So you’ve booked a round trip flight to Iceland. What next? Well time to plan that trip of course! With an Iceland 6 days itinerary, you’ll have limited time to work with to enjoy this awe-inspiring land but it’s do-able!
This road trip gives you the best balance of the popular attractions in the Golden Circle while also layering in off the beaten path places where you can hike, take photos or just soak it all in. The beauty of a self drive holiday is that you will have the freedom and flexibility to do it at your own pace.
Deep dive into planning your Iceland trip
- Top 5 Hotels in Rekyjavik on a Budget
- 12 Best Things to do in Iceland
- The 6 Day Iceland Itinerary
- Reasons to go to Iceland
Our favourite stay in Iceland?
- Of all the places we stayed, we really appreciated the ability to check-in early at the Hilton Iceland Nordica. They totally weren’t obligated to allow us to check-in early in the morning after our early flight into Iceland but they did and boy was it nice to shower and freshen up before starting Day 1.
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You’ll notice that this itinerary doesn’t cover the North and this is simply because there is so much beauty in the West that can’t be missed. Obviously, use your discretion in terms of how you want to plan it but I highly recommend this route if this is your first time in Iceland.
Going to Iceland for 8 days instead?
Make sure you check out the thorough super mega guide that breaks down all of my experience from road tripping the west and southern part of Iceland.
Iceland 8 Day Road Trip Itinerary
Iceland 6 Day Itinerary
Let’s go through a day-by-day review of what your 6 days in Iceland itinerary could look like.
When you compare it with the 8 day itinerary, you can see that it follows an alternate route. Where some efficiencies were made by flying straight into Hofn, you’ll find that you’ll have to keep a brisk pace in order to see as much as you can since 6 days isn’t a wealth of time to work with.
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Day 1 – Start From the East
Once you land in Reykjavik, you’ll want to immediate catch an internal flight from Keflavik International Airport to Hornafjörður Airport in Hofn which is on the east side of the island. The reason for this is because it’s much more efficient to go from the East, South and to the West.
Read this next: We have a full guide on how to rent a car in Iceland including car rental coupon codes
Renting an SUV from the airport, you’ll head straight out and drive to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon where you’ll be able to cruise on the lagoon with towering icebergs all around. Be sure not to miss the black sand beach here called Diamond Beach aka Fellsfjara.
Along the drive, you’ll be able to stop by the glacier tongues on this eastern side of the island.
In the afternoon, you’ll drive into Skaftafell National Park which is a beautiful place of natural wonder. Pick a few short hikes here (I recommend the hike to see Svartifoss Waterfall) and time permitting get on a guided tour here. This will take a majority of your day.
Once you’re done at the park, drive to the village of Vík which is 1.5 hours drive away. Along the way you’ll pass by several waterfalls. Let’s just say you’ll be making a lot of pitstops.
Spend the night in Vík.
LUXURY
This is the most highly rated property in the vicinity of Vik and for good reason. While it’s not your typical branded luxury hotel, this property offers gorgeous views with the picturesque backdrop of the sea, mountains, and Icelandic horses. Everything is modernly built and conveniently located right by Reynishverfisvegur beach.
BUDGET
While the price may not reflect it, believe me when I tell you that this is the best price you’ll find for a property in Vik that’s 6 minutes walk from the beach. This is a lovely guesthouse that has everything that you need including wifi, full kitchen, and free parking. The rooms are spacious and very well kept.
Day 2 – To the Capital of Reykjavik
The town of Vík is right by a glacier and so depending on what you feel like, you can either take a snowmobile tour or do a glacier climb with one of the local tour operators.
After grabbing lunch, you’ll hit the road, starting with a visit to Dyrhólaey which is a 120m high cape with dramatic cliffs teeming with bird life. There’s a lighthouse you’ll be able to visit and you’ll also be able to look down towards Reynisfjara Beach.
Snap a few photos here before you head over to the hidden thermal pool called Seljavallalaug. There’s a bit of a hike to get here but since it’s no longer that big of a secret, you’ll usually be able to find people walking the path to get deep into the valley. I detail this fully in our 8 day Iceland itinerary.
Take a dip here! There are change rooms in the back but note that this place isn’t really maintained so literally expect a concrete room.
From Seljavellir, start making your way towards Reykjavik.
Like the first day, you’ll encounter many waterfalls along the way. One of them to note is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This one is not to miss because it’s one of the few waterfalls where you can actually walk behind the waterfall with it’s well designed loop trail. You can pretty much capture the waterfall from every single angle.
The other waterfall you can fit in is Skogafoss if you have time. This is located between Vik and Seljialandsfoss.
Depending on your timing, you’ll get to Reykjavik towards the late afternoon. Explore the capital at your own pace. Things to do here are well documented so go nuts!
LUXURY
You guys know I love my Hilton properties and this one did not disappoint at all when we stayed here. We were in a unique situation where we arrived in Reykjavik super early in the morning and thought we’d only be able to leave our bags but to our surprise, they had a room available for us to check into which was much appreciated. With status, you get access to an amazing lounge. Food was fabulous and the rooms were also extremely clean, modern, and spacious. Free parking and shuttle into the city!
BUDGET
By far one of the cheapest properties in Reykjavik which was also featured in 5 hotels on a budget in Reykjavik. This guesthouse is located in the Thingholt district of central Reykjavik and only 3 minutes away from Hallgrimskirkja Church. All rooms have access, dining tables and work desks.
Day 3 – Drive the Golden Circle
Today’s the day where you get to drive the legendary Golden Circle of Iceland. Originally I thought this was the entire ring road of Iceland but it is in fact a 300km loop starting from Reykjavík into central Iceland and back.
Through this loop, you’ll see Strokkur in Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Each one is distinctive and stunning.
The Strokkur geyser shoots water up to 30 m every 4-8 minutes in a thrilling display.
Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall feels as large as Niagara Falls when you get there and be mesmerized by the water from the river Hvítá crashing into a 32m crevice.
Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park is a wonder for both its geological and historical significance.
Once you’re done the circle, start driving towards Snaefellness (Snæfellsnes) Peninsula and enjoy the this iconic landscape.
Spend the night in Hellnar or Olafsvik and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to watch the Northern Lights dance in technicolor delight. Have a religious experience.
If you’re wondering how to shoot the Northern Lights, make sure to read the guide here.
LUXURY
This is an old historic house that was recently renovated and turned into a two apartment property. Rated extremely well, there is a fantastic view of the harbour facing the Atlantic Ocean, the mountains, and the main street. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, dishwasher, free wifi, washing machine, and dryer. Towels, linen etc are included. There is also a restaurant on-site.
BUDGET
Located right along the coastline, this is a spartan property in Olafsvik but with everything that you need for a great night’s sleep. Room features either a view of the sea or the mountains. Depending on the room you choose, bathrooms can be private or shared. Free wifi and fitness centre on-site. Continental breakfast also included so it’s got great value.
What Should You Pack?
Not sure what to pack for your trip? Make sure to check out our handy packing list for Iceland!
Day 4 – Ferry to the Westfjords
Start off your day early with a 5km Arnastapi coastal walk which is situated right by Hellnar. This walk takes you through the out of this world Búðahraun lava field and the beautiful basalt cliffs.
After lunch, drive to the small town of Stykkisholmur (Stykkishólmur) where you’ll board a car ferry with Baldur Ferry to cross over to the Westfjords. You do this because it’s the most efficient way between the south and mid-west of the country.
From January to May and September to December, there is a ferry that leaves at 3PM that takes you to Brjanslaekur (Brjánslækur). If you’re there in the summer, the ferry departs at 9AM so you may have to adjust your Iceland 6 day itinerary accordingly.
Once you’re off the ferry, drive towards Latrabjarg (Látrabjarg). Eventually you’ll reach Route 612 and why I made you get all the way up here is soon apparent.
3 km from the junction to 612 is a picnic table where the fjord view opens up.
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, Latrabjarg manages to blow your mind again.
LUXURY
There is pretty much only one hotel that is right in Latrabjarg which is why they command such a high price. The nice thing is that you can see the puffins and when you’re done the hotel is right there. Alternatively, you can wake up early in the morning and see them without driving too far.
NOT AS EXPENSIVE
If you’re willing to be 8.2 km away, you can stay in the nearby town centre of Patreksfjord which I’d recommend because you can save way more money and be closer to town to access more restaurants and shops. Rooms sell out quickly so book ASAP.
Day 5 – Exploring the Westfjords
When it comes to things to do in Iceland, this is one of the big highlights. Today, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the majesty of the Westfjords.
Start the morning exploring the cliff of all cliffs. The Latrabjarg cliffs are home to unfathomable number of seabirds including very tame puffins. Beware the steep drop offs here.
When you’re done, make your way back on Route 612 and catch 614 south over the spine of the peninsula towards Rauðisandur, a beautiful settlement named for its red-tinted sandbanks sheltering a large lagoon with mountains in the background. It’s something straight out of the Game of Thrones.
The last leg of the day is to drive up to Isfjordur (Ísafjörður) on the northern side of Westfjords. It’s roughly a 3 hour drive but it’ll end up taking much longer because you’re going to want to stop around every bend and turn.
If you’re looking to do something different, there are plenty of Westfjords tours.
Stay the night in Isfjordur and if you’re feeling up for it explore this small fishing village in the evening.
LUXURY
A high quality self-catering apartment that features awesome views of the sea and mountain. Each apartment comes equipped with a full kitchen, private bathroom, TV, patio, and living space. Free parking is included as well. Overall property is comfortable, spacious, and hosts are friendly.
BUDGET
Great value property that’s only 2 minutes walk from the beach and 100 meters from the Isafjordur shores. The guesthouse is simple and the bathroom facilities are shared but has everything you need including communal kitchen, laundry room, free-wifi and parking. Bikes can also be rented here.
Day 6 – An End to Quite the Adventure
Isafjordur conveniently has a small airport where you’ll be able to return your rental car and fly back to Reykjavik in the morning. Once you land, you’ll have whatever amount of time you have until your international flight back home.
If you have a few hours to kill, check out a few of the remaining spots in the city. Explore a few museums, see the Hallgrímskirkja church, relax at the Blue Lagoon or grab a hot dog (Icelanders love their hot dogs).
Here are a few alternative properties that you can look at if you end up needing a night in Reykjavik.
LUXURY
This place is the definition of rustic and charming. Located in the heart of the old town of Reykjavik, this is a luxury B&B experience that includes a full breakfast filled with freshly baked bread with cold cut meats and fish. Guests can also relax in the small garden before exploring the city.
BUDGET
Hostels may or may not be your thing but this is definitely one of the cheapest stays in the city with this eco-certified property. There’s a heated swimming pool, coffee bar, 3 communal kitchens on-site, Parking is cree and bike rentals are available. Depending on the room you pick, you can have a fully private bathroom so it’s practically the same as staying in a hotel.
When To Go To Iceland
The best time to do this itinerary is during the shoulder seasons in my opinion. Summer is obviously beautiful and makes each area accessible but that also means that your chances of seeing the Northern Lights is much lower. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and March.
The reason why winter might not be the greatest time for an itinerary like this is because it requires driving and in the winter, heavy snow will make it difficult to make it through certain passes if it is not cleared. You’ll also have to deal with snow chains. Snow could start as early as September but on average it usually starts late October/early November.
The Full 6 Day Iceland Itinerary
Here’s a full recap of the 6 day Iceland itinerary in table format.
| Day 1: Start From the East | Day 2: To the Capital | Day 3: Drive the Golden Circle | Day 4: Ferry to the Westfjords | Day 5: Exploring the Westfjords | Day 6: An End to Quite the Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | - Land in Reykjavik - Flight to Hornafjörður - Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon | - Glaciers near Vík | - The Golden Circle (Strokkur, Gullfoss, Thingvellir) | - Arnastapi coastal walk - Catch Baldur Ferry in Stykkisholmur | - Latrabjarg - Keflavík | - Flight from Isfjordur back to Reykjavik |
| Afternoon | - Skaftafell National Park | - Dyrhólaey cliffs - Seljavellir thermal pool - Seljalandsfoss waterfall - Drive towards Reykjavik | - Snaefellness Peninsula | - Drive towards Latrabjarg - Explore the area | - Rauðisandur - Drive to Isfjordur | - Explore Reyykjavic - Flight back home |
| Evening | - Drive to the village of Vík | - Explore Reykjavik | - Drive to Hellnar - Northern Lights?? | - Rest early | - Explore Isfjordur | N/A |
| Accommodations | Vík | Reykjavik | Hellnar | Latrabjarg | Isfjordur | N/A |
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