Road Trip Through Southern Iceland: A 5-Day Itinerary
Road Trip Through Southern Iceland: A 5-Day Itinerary
Iceland is unlike anywhere else on earth — the landscape makes you feel like you're on another planet. This 5-day road trip covers the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, Vik's black beaches, a glacier tour, and the Blue Lagoon.
Iceland is one of those places that you visit and it is unlike any other. The pure beauty that surrounds you everywhere is something so special. The landscape is so unique it makes you feel like you're on another planet. A road trip here is a must — you just can't understand the beauty of Iceland if you never leave Reykjavik.
Take a red-eye and arrive early in the morning. Grab your rental car and get on the road immediately — going straight to Þingvellir National Park and the Golden Circle first thing means you'll beat the crowds. We had certain areas completely to ourselves in the early morning quiet.
Must-stops on the Golden Circle:
- Almannagja gorge walk to Law Rock — Walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates
- Gjabakkahellir Cave — A lava cave accessible from the gorge walk
- Peningagjá — The famous wishing well pool with incredible clarity
- Öxarárfoss Waterfall — Beautiful and usually uncrowded in the morning
- Gullfoss Falls — One of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. The visitor center has outstanding lamb soup
Before heading to Reykjavik for the night, stop at Friðheimar — an extraordinary tomato greenhouse and restaurant. It will genuinely be the best tomato soup you've ever tasted. Make a reservation just in case.
Spend the day exploring Iceland's compact, colorful capital. The city is very walkable and full of personality.
- Hallgrímskirkja Church — The landmark church visible from all over the city. The observation tower has panoramic views
- Harpa Concert Hall — Stunning geometric glass architecture on the waterfront
- Bankastraeti Main Street — The main shopping and dining street
- Baejarins Beztu Pylsur — I know it sounds odd, but get the hot dogs. They are truly amazing and worth standing in line for
- Kol Restaurant — One of the most amazing meals we had on the entire trip
Drive toward Vik along one of the most dramatically beautiful roads in Iceland. Stop at every single one of these:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall — You can walk behind this one. Bring a waterproof jacket
- Seljavallalaug Pool — A geothermally heated pool tucked into a valley, reached by a short hike
- Skógafoss Waterfall — Enormous and powerful. Climb the stairs beside it for views down the coast
- Reynisfjara Black Beach — One of the most dramatic beaches in the world. Basalt columns rising from black volcanic sand
- Sólheimasandur Plane Crash — A 1973 US Navy DC-3 wreck on a black sand plain. Surreal and stunning
- Dyrhólaey Arch — A dramatic rock arch above the sea. There are puffins here in summer
Today is, without question, the highlight of the entire trip. Take a Jökulsárlón Lagoon boat tour — you'll get up close to glaciers and may witness a huge chunk calving and falling into the water. It's one of those things that makes your jaw drop even when you know it's coming.
Nearby, the Diamond Beach is extraordinary — huge chunks of ice washed up on jet-black sand, glittering in the light. A can't-miss stop.
Also worth stopping at on this stretch:
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon — A stunning meandering canyon that looks almost CGI
- Eldhraun Lava Field — A vast, moss-covered lava field that feels prehistoric
Wake up early and head back toward Reykjavik. Today is all about the Blue Lagoon — the famous geothermal spa near the airport, which makes it the perfect end to your trip before flying home. The silica-white milky-blue water is as beautiful as it looks in photos.
A few things to know: book well in advance (it sells out), wear dark swimwear (the minerals stain), and bring a good hair mask — the water can dry out your hair but it makes your skin feel incredible.
"Iceland is one of those places where you have to wing it sometimes. If you drive past something interesting — a waterfall, a hot spring, a geyser — stop and check it out."
Where to Stay in Iceland
A sleek waterfront retreat in the heart of Reykjavik blending modern luxury with Nordic design. The best base for exploring the city and day-tripping the Golden Circle.
A Design Hotels member perched above a geothermal landscape with extraordinary views. For travelers who want something genuinely architectural and immersive in Iceland's dramatic terrain.
A sleek, comfortable hotel located in Vatnajökull — the world's largest glacier outside the Arctic. The perfect base for your glacier tour day.
Practical Tips for Iceland
- Rent a 4WD vehicle — essential if you want to explore any highland or gravel roads
- Book the Blue Lagoon weeks in advance — it regularly sells out
- Weather changes rapidly — pack layers and full waterproofs regardless of the season
- In summer (June–August) you get nearly 24 hours of daylight — bring an eye mask
- In winter (October–March) you have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights
- Iceland is one of those places where you have to wing it — if you drive past something beautiful, stop
- Gas stations are spread far apart in rural areas — fill up whenever you see one
Ready to plan your Iceland trip?
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