The Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 10-Day Road Trip
Travelista Editor and road trip expert Jessica Ruth Gibson shares her detailed 10-day Iceland road trip itinerary. After extensive planning and personal recommendations, here’s how she’ll be tackling Iceland’s spectacular ring road route, and how you can too.
Over the 13 years I have ran this website, road trips are one style of travel I have really fallen in love with. From Louisiana and the Deep South to Nova Scotia, the Canadian Rockies and Italy’s Trentino region, some of my most memorable adventures have unfolded behind the wheel. As well as a return trip to Nova Scotia, I’m also hoping to tick a new country off my list by visiting Iceland, which is another ideal road trip destination.
Iceland’s famous Ring Road has been sitting firmly on my travel wish list for years and, after my parents recently took their own trip to Iceland, I’ve spent hours researching and planning my own trip and itinerary, applying their valuable tips and recommendations as I go.
I am also lucky enough to be able to lean on the power and knowledge of the Travelista community when it comes to planning a trip, and as part of my research, I’ve drawn upon first-hand insights from Travelista contributor Maja Proescholdt, who explored Iceland extensively and shared her experiences with us in her 11 Top Travel and Safety Tips for an Iceland Campervan Road Trip. After many hours of research, I have designed this itinerary specifically my own Iceland adventure, but I thought I’d share it with you guys too.
If, like me, Iceland has been sitting on your bucket list for a while, consider this a convenient starting point, as I’ve already done a lot of the leg work for you. From black sand beaches and glacier lagoons to volcanic landscapes, waterfalls and geothermal hot springs, here’s how I’d spend 10 unforgettable days driving Iceland’s Ring Road.
This guide will cover:
Should I Drive Iceland’s Ring Road?
Quick Look: 10 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
The Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: Days 1-10
How to Plan Your Iceland Road Trip
When is the Best Time to Drive Iceland’s Ring Road?
Should You Hire a Car or a Campervan?
A Few Practical Tips Before You Go
This article has been created in partnership with Campervan Iceland.
Should I Drive Iceland’s Ring Road?
Stretching for approximately 1,332 kilometres (828 miles), Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, circles almost the entire country and connects many of its most famous natural attractions. Whilst many visitors base themselves in ReykjavÃk and take day trips, driving the Ring Road allows you to experience Iceland’s incredible diversity and wildest landscapes. Over the course of 10+ days, you’ll travel through volcanic scenes, stand beside glacier lagoons, explore dramatic black sand beaches, discover remote fishing villages and witness some of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls.
For me personally, I wouldn’t do this Iceland ring road itinerary alone, mainly due to how remote some areas can feel, and also because I wouldn’t want the pressure of doing 100% of the driving. If you travelled in a group of 2, 3 or 4, you could all comfortably share the load of the driving and enjoy the experience as both a passenger and a driver.
One piece of advice repeatedly shared by experienced Iceland travellers, including Travelista contributor Maja Proescholdt, is to embrace flexibility. Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, even during the summer months, so it’s worth viewing this itinerary as a framework rather than a rigid schedule. The reward? One of the most spectacular road trips in the world.
Quick Look: 10 Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
If you’re in a rush, here’s my planned out 10 day itinerary at a glance. Scroll down this article and I will break down each day into more detail. Click each day to jump to the
| Day | Route | Distance | Driving Time |
| Day 1 | KeflavÃk to ReykjavÃk | 50 km | 45 mins |
| Day 2 | Golden Circle Loop | 230 km | 3 hrs |
| Day 3 | ReykjavÃk to VÃk | 190 km | 2.5-3 hrs |
| Day 4 | VÃk to Höfn | 280 km | 4 hrs |
| Day 5 | Höfn to Egilsstaðir via Eastfjords | 260 km | 4 hrs |
| Day 6 | Egilsstaðir to Lake Mývatn | 165 km | 2.5 hrs |
| Day 7 | Lake Mývatn to Akureyri | 150 km | 2 hrs |
| Day 8 | Akureyri to Snæfellsnes Peninsula | 390 km | 5 hrs |
| Day 9 | Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula | 150 km | 2-3 hrs |
| Day 10 | Snæfellsnes to KeflavÃk via Blue Lagoon | 220 km | 3 hrs |
Before we drive into the breakdown, I just want to forewarn you that 10 days would be the absolute minimum amount of time you could do this itinerary in, and this would require some driving every day. If you prefer the idea of having rest days in between drives or simply shorter journeys, I’d recommend doing it over 14 days. You also need to allow yourself a day or two spare at the end of your road trip, just in case you can’t drive one day due to weather conditions.
The Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 10-Day Road Trip
Day 1 – Arrive in KeflavÃk & ReykjavÃk
Driving Distance: 50km
Driving Time: 45 minutes
After arriving into KeflavÃk International Airport and collecting my vehicle, I’d keep the first day relatively relaxed. Iceland’s Ring Road is a big adventure and I think there’s value in easing yourself into the trip rather than immediately chasing waterfalls. I’d make the short drive into ReykjavÃk and spend the afternoon exploring the capital, taking in landmarks such as HallgrÃmskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall and the waterfront Sun Voyager sculpture.
Day 2 – The Golden Circle
Driving Distance: 230km
Driving Time: Approx. 3 hours
No Iceland itinerary would feel complete without tackling the famous Golden Circle, so I’d dedicate my second day to exploring this iconic loop. My route would begin at Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, before continuing to the Geysir Geothermal Area to watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes. I’d then finish the day at the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most photographed natural attractions. If time allowed, I’d also factor in a stop at the Secret Lagoon near Flúðir for a more low-key geothermal bathing experience before staying overnight near Selfoss or continuing towards the South Coast.
Day 3 – South Coast Waterfalls & Reynisfjara
Driving Distance: 190km
Driving Time: Approx. 2.5-3 hours
Today is where Iceland starts to feel truly wild. Leaving the Golden Circle behind, I’d head east along the spectacular South Coast, stopping first at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall during the summer months, before continuing to the equally impressive Skógafoss. If time allows, I’d also stop at Sólheimajökull Glacier before reaching one of Iceland’s most iconic locations, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. With its dramatic basalt columns, crashing Atlantic waves and sea stacks rising from the ocean, it’s easy to see why this is one of the country’s most photographed spots. I’d finish the day in VÃk, a small village that makes the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s south coast.
Day 4 – Vatnajökull, Jökulsárlón & Diamond Beach
Driving Distance: 280km
Driving Time: Approx. 4 hours
If there was one day on this itinerary I’d be most excited for, it might just be this one. Today’s route passes through some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes as you travel towards Vatnajökull National Park. I’d allow time for a stop in Skaftafell Nature Reserve before continuing to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift slowly towards the sea. Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacial ice wash up onto black volcanic sand. It’s one of those places that looks almost too beautiful to be real. I’d spend the night in Höfn, ready to continue around the Ring Road tomorrow.
Day 5 – Eastfjords & Stokksnes
Driving Distance: 260km
Driving Time: Approx. 4 hours
Before leaving Höfn, I’d make a detour to Stokksnes, home to the dramatic peaks of Vestrahorn Mountain, one of the most photographed landscapes in Iceland. From here, the route winds through the remote Eastfjords, a quieter stretch of the Ring Road known for its fishing villages, mountain passes and coastal scenery. Rather than rushing from attraction to attraction, I’d treat today as a chance to enjoy the journey itself, stopping in places like Djúpivogur or Seyðisfjörður along the way. Travelista contributor Maja Proescholdt notes that some of Iceland’s most memorable moments happen between the major landmarks, and the Eastfjords feel like the perfect example of that. I’d stay overnight in Egilsstaðir.
Day 6 – Lake Mývatn Region
Driving Distance: 165km
Driving Time: Approx. 2.5 hours
Today the landscapes become increasingly volcanic as the route heads towards the fascinating Lake Mývatn region. I’d spend the day exploring highlights including the lava formations of Dimmuborgir, the steaming geothermal landscape of Hverir, and the famous Grjótagjá Cave. Whilst the driving distance is relatively short, there’s plenty to see, so I’d avoid packing too much into the day. To finish, I’d head to the Mývatn Nature Baths, often described as a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon and the perfect place to soak after several days on the road.
Day 7 – Dettifoss, Goðafoss & Akureyri
Driving Distance: 150km
Driving Time: Approx. 2 hours
Today I’d continue exploring northern Iceland, beginning with a visit to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The sheer volume of water crashing into the canyon below makes this one of the country’s most impressive natural attractions. From there, I’d continue west to Goðafoss, often referred to as the “Waterfall of the Gods”, before making my way to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest urban area. Surrounded by mountains and overlooking Eyjafjörður fjord, Akureyri offers a slightly different side of Iceland, with colourful streets, cafés and a lively atmosphere. I’d spend the evening exploring the town and enjoying a slower pace before tackling one of the longest driving days of the itinerary tomorrow.
Day 8 – West to Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Driving Distance: 390km
Driving Time: Approx. 5 hours
Today is one of the longest driving days of the trip, but it serves as the transition between Iceland’s north and the spectacular Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west. Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature”, this region packs many of the country’s most iconic landscapes into one relatively compact area. I’d break up the journey with plenty of stops for photographs and coffee before arriving on the peninsula in the afternoon. Depending on timing, I’d begin exploring some of the coastal villages and dramatic sea cliffs before settling in for the night. This is one part of Iceland that repeatedly appeared during my research and feels well worth dedicating extra time to.
Day 9 – Snæfellsjökull & Kirkjufell
Driving Distance: 150km
Driving Time: Approx. 2-3 hours
I’d dedicate today entirely to exploring the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The route would take me through Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to the glacier-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Along the way, I’d stop at the black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur, the coastal village of Arnarstapi and the dramatic sea cliffs that line this rugged stretch of coastline. The day would finish at Kirkjufell, arguably Iceland’s most photographed mountain, with its distinctive shape rising above nearby waterfalls. If the weather cooperated, I’d plan to spend sunset here before returning to my accommodation on the peninsula.
Day 10 – Blue Lagoon & Departure
Driving Distance: 220km
Driving Time: Approx. 3 hours
For the final day of this Iceland Ring Road itinerary, I’d begin the journey back towards KeflavÃk before making one last iconic stop at the Blue Lagoon. Whilst there are plenty of geothermal bathing experiences throughout Iceland, there’s something fitting about ending the trip here, soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes. Depending on your flight time, I’d allow a few hours to relax and reflect on the adventure before returning your vehicle and heading to the airport. After ten days of waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, geothermal landscapes and some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe, it feels like the perfect way to bring an Iceland road trip to a close.
How to Plan Your Iceland Road Trip
One thing that became very clear whilst researching this itinerary is that Iceland rewards good planning. Whilst the Ring Road itself is relatively straightforward to navigate, weather conditions can change quickly and driving times are often longer than they appear on paper thanks to the number of photo stops you’ll inevitably make along the way.
For this itinerary, I’d recommend allowing at least 10 days to complete the route comfortably. Whilst it can technically be driven faster, part of Iceland’s appeal lies in having the flexibility to stop at waterfalls, viewpoints, geothermal areas and scenic detours whenever something catches your eye.
When is the Best Time to Drive Iceland’s Ring Road?
or first-time visitors, I’d suggest travelling between May and September, when road conditions are generally at their best and daylight hours are longest. June and July bring almost endless daylight thanks to the Midnight Sun, whilst September offers the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights alongside autumn colours.
Winter road trips are possible, but they require considerably more planning, confidence behind the wheel and a willingness to adapt to changing weather conditions. If you’re new to driving overseas or icy temperatures, I’d say to avoid winter time all together.
Should You Hire a Car or a Campervan?
This really comes down to your travel style. If you’re planning to stay in hotels and guesthouses, a standard rental car will be perfectly sufficient for most Ring Road itineraries. However, having read Travelista contributor Maja Proescholdt’s account of exploring Iceland by campervan, I can certainly see the appeal of having more flexibility, particularly when travelling through some of the country’s more remote regions.
For travellers considering a campervan adventure, Campervan Iceland is a local Icelandic operator that has been helping visitors explore the country since 2013. Vehicles can be collected directly from KeflavÃk Airport, making it easy to hit the road shortly after arrival, and the fleet includes everything from practical 2WD campers to 4×4 vehicles with rooftop tents. Unlimited mileage and basic insurance are included, whilst customer support is available in both English and Spanish. For a destination built around freedom and flexibility, a campervan feels like a natural fit.
A Few Practical Tips Before You Go
One of the most useful pieces of advice I picked up during my research was not to over-schedule your days. Iceland’s landscapes have a habit of slowing you down in the best possible way, whether that’s pulling over to photograph an unexpected waterfall or spending longer than planned at a glacier lagoon.
It’s also worth remembering that Iceland is an expensive destination by UK standards. Stocking up on groceries where possible, carrying snacks in the car and booking accommodation well in advance during summer can all help keep costs under control.
Finally, always keep an eye on the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off each morning. Even during the summer months, conditions can change rapidly, and building a little flexibility into your plans will make the entire trip more enjoyable.
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