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5-day itinerary in Iceland: what to see, where to stay, and where to eat.
Iceland has always been a dream destination for Fabio, and if you know me well, you’re aware that I’m quite sensitive to the cold, so we kept postponing our trip! However, I must say that Iceland has also found a special place in my heart, and I’m already looking forward to returning. We’ve had the privilege of visiting this incredible country twice as coordinators for our group trips, and now, it’s finally time to share with you all the essential information and helpful tips for planning a 5-day adventure in this magnificent place.
One of the first questions you might ask yourself is: what is the best time to visit Iceland?
Summer is the ideal time to visit Iceland, as it coincides with the high season (which is also the most expensive). The days are incredibly long, the sun shines brightly, and the temperatures are quite mild. Additionally, summer offers the opportunity to see puffins, one of Iceland’s iconic animals. On the downside, though, you’ll have very limited chances of seeing the northern lights, although there are occasional exceptions (like this year, when the aurora appeared even during the summer).
If you’re more flexible and looking for a more balanced experience, I recommend visiting in spring or autumn. The temperatures are cool but manageable, and your chances of seeing the northern lights are significantly higher. Moreover, Iceland is less crowded during these seasons, and prices tend to be a bit more reasonable.
As for winter, it’s a season I generally don’t recommend, especially for those visiting Iceland for the first time. The ice and snow can make it challenging to get around and enjoy the outdoors, and the limited daylight hours significantly reduce the time you have for exploring.
Fun fact: Iceland is renowned for its extreme natural phenomena, from the northern lights to the long summer days when the sun never sets. However, be aware that the weather can also be extremely unpredictable.
Ready to go? Let’s dive into our 5-day itinerary!
Day 1
Our 5-day itinerary in Iceland starts with a practical tip: renting a car is essential. You can easily do this online before your arrival. We often rely on Hertz, but there are many reliable companies to choose from. The key is to opt for full insurance coverage to protect yourself against any potential damage (Icelandic roads can be quite dangerous, especially in winter!). Also, be prepared with a credit card when picking up the car—it’s a common requirement, so plan ahead!
If you arrive in Iceland in the morning, you can kick off your road trip right away with the famous Golden Circle, one of the country’s most iconic tourist routes. However, if you arrive in the afternoon, I recommend spending your first night in the capital, Reykjavík, to rest up before setting off on your adventure.
First stop: Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir)
Our first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where Iceland’s first parliament, the Alþingi, was held in 930 AD. The North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet right here, creating a breathtaking geological spectacle.
Second stop: Strokkur Geyser
We continue to our second stop: Strokkur, one of Iceland’s most active and famous geysers. Every few minutes, it erupts, shooting a jet of boiling water up to 20-30 meters high.
Our third stop on the tour is Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall. With its 31-meter height and two dramatic drops, it’s one of the most impressive in the country. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a rainbow arching across the waterfall.
Fourth stop: Kerid Volcanic Crater
We end the day with a visit to the Kerid Volcanic Crater. This crater features a deep blue lake that beautifully contrasts with its red volcanic walls. At approximately 3,000 years old, it’s one of the few sites in Iceland that requires an entrance fee (around 3 euros).
And in the evening: a hunt for the Northern Lights!
To track the forecasts and know where to go, I recommend using the “Aurora” app, which provides real-time updates on the chances of spotting the northern lights.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
For the first day, we stayed in Hella, which is ideally located between Kerid Crater and the waterfalls you’ll visit the next day.
We stayed at Welcome Riverside Guesthouse (click HERE for the Booking link). It’s a good value option. It’s a guesthouse, so bathrooms are shared, but there are double rooms, making it perfect for couples.
Alternatively, I recommend:
- Cabin Réttarsel in Hella – Birta Rentals. If you prefer having an entire place to yourself, this is an ideal choice, and the price is reasonable. Click HERE for the link.
- Hotel Kanslarinn Hella. This option is for those who prefer a hotel with a private bathroom. Click HERE for the link.
Day 2
The second day of our Iceland itinerary is all about waterfalls.
First stop: Seljalandsfoss
We start with one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss, which plunges from over 60 meters high. One unique feature of this waterfall is the path that, during the warmer months, allows you to walk behind the curtain of water and admire the falls from a different perspective. If you’re traveling in autumn, as we did, you’ll likely be able to complete the path (just be cautious, as it can be wet, so bring a raincoat!). Unfortunately, in winter, the path may be closed due to ice.
Fun fact: Just a short walk from the main waterfall, continue along the path to the left, and you’ll find another hidden gem, Gljúfrabúi. Here, you can literally step into a cave and admire the waterfall from within. The access is a bit “adventurous,” but it’s absolutely worth it!
Second stop: Skógafoss
Our second stop is another magnificent waterfall: Skógafoss, which plunges from a height of 62 meters. The power of the water is truly impressive, and on sunny days, you can often spot rainbows forming in the mist. Be sure to climb the stairs leading to the top of the waterfall; from there, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the river flowing out toward the plains.
Third stop: Diamond Beach
After about a two-hour drive, you’ll arrive at one of my favorite places: Diamond Beach. This black sand beach gets its name from the ice chunks that break off from the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and wash up on the shore. During the winter months, it’s filled with icebergs, making it even more spectacular. In October, we found fewer of them, but the atmosphere remains magical and unique nonetheless.
Just a short walk from Diamond Beach is the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, where massive icebergs break off from the Vatnajökull glacier and float in the lagoon’s waters, creating a surreal landscape. If weather and season conditions allow, you can even take a boat tour among the icebergs (this is recommended during the summer months). It’s one of the most captivating places in Iceland and an absolute must-see for anyone exploring the southern part of the island.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
For this night, we decided to stay in Hnappavellir, which is just 15 minutes away from Diamond Beach and the glacial lagoon.
This is the one night where we treated ourselves to a bit of comfort and well-being, staying at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, a 4-star hotel where you often get to see the northern lights thanks to its location in the heart of Icelandic nature (yet still right by the main road, making it a perfect spot). It’s on the pricey side, but it’s definitely worth it! Plus, there’s a complimentary spa for all guests. Click HERE for the Booking link.
Alternatively, I recommend Skyrhusid HI Hostel, located just 10 minutes from the glacial lagoon. It’s also a guesthouse with double rooms but shared bathrooms. Click HERE for the Booking link.
Day 3
We start the day with a visit to Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, covering over 8,000 km². If you have more time, you can also explore the famous ice caves that form beneath the glacier during winter.
We continue to Reynisfjara black sand beach, one of the most famous and spectacular beaches in Iceland. This volcanic beach is known for its black sand, basalt sea stacks rising from the ocean, and powerful waves. It’s a place as captivating as it is dangerous—be mindful of the “sneaker waves,” which can be unpredictable and hazardous. Just keep a safe distance from the water to stay out of trouble.
Third stop: Dyrhólaey lighthouse
After visiting the beach, we head to the Dyrhólaey lighthouse, which offers an incredible panoramic view of the black sand beach from above. From here, you can admire the stretch of the beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Iceland.
Fourth stop: abandoned DC-3 airplane wreck
If you have some time, you can end the day with a visit to the abandoned airplane wreck at Sólheimasandur. This is a U.S. Navy DC-3 that crashed on the beach in 1973. Although no one was injured, the wreckage has remained there ever since. The walk to the wreck takes about 45 minutes one way, or you can take a shuttle for around 20 euros round trip. Personally, I don’t consider it a must-see and wouldn’t include it in my group trips, but the choice is yours! 🙂
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
In this case, you can either return to your accommodation in Hella (you’ll find the recommended hotels at the end of day 1) or head straight to Reykjavík.
In the capital, we stayed at Sunna Guesthouse, which I find to be excellent, both for its location (right in front of the famous church) and the quality of the accommodation. Here, you’ll find double rooms with shared bathrooms. Click HERE for the Booking link.
Alternatively, I recommend:
- Guesthouse Galtafell. Just a 5-minute walk from the shopping street, and it even offers private bathrooms! Click HERE for the Booking link.
- Grettir Guesthouse. Also just 5 minutes from the church, and a good alternative to Sunna. Click HERE for the Booking link.
- City Center Hotel. This is a classic hotel, but at a great price considering the generally high rates in Reykjavík. Click HERE for the Booking link.
Day 4
First stop: Reykjanes geothermal springs
We begin by exploring the geothermal springs in the area. Here, geothermal activity is particularly intense, with hot water pools bubbling and steam vents releasing vapor from the underground.
Second stop: Reykjanes lighthouse
Next, head to the Reykjanes lighthouse, located on a hill near the springs. From here, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the peninsula, with steam vents and geothermal springs stretching out below you.
Third stop: Bridge Between Continents
If you have some time left, you can visit the Bridge Between Continents. This symbolic bridge connects the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, allowing you to literally walk between two continents. While it may not be the most spectacular sight in Iceland, it’s a great experience for geography enthusiasts. 🙂
Fourth stop: time to relax at the hot springs
We end the day and the trip by unwinding at the hot springs, with several options to choose from. We tried both the Sky Lagoon and Hvammsvik Hot Springs. If you prefer quieter, less touristy spots, I recommend Hvammsvik Hot Springs, which offer an intimate, nature-immersed experience. On the other hand, the Sky Lagoon is much more touristy and often overcrowded; personally, I wouldn’t go back, but it all depends on your preferences. The Sky Lagoon is certainly closer to the capital, whereas Hvammsvik is a bit farther away.
Day 5
The last day is dedicated to Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, known for its colorful houses. The city center is perfect for strolling and discovering local culture. The vibrant, wooden houses are one of the city’s most iconic features, often painted in bright, lively colors.
Don’t miss a visit to Hallgrímskirkja, the tallest church in Reykjavík, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Then, explore the art galleries and local design shops that line the streets, or take a break in one of the many cozy cafés to enjoy a delicious cinnamon roll or the famous marriage cake (a traditional rhubarb tart).
End the day with dinner at one of the many restaurants serving fresh fish and traditional Icelandic dishes.
Where to eat? Here’s a list of places we’ve tried and loved!
- Geyser Glima – A self-service spot with plenty of options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes. It’s a great choice for the first day, as you’ll likely be here around lunchtime.
- Lava Café – A perfect option for day two when you’ll be in the town of Vik around lunchtime.
- The Soup Company – Another great choice in Vik. They offer a variety of soups and two salads. We really enjoyed it, and the best part is that you get a refill included in the price, along with bread. You’ll leave feeling full, I promise!
- Brauð & Co. – For breakfast in Reykjavík. Their cinnamon rolls are a must-try, and they even have a vegan version (which is delicious).
- Kemuri – If you’ve been to Poland, you’ve probably tried pierogi. At this spot in Reykjavík, you’ll find only vegetarian pierogi, but they’re all delicious! They also have vegan options and one gluten-free dish.
- 101 Reykjavik Street Food – Great soups, very flavorful and spicy, but absolutely delicious! We’ve always left this place happy.
- The Seabaron Reykjavík – We always save this place as a final treat during our group trips. The fish here is fantastic, and in my opinion, they have the best fish soup I’ve ever tasted. For a restaurant in Reykjavík, the prices are also quite reasonable!
I can confirm that prices in Iceland are indeed very high. It’s really difficult to find a place where a dish costs less than 20 euros, and even sandwiches range from 16 to 20 euros. The best solution is the supermarket. On the evenings we knew we’d be staying at a guesthouse, we took the opportunity to buy groceries and cook something ourselves. While supermarket prices are still higher than what we’re used to, you can save a bit this way. This is why I often recommend guesthouses: not only are they cheaper than hotels, but they also allow you to cook your own meals, helping you save on food costs.
Don’t forget to check out my Instagram profile, where you’ll find all the highlighted stories with daily videos from our trips in Iceland, along with a summary video of this itinerary. You can find it here.
Wishing you a wonderful trip! 🙂
