunning cliffs and mountains. The beach is known for its tranquil beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for solitude and relaxation.

Bolafjall Sky Walk

Take a walk on top of one of the most beautiful summits in Iceland!

Bolafjall is a prominent mountain located in the Westfjords region of Iceland. Rising up to an elevation of 638 meters , it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and coastal landscape. 

In the recent year, on the summit of Bolafjall impressing viewing platform with sky walk was constructed, just right next to old American radar station. It allows you to witness the beauty of the rugged terrain and the vast ocean beyond. The road leading to the top is very steep and narrow, but no worries! You will be taken there by our experienced drivers. 

See the most powerful waterfall in the whole of Europe!

Dettifoss is a mighty and powerful waterfall located in Northeast Iceland. It is known for being the most powerful waterfall in Europe , with a massive volume of water cascading over its rocky edge.

The sheer force and thundering sound of Dettifoss are awe-inspiring, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors. The waterfall is situated in the Vatnajökull National Park, surrounded by rugged landscapes and dramatic cliffs. 

Discover the hidden gem of the South Coast with us!

Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem located in Iceland, near the popular tourist attraction, Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

It is often referred to as the “Secret Waterfall” or “Cave Watefall” due to its concealed location and the fact, that is very often missed by many ! 

Diamond Beach

Take a walk among the “Diamonds”!

The beach gets its name from the sparkling icebergs that wash up on the black sand , resembling diamonds on the shore. The contrast between the glistening ice and the dark volcanic sand creates a breathtaking sight. Diamond Beach is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning opportunities to capture the beauty of nature.

Walk on a lava arch and see many stunning sights!

Arnastapi is a small village located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. The village offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. One of the main attractions in Arnarstapi is the famous Gatklettur, a natural arch rock formation that stands tall against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. There, you can also take a walk on the Lava Bridge and pose for a unique picture.

Enjoy an evening and overnight stay in the capital of the West

Borgarnes bubbles with life, packed into a picturesque promontory overlooking the broad waters of Borgarfjörður, the “City Fjord”.

Enjoy an afternoon and overnight stay in the charming, geothermal village

Hveragerði catches your attention with steam vents billowing vapor into the air everywhere you look. You’ll be amazed by the endless rows of geothermally-heated greenhouses, where bananas and other fruits are grown all year round!

Hraunfossar Lava Waterfalls

See a unique waterfall when you book a Silver Circle tour

Iceland is filled with unique sights, and one of the most mesmerizing is the “Lava Waterfalls” at Hraunfossar . Part of the Silver Circle tour route, glacial meltwater gently cascades down a series of steps from the middle of moss-covered lava cliffs, with the falls stretching for hundreds of meters. The waters seep through the Hallmundarhraun lava field until reaching the White River before tumbling gracefully below. You can enjoy the Lava Waterfall from different perspectives at several viewing platforms. It’s an extraordinary sight!

Explore Iceland’s wildest region

If you want to see Iceland at its wildest, the Westfjords await you! Lonely Planet picked the Westfjords as its No.1 place to go – here’s your chance to see it! 

Vik í Myrdal

Charming, southernmost village in Iceland

The picturesque village of Vik í Myrdal is perfect for a photo stop on our South Coast and Ring Road tours. Atlantic waves roll in with full force at the most southerly point on Iceland’s mainland, pounding the black sand beaches. Vík is the warmest coastal town in the country, and the summer air is filled with migrating birds. Walk its pretty streets and admire the gorgeous hilltop church atop the town’s highest point! Enjoy another view of the Reynisdrangar from there!

Þingvellir National Park

Where two continents split apart

A place of outstanding natural beauty, Þingvellir National Park offers you a unique opportunity to walk in Viking footsteps between two continents. The tectonic plates of North America and Europe are pulling apart along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge here, increasing Iceland’s size every day! The early Viking settlers held their parliaments (the Alþingi) here for a thousand years, and Iceland declared its independence from this stunning location in 1944, so this is a sacred place for all Icelanders! It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , making it a must-see stop on our Golden Circle tours .

South Coast

See the best of Iceland’s stunning South Coast

Explore the treasures of the South Coast on our tours, discovering stunning landscapes lined with thundering waterfalls, immense glaciers, towering volcanoes, and dramatic black sand beaches! Easily reached from the city, the South Coast is an unforgettable dreamland of astonishing natural wonders. Hike across a glacier at Sólheimajökull , or maybe discover a hidden waterfall? Walk on an endless black sand beach at Reynisfjara or enjoy a thrilling walk behind a waterfall at Seljalandsfoss ? These are just some of the magical experiences you can enjoy on a tour of the sensational South Coast!

Snæfellsnes

See the “Iceland in Miniature”

Close to the capital and easily reached, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an ideal tour to discover all of Iceland’s best features in just one day! The “Snow Mountain Peninsula” is often called “ Iceland in Miniature ” because you can find photogenic mountains (including Kirkjufell ), beautiful beaches, plunging waterfalls, seal colonies, ancient lava fields, and a towering stratovolcano in one place! Some say the peninsula has mystical qualities as one of the planet’s many “chakra” centers. It also inspired Jules Verne when he wrote “ Journey to the Center of the Earth ”!

Soothe yourself after a day on tour with a dip at Sky Lagoon

One of Iceland’s newest and most impressive geothermal spa experiences, Sky Lagoon offers you a memorable experience with astonishing views of the Atlantic. Relax in the perfectly regulated waters surrounded by volcanic rocks and a turf-roofed visitor center. Enjoy the 75-meter infinity pool, and order a drink at the swim-up bar! You can opt for an authentic Icelandic bathing experience with the Seven-Step Ritual , including saunas, cold mist showers, and exfoliating scrubs. It’s one of the most spectacular geothermal spa experiences in the world!

Seljalandsfoss

Take a walk behind a waterfall on our South Coast tours

Seljalandsfoss is a graceful waterfall that tumbles over 60 meters from Eyjafjallajökull , a volcano on Iceland’s stunning South Coast . It has a special feature that makes it even more exciting – there’s a path you can take all the way around the cascade! It can be slippery, but the views are unforgettable if you don’t mind getting wet! The chute is fueled by glacial meltwater from the volcano that stopped air traffic in 2010, putting Iceland on the map! A “secret” waterfall called Gljúfrabúi is nearby, hidden in a little green rock canyon – we’ll show you where to find it!

Reynisfjara Black Beach

See one of the most famous beaches in the world 

If National Geographic and TripAdvisor both say Reynisfjara is one of the best beaches in the world, then you have to add it to your list of “must-see” places to visit when you’re in Iceland. With miles of jet-black volcanic sands stretching into the distance and fierce Atlantic waves pounding the shoreline, it’s one of the most dramatic coastlines you’ll ever see! Lined with beautiful basalt columns, the Reynisdrangar completes the cinematic scene, towering sea stacks looming offshore! Some say these were trolls trying to catch a ship, frozen in time when the sun rose!

Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore Iceland’s spectacular Glacier Lagoon on our tours

Where else can you get up close to immense icebergs in a glacial meltwater lagoon? On our South Coast Multi-Day and Ring Road tours , you can visit the astonishing Glacier Lagoon at Jökulsárlón , where you’ll see gigantic icebergs floating serenely around a spectacular lake, which only formed about 80 years ago. As the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier retreats, giant pieces break off the edge and sail out to sea. The Glacier Lagoon is the “waiting room” on the journey! Come and see these multicolored icy marvels for yourself at this bucket-list location, and look out for seals basking on the bergs too!

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Walk into the cave hidden behind the falls!

Hveragerði has several fine restaurants and cafés, and some offer unique dishes that use the underground heat! For example, Ölverk Pizza & Brewery specialize in wood-fired pizzas while using geothermal heat to brew their high-quality craft ales. You can also have a snack inside the greenhouse at Rósa Kaffi . Nearby, The Greenhouse Hotel is also home to a food hall with several options, including tacos, burgers, fried chicken and Asian cuisine. More options are available here, so you’re guaranteed a great meal, whatever you’re in the mood for. 

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4 Days in Iceland: The Perfect Itinerary

Posted Oct, 30 2023

Itineraries

Discover the wonders of Iceland in just 4 days! From the Blue Lagoon to the Golden Circle, make the most of your short stay.

Ever thought about spending 4 days in Iceland ? Well, buckle up because you're in for a treat! Imagine a land where geysers erupt with a playful wink, waterfalls compete for your attention, and the city streets are as colorful as a painter's palette.

Now, you might be wondering: ' Can I really experience all that magic in just four days in Iceland? ' The answer is a resounding YES! And lucky for you, we've been there, done that, and are here to spill the beans.

So, grab your favorite travel mug, fill it with some Icelandic coffee (or just your regular brew), and let's dive into the ultimate Icelandic escapade together!

Day 1: Discover Reykjavik's Vibrant Charm

• Distance: +- 7 Kilometers (4.5 miles).  

Kick off your 4 days in Iceland in Reykjavik , the world's northernmost capital. Brimming with colorful streets, rich history, and a unique artsy vibe, this city sets the tone for an unforgettable Icelandic escapade.

Explore the City's Colorful Streets and Charming Shops

During your Iceland 4-day trip, Reykjavík's vibrant streets are a must-visit. Begin your journey at Laugavegur , t he city's bustling shopping artery . Here, boutique stores showcase local handicrafts while aromatic cafés beckon with Icelandic pastries.

A short walk away, Skólavörðustígur offers a visual treat with its art galleries and murals, leading you straight to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja . For fashion enthusiasts, the city is a treasure trove of vintage finds.

Dive into the numerous thrift stores in Reykjavík to discover retro gems. As you wander, the blend of modern aesthetics and rich history makes every step in Reykjavík a delightful discovery.

Visit Hallgrímskirkja, the Iconic Church

A highlight of any 4 days in Reykjavík is the awe-inspiring Hallgrímskirkja . Towering over the city at 74.5 meters (244 feet), this Lutheran church is Reykjavík's tallest architectural structure.

Its unique design, inspired by the basalt lava columns found throughout the country , stands as a testament to modernist architecture. Inside, the vast nave and the impressive pipe organ, which boasts 5,275 pipes, captivate visitors.

Don't miss the opportunity to ascend the church's tower. From there, you're treated to a panoramic view of Reykjavík's colorful rooftops, the surrounding mountains, and the shimmering bay.

Walk Along the Waterfront

After basking in the beauty of Hallgrímskirkja, stroll down to Reykjavík's waterfront—a must in any 4-day Iceland itinerary. The path unfolds from the old harbor, alive with fishing boats and seafood eateries , to the modern Harpa Concert Hall with its kaleidoscopic glass design.

En route, pause at the Sun Voyager, a sculpture echoing a Viking ship, symbolizing dreams and discovery. This waterfront isn't just about the ocean's calm; it's a window into Reykjavík's seafaring soul. Hungry for more city gems? Dive into our top things to do in Reykjavík guide.

Where to Stay in Reykjavík

In Reykjavík, lodging options abound to suit every traveler's style and budget. If you fancy a luxurious retreat, check out the Hotel Borg's art deco elegance. For a budget-friendly yet cozy stay, the Reykjavík Downtown HI Hostel is a gem. And if you crave a local feel, numerous charming Airbnb rentals dot the city.

Day 2: Delve Into the Untamed Beauty of the West Fjords

• Distance: +- 254 Kilometers (158 miles).  

As you embark on the second day of your 4 days in Iceland journey, prepare to be captivated by the West Fjords . This remote region, with its jagged cliffs, deep fjords, and untouched landscapes, offers a more secluded Icelandic experience, far from the usual tourist trails.

Soak Up the Majestic Views of Dynjandi Waterfall

As part of your Iceland 4-day itinerary , a visit to the grandiose Dynjandi waterfall is a must. Tucked away in the remote West Fjords, Dynjandi is a series of seven cascades resembling a wedding cake. 

Its name translates to ' Thunderous ,' quite fitting given its powerful roar that echoes through the fjords. The waterfall's total height is an impressive 100 meters (328 feet), and its widest section spans 60 meters (197 feet). 

As you approach Dynjandi, prepare to be awed by its sheer magnitude and mesmerizing beauty. It's a sight guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your Iceland adventure.

Explore Rauðisandur Beach

During your 4 days in Iceland, Rauðisandur Beach is a sight you won't want to miss. Unlike the typical black sand beaches of Iceland, Rauðisandur surprises visitors with its vast expanse of red and golden sands. 

Stretching over 10 kilometers (6 miles), this beach offers a serene backdrop of the Westfjords' rugged cliffs. Depending on the sunlight, the sands can shift in hue , creating a mesmerizing palette of colors.

The tranquility here is occasionally interrupted by seals playfully lounging or the distant call of seabirds. Rauðisandur isn't just a beach; it's a tranquil Icelandic dreamscape.

Spot Wildlife in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

On your 4-day Iceland trip, a visit to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a must for wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the northernmost part of the Westfjords, this untouched wilderness is a haven for Arctic foxes , especially during summer when they roam freely, unafraid of humans.

The cliffs of Hornstrandir are also a birdwatcher's paradise, teeming with puffins , guillemots, and kittiwakes. With no roads or permanent residents, the reserve offers a pristine experience, accessible only by boat from Ísafjörður or Bolungarvík. Here, nature reigns supreme, offering visitors a glimpse of Iceland in its purest form.

Where to Stay In the West Fjords

Accommodations in the West Fjords cater to various tastes and budgets. For a taste of luxury, consider the remote Hotel Djúpavík , set in a converted herring factory. If you're after a more homey experience, check out the charming Simbahöllin guesthouse . For budget-conscious travelers, camping is a popular option, with picturesque sites like Tungudalur Campground offering stunning views and basic amenities.

Day 3: Embark Towards The Golden Circle 

• Distance: +- 120 Kilometers (75 miles).

As you venture into the third day of your 4 days in Iceland journey, gear up for the iconic Golden Circle . This popular route encapsulates Iceland's geothermal wonders, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a snapshot of the country's diverse natural beauty in just one day.

See Gullfoss Waterfall, One of the Most Powerful Waterfalls in Europe

Your 4-day trip to Iceland wouldn't be complete without witnessing the majesty of Gullfoss Waterfall , one of Europe's most powerful waterfalls. Nestled in the Golden Circle, Gullfoss ( Golden Falls ) is a two-tiered waterfall that plunges into a rugged canyon.

Its combined drop reaches an impressive 32 meters (105 feet), and its largest cascade stretches 21 meters (69 feet) high. Don't miss the spectacle of Gullfoss in full force during the summer when its roaring water produces a glistening mist that, on sunny days, forms a captivating rainbow over the falls. It's a sight that encapsulates Iceland's raw, untamed beauty.

Go on a Geyser Tour and See Strokkur Erupt

A quintessential experience for anyone exploring Iceland in 4 days is witnessing the raw power of its geysers. Strokkur, meaning ' churn ' in the Icelandic language , is one of the most active geysers in the region, erupting every 6-10 minutes.

Its scalding water can reach impressive heights of 15-20 meters (49-66 feet) into the air, offering a thrilling spectacle for visitors. Witnessing Strokkur's eruption is an extraordinary experience, a reminder of Iceland's dynamic, ever-changing landscapes driven by subterranean heat. Don't forget your camera – capturing a Strokkur eruption is a 'must-do' for any Iceland itinerary.

Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

No 4-day Iceland tour would be complete without stepping into the historical and geological wonders of Þingvellir National Park . A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir holds a unique position in Iceland's history as the original site of the world's oldest existing parliament, founded in AD 930.

Moreover, the park is a geologic marvel, marking the visible rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Here, you can literally walk between two continents , marvel at the stunning Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, and even dive into the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure. This park is a must-visit, interweaving history, culture, and nature seamlessly.

Where to Stay In the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences. For a luxury stay, the ION Adventure Hotel offers modern comforts against an awe-inspiring backdrop. Those favoring a quaint setting might opt for the cozy Efsti-Dalur II , a charming farm hotel. Budget travelers can find solace in the affordable yet comfortable Blue Hotel Fagrilundur .

Day 4: Uncover the Mysteries of the South Coast

• Distance: +- 459 Kilometers (285 miles).

As we enter the final leg of our 4 days in Iceland journey, we turn our sights towards the enchanting South Coast. Brimming with towering waterfalls, black sand beaches , and the captivating Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, the South Coast is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Marvel at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Its Drifting Icebergs

A pinnacle moment in any 4-day Iceland itinerary is a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Situated at the foot of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier , this lagoon is a mesmerizing display of nature's artistry. 

Icebergs, calved from the glacier, drift serenely on its icy waters, creating a dynamic landscape of blues and whites. Seals can often be spotted lounging on the ice or swimming in the lagoon. As the icebergs journey towards the ocean, they create a surreal spectacle on the nearby Diamond Beach .

Hike to the Haunting Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

For those seeking a bit of intrigue on their four days in Iceland journey, the haunting Sólheimasandur plane wreck offers a unique adventure. In 1973, a US Navy DC plane ran out of fuel and crash-landed on this desolate black sand beach. 

Thankfully, everyone survived, but the plane's remains were left behind. Today, it is a haunting yet photogenic relic against the stark backdrop. The hike to the site is about 4 km (2.3 mi) each way, offering a chance to immerse in the vastness of the landscape. Remember to tread lightly and respect the site's history.

Immerse Yourself in the Soothing Waters of the Blue Lagoon

As your 4 days in Iceland adventure draws to a close, make your way towards the ethereal Blue Lagoon , conveniently located near the airport. Immerse yourself in its soothing geothermal waters, famed for their skin-healing properties.

Boasting a temperature of 37-40°C (98-104°F) year-round and rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, the Blue Lagoon offers a rejuvenating respite before your homeward journey. This luxurious spa experience, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, is the perfect finale for your Icelandic vacation. Remember to book your spot in advance, as the Blue Lagoon is a popular destination. 

Where to Stay at The South Coast 

The South Coast of Iceland boasts a variety of accommodations to cater to different tastes. For luxury seekers, Hotel Rangá offers a touch of opulence amidst the wild landscape. Guesthouse Vellir is perfect for budget-conscious travelers, offering comfort without breaking the bank. For a unique stay, consider the quaint Skyrhúsid Guesthouse , a charming farm hotel that guarantees an authentic Icelandic experience.

Navigate Iceland's Roads With Expert Self-Drive Tips

When you're planning your 4-day Iceland itinerary , knowing how to navigate the roads is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable adventure. Here, we will provide invaluable tips for self-drive tours in Iceland, helping you to explore the island's raw beauty safely and efficiently.

How To Rent a Car in Iceland

Renting a car in Iceland is a straightforward process that involves a few key steps:

• Select a reputable rental company: Choose a company with positive reviews, such as Reykjavík Cars . We have been in the business since 2013 and offer competitive rates for various vehicles.
• Choose your vehicle: Depending on your route, consider a 4x4 for highland roads.
• Check insurance coverage: Ensure the rental has adequate insurance , covering scenarios like damage from gravel or collisions.
• Pick-up/Drop-off : Most agencies are located in Reykjavík, but airport options are available for convenience.

The Best Scenic Routes To Take

Iceland's roads are a gateway to its breathtaking landscapes. Here are some top scenic routes:

• Route 1, Ring Road: Circumnavigating the island, Route 1 showcases diverse landscapes - from cascading waterfalls to dramatic volcanic fields.
• Golden Circle Route: This popular route offers three iconic attractions - Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area.
• South Coast Drive: Expect black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and epic sea cliffs. 
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive: Fondly known as ' Iceland in Miniature ,' captures the essence of Iceland's natural diversity.

Things To Keep in Mind When Driving in Iceland

When you're embarking on your 4 days in Iceland adventure and planning to self-drive, here are some vital tips to keep in mind: 

• Weather Watch: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before you set off. 
• Stay on Roads: Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and can damage fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked paths. 
• Speed Limits: Adhere to speed limits, which are 90 km/h (approximately 56 mph) on paved highways and 80 km/h (approximately 50 mph) on gravel roads, to ensure safety. 
• Gas Stations: Keep an eye on your fuel gauge; gas stations can be few and far between. 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland

The optimal time for a 4-day trip to Iceland hinges on your preferred activities:

• Summer (June to August) : Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and witnessing the surreal phenomenon of the Midnight Sun.
• Winter (December to February) : Best for hunting the elusive Northern Lights and enjoying winter sports like ice caving or glacier hiking.
• Spring and Autumn (April to May and September to November) : Perfect for those seeking fewer crowds and lower prices, along with a spectrum of breathtaking landscapes.

4 Days In Iceland To Remember

There you have it, your 4-day trip to Iceland decoded, with all the geysers, waterfalls, and puffins you could dream of. Remember, Iceland isn't just about the views (though they're pretty epic); it's about the adventure, the midnight sun ice creams, and those ' did I really just see that? ' moments.

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4-Day Tours in Iceland

You can pack in a lot on a 4-day trip to Iceland. Whether you want to drive part of the Ring Road, explore famous attractions with a professional guide, or perhaps celebrate Christmas or New Year's in Reykjavík, an expertly designed tour by Nordic Visitor is sure to fulfil a few bucket list experiences.

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4 DAYS IN ICELAND

You'll be able to experience some of the most famous natural attractions – waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, volcanic sites, geothermal baths and more – on a 4-day tour of Iceland . Take your pick from activity-filled city breaks in Reykjavík , short road trips or privately guided tours in the countryside. 

Plus, when you book an Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, you get tried-and-tested accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast and access to our 24/7 helpline. Your personal travel consultant will arrange everything on your behalf.

Get in touch  with the Iceland travel team today to start planning your trip. You can reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

Keep browsing below to explore ideas for 4-day tours to Iceland.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts
• 24/7 emergency helpline during tour

4-day self drive tours

Enjoy the freedom of a road trip, but with a helping hand. You decide what to see and do, we handle the rest.

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter

Golden circle & south coast, multi-day tours.

Enjoy a blend of guided activities and independent free time. Check out these trips that have been popular with other travellers in Iceland.

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, golden circle classic, golden circle & blue lagoon, private tours.

Experience Iceland's pristine nature, rugged beauty and hidden gems on your terms with a private tour guide.

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter - Private

Golden circle & south coast - summer - private, land of the midnight sun - private 4x4 tour, stay a little longer in iceland.

Why not take more time to explore? Take a look at these tours.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon.

Best of South Iceland - Winter

Golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south iceland, winter highlights - private, scenic south iceland - private, a new year’s to remember, northern lights, super jeeps and nye party, christmas in iceland, reykjavik, waterfalls, northern lights, iceland luxury adventure - winter, northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure - Summer

Glaciers, geysir & blue lagoon retreat.

1177270 ISK

New Year’s & Northern Lights

Best of south iceland & new year's eve party, new year’s in iceland, golden circle, northern lights & nye party, christmas & northern lights, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, south iceland classic - winter, south iceland classic, a christmas to remember, super jeeps, glaciers & blue lagoon, christmas in the countryside, south iceland & northern lights, glacier lagoon & northern lights, south iceland & into the glacier, active iceland, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, classic south coast - winter, active iceland - winter, classic south coast, local travel agency.

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, northern lights packages, self-drive winter, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

We had an amazing time

We cannot recommend our tour enough. We had an amazing time and have already told friends and family about it. Iceland is an amazing place and I am sure we will be back and will use Nordic Visitor again!

Experience of a lifetime

I primarily wanted to use Nordic Visitor as a resource for creating our 14-day trip itinerary, to help weed through what seemed to be an endless array of choices, and to help us to get the very most out of our time in Iceland. Yes, we could have pieced it together ourselves but I needed an advocate in Iceland, an advisor, and maybe a resource for us if issues were to arise. That piece of mind was important to my wife and me and I'm glad we chose them to frame our trip. It made it much easier to piece in the parts that were important to us to see and experience. That allowed us to just enjoy the trip and not get bogged down in the details of planning each and every moment.

There are so many things I could say about our experience, an experience of a lifetime and after posting snippets of our trip on social media I have found that several friends of mine want to know how we planned this trip. I told them the same thing I am saying here, save a little money if you want and plan it yourself or trust a reliable source like Nordic Visitor and let them give you the trip framework and essential advice. I would do it the same way if I were doing it over.

Went off without a hitch!

Everything was well-organised and went off without a hitch. The private guide was amazing. He could not have been better. I highly recommend him to anyone considering a private guide as an option. He's extremely knowledgeable about the history of the area. He knew all of the best places to go and was entertaining and delightful as well. Accommodation was all spectacular.

Warm and engaging guide

Great tour. The sights are of course amazing and the tour made the most of our time, weather and our interests/priorities. Driver and guide David managed all of these very well. He was also very knowledgeable and personally warm and engaging. Could not have asked for more.

Perfect for solo traveller

A beautiful itinerary, exceptional guide and perfect weather made this a trip I will never forget. Nordic Visitor made the process easy, and Iceland opened her arms. My 10-day small group tour was perfect for a solo traveller who wanted to see it all. 

Working with Nordic Visitor was wonderful. Our travel consultant, Heddy, was quick to respond when we had a question or concern. She helped us plan a fabulous itinerary. Everything we booked through Nordic Visitor was fantastic. I have already recommended Nordic Visitor to friends, and I will continue to do so.

Trip of a lifetime

Overall this was an amazing experience! A trip of a lifetime that I could never have planned myself. Any questions I had during planning were answered faster than expected and I felt safe and well looked after during the trip. Trip was smooth and hassle free.

5-star experience

Not only did we absolutely love every stop on the Scenic South Iceland tour, but prior to the tour we stayed for 4 days in Reykjavík. I appreciated Nordic Visitor's recommendations for things to do and places to eat there and felt highly supported by Marko, our travel consultant, in every regard to booking our flight and own hotel, day trips I was interested in, and taking public transport around. A definite 5-star experience!

I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again!

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

Many thanks to Nordic Visitor

Absolutely amazing. No issues whatsoever. We saw it all from North to South and much of in between. From reindeer to whales and more beautiful waterfalls and volcanic bits than you could hope to see in a week. Every hour the scenery seemed to change dramatically. Just a great experience. Many thanks to Nordic Visitor.

Best vacation we have had

Everyone at Nordic Visitor were very responsive to all questions we had during our 30-year anniversary trip to Iceland. We had airline travel issues and the representative adjusted our itinerary so we were able to see the whole island. The accommodation were beautiful and everyone was so friendly. This was the best vacation we have had, we left Iceland relaxed!

An amazing and unique experience

Our tour was great! Went for our honeymoon and it was everything we wanted. First night we got to see the northern lights which were fantastic! Second day, most certainly our longest, visited several sites (Geysire & Þingvellir) and went snowmobiling on a glacier. Such an amazing and unique experience. The walking tour around Reykjavik was surprisingly educational and our guide pointed out things that we ordinarily would have missed. The NYE dinner was delicious and going out to see the firework displays by (what seemed to be like) everyone was something. Practically had to dodge fireworks! Our 4th day was spent at the Blue Lagoon; perfect after a night of partying! Our last day was nice and relaxing, did some final shopping before we headed off to the airport. Hope to go back & visit Iceland again!

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is probably Iceland’s most famous attraction and has become considered a...

The famed hot spring Geysir is located in the Haukadalur valley in southwestern Iceland. It was...

Gullfoss, or the ‘Golden Waterfall’, is a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall that drops 32...

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

Driving in Iceland

Are you prepared for your road trip? Learn the rul..

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Time & Daylight

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EPIC 4 Day Iceland Itinerary for Winter or Summer!

Categories Europe , Iceland , Itinerary

4 days in Iceland is a great amount of time to get a good feel for the country, see plenty of incredible sights and do some fun activities!

With your 4 day Iceland itinerary , you can explore the Southern Coast of Iceland including the 2 ultra-famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss , see a glacier , swim in the Blue Lagoon , eat great food in Reykjavik and do an activity you’re passionate about like horse riding , an ATV experience, hike or pamper yourself in another hot spring.. not bad for just 4 days in Iceland hey!

In this Iceland travel blog, I will give you my ideal four days in Iceland itinerary , perfect for whether you’re visiting Iceland in Summer or Iceland in Winter based on my recent long weekends in Iceland!

Iceland 4 Day Itinerary

This itinerary for Iceland is based on you staying in Reykjavik , hiring a car and seeing the country from Reykjavik or doing organised day tours from Reykjavik without a car since this is one of the great ways to see Iceland, especially when travelling solo .

In fact, this 4 days Iceland itinerary can be completely recreated by solo travellers not wanting to drive themselves around Iceland as well as families and groups who prefer seeing Iceland with a tour and guide.

This isn’t a 4 day Iceland road trip itinerary since this isn’t how I saw Iceland when I visited but this is a great road trip in Iceland itinerary if you are looking for this option instead!

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Can you do Iceland in 4 days?

Why 4 days in Iceland? Well, you wouldn’t want to visit Iceland for any less time, to be honest.

Yes, Reykjavik can act as a great city break destination , especially when travelling just 2-3 hours from a nearby European country but once you’re there you really want to see some nature and countryside, not just the city, and you need time to do that!

Iceland isn’t that big and the weather can be unpredictable meaning a 6-hour outing could easily become 8-9 hours if the wind picks up or a snowstorm comes in and chances of cancelled activities can be high, so to ensure you don’t waste your days in Iceland or run out of time, 4 days is a good amount of time.

I recommend looking for an early morning flight into Iceland and a late evening flight leaving Iceland to maximise your four days in Iceland which is how I’ve based the below 4 day Iceland itinerary so let’s get into it!

Best hotel for 4 days in Iceland

For this Iceland 4 day itinerary I recommend staying in Reykjavik city centre and I’ll share with you the hotel I stayed in recently and loved so much because of its comfort, location and staff – Sand Hotel Reykjavik !

There are so many hotels in Reykjavik so check out more of the hotels online here however if you’re looking for a solid recommendation for a boutique-style hotel (with the best buffer breakfast I’ve ever had!), check out Sand Hotel in Reykjavik here !

Iceland Day 1 – Blue Lagoon from Airport

The Blue Lagoon is easily the top tourist attraction in Iceland and one of the reasons for this is that it’s l ocated so close to Iceland’s main airport – Keflavík Airport.

The best way to visit the Blue Lagoon to save time and money on journeys is after landing in Iceland on your first day on the way to the city, or, on your last day before heading to the airport.

And don’t worry, the Blue Lagoon is set up for travellers with all their luggage with suitcase lockers on arrival and towels included in the price.

Blue Lagoon Airport Transfer Package

Unless you are hiring a car, the best way to visit the Blue Lagoon after landing in Iceland is by booking an airport and city transfer package directly on the Blue Lagoons website .

This includes:

• Pick up from Keflavík Airport to the Blue Lagoon at a designated time
• Entry into the Blue Lagoon including a towel
• Transfer from the Blue Lagoon to your hotel / the bus stop closest to your hotel at a designated time

When booking, the Blue Lagoon website will advise which times are best for you based on when you arrive so you have enough time. On my recent visit to Iceland, I landed with 1.5 hours before my bus to the Blue Lagoon but there’s a cafe in the airport to get food and chill in so it wasn’t a problem.

Northern Lights Evening Tour

Between September and April, you have the chance to see the Northern Lights in Iceland and there are plenty of tours to take you out Northern Light hunting.

I advise booking this tour on your first night in Iceland because there is a chance it is cancelled because of the weather or, you go out and don’t see them and this means you still have another 3 nights to reschedule … which is what happened to me!

Make sure you book a tour like this which is the tour I took, because if it gets cancelled because of the weather and you don’t go at all, you’ll get a refund . And if you go out but don’t see them, you can book the tour again for free !

This is the Northern Lights tour I booked and went on and I was super happy with the organisation, the guide and the great cancellation/rebooking option!

Iceland Day 2 – South Coast Iceland Tour

Your 4 days in Iceland must include heading out of the city and seeing some of the iconic Iceland attractions and I suggest the South Coast of Iceland Tour for this.

Many people want to do the Golden Circle as they’ve heard about it but honestly, I think the Golden Circle is a bit boring and only worth it if you have time, with four days in Iceland, the Southern Iceland Tour is much more worth your time as the attractions are far more impressive!

This is the South Coast of Iceland day tour I booked . I booked a smaller tour which meant we had a minibus instead of a big coach . This is a huge positive I think and worth paying a bit more for because there are less people getting off with you at each stop and fewer people to wait on.

The guides in Iceland are fantastic and they ensure they arrange the day to best suit the weather as much as possible.

The order of the South Coast of Iceland itinerary can change but generally, you’ll visit the following epic places in about 10-12 hours:

• Skógafoss Waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Black Sand Beach
• Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Town of Vik

I really recommend this Premium South Coast of Iceland tour visiting Black Sand Beach, Waterfalls and a Glacier all with a smaller group and a great cancellation option!

Iceland Day 3 – Big Activity / Attraction Day

On the third day of your 4 day Iceland itinerary , choose an activity or attraction that makes you excited and what you came to Iceland for!

This could be horse riding, whale watching, visiting a Glacier, ATV riding , a Lagoon .. honestly, Iceland has a tour option for almost every activity!

Here are some great options to give your 4 day Iceland trip a thrill:

Into the Glacier Tour

If you’re organising a 4 day Iceland itinerary in winter , doing a glacier tour is a great option! From Reykjavik, you can book an ‘Into the Glacier’ Tour taking you on a 12 hour day tour from Reykjavik to Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier.

You’ll be treated to amazing views of the Western side of Iceland during your drive and do a few stops to start with. Then, you’ll be taken to the Into the Glacier office where you’ll switch your bus for a monster truck and travel 25km on this truck deep inside a glacier! This is an Iceland bucket list experience!

Horse Riding

Many people think of cute, fluffy Icelandic ponies when they think of Iceland and Iceland is full of horses and ponies with l ots of chances to go riding .

Many tours will pick you up from Reykjavik and take you to a stable, you can choose a full-day tour with a horse ride and a visit to see more of Iceland like the Golden Circle or go out for just a few hours like this and they welcome riders of all abilities .

These are some of the best options to choose for horse riding tours in Iceland:

ATV Quad Bike Safari Tour

If you want a thrill, get an ATV / Quad Bike ride booked! One of my friends did this during our long weekend in Iceland and she had so much fun, even in a total snowstorm!

You can choose to go out on a South Coast trip like this and quad bike to the abandoned plane wreck and along the beach, or head inland to mountains like this !

If you’re planning your 4 day Iceland itinerary in summer when the sun doesn’t set, there’s even the chance to do a midnight sun ATV tour … I told you, Iceland has a tour for everything!

Snorkelling Between Tectonic Plates

One of the top things to do in Iceland is to visit the Thingvellir National Park where two continental plates meet . This is one of the stops on the Golden Circle and it is okay to see from the land but it’s much more fun to swim and actually SEE the tectonic plates !

There’s the option to dive or snorkel between the tectonic plates with lots of tour companies able to take you out:

One of my friends is a keen diver and she did the tectonic plate dive in January in the freezing cold and still enjoyed it! Icelanders don’t let the cold cancel their fun!

Whale Watching

Whale Watching is another one of the top activities to do in Iceland and it’s available all year round but April to late September-early October are the best months, with the summer months of June, July and August being the peak months.

You can go out Whale Watching on a tour like this in the morning, afternoon or evening, whatever best fits your Iceland 4 day itinerary. Expect to dress up warm and be out for a good few hours!

I recommend booking with a company like this who have a policy that if you don’t see any Whales, you can return on one of their trips for free on this visit to Iceland or in the future!

The Blue Lagoon has a bit of a competitor these days – the Sky Lagoon so if you fancy relaxing on your second to last day in Iceland, this is a great place to visit!

You can get a 10-minute taxi from Reykjavik City Centre to the Sky Lagoon costing about £20-25 and enjoy the ocean view from a thermal pool.

To be honest, I didn’t have the best experience at the Sky Lagoon as the weather was bad (it was hailing and it hurt a lot!) and it was pretty busy meaning the 7-step spa experience was crowded and not enjoyable, however, I have heard people who have gone and enjoyed it!

This is the entrance package I booked which is great because you cancel for free 24 hours before arrival.

HERE ARE GREAT DAY TOURS YOU CAN BOOK TO FILL YOUR 4 DAYS IN ICELAND:

Iceland day 4 – see reykjavik before leaving.

On your last day in Iceland, set aside some time to see Reykjavik city before leaving (or visit the Blue Lagoon if you didn’t do it on day 1).

There are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik like museums, finding street art, eating good food and if the weather isn’t good, I have you covered with this list of things to do in Reykjavik when it rains .

Here are a few of my top Reykjavik recommendations depending on how much time you have that will not only give you a great experience in the city but let you see more of Iceland:

Perlan Museum

I wouldn’t advise going here unless you have a minimum of 2 hours but if you do, it’s a great place to visit! Especially if you’re visiting Iceland with kids as it’s super interactive.

‘The Pearl’ as it’s also referred to is a high-tech museum with several displays and exhibitions however there are 2 that really stand out are – the Northern Lights Planetarium and Ice Cave .

Yes, inside Perlan Museum in Reykjavik, you can go inside an ice cave with real ice surrounding you! Our Ice Cave tour actually got cancelled so although this wasn’t the same, it was a great alternative, and we didn’t get to see the Northern Lights properly, so seeing them inside the planetarium was also great.

You can easily book your ticket and entry time here with a great cancellation option!

If you’re doing this as a 4 day Iceland summer itinerary when the Northern Lights are not on show and ice caves are closed, at least you can see them in this museum!

In addition, Perlan has a 360 outside viewing deck with incredible views over the city so you’re getting a viewpoint included in the price!

FlyOver Iceland

VR is all the rage and this is one of the best uses for it! You get buckled into what looks like a roller coaster chair and all of a sudden, you’re flying over Iceland ! I enjoyed this experience so much. It was so moving seeing the different types of scenery in Iceland and at different times of the year.

You can easily book your ticket and time online here with a great cancellation option!

I recommend doing this on the last day of your 4-day Iceland itinerary as by then you will have seen some of the places included and will be able to recognise them which is super cool!

Again, this is another one of the great things to do in Iceland for kids !

View from the Church

For one of the easy and simple things to do in Reykjavik, head to Hallgrímskirkja Church which you literally can’t miss and pay to visit the 75m high viewing deck to see epic views over the city, water and mountains.

Find out all you need to know about the Hallgrímskirkja viewing deck here !

LINKS TO ALL THE DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK AND ACTIVITIES I DID AND RECOMMEND FOR YOUR 4 DAYS IN ICELAND ITINERARY:

I hope this has helped you plan your 4 days in iceland itinerary based in reykjavik with plenty of iceland attractions from reykjavik.

• For more of my posts see:
• 10 AWESOME Things To Do in Reykjavik when it Rains!
• Visiting Iceland in May and June – What it’s Like, Weather & What to Pack!
• 2 Days in Oslo | Itinerary for the City & Day Trip Ideas!
• 3- 5 Day Norway Road Trip Itinerary! Bergen to Alesund & Atlantic Ocean Road.
• 30 BEST Places to Visit in Europe in December!
• 27 DIFFERENT & BEST Places to Visit in Europe in July & August!

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Do you have 4 days to spend in Iceland. We provide 4 day tours from Reykjavik with accommodation for those who would like to explore the Icelandic Nature. We also have 4 day packages without accommodation for those who would like to stay in Reykjavik.

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Your Breathtaking 4 Day Itinerary in Iceland in Summer

Iceland has become an incredibly popular spot for long weekend getaways thanks to direct flights from many US and European cities.  If you’re up for it, you can see Reykjavik and get a taste for the surrounding areas over a 4 day itinerary in Iceland in summer…but prepare for some whirlwind days!

I spent 4 days in Iceland in July, which turned out to be a perfect long weekend…and one of my favorite solo travel adventures of all time!  I was able to take advantage of the incredibly long daylight hours and explore at all hours of the day and night. With the midnight sun in July, the days are truly endless and you can pack in so much exploration!

Between Iceland’s stunning glaciers, black sand beaches, and hot springs, I was set for an epic long weekend. I hope my guide for a 4 day itinerary in Iceland will help you to plan your trip!

This post may contain affiliate links.

Overview of 4 Day Itinerary in Iceland in Summer

Before we dive into the details, here is a quick overview of your 4 day Iceland itinerary:

Day 1: Blue Lagoon & Reykjavik Food Tour

Day 2: south shore, day 3: golden circle.

• Day 4: Reykjavik & Horseback Riding

Best Time to Visit Iceland

If you only have enough time for a 4 day itinerary in Iceland, weather will be a key factor. Are you trying to have the most ideal weather possible, see the Northern Lights, go whale watching, or explore Iceland on a budget? With that in mind, I have a little breakdown below on the best time to visit Iceland depending on the goal of your trip.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Best Weather:

The summer months of June, July, and August are going to be warmest weather-wise.  As another awesome perk, you can enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight, so you’ll really be able to pack in the fun and enjoy Iceland to the fullest.  It is important to note that even in the height of summer, Iceland weather is sporadic and you can experience all four seasons in the span of a day, no joke. One of my days in Iceland, I wore everything from just a tank top and leggings to that same outfit plus a fleece, puffy jacket, raincoat, and beanie.

If you want to enjoy the ideal weather, slightly lower prices, fall colors, and less crowds, September is also a great time to consider. Temps haven’t dropped drastically, though you do have some additional rainfall. May is the other month in shoulder season that you should consider; however, some roads and/or hiking trails may still have winter closures in place, so for that reason I’d prefer September over May.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Northern Lights:

Planning a trip to see the Northern Lights is definitely a bucket list item, but planning a trip solely for the purpose of seeing the Northern Lights can lead to major disappointment.  Your best bet for seeing the Northern Lights will be October through March, though make sure to check the aurora forecast before you go! One additional consideration is that due to winter snowfall, some roads can be closed.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Whale Watching:

If you’re going to Iceland to see the whales, you’ll want to book your trip between May and September, though peak months are June and July. 

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Cheap: 

Honestly, you’re never going to visit Iceland for cheap…Iceland is an expensive country.  However, if you travel during off-season (not peak summer months), you can usually find less expensive accommodations.  Another perk is that you’ll experience fewer crowds!

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My Recommendation for the Best Time to Visit Iceland:

My personal recommendation would be to shoot for a September trip to Iceland. You’ll be able to enjoy temperate weather, accessible roads, and fewer crowds (it gets really busy at the main tourist attractions in peak season). Fewer people means lower prices and greater availability on tours, at hotels, and even in parking lots. Plus, the fall colors in September look absolutely gorgeous. However, I don’t think you can go wrong visiting Iceland any time of the year!

Is 4 Days Enough for Iceland?

Many people ask if 4 days is really enough for Iceland.  The answer is really yes and no.  Four days in Iceland is a great intro to the country, and you can enjoy the highlights of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Shore of Iceland.  However, to explore the full Ring Road, you really need at least a week. 

My recommendation? If you only have 4 days and want to go to Iceland, absolutely go for it.  I had a blast and would 100% do it all over again.  I do plan to go back one day and explore the entire Ring Road loop to see what the eastern coast and northern areas of Iceland have to offer.

4 Day Itinerary in Iceland in Summer

Your 4 day itinerary in Iceland in summer has some jam-packed days, but you’ll be able to see so much and have an amazing experience. With the long daylight hours you get in the summer, you can really take advantage of your time there. With only 4 days in Iceland in summer, I’d recommend the following itinerary. Note that since I was traveling solo and hate driving, I opted to base myself in Reykjavik and do day trips out of the city. Reykjavik is an excellent home base and nearly every tour offers pick-up from hotels around the city…so convenient!

Day 1 of your 4 day itinerary in Iceland in summer all depends on when your flight arrives. Most flights from the US arrive early morning, so I’ll be operating under that assumption.  If your flight arrives later, you may want to tweak the itinerary to fit your needs.

First up after you land is a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is the hot spring that you see in every Instagram post – the bright blue water, mud masks, and swim-up bar make for an excellent first stop.  Personally, after an overnight flight from the US, a few hours of rest & relaxation were exactly what I needed and I felt so rejuvenated after my morning at the Blue Lagoon.

Read More: 12 Things to Know Before Going to the Blue Lagoon

After a little rest & relaxation at the Blue Lagoon, head to Reykjavik and drop your bags at your hotel. I hope you’re hungry because this afternoon is dedicated to Iceland’s food scene! Buckle up because there are some incredibly unique foods (puffin, fermented shark). I’d recommend hopping on a Food Tour of Reykjavik to get a taste of all that Iceland has to offer. If you’re not super big on tours, I’d recommend creating your own tour…I highlight some of Iceland’s delicious food options in my Supreme Food’s Guide to Iceland (link below).

Read More: The Supreme Foodie’s Guide to Iceland

Wake up bright and early on day 2 of your 4 day itinerary in Iceland because you have a big day! Today, you’re off to see Iceland’s stunning South Shore. Picture endless waterfalls, black sand beaches, and rolling green hills for miles. Highlights for today include Skogafoss (waterfall), Seljalandsfoss (another waterfall), Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. By far the easiest way to see all of these sights in a day is to take a tour of Iceland’s South Shore . You get picked up from Reykjavik and the tour is pretty long (like 14-16 hours), but it’s so much better when you don’t have to drive it yourself!

Read More: 10 Must-Se e Highlights on Iceland’s South Shore

Iceland’s Golden Circle will be another fun-filled adventure. This is another full day excursion, though it will be a bit less lengthy than your day on the South Shore. The Golden Circle is one of the most visited areas in Iceland, so it’s best to start early to beat the crowds (otherwise you may be battling for parking spots).

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle

A few of my favorite spots on Iceland’s Golden Circle are Gullfoss (waterfall), Geysir Hot Springs, and Þingvellir National Park -the national park contains the division between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, which was super cool to see. If you’re up for an adventure, check out a combo tour that includes the  Golden Circle and snorkeling between the tectonic plates ! If you’re more inclined to stay dry, a classic Golden Circle Tour may be more your speed.

Day 4: Reykjavik Photo Ops & Horseback Riding

For your last day of your 4 day itinerary in Iceland, you’ll spend the morning exploring Reykjavik before setting out for an afternoon horseback ride. Reykjavik is a surprisingly cool city, and one that is often under-explored. Many travelers skip the city altogether in favor of Iceland’s nature (which is totally fine too)!

However, I really enjoyed visiting Reykjavik’s highlights during my visit, so I put together a handy guide of Reykjavik’s top 10 photo ops . Using the guide, you can create a little walking tour for yourself that will take you around Reykjavik and show you what the city has to offer.

Read More: 10 Best Photo Spots in Reykjavik

After a morning of exploring Reykjavik, saddle up for an afternoon on horseback. The Icelandic horses are just adorable and this horseback tour takes you through the scenic lava fields. It absolutely is an experience like no other and is the perfect way to wrap up your 4 day itinerary in Iceland!

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Since I only had a 4 day itinerary in Iceland, I opted to base myself in Reykjavik and do day trips out from there. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to planning your 4 day Iceland itinerary…you can choose to rent a car and do a self-drive tour, staying in different places each night or you could do as I did and use Reykjavik as home base.

Since I was on my own, get very sleepy when driving, and am an absolutely horrendous navigator, I opted to not drive myself. I’ll give you some of my recommendations for where to stay in Reykjavik.

Boutique Hotel: Stay at Hotel Ódinsvé —this hotel has an awesome location downtown, and offers cool amenities like a terrace and café bar. Try and book one of the rooms with a balcony so you can enjoy the views!

Mid-Range: I’d recommend Hotel Frón ; this hotel is also centrally located and even has kitchen facilities in the apartments, which definitely comes in handy if you end up using Reykjavik as a home base.  

Budget: If you’re looking to avoid hotels and go the hostel route, I recommend checking out  Hostelworld ; there are plenty of options in Reykjavik! My personal hostel recommendation is  Loft Hostel .  You have an amazing location in the heart of the city, and I absolutely loved the ambiance of the common area/bar and the outside terrace.

Local Stay: Another option to forgo the hotels and stay at this adorable house in the heart of Reykjavik . You’ll enjoy views of old town and the harbor while being surrounded by quaint restaurants and shops. One of the cool things about the house is that it is owned by a family of artists, which gives the home many unique touches. Also, the house includes parking, which is somewhat rare in Reykjavik these days!

Getting Around Iceland

You have a handful of options for getting around for your 4 day itinerary in Iceland, so it all really comes down to preference.

1. Stay in Reykjavik and book groups tours on the days you plan to leave Reykjavik.  This is what I did – it was easiest as a solo traveler that doesn’t know how to drive a manual car and detests long drives alone. I also booked an airport shuttle to Reykjavik in advance. Traveling solo, it saved me a bunch of money on taxis. Plus, the bus had wifi and was super clean and fast – I would definitely recommend this.

2. For those of you that enjoy driving, check out Expedia Car Rentals. Iceland is made for road trips and one day I fully intend to drive the entire Ring Road around Iceland. If you’re planning to go to Iceland in the winter months (October – April) when there may be snow on the ground, consider investing in a 4×4 car.

3. Join a fully planned small group tour! G Adventures offers this 3 day summer mini-adventure or a 5 day Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour . I personally am such a huge fan of G Adventures since my first adventure with them through Jordan . The company designs small group tours with expert guides that can truly give you a local experience.

Flying to Iceland

Finding cheap flights to Iceland has never been easier, and airlines are continually expanding their routes. I’d recommend searching through eDreams . They scan tons of different travel discount sites and feature special flight deals. You can typically find good flights on IcelandAir. You’ll fly into Iceland’s Keflavík Airport, which is about 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik. As a nice perk, the airport offers free unlimited WiFi, which I used to pass the time as I waited in the immigration line. Make sure you book your shuttle to/from Keflavík Airport to Reykvaik in advance!

And that wraps it up for your fabulous 4 day itinerary in Iceland in summer! I definitely plan to visit again, so what are some of your Iceland highlights? Let me know in the comments how you would spend your 4 days in Iceland in summer!

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Great tips. I have never been come to this country. Thank you for sharing a greet tour itinerary. I hope i can go here

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The Perfect 4 Days in Iceland Itinerary & Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you planning a 4 day trip to Iceland and wondering how to best spend your time? After two completely different visits, I’ve come to fall in love with this Nordic wonderland full of colorful homes and breathtaking landscapes.  Below I’m sharing the perfect itinerary to help you have your own magical trip during 4 days in Iceland.

This island in the North Atlantic is overflowing with natural wonders, and it sometimes seems like the land is actually alive.  Where else can you experience steamy hot springs, erupting volcanos, waterfalls literally surrounding you, and auroras dancing in the sky? Iceland offers so many opportunities for new adventures!

The best part is that it’s totally possible to get a sampling of all these things with just 4 days in Iceland.  Even if a volcano isn’t actively erupting or the northern lights don’t appear, there are so many other unique experiences to have in Iceland (glaciers, anyone?).  Bottom line: a visit to Iceland is always worth it , so go on and book that flight and let’s get to planning!

The Ultimate 4 Days in Iceland: Complete Guide

While this 4 day Iceland itinerary focuses on self-driving, I will also include options for those of you who prefer not to rent a car.

Table of Contents

• Pick Up Rental Car
• Blue Lagoon
• Northern Lights Tour
• Day 2 in Iceland: Golden Circle
• Day 3 in Iceland: South Coast
• Icelandic Coffee
• Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Where to Eat

Electrical Converters/Adaptors

• Where to Stay
• When to Visit Iceland
• Should You Self-Drive?

Day 1: Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights

Pick up your rental car.

Upon arrival into Keflavík International Airport, you’ll first need to pick up your rental car. Most companies will shuttle you to their rental office from the airport. If you aren’t renting a car, there is also a bus that can transfer you to destinations like Reykjavik, or even the Blue Lagoon. 

Book your bus transfer to Reykjavik here

Head to the Blue Lagoon

Iceland is famous for its hot springs, like the bucket list worthy Blue Lagoon . As it’s conveniently located 15 minutes from Keflavik airport, we opted to make this our first stop in Iceland. Nothing like wearing a bikini in the cold morning drizzle to wake you up after a red eye flight!

The Blue Lagoon has a giant parking lot with plenty of spots and lockers to store your valuables (for a fee). Once you’re settled, it’s time for a luxurious soak in the Blue Lagoon’s iconicly warm, milky blue water. 

It’s no surprise that this popular otherworldly hot spring is also the most expensive in Iceland. The lowest level package to enter the Blue Lagoon is the Comfort Package, which runs around $80 USD depending on your booking time.

The Comfort Package includes a towel, locker, white silica mask, and one beverage from the bar.  You could also level up to get a robe, slippers, and additional mask. Just be sure to reserve your timeslot a few weeks out, as spots fill up quickly and you cannot book on arrival.

The Blue Lagoon is completely worth visiting at least once. However, if you’d rather not pay the high price, there are plenty more hot spring options in Iceland, like the chic, earthy Sky Lagoon .

Make your way to Reykjavik

For this 4 day Iceland itinerary, it makes the most sense to base yourself in Reykjavik. Especially if this is your first time visiting Iceland’s adorable capital!

If you flew into Reykjavik overnight like we did, it’s possible you’ll be a little early. Thankfully, the cozy, well-located hotel we recently booked allowed us an early check-in, whereas our previous Airbnb would not let us check in until 4pm.

If you can’t go to your lodging right away, I recommend parking and doing a little exploring.  You could also warm up at a café and grab lunch – Reykjavik has plenty of options! Do note that pretty much all parking in Reykjavik is paid, including street parking.

Do a Northern Lights Tour

If seeing the northern lights is your priority, it’s essential to book a northern lights tour on night one. You’ll want to give yourself as many potential attempts as possible, as sightings can be unpredictable. Tours often get cancelled due to poor conditions, but can usually be rescheduled as many times as needed. 

While a tour is not 100% necessary to spot the aurora borealis, a local guide can hugely increase your chances of success. For more information and tips, check out this post about our own northern lights sighting in Iceland .

Day 2: The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle’s majestic waterfalls, vast landscapes, and geothermal spots make it a must during 4 days in Iceland.  If the weather and road conditions are good enough, prioritize seeing the Golden Circle on day two.

Unless you are traveling in the warmer months, the volatile Icelandic weather ensures you never know whether safe road conditions will last. Therefore, it’s always good to take full advantage of them! You can check current Iceland road conditions here.

The Golden Circle stops are listed below in the order they’ll appear on your route.  If you are short on time or daylight, prioritize the following: Thingvellir, Gulfoss, and Strokur . I’ve also mapped the route in this link and below:

Not renting a car? Book your Golden Circle bus tour here

Thorufoss Waterfall

Thorufoss is a minor waterfall compared to the ones you’ll encounter later. That being said, it’s worth a quick stop if you have the time.

Funny enough, Aaron and I randomly encountered a short, heavy snowfall as we made our turn towards the waterfall. We were seriously questioning whether this detour was a mistake, as we saw no other cars around us! However, we were very pleased when the snow stopped and we had the waterfall to ourselves.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a legendary location and UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and European tectonic plates are slowly separating.  A site of historical importance, the Icelandic general legislative assembly convened here for centuries, spanning from 930 to 1798.

The park hosts a variety of outdoorsy activities, with hiking trails, scuba diving in the fissure between the continental plates, and even fishing.

Note: There is a parking fee of 750 ISK, which is equivalent to around 5 USD.

Lunch Spot at Efstidalur Farm

There aren’t many eateries along the Golden Circle, and many people pack a picnic lunch. However, one exception is Efstidalur Farm, whose restaurant serves deliciously fresh local beef and veggie burgers.

Efstidalur is a 7 th generation family farm that has been living and operating on the current site since 1750.  The site also features an adjacent shop that sells the farm’s ice cream, skyr and feta cheese.

Pet Icelandic Horses

Another unique experience to have in Iceland is petting an Icelandic horse, and you’ll see many of them grazing along the Golden Circle route. Some places even offer the opportunity to go horseback riding, and experience their legendary 5th gait. The horses are generally friendly, but may nip when you go to pet them (they are used to being fed by humans).

Join the other visitors waiting in eager anticipation to see Strokur, a very active geyser, erupt about every 10 minutes.  I was so nervous waiting for it, thinking it would take me by surprise and startle me! It actually isn’t very scary when it goes off, and it’s so frequent that there are many opportunities for photos.

Gullfoss, translated to “golden waterfall”, is a massive and breathtakingly beautiful sight – a photo doesn’t quite do it justice.  On a sunny day, you could be lucky enough to see a rainbow above the falls like we did. To see the waterfall’s majesty close up, follow the other visitors along the pathway that leads to a rocky viewing platform.

Caution: This platform can be slippery and is barricaded from the falls by a mere skinny rope. Be cautious when approaching the edge.

Other Golden Circle Sites

You’ve now seen all the major Golden Circle sites and could return to Reykjavik if you are short on time and energy. Otherwise, the below places are totally worth a stop, and you’ll pass them on the way back anyhow:

• Faxi Waterfall : Small, but lovely lesser-known waterfall.  There’s a good chance you’ll be the only person there.
• Skálholt Church – The sharp angles of this church are striking against the rugged Icelandic landscape.  It’s great for a quick photo stop.
• Kerið C rater : Walk around, and even into, this enchanting volcanic crater that boasts picturesque red soil and turquoise water.  Its “fresh” 3,000 year old iron deposits provide the fantastical red color that gives fantasy, or even Harry Potter vibes.  In fact, I think the Sword of Gryffindor might be at the bottom on the lake…
• Olverk Brewery : Stop here for some Icelandic craft beer and pizza on your way back.

Day 3: Drive the South Coast

If the weather continues to cooperate during your 4 days in Iceland, you must take a road trip down the spectacular South Coast.  This out and back drive takes about 2.5 hours each way with no stops, but you should plan to spend the entire day exploring. Of course, if you are not renting a car, you can book this South Coast bus tour instead.

The South Coast will show you even more waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. It’s hard to believe, but we’ve still just scratched the surface of the beauty that Iceland possesses!

Here are the top sights to see along Iceland’s South Coast ( mapped here and listed below in order):

Seljalandsfoss

Witness the elegant cascade of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a walk on the path behind the falls (unless conditions are icy).  Just be ready to get a little damp!

Down the path to the left of the main waterfall (facing the falls), you can find another secret waterfall tucked behind large rocks.  You can only reach it by wading through water, so bring waterproof boots for the best viewing of it.

Unlike the graceful flow of Seljalandsfoss, the wide breath of the Skógafoss waterfall dramatically plunges straight to the ground.  Its simultaneous beauty and no nonsense power continues to inspire photographers and copious selfies.

For another perspective, you can climb the steep staircase next to the falls to reach a viewing point at the top.

Sólheimajökull Glacier

This was the first glacier I ever saw and my favorite stop along the South Coast.  The Sólheimajökull Glacier stood majestically larger than life and it was much less crowded than most other South Coast stops. 

From the parking lot, it was only about a half mile walk to reach the glacier.  While you will probably see tour groups approach the glacier for guided hikes, there are warning signs for the average person to keep their distance.  

Aaron and I did still see people did go all the way up to the glacier to touch it.  However, in Iceland I think it’s best to respect the rules, as there are too many horror stories about tourists who break them each year.

Sólheimasandur plane crash

The ghostly 40-year-old wreckage of an abandoned US Navy plane at Sólheimasandur beach is an Instagram hot spot. Driving to the crash site is forbidden, so you must park in a lot off the road and then hike 2.5 miles to the crash site.  

The hike takes about two hours in total, so skip this if you’re short on time or daylight. Look for the unmarked lot on the right side of the road about 10km past Skógafoss. Be sure to bring plenty of layers for the everchanging weather conditions.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the most popular stops along the South Coast.  The waves and seafoam are absolutely stunning during constant winter sunset lighting or on a desaturated moody day.  Many visitors like to take pictures on the basalt column rock formations near the water.

Important: Stay back from the breaking waves. Tourists continue to get swept away by the powerful currents each year – so much so that Iceland’s Minister of Tourism is considering closing the beach .

The town of Vik is a nice place to find lunch, warm up, and even dry off before heading back.  Vik also has its own gorgeous black sand beach that is worth a short visit to take in the view. On our last January trip, I couldn’t resist a stop here to photograph an incredible sunset sighting over the water.

Stop at Smiðjan Brugghús for craft beer and burgers or Suður-Vík for pizzas before turning back the way you came. 

Have More Time?

If you have 5 days in Iceland, turn your South Coast drive into an overnight stay by continuing past Vik towards the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Stop at the breathtaking diamond beach along the way to see glittering chunks of broken-off glacier washed onto the jet black sand.

Stay overnight at  Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon , which has cozy rooms with giant windows facing out towards the sea. If you are visiting between November and March, do an ice cave tour the next morning before driving back to Reykjavik. If you didn’t rent a car, this can also be done as a 2-day guided tour from Reykjavik .

Day 4: Reykjavik

Spend the last of your 4 days in Iceland exploring Reykjavik, the country’s capital.  The top things to do in this colorful Nordic city can easily be done in one day. I’ve listed them below:

Visit a Cute Coffee Shop

There’s no doubt that Icelanders love a quality cup of coffee; the multitude of great cafes around Reykjavik proves it.  From trendy hangouts to cat cafes, here’s where you can warm up with a hot espresso drink:

• Kaffitar : Aaron and I once holed up here for four hours before we could check into our Airbnb.  There was plenty of space, free wifi, and sandwiches to keep us cozy.
• Reykjavik Roasters : The best overall coffee, in my opinion, although it can be hard to find seating at this popular spot.  The space was cute and homey, with vintage furniture everywhere.
• Kattakaffihusid: If you need to pet a furry friend during your stay in Iceland, this cat cafe is the perfect stop. Order a coffee and grilled sandwich to enjoy among your adoptable feline companions.
• Kaffibrennslan: A minimalistic, yet warm space to enjoy a cappuccino and light lunch. I am obsessed with the dark wooden planks making up the floor and enjoyed the quaint candles lit at the tables.

Climb the Hallgrímskirkja Church

Ascend the  Hallgrímskirkja Church for famous views over the colorful Reykjavik rooftops.  An elevator takes you up most of the way, with just a couple flights of stairs at the top. 

Arrive early to avoid a long line to the elevator.  Visiting the tower costs 1200 ISK (or about $8 USD), and is totally worth it for views out to the mountains and sea.

Take a walking tour of the city

You could either sign up for this free walking tour or do your own self-guided tour, like we did using our Rick Steves guidebook .  My husband and I loosely followed the proposed route, as I awkwardly read the descriptions aloud.

No matter which option you choose, make sure you don’t miss the following top sights in Reykjavik:

• Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
• Sun Voyager Sculpture
• Einar Jónsson Sculpture garden
• Alþingishúsið (Icelandic Parliament Building)
• Austurvollur Square

Check out the craft beer scene

Iceland has an impressive craft beer scene, with varieties from local breweries featured on menus throughout the country. Here’s where to go in Reykjavik to try the top local brews:

• Skuli Craft Bar : Features a tap list with a wide selection of choices from Icelandic breweries. They do not serve food, but it’s a great place to socialize and sample beer.  We stopped by in the afternoon and basically had the place to ourselves.
• Bastard Brew & Food : Popular hangout with a modern interior and a beautiful display of copper brewing tanks on the 2nd floor.  The menu has an array of craft beer options, as well as unique and sophisticated cocktails, like the Bastard Mule.
• Malbygg: A local microbrewery with some of the best IPA’s crafted in Iceland. It’s cool to see their transition from just a tiny space containing brewing tanks to now having a taproom for tastings. You may also find Malbygg’s beer at Skuli.

Where to Eat in Reykjavik

Either try every Icelandic specialty at once with this food tour , or try our favorite dining spots in Reykjavik on your own:

• Bastard Brew & Food: Our favorite overall place in Reykjavik for upscale appetizers, especially the carpaccio flatbread and the soft pretzel.
• Cafe Babalu: Great spot near Hallgrímskirkja Church to satisfy your sweet tooth. Features an array of delicious cakes and other snacks.
• Sandholt : This lovely café has the most delicious baked goods on display, as well as a full breakfast and lunch menu.  You can formally dine in or take your order to go.  Since I’m obsessed with Iceland’s prevalent smoked salmon, I was super pleased with the croissant sandwich filled with smoked salmon and cream cheese!
• Hi Noodle: Warm up from a dreary day with some steamy, flavorful ramen. Unfortunately, this restaurant temporarily closed beginning May 18th, and has not given a reopening date.
• Bæjarins Beztu: A local institution for hot dogs in Iceland for 80 years, made famous by a visit from Bill Clinton. There tends to be a long line, but it moves fast.

The first time Aaron and I visited Iceland, we were on a tight budget and ate affordable, yet healthy and delicious bowls at Glo almost every night. Although this restaurant moved out of its convenient downtown Reykjavik spot, it still offers three other locations in the area.

Finally, for an affordable, yet still authentic Icelandic option, why not stop by the grocery store for some delicious Skyr (aka Icelandic yogurt).

Things to Consider Before Spending 4 Days in Iceland

Suggested Stay in Reykjavik

We loved our stay at the Canopy by Hilton . The breakfast had a lovely spread of fruits, breads, and meats, and the rooms were chic and comfortable after a day’s explorations. Plus, we could easily walk to all the main sights in Reykjavik from our hotel.

Iceland will not go easy on your wallet, and expenses seem to add up quickly. See my complete run-down of how to budget for Iceland to get an idea of what you will spend.

I also recommend putting your own loose budget together before your trip to help you stay on track. While we never follow our budgets to a tee, they do have us stay mindful of our spending and avoid going off the rails. Believe me – I wouldn’t be saying it if I hadn’t come home to my own vomit-inducing credit card statements before.

The local currency is the Icelandic Krona, although you will rarely need cash during your 4 days in Iceland. We took out the equivalent of $50 USD at an ATM upon arrival at the airport, which is the equivalent of about 7200 ISK. We had to actively try to spend it before going home, since we never encountered a business that didn’t accept credit cards.

Try to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign exchange fees, like the Capital One Venture or Chase Sapphire Reserve. Also, avoid using currency exchanges to change out your US dollars for Icelandic Krona, as they notoriously have unfavorable rates. ATM on arrival is the way to go!

Electrical appliances in Europe run on a different voltage than U.S. appliances (220 volts vs. 110 volts). Although most modern appliances are dual voltage (check yours to be sure), you should still bring a converter with you to be safe.

The other electrical item you should definitely bring is an adaptor, as the plugs are shaped differently in Europe. It’s easiest to buy a 2-in-1 converter that is also an adaptor .

When is the Best Time to Spend 4 Days in Iceland?

What you most want to see and do in Iceland should dictate the time of year that you go. For example:

• September through April is the best time for seeing the Northern Lights , as there are enough hours of darkness for the auroras to be visible.
• November through March is best for activities like glacier hikes and ice caving . The downside is the sketchy winter driving, which can mean high winds, snow, and ice. That said, my husband and I recently visited Iceland in January , and despite some morning fog, found the main roads very well-maintained.
• May through August brings warmer weather for camping and hiking, as well as the chance to experience the “midnight sun”. The near 24 hours of sunlight allows for adventures beyond normal sight-seeing hours, which offers to chance to see popular sights without crowds. You may even have a puffin sighting!

I personally believe the sweet spot is visiting Iceland in October . There is plenty of darkness for seeing the Northern Lights, the crowds from summer have died down, and the weather is warm enough for outdoor adventures. Although it’s never a guarantee, Iceland’s roads are likely to still be in decent driving condition during this month.

Should You Self-Drive During 4 Days in Iceland?

• Why I Recommend Self-Driving: The roads to all the major sights mentioned in this article are paved and in good condition. The only exception to this is in winter, when weather can be very unpredictable and quite harsh. If you are a tried and true winter driver, you may feel comfortable heading out at your own risk. Just know that even Icelanders will choose to stay indoors if the conditions are bad enough.
• Do you need four wheel drive? Rental cars with four wheel drive can be expensive – especially if you also need an automatic transmission. The four wheel drive vehicle we rented for our trip in October was largely unnecessary, but there were a couple snowy mountain passes where we we were glad to have it. As a general rule, I would say to rent a 4×4 from October through April unless you are driving solely from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik.
• Who Should Not Self-Drive: Visitors from warmer climates who are not accustomed to driving in snow and ice shouldn’t make their first attempt in Iceland. There are year-round tours that can take you to all the major sites instead.

That was a lot to cover, but now you are all set to have the Icelandic trip of a lifetime! I hope you are beyond excited for the incredible adventures that await you in this Nordic wonderland. With the likes of waterfalls, geysers, and volcanos right at your fingertips, spending 4 days in Iceland gives you the chance to sample it all. 

What magical sights are inspiring your next trip to Iceland?

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4 & 5 Day Tours

Discover the best 4-5 day tours in Iceland, designed to offer a deeper exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes and attractions. These tours provide ample time to experience Iceland’s natural wonders, from dramatic waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to charming towns and geothermal hot springs, ensuring a rich and memorable adventure.

Time of year

Departure time, travel style, minimum age.

4-Day Package | Blue Ice Cave, Golden Circle, South Coast, Snaefellsnes & The Northern Lights Tour

Starts from, from 199,990 isk.

5-Day Winter Package | Blue Ice Cave, Golden Circle, Snæfellsnes, South Coast & The Northern Lights Tour

From 204,900 isk.

Best of Iceland in 5 Days | South Coast, Golden Circle & Snaefellsnes

From 192,990 isk.

4 Days Iceland Tour | Golden Circle, South Coast & Landmannalaugar

From 209,990 isk.

4 Day Iceland Tour Package | Golden Circle, South Coast & Snæfellsnes

From 190,000 isk.

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Reykjavik Itinerary: 4 Spectacular Days in Iceland

Iceland is always a popular spot for long-weekend getaways, due to the fact that it’s not too far from anywhere and is often a direct flight, whether you’re coming from a city in the U.S. or from Europe.

Depending on your travel style, you can easily see Reykjavik and surrounding areas in four days and feel like you’ve done more than scrape the surface. That’s exactly what we did on our 4-day Reykjavik itinerary. It was short, but packed full of excitement, even in winter .

If you have more time to spend, you can set off from Reykjavik on one or more of these great Iceland road trips. Here are many of the epic things to do in Iceland that you’ll encounter along the way. You may also want to look at our country guide to Iceland , which includes information on when to go and what to expect.

Table of Contents

Rent a Car / Book a Transfer

Most visitors to Iceland choose to rent a car so they can see more of the island than just Reykjavik. However, you don’t have to rent the car at the airport. If you’re going to spend 4 days in Reykjavik prior to setting out on a road trip around the island, you can get a transfer into the city instead, then rent the car in the city. I always recommend booking through DiscoverCars.com because you’ll find the best deals there.

» Renting a car or camper van? Check out Northbound.is for the best deals and cars on the island. They also have lots of tours you can book on the site.

Pre-book your airport transfers here , so you can avoid the line, and possible delays at the airport. 

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Pick a centrally located hotel in Reykjavik. We recommend a hotel near the main walking streets, Skólavörðustígur and Laugavegur . Our top pick is the Canopy by Hilton . It’s just 2 minutes from Laugavegur and is a great affordable luxury option. Best of all, the location is easy walking distance to everything included in this itinerary.

Many visitors to Iceland start their trip in Reykjavik, which we highly recommend. It’s a fun city, with plenty of things to do, and nice places to stay.

Here are our favorite places to stay in Reykjavik.

• Hotel Odinsve ⇒ Read reviews  on Trip Advisor and book your stay on Expedia
• Radisson Blu 1919 ⇒ Read reviews  on Trip Advisor and book your stay on Expedia
• Icelandic Hotel Reykjavik Marina ⇒ Read reviews  on Trip Advisor and book your stay on Expedia

For more choices, check out these Hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland

Popular Reykjavik Day Tours

Adding these popular day tours from Reykjavik are a great way to see more and experience the countryside outside the city. If you plan to add any day trips, you can use the links below to pre-book the activities you want to do while you’re in Reykjavik so you don’t miss out. Tours in Iceland tend to book up quickly. It’s always best to have your tickets booked in advance.

It’s fairly easy to snag a layover in Reykjavik on your way to other locations in Europe, as well. These tours are perfect for a long layover or stopover in Reykjavik.

• Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik
• Blue Lagoon Spa
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations Tour From Reykjavik
• Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik
• South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik

Complete Four-Day Reykjavik Itinerary

Visit the blue lagoon.

Some flights into Reykjavik from the U.S. arrive in the early morning hours, so you’ll need to fill the first half of the day before being able to check into your hotel room. We thought this was a great time to visit the Blue Lagoon .

When you arrive, if you’re not renting a car, you can book a transfer that will take you either to the Blue Lagoon or to the city center. It’s a very convenient way to get to and from the Blue Lagoon, which is approximately 20 minutes from the airport, and 45 minutes from Reykjavik.

You can check your luggage at the main gate of the Blue Lagoon and continue on to the locker rooms to get changed. I suggest purchasing tickets in advance, so you don’t have to wait in the line. Plan to stay for 3-4 hours total. More if you’re enjoying spa treatments and a nice leisurely lunch, less if all you plan to do is soak in the lagoon.

Lava Restaurant is on the premises and offers an exceptional lunch menu and drinks that will start your day off right.

⇒ Get your tickets in advance for the Blue Lagoon. Book here .

Head into Reykjavik City Center

For a hearty breakfast and caffeine boost, stop in at Grái Kötturinn. After a plate of eggs and potatoes , you’ll be ready to explore the many tourist shops along Skólavörðustígur . This shopping street leads uphill directly to the impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church.

Hallgrímskirkja is named after Iceland’s famous psalm composer, Hallgrímur Pétursson. It was finished in 1986 and stands as a beacon for the city. You won’t get lost no matter where you are in the city, if you use this as a landmark. It’s also a great viewpoint. You can climb up to the top of the tower for a view.

In front of the church is a statue of Leifur Erikson, a Norse explorer who is credited as the first European to land in North America. Don’t miss the Einar Jónsson Museum next door, dedicated to Iceland’s most renowned sculptor.

Laugavegur Street

Walk down to Laugavegur street for a look around the shops. There are many restaurants and bars among the shopping, so plan to stop for a bite to eat at Sushibarinn or Prikið. Kaldi was one of Iceland’s first craft beers, and you can sample a range of their beers at their bar at 20b Laugavegur.

At this point, you’re probably ready for a break, so you can settle in for an afternoon refresher and some great people-watching at Te & Kaffi or Stofan Cafe.

Check into your hotel and get a bit of rest before dinner.

Dinner at Grillmarkadurinn

Reservations for dinner are always advised, and sometimes absolutely necessary. Plan ahead at least a couple of weeks so you won’t be disappointed. Grillmarkadurinn is just the right place for your first dinner.

The tasting menu will lead you through an array of impressive Icelandic dishes. Save room for the crazy good bread and butter service.

For an after-dinner drink and some LIVE music, stop in at the Kofinn, or hit up one of the many night-clubs nearby for a rowdier evening.

Start out your day by heading south on the walking street toward the marina. Hit up the Tourist Information Center first to grab some maps and information. There are also some nice tourist shops nearby to pop into for a look.

There are a few museums nearby to spend a few hours visiting. The Saga Museum is a history museum with wax displays to tell the story and the Aurora museum is one for Northern Lights enthusiasts, the Reykjavik City Museum and the Maritime Museum are just a few blocks away.

If you’re a foodie like us, you’ll want to start early so you can try many of the special treats near the marina. Start with a lamb hotdog with “everything” at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (or try  Pylsuhusid Hot Dog House recommended by Eating the Globe ), then head to Saegreifinn for a bowl of their famous lobster soup and our choice of skewer from their display case.

Tour the Harpa Center

Take a walk around Harpa Conference and Concert Center and enjoy the view from the top floor, overlooking the beautiful bay and mountains in the distance. A little further down the seawall you’ll find the Solfar (Sun Voyager) Sculpture , which is also a popular location for viewing the Northern Lights during the winter months.

Sample Local Craft Beer

MicroBar in the Center Hotel opens at 4pm and has an impressive selection of bottled beer from all over the world, as well as taps from many of the local breweries that you can try in a tasting tray. Spend a couple hours here exploring their selections and quizzing the knowledgeable staff.

⇒ Sample up to 10 of Iceland’s craft beers on an Icelandic Beer Tour in Reykjavik .

When you’re ready for dinner, head to Tapas Barinn to enjoy the tasting menu or choose your own dishes from the extensive list of Tapas on offer. Don’t forget to try the local liquor, Brennevin.

Another restaurant we suggest is Fiskmarkadurinn . It’s the gold standard for fish with a beautiful setting and great service. You can order the tasting menu and just sit back and enjoy all the dishes that are brought out, or you can order a la carte.

Northern Lights Evening Tour (During winter months)

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Reykjavik from September to March, many of the local tour companies lead evening trips to search for the Northern Lights . Typically, you’d be picked up around 7-9pm and spend a few hours driving in a large tour bus in search of the lights.

There are smaller tours available as well as private excursions that also allow the opportunity to bathe in a thermal pool while waiting for the lights to pick up.

⇒ Check out the Northern Lights tour we went on in Reykjavik.

Golden Circle Tour

A great way to see the surrounding countryside without venturing too far afield is on a Golden Circle Tour . The full-day tour departs around 9am and takes you to see Faxi waterfall, the Geysir area with the 20-meter-high hotspring geysir called Strokkur, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Thingvellir National Park. 

If you have a rental car , you can do this tour on your own. It’s not recommended to do it in the winter when the roads can be very dangerous. But in the summer, it’s a great way to spend a day. If you don’t have a rental car , you can book a group tour. We just recommend looking for a small one. The one below has a maximum of just 14 travelers (compared to some with up to 60).

⇒ Get your tickets in advance for the Golden Circle Tour. 

Dinner at Sjavargrillid

When you arrive back in Reykjavik, you’ll probably be hungry. Sjavargrillid (Seafood Grill) is the perfect place for a laid-back dinner and amazing cocktails. The interior of the restaurant is gorgeous and they have a bit of outdoor space as well.

They have a 4-course Lobster Feast menu that includes their famous lobster tacos, plus plenty of delicious seafood options on the a la carte menu, like salted cod and grilled lamb.

With most flights back to the U.S. leaving at 5pm, you’ll have just half a day to enjoy on your 4th day, enough time to head out on another half-day tour, en route to the airport.

Some possible activities include Whale Watching , Icelandic horseback riding , or the Lava Tunnel Tour . All of these tours take under 3 hours and leave from Reykjavik.

Tours to Book:

We hope you enjoy your four days in Reykjavik and the rest of Iceland as much as we did. Feel free to contact us with your Reykjavik itinerary questions.

Just returned from Iceland? Tell us about your trip in the comments section. We’d love to hear how you like it and what you did.

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• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

37 thoughts on “ Reykjavik Itinerary: 4 Spectacular Days in Iceland ”

Thanks so much for an awesome blog post. I’m not sure when it was written as there is no time stamp, but I can only imagine that it is pretty current and up to date. Last night, I booked my partner and I flights to Reykjavik. I’ve never been to Europe (yet have lived all over the world) and thought this would be an interesting adventure a little off the beaten bath. We are going to be arriving on May 14th at 4am and Leaving on the 18th at 5pm. I agree with your advice about traveling to the blue lagoon on the last day before the airport, but at this point, I’m a bit at a loss when it comes to what to do arriving at 4am so early in the morning 45 minutes away from downtown. Any advice on how to get downtown or is there some sort of tour company that helps with this? Also, we were contemplating renting a car and making the trek around the tourist areas all by ourselves. We are 28 and love to explore, but I’m weary of roaming around and being tired/spending so much time in the car. Do you think the Golden Circle Tour is enough time for us to truly get a grasp and experience the beauty Iceland has to offer? We love being around nature and this is a huge part of the reason Iceland is my destination of choice. I just don’t want to miss out on the highlights. We will definitely need the first day to rest and be in Reykjavik, but day two, I’m wondering if we will need another FULL time to experience Reykjavik. Any advice you have would be fantastic!

Hey there! Glad you’re finding the post useful. The date of the post is in the URL, in case you’re ever curious. This post was written recently, so it’s all relevant info. I’d be happy to help. I’ll send you an email with some more information to answer your questions! Definitely send a day or two in Reykjavik, then the rest of the time driving the Island. The Golden Circle Tour is good, but there are other great things to see if you’re driving. Good luck and have fun!

Hi Laura and Rocky, I wanted to follow up to Rocky’s question – were there any suggestions about what to do after you land at 4am? I’m visiting in September and we are renting a car, but we can’t check in to our room until the afternoon.

Thanks, this post was great! Kellie

Kellie, if you’re worried about needing to “burn” time that early and think it might be difficult to jump right into touring around, I think the best option is to go the Blue Lagoon at that time. It’s less crowded, you can get a shower, and you’ll be able to relax instead of hitting the ground running. It will take 3-4 hours at the BL, so once you get into Reykjavik your room may be ready. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me (savoredjourneys at gmail.com).

We got back after spending six winter days iceland… Awesome! Did you go to the south shore? We went to Vik Beach and Jokulsarlon…. Totally enthralled by Nature’s creation!

We didn’t get to the south shore. It was near blizzard conditions while we were there, sadly. Glad you had a great time!

We have a rental car and are going next week. Staying in Reykjavik…is Vik Beach and Jokulsarion do-able with little daylight? They’re definitely on my list!

Iceland is one of my dream destinations!

Then you definitely have to go! It’s actually quite easy to travel there. You’ll love it!

Hi Laura, may I know how much did you spend on the trip?

Hi Charleen. We spent $2500 total on our trip. Half of that was our airfare. The biggest expenditure was food and wine, and we ate well. 🙂

Thanks so much for all your travel advise. I am taking my 16 year old to Iceland in February. Just the two of us and I really want this trip to be great for him. Any advise you may add on? Maybe some packing insight? We will be in town for 5 days. Thank you!

Hi Melissa. In February, it will be fairly cold and icy in Iceland. You won’t be able to get around to some of the outer areas where the roads might be shut off due to weather issues. We went in March and weren’t able to get to much outside of the Golden Circle area. For packing, you should definitely pack layers – thermal underwear, sweater, winter coat, gloves, hat, etc. You can always remove it when you’re too warm. There are plenty of museums and things to do in Reykjavik, too. I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time. If you need more information as you’re planning, feel free to email me.

I love Island and would love to see it one day. My friend who went last year loved it and it’s my turn now . Thanks for the great post.

Your welcome, Marc. Iceland is in my top destinations of all times list!

My daughter and I just came back from a 12 day trip to Iceland, which extended from late December to early January (including the frenetic New Year firework celebrations). Despite driving on the opposite side of the road and never having cold weather driving experience, we safely drove around the entire Ring Road, with only a detour in one section due to road closures. We experienced every type of weather from hurricane winds, to snow storms, and beautiful sunshine, all of which added to the amazing experience. If you drive slowly, respect the weather conditions, and refer to the relevant road condition maps on the web each morning it is very safe. Our biggest tip would be to plan ahead and book tours well in advance (we booked a month before arriving) so you are not disappointed by the tours being booked out. We road Icelandic horses across the snow, went ice caving, climbed craters, hiked alongside glaciers,soaked in numerous thermal spas and chased the Northern Lights. There are great website to help you plan. Try and chose well-established companies that are local to the area you are visiting as they seemed to offer the best experiences when other companies would cancel trips. Icelandic people are extremely welcoming and we would dash back in a heartbeat (despite the 38 hors to get there from our home in Australia).

Thanks for such great information, Julie! It’s awesome that you braved the weather and drove yourself around the country. It sounds like you got to do a bunch of the awesome things that Iceland is so well known for.

Hi, this is a great and detailed post, thanks for all the info! On footwear, would you recommend hiking boots or will winter boots be ok? I’m going this week so I know it will be cold but is good sole grip important? TIA

I think either would be just fine. I took hiking shoes (not boots) with good sturdy soles and those were perfect (it can be slippery), but it gets bitingly windy there, so you might want more warmth. Have a great time!

This is a fabulous article. I am planning 4/5 days in Iceland in late November and both the info and comments have been so much help. Thank you

Hi, are there any other thermal spas that you recommend near Reykjavik besides the Blue Lagoon? My sister and I are traveling to Iceland this November for 5 days and would like to spend some time in one, but heard the Blue Lagoon can be overrated and pricey. Any help is appreciated! Thank you!

Hi Nicole. Unfortunately, there aren’t any other thermal spas near Reykjavik that I know of that aren’t as unique and interesting as the Blue Lagoon, unless you get pretty far outside of town. The ones that are closer in are more like regular swimming pools and don’t have the same atmosphere. I’m not sure those are what you’d be looking for. The Blue Lagoon can be somewhat pricey, if you add on a bunch of extras, and it’s commercial, but it’s still a fun experience that can be worthwhile. Try to go at a time that is less busy and you’ll have a much better time.

Hi Laura, I have trip to iceland in December for a group of nine friends for only four days. We are trying to figure out which option on places to stay and tour packages is the most cost effective? Would renting airbnb and renting a car be best for large groups OR booking a private tour guide that includes hotel stay, transportation, and ticket admissions for around $750 (in my opinion, seems a bit much). Please help! thank you!

Hi Wynn, I don’t think that price (per person, I assume) sounds too high for the things it includes, especially because you’d have to rent a huge van for 9 people and you wouldn’t have professional assistance. I’ll email you some more thoughts.

Hi Planning a trip to see the Northern lights for 4 nights but don’t know if it’s best to go January or March? Also how much spending money would you suggest we need per person? The flights, hotel and excursions (northern lights, golden circle, secret lagoon and blue lagoon) will be paid for before we go. Thank you

Hi Georgina. If you’re going for the lights, you should probably go in January (it’s more likely to see them then than in March), but keep in mind that it could be colder and worse weather, which could lead to no clear skies. It’s hard to say how much spending money you’d need, not knowing how you like to travel, but I will remind you that food can be quite expensive, so keep that in mind when deciding.

Great blog! I fell in love with Iceland too after out trip there in winter, you can see what we did there during 4 our days https://wp.me/p8Q7z0-nL My dream is now to visit Iceland in the summer 🙂

Both times of year offer such unique experiences. I’m looking forward to Iceland in summer too.

Nice to see you went to one of my favorite restaurants Grillmarkaðurinn. But, I must admit, I only go the for this one meal, an appetizer we shall not mention by name! 🙂 Anyway, if possible and one is not stuck in Reykjavik due to weather, one should “get out there”. Here is a list of every town and village you would pass if you drive the Ring road around Iceland, clockwise! 🙂 https://www.rent.is/blog/villages-along-the-ring-road/ Happy travels!

Yes, every trip to Iceland should include “getting out there”. Thanks.

Finally, I get the right and complete information through this blog… I was searching from many times…Thanks for written and share this post. I also get the package of this trip to Iceland through one of the best and very helpful travel agency tripguide.is

Pingback: Where to Eat in Reykjavik Iceland (and what to order!) | Savored Journeys

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Hi there. Just a few questions – which restaurants do you recommend for dinner, in order of preference, quality and price? Going on a very short trip to Iceland, arriving on Friday morning (Blue Lagoon then Lava for lunch, check into hotel, birthday dinner and northern lights tour). Saturday – driving and doing the Golden Circle (do you recommend it)? Sunday – maybe doing a couple of waterfalls, exploring Reyjavik (where do you recommend we go and shopping) then dinner for a birthday dinner. Monday our fight departs at 8:30am.

Hi Mary. Have you seen our other post on where to eat in Reykjavik? This should answer all your questions: https://www.savoredjourneys.com/where-to-eat-in-reykjavik-iceland/. I honestly think any of the high-end options are incredible and totally worthy of a special dinner. If I had to pick, I’d go with Food Cellar or Grillmarket. For a fancier dinner with an incredible view, you really can’t beat Grillid.

I really enjoyed reading the article above, the article is very interesting and effective. Thank you for sharing your information & amazing thoughts, it was such a useful article.

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Iceland Winter Express - 4 days

• Fully Guided
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Places You’ll See

• Explore Europe's largest hot spring
• Hike behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Walk on Reynisfjara's black sand beach
• Search for Northern Lights in Iceland
• Introduction
• Day 1 West Iceland
• Day 2 Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Day 3 South Coast
• Day 4 Ice Caving and Glacier Lagoon

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13 Absolute Best Iceland Tours & Day Trips (All Seasons)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Visiting Iceland soon and planning to take guided tours, but are not sure which Iceland tours are best and worth your time the most? In this article, you’ll find our hand-picked selection of the best tours in Iceland . Whether you are making a short stopover in Reykjavik or are traveling around the whole country, this list should help you plan your trip. Find out!

If you are visiting Iceland for the first time, it might be difficult to decide where to go first. Therefore I made this selection of the very best and most popular day tours in Iceland:  best day trips from Reykjavik, most popular wildlife excursions, and also tours in the North of Iceland… It will give you a good idea of what Iceland’s must-see places are and what to expect. Most of these tours and guided trips are available the whole year round; some – are seasonal.

Good to know: Most tours in this selection can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, but some tours depart from other locations. In this article, we focus on  the best Iceland tours for all seasons. If you are interested in winter tours ( Northern Lights in Iceland , ice caves, snowmobile tours, etc), check out our guide to the best winter tours and day trips from Reykjavik .

If you rather explore Iceland on a self-drive trip (recommended, definitely in summer), check our Iceland itinerary suggestions .  But even if you are exploring Iceland by car, you may still want to look into booking a whale-watching excursion, visiting the Blue Lagoon , Sky Lagoon , etc.

Most tours I selected here are bookable through GetYourGuide – our #1 choice when it comes to booking guided tours and excursions for our trips. The reason is simple – they have an excellent reputation, great customer service, competitive prices, and FREE 24 hr cancelation.

For each tour, I also give some practical details to help you plan your trip. Find out!

Did you know that… The most popular ‘tour’ booked in Iceland is the airport transfer to the city . With taxis charging ten times the price of the bus, I strongly recommend you book a bus transfer as well. Check here for more information about the best way to get to Reykjavik from Keflavik airport .

Best Tours in Iceland – OVERVIEW

• Golden Circle
• Blue Lagoon & other geothermal baths
• South Coast
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Whale watching
• Puffin tours
• Silfra snorkeling tours
• Icelandic horse riding
• Glacier hiking
• Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss Waterfall
• Icelandic Highlands (summer only)
• More great tours and day trips in Iceland: lava caves, snowmobiling, volcano…

TIP: We list the most popular tours in Iceland first, so if you are short on time, start with the top of this list and you’ll be sure to cover all the must-sees.

These are the best Iceland tours:

1. Golden Circle

Golden Circle is the no. 1 must-see place in Iceland. Whether you are visiting for a day or for two weeks, no trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting the Golden Circle.

Golden Circle is an area that comprises three famous landmarks – the Geysir area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Due to its proximity to Reykjavik, this is by far the most popular tour in Iceland.

You can visit Golden Circle by car, or you can opt for one of the many available guided tours from Reykjavik. Below are some of the very best options:

• Golden Circle Full-Day Grand Tour with Kerid Crater from Reykjavik – the most popular Golden Circle tour
• Full Day Premium Golden Circle Tour by Minibus – best small-group tour
• Golden Circle Afternoon Tour – see the main highlights in half a day

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik

2. Blue Lagoon and other geothermal baths

The Blue Lagoon is an outdoor geothermal spa close to Reykjavik and Keflavik airport. It is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland and you really have to book tickets in advance . Blue Lagoon is located about 30-40 minutes drive from Reykjavik city center. So unless you have a car it’s best to book a bus transfer from Reykjavik .

TIP: Recently, a new geothermal pool was opened in Iceland, just next to the city. It’s called Sky Lagoon and looks absolutely amazing! You can easily visit from the city by booking this tour which includes bus transfer and entrance tickets . If you have a car, you can also easily drive there and just book the entrance tickets . Check it out – the views are incredible!

There’s also another less touristy (and cheaper) geothermal pool near Reykjavik – Secret Lagoon . Another great option is  Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal baths .

You can also visit these geothermal baths with a guided tour, usually in combination with the Golden Circle:

• Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour
• Secret Lagoon Early Access & Golden Circle
• Golden Circle and Fontana Wellness Tour

3. South Coast Tours

Iceland’s South Coast is another highlight that you must see. It is easily doable as a day trip from Reykjavik and is, therefore, a very popular trip. In fact, south coast tours are the most popular tours in Iceland.

You will visit the famous waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach and the nearby Vik village, Sólheimajökull glacier, and more.

Here are the best-rated south coast tours:

• South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular South Coast tour.
• South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik . This popular tour is the best option for families: kids under 12 travel free and 12-15-year-olds pay half the price.
• Iceland’s South Coast Day Tour by Minibus . This tour is a bit more expensive, but traveling with a small group has many benefits.

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik 

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do on the South Coast of Iceland

4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the adjacent Diamond Beach is my favorite place in Iceland. However, it’s located quite far from Reykjavik. So it requires a full day trip with many hours of driving if you decide to visit it with a day tour.

I wouldn’t advise doing this trip in just one day unless you are really short on time. But if you only have a day to spare and want to see this stunning glacial lagoon, then yes, it is possible to visit Jokulsarlon as a day trip from Reykjavik.

In summer, the days are long and this trip will be very different than in winter, giving you more chances to admire the beautiful South Coast along the way. If you are visiting in winter, consider a 2-day tour instead. That way, you get to see the South Coast and possibly also visit an ice cave.

Despite the long drive, a day trip to Jokulsarlon is one of the most popular tours in Iceland and the customer reviews are great. Below are the best Jokulsarlon tours from Reykjavik:

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular bus tour.
• South Coast & Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon – small group tour.

5. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Another long day trip from Reykjavik, a visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an unforgettable experience. If you are looking for the best, must-do tours that you can do in Iceland in any season, this is one of those places that are absolutely worth your time.

Here are the best tours of Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik:

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full- Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular option.
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula Premium Small Group Tour – the best small group tour.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Now that we covered all the must-see places that you really should try to see in Iceland, below are more amazing tours that will make your trip even more special. Take a look!

6. Whale-watching tours

There are several places where you can go whale watching in Iceland. The most popular are Reykjavik and Husavik (North of Iceland), but there are some other great options as well.

Reykjavik whale-watching tours are available the whole year, but please note that the best time to see whales in Iceland is from April through September. The best place to see whales in Iceland is up North, with Husavik often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

Here are the best whale-watching tours in Iceland:

• Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik . There are several options in Reykjavik, but this tour is the most popular and has the best ratings. It’s also one of the most affordable options that I found. This tour runs in all seasons.
• Traditional Whale Watching Tour from Husavik – the best tour in Husavik. Summer only.
• Original Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour by RIB speedboat – a good option from Husavik for those who tend to get seasick on a regular boat and want to get closer to the whales.

Mid-March through November Departs from Reykjavik or from Husavik (1h15 drive from Akureyri)

7. Puffin tours

No summer trip to Iceland would be complete without seeing the puffins. There are some land-based trips, but if you are looking to do tours, the best use of your time is to combine puffin tours with whale watching. Here are the best options:

• Puffin Watching Boat Tour – the most popular option.
• Combo: Puffin Cruise & Whale-Watching Tour – they also explicitly look for whales.
• Small-Group Puffin Watching RIB Cruise – ideal for those who are short on time.

May till Mid August Departs from Reykjavik

• Húsavík Whale Watching and Puffins
• Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour by RIB speed boat

April/May till August/October Departs from Husavik  (1h15 driving from Akureyri)

8. Silfra snorkeling tours

Silfra is one of the top diving sites in the world, but even if you don’t dive, you can explore the bright blue and crystal clear waters with incredible visibility of up to 100 meters.

• Silfra Fissure Snorkeling – the most popular tour that includes pick-up in Reykjavik
• Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos – the most popular tour that starts in Thingvellir National Park

All seasons Departs from Thingvellir NP or Reykjavik (optional at extra cost).

Best combination tours that include Silfra Snorkelling:

• Golden Circle & Silfra Snorkeling
• Reykjavik Combo Snorkel in Silfra Fissure & Lava Caving

9. Icelandic horseback riding tours

Icelandic horses are rather small, but it would be a big insult to call them ponies. Riding an Icelandic horse is typically an Icelandic thing to do, especially if you do it in a beautiful location in the lava fields.

Most tours are meant for tourists with little or no experience in horse riding. It’s a family-friendly experience that anyone can join.

• Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields (3-4 hrs) – the most popular horseback riding tour near Reykjavik. Transfer optional.
• Red Lava Horseback Riding – includes a pick-up from Reykjavik.

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik or from Hafnarfjordur (20 min drive from Reykjavik)

10. Glacier hiking & Ice caves

Glacier hiking is another great year-round excursion that you shouldn’t miss in Iceland.

These are the best glacier hiking tours from Reykjavik:

• Glacier Hiking & South Coast
• Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing Tour
• Small-Group South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike

These popular glacier hiking tours start directly at the glacier and are therefore a bit cheaper:

• Sólheimajökull Glacier Guided Hike
• Skaftafell Glacier Hike

All seasons, unless specified otherwise Departs from Reykjavik, Sólheimajökull Café (25 min drive from Vik ) or Skaftafell NP.

LEARN MORE: Complete guide to glacier hiking in Iceland

In addition to glacier hiking, you can also visit ice caves . While most ice cave tours only run in winter (+- November to March), there is one tour that is also available in summer. Please keep in mind that ice caves are a natural phenomenon and so the conditions change all the time and you never really know in advance what exactly you get to see.

Here are the best ice cave tours in Iceland:

• Katla Ice Cave – the only natural ice cave that can be visited the whole year round AND you can visit it from Reykjavik as well!
• Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour – a man-made ice tunnel not far from Reykjavik that you can visit the whole year round.
• Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike .
• Vatnajokull Glacier: Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking .

Departs from Skaftafell NP or from Vik, except Langjökull glacier or Katla ice cave which is also possible from Reykjavik.

11. Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss Waterfall

One of the most beautiful and must-see places in the North of Iceland is the area around Lake Myvatn. You can visit it by car, or you can join a guided tour from Akureyri. There are also tours that combine Lake Myvatn with the Dettifoss waterfall.

• Day Trip to Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss
• Day Trip to Lake Mývatn And The Nature Baths
• Myvatn Shore Excursion – perfect for those visiting Akureyri by cruise ship
• Myvatn Nature Baths

All seasons Departs from Akureyri (North Iceland)

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Myvatn

12. Icelandic Highlands

If you visit Iceland in summer, don’t miss the chance to see the highlands of Iceland! It’s a whole other world and completely different than anything else you’ll see in Iceland. 

You do need a super-jeep to properly explore the highlands, so it’s ideal if you can visit with a guided tour. The most popular trips in the highlands include Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar.

Here are the best Icelandic highlands tours from Reykjavik:

• Day Trip to Landmannalaugar
• Thorsmork Volcano Hike Super Jeep & Hiking Tour

Recently, I made a 4-day trip Icelandic highlands trip with a private driver and it’s by far the most special trip EVER.

If you don’t have the time or the budget for a longer trip, check this one-day trip from Reykjavik that covers some of the most amazing places in the highlands: The Secret Circle . It’s organized by the same private guide that I traveled with and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone looking for a very unique tour in Iceland!

Summer only Departs from Reykjavik

13. Even more amazing day trips and tours in Iceland

There are so many more great tours and day trips that you can do in Iceland. Here are a few of the most popular options:

• Lava Caving Small Group Tour .
• Langjokull Glacier & Ice Cave . This is one of the best options if you want to visit a glacier ice cave in any season.
• Glacier Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier . This tour starts at Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle.
• Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour . Similar tour to the above, but it departs from Reykjavik and also includes the Golden Circle.
• Game of Thrones filming locations tour . P.S. If you are a fan, make sure to also check our selection of the best Game of Thrones tours in other European filming locations.
• ATV Quad tours .
• Helicopter tours .

All seasons, unless indicated otherwise Departs from Reykjavik, unless indicated otherwise 

TIP: One of the newest tours in Iceland at the moment is hiking to the eruption site of the Fagradalsfjall or Merdalir volcanos. The eruption at Fagradasfjall started in March 2021 and was going on for several months. A year later, in 2022, the Merdalir volcano erupted just nearby. In 2023, Fagradasfjall woke up again for a few days. Even if these volcanos aren’t active anymore, the lava flows are still very impressive and worth seeing.

You can hike there on your own, or you can go on one of the many tours . They pick you up in Reykjavik and guide you on a hike to the volcano. These recent volcano eruption sites are really worth seeing if visiting Iceland at the moment.

So this is our hand-picked selection of the very best tours in Iceland. There are of course many more options, also tours that combine several places, or multi-day tours… You can find the complete selection of the best tours in Iceland on the GetYourGuide website . It’s our one-stop shop for booking all our tours when we travel.

TIP: If you are looking for something more off the beaten path, a really special place that you can visit in a day, consider the Westman Islands . It can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, with a tour , or from the South Coast.

READ ALSO: Best Half-Day Tours from Reykjavik

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• What to see:   Best Places to See in Iceland & Best Places on the South Coast of Iceland
• Airport transfers:  How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget:  How Expensive is Iceland
• Accommodation:   Where to Stay in Iceland
• Winter trip: Tips for Iceland in Winter
• What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
•   What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
• Iceland Itinerary for 1 to 14 Days
• Iceland Itinerary for 7 Days
• 4 Days Iceland Itinerary
• Complete Ring Road Trip

Reykjavik travel guides:

• Best Things to Do in Reykjavik
• Reykjavik 1-day Itinerary
• Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting
• Perlan, Wonders of Iceland
• Where to Stay in Reykjavik

For more information and destination guides for Iceland, please check our Iceland travel guide . We’ve been to Iceland multiple times and have lots of articles and practical tips for your trip. Take a look!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photo credits: personal collection, Shutterstock.com, Depositphotos.com, and also Pixabay.com.

You can also read this article in German : Beste Touren, Ausfüge, und Aktivitäten in Island .

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Tuesday 13th of August 2019

Hello Jurga, Extremely detailed, well-thought-out and useful information and suggestions!! Thank you so much for your time and effort. We (my wife and I) are trying to piece together the flights and campervan rental to visit this September roughly from the 10th to the 16/17th. Anyway, we are flying out to different locations and I would leave at 09:00h and she at 18:45h from KEF. I was wondering if you knew of any guided day tours leaving from (and returning to) KEF so my wife might make the most of those roughly 7-8 hours she would otherwise be sitting around the airport for. Alternatively we could look at paying a supplement for a second driver and she could drive herself somewhere for the day/lunch... but would rather not have to worry about any troubles with the vehicle or getting lost and missing the flight. A guided tour or bus tour with KEF as the starting/finishing point would be less stress. I'm looking online now but figured asking may be quicker than sifting through all the search results. Again many thanks for your wonderful website!! Saludos from Spain.

Wednesday 14th of August 2019

Hi Brad, there isn't much starting/ending from Keflavik, but here are three options for you:

1. Reykjaness Peninsula stopover tour - this is the only one that I found that starts and ends at Keflavik airport. It starts at 10.30AM if I see well and lasts 6 hours, so it could work. It's also a very nice and less known area that most tourists just start to slowly discover now.

2. You could drop your wife off at the Blue Lagoon (book tickets in advance!). There she can also have lunch, spa treatments, etc. if she wants to, and then take a bus to the airport (also book in advance) later that afternoon.

3. You leave her in Reykjavik where she can spend the day in town and maybe visit Perlan (we really enjoyed it) and then take a bus to Keflavik from BSI terminal (where she could also leave her luggage - there are lockers).

Hope this helps!

Thursday 1st of August 2019

All of your articles have been very helpful in planning my trip, thank you! You recommend the "Get your Guide" agency for several of your tours. Do they typically list available times only one month in advance? On some of the tours there seem to be no options from august through next year. Just trying to make sure I don't miss the boat (literally)!

Wednesday 7th of August 2019

Hi Beth, normally they list tours for the upcoming season (just as the companies that operate those tours), so it's very likely that some tours don't run in winter and are therefore not listed (e.g. whale watching tours in the North of Iceland stop after the summer, etc). What tour and for which travel dates are you looking for?

Diana Greer

Sunday 13th of May 2018

Can you book tours you suggested after you arrive or is it best to book in advance?

Yes, of course you can book them last minute, but depending on the season some tours may get fully booked. If you know already what you want to do and on which day, I'd say book upfront. If for whatever reason you decide you don't want to do a tour, you can normally cancel for free up to 24hrs in advance. Another big advantage of booking in advance online vs e.g. at a hotel is that you can read the customer reviews, compare prices and see what exactly is or isn't included, etc. And not have to waste your time on that while on holiday.

Best Day Tours in Iceland

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Day Tours in Iceland

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Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small-Group Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater

Stunning 3-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 35-minute Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

Beginner-Friendly 3.5-Hour Glacier Walk in Skaftafell on Vatnajokull Glacier

Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City with a Stop at the Blue Lagoon

Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

Unforgettable Silfra Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos & Transfer from Reykjavik

South Coast Day Tour with Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with Transfer from Reykjavik

Family-Run Husavík Whale Watching Tour

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Reykjavik City Card 24 hours with Free Entry to Museums, Galleries, & Geothermal Pools

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater & Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

Golden Circle ​& Snowmobiling Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

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