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5-Day Iceland Itinerary Without A Car — Golden Circle, Northern Lights, and South Coast Sights

No car? No problem. Even if you can’t drive, this Iceland itinerary still lets you catch the best of Iceland, from the city sights of Reykjavík to the Northern Lights, Golden Circle, and South Coast! 

Iceland’s synonymous with a few things: the Northern Lights, gorgeous scenery, and some  seriously epic road trips . In a country bursting with natural wonders that’ll top any bucket list , you’ve simply got to get on the road to explore. But what if you don’t have your driving licence, or if like me, you’re still shaky with a steering wheel?

It’s actually completely possible to see Iceland without a car — and we’re not just talking about Reykjavík city. The gorgeous Golden Circle route, and the iconic sights along the South Coast are easily doable with day trips out of the city. You’ll even be able to walk on a glacier and pet adorable Icelandic horses!

Okay, I know what you’re thinking: Not another overpriced tour . But the truth is, there are some tours which are more cost-effective than driving, as you save on petrol and get discounted entrance and activity fees. You also won’t waste time collecting and returning your vehicle or struggling with navigation, so you can see more sights in fewer days — ultimately saving money on accommodation!

So here’s the best way to catch Iceland’s must-dos and must-sees — no driver’s licence needed.

Pre-trip Essentials

Connectivity:  Our 4G pocket WiFi (~S$9/day)   gave us unlimited internet access, connecting up to five devices with battery life lasting through each day. We received it before leaving Singapore, so we could immediately explore Iceland upon touchdown! If you need to make calls, get a 4G SIM Card (~S$63 for 14 days) for 120 minutes of talk time and 10GB of data.

Getting Around Iceland:  The most convenient and cost-effective travel option between Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík is via economy transfer (~S$23.00). We recommend the SmartBus option (additional ~S$11) with pickup and drop off at popular bus stops and hotels in the city, at all hours.

Accommodation in Iceland: Our Reykjavík accommodation,  101 Guesthouse  (~S$81/night for two pax) was within walking distance of the main city attractions. The location was also perfect for tours, with the pickup point a mere two-minute walk away. We also enjoyed the kitchen and dining area, in-room sink, and daily towel change — better than most hostels!

Eating Out in Iceland: Iceland is notoriously expensive, so we only ate at iconic eateries which are also value-for-money. Other times, we prepared meals with groceries from budget supermarkets like  Bónus . Check out more budget tips here !

Iceland Itinerary Without A Car

Day 1: blue lagoon and icelandic hotdogs, dip in the blue lagoon.

With its abundance of lava fields, geothermal hot springs are a dime-a-dozen in Iceland. And what better way to unwind after a flight than at the iconic  Blue Lagoon !

Before getting in, start with a refreshing scrub with the special soap and conditioner in the showers — it’s mandatory to keep the lagoon clean. Leave some conditioner in your hair to prevent dryness from the sulphur-rich water!

We got the comfort admission  (the cheapest option at  €88, ~S$134.87) , which came with a towel and free drink at the in-pool bar. With options like fresh fruit smoothies and sparkling wines to sip while soaking, we truly felt like royalty.

Touristy as it is, I loved the Blue Lagoon, with its infinity pool and surroundings that are just how I’d imagine heaven — only including saunas, scenic caves and bridges (actually, still heaven). It’s too easy to spend an entire afternoon at the lagoon, which is quite possible since the entrance fee lets you stay till closing. The only caveat is that you’ll have to book your entry beforehand .

Don’t worry about luggage — you can store them at ISK550 (~S$6.35) per pax.

Entrance Fee:   From €88 (~S$134.87) Opening Hours: Varies by month; check timings here . How to get there: Being near the airport, save time by visiting the Blue Lagoon right after touchdown. Take the 30-min  bus transfer (~S$30.05) from Keflavík Airport to Blue Lagoon, and from Blue Lagoon to Reykjavík.

*Pro-tip: Set aside an hour for showering and changing before and after entering the lagoon — no easy feat when you’re grappling with layers of winter wear in a packed room.

Admire Natural Beauty at the Icelandic Phallological Museum

Icelanders are known for their offbeat sense of humour, and you’ll get a hard dose of that at the Icelandic Phallological Museum . A hit amongst tourists and locals alike, the museum boasts the largest collection of, er, members in one area.

You’ll examine over 200 penises from land and sea mammals in Iceland and around the world, including whales, seals, a rogue polar bear, and even some donated from generous… homo sapiens . If you’re weird enough to have wondered whether an elf’s or a merman’s is bigger, you’ll get your answer here (don’t ask how the museum managed to nick them).

Whether you own one yourself or not, the phallological museum is a fun and surprisingly educational way to spend an hour in the city — and a great story for the folks back home.

Entrance Fee:  ISK1,700 (~S$19.65) Opening Hours:  9AM – 6PM (Jun – Aug), 10AM – 6PM (Sep – May) How to get there:  The museum is on the street across Bus stop 10 (Hlemmur), or a 1-min walk from 101 Guesthouse.

*Pro-tip: Don’t forget to take the free audio tour, with humorous and educational narration by the founder himself!

Eat Wieners at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

After staring at wieners, munch on grilled ones at  Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur . Don’t be fooled by the humble street stall — it’s well-deserving of its name meaning ‘Best Hot Dog’, and attracts snaking queues during mealtimes.

Get yours with everything for full flavour — soft buns topped with a juicy lamb-beef-pork sausage and a delicious mix of ketchup, remoulade, sweet mustard, crispy onions and fresh raw onion. It’s the ultimate comfort food on a cold day, and better yet, one of the cheapest meals in the city!

Cost:  ISK470 (~S$5.43). Add-on soda for ISK260 (~S$3) Opening Hours:  10AM – 1AM (Sun – Thu), 10AM – 4:30AM (Fri – Sat) How to get there: 16-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Day 2: Northern Lights and City Sights

Explore reykjavík city.

Start the day wandering around Reykjavík’s most famous attractions. Begin at  Perlan , a unique glass dome resting on six hot water tanks. Inside, you’ll find  Wonders of Iceland  (from ISK3,900, ~S$45), featuring a planetarium, interactive exhibitions, and an immersive Forces of Nature show, where you’ll experience being in the middle of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Otherwise, head up to the Perlan Observation Deck  (ISK890, ~S$10.29) for a bird’s-eye view of Reykjavík.

Entrance Fee:  From ISK890 (~S$10.29) for Observation Deck entrance (included in Wonders of Iceland ticket) . Opening Hours:  9AM – 7PM (last entry at 6PM) How to get there: 27-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Next, head to  Hallgrímskirkja . You can’t miss it as you wander around the city — at 73m, it’s the largest church in Iceland and one of its tallest buildings.

Step inside to admire the lovely architecture (inspired by lava rocks) and magnificent organ with over 5,000 pipes. Also visit the tower (ISK1,000,  ~S$11.56) for a  360° view of Reykjavík and the surrounding ocean and mountains.

Entrance Fee:  Free. Tower tickets at ISK1,000 (~S$11.56) Opening Hours:  9AM – 5PM (Oct – Apr), 9AM – 9PM (May – Sep). Check tower opening timings here .  How to get there: 24-min walk from Perlan; 10-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Immerse yourself in a groundbreaking historical moment at Hofdi House , world-famous as the summit meeting-place of Reagan and Gorbachev in 1986, which officially began the end of the Cold War. Originally home to the French Consul in Iceland, other high-profile guests of Hofdi House include Winston Churchill, the Queen of England and even a ghost known as ‘The White Lady’.

While you cannot enter (it’s currently owned and used by the city of Reykjavík), it’s still cool to admire one of the world’s most iconic houses, along the coast.

Entrance Fee:  Free Opening Hours:  24 hours. Best visited from 10AM – 6PM How to get there: 18-min walk from Hallgrímskirkja; 10-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Lastly, admire one of Iceland’s more futuristic designs at the  Harpa  concert hall, winner of the  2013 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture . Opened in 2011, Harpa hosts major musical events including those by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and The Icelandic Opera. The stunning glass structures bend and reflect light beautifully, and is especially lovely in the evening, when the surrounding Old Harbour lights up.

Entrance Fee:  Free Opening Hours: 8AM – 12AM How to get there: 24-min walk from Hofdi House; 19-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

If you’d like to learn more about each attraction, as well as interesting tidbits on Icelandic history, take the  Reykjavík Grand Excursion Tour (~S$262). Do note that time at each attraction is short (around 30 min), which is enough for attractions like Hofdi House but not for the Wonders of Iceland exhibition at Perlan. However, the three-hour tour is great if you’re short on time and want a quick introduction of Reykjavík’s highlights. Plus, you won’t have to brave long walks in the cold between each attraction!

Reykjavik Grand Excursion Tour Cost:  ~S$262 Tour Timings: 12PM – 3PM or 1PM – 4PM Meeting Point: Pick-up and drop-off at downtown bus stops and hotels (30 min before tour start-time)

Icelandic Street Food

Food in Iceland is ridiculously expensive, but  Iceland Street Food  offers free soup refills, free drinks and free dessert! If I could live in this place, I would.

With the motto ‘Nobody leaves hungry’, this cosy restaurant functions on the premise that if the food is cheap and good, customers will return (and we did, twice). Try a different soup with each refill — they’re always generously piled with ingredients! We especially loved the creamy shellfish soup packed with scallop and shrimp, and the lamb soup with hearty veggies and sliced lamb.

You can also help yourself to complimentary coffee and tea, and sweet treats like mini brownies and coconut macaroons.

Cost:  ISK1,490 – ISK1,990 (~S$17 – ~S$23) Opening Hours:  9AM – 11PM Address:  Laugavegur 85, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland (Laugavegur branch)

Chase the Northern Lights 

Contrary to popular belief, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t a given — it requires proper planning and luck. You’ll need clear skies, strong aurora action , and of course, total darkness.

The best way to see the Northern Lights without a car is through a guided lights-chasing tour out of the city. With all the light pollution in Reykjavík, there’s hardly a chance we would’ve caught the lights otherwise!

Our local guide, Nicola, was an experienced Northern Lights-chaser, who chose secluded viewing spots based on live forecasts and insider knowledge. When we finally caught them on our third stop, Nicola began playing the violin to ABBA’s Dancing Queen — in celebration of the lights which were indeed dancing vividly across the sky!

The tour also comes with complimentary hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries, which are truly a godsend when you’re shivering in the Icelandic cold. You’re also allowed a free rebook if the lights aren’t visible that night, so you can keep trying till you catch them all!

Northern Lights Premium Tour Cost:  ~S$114.85 Tour Timings: 9:30PM – 1AM Meeting Point: Pick-up and drop-off at downtown bus stops and hotels

*Pro-tip: Forget the Androids and iPhones — you’ll need a camera with long exposure to capture the lights.

Day 3: Whale Watching at Reykjavík Old Harbour 

Sample delicious coffees and pastries at sandholt.

One of Iceland’s most beloved institutions, Sandholt is a fourth-generation family bakery known for its yummy cuppas and the best pastries in Reykjavík. Some popular options are their cinnamon bun (ISK375, ~S$4.33), cafè latte (ISK540, ~S$6.24), and hot chocolate (ISK550, ~S$6.35). Opening Hours:  7AM – 6:30PM How to get there:  7-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Spot Whales at Reykjavik’s Faxaflói Bay

The shores surrounding Reykjavík are home to numerous species of whales, dolphins, and harbour porpoises. We couldn’t miss the chance to spot some, so we booked ourselves on a whale-watching tour  on Faxaflói Bay!

Our experienced guide taught us the basics of whale-watching and the characteristics of the creatures we spotted: minke whales, humpback whales, tooth whales, porpoises, and dolphins!

We also got to touch real whale bones and learn about the ethics of eating whale meat. Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, Icelanders are actually against whaling. In fact, tourists are discouraged from eating most whale species (except the common minke whale) as their numbers are depleting.

Whale Watching Classic Cruise Cost:  ~S$127 Tour Timings: 9AM – 12PM or 1PM – 3PM Meeting Point: Reykjavík Old Harbour

*Pro-tip:  If you’re prone to seasickness, grab some pills at the cruise booth or aboard the cruise itself — they’re free!

Browse the Coolest Icelandic Goods at fischer

Reykjavík-natives can’t stop raving about fischer , to the point that their  local magazine even named it the ‘Best Goddamn Store’ .

The brainchild of Jónsi from Icelandic band Sigur Rós, fischer encapsulates the quirky-yet-sophisticated Nordic spirit. Everything from the rustic store design and eco-friendly items, down to the poetic product descriptions, were clearly crafted with a ton of heart.

Displayed almost museum-like, you’ll find gems like Fischer no23 (ISK13,800, ~S$159.45), a scent that’s described as ‘Smoke in the air and tarred telephone poles’, tea blends (ISK3,200, ~S$37) and prints based on Icelandic folk medicine (ISK11,100, ~S$128).

While purchasing is pricey, you can’t miss this “sensory, highly aesthetic shopping adventure”, and meeting the adorable store dog, Atlas.

Cost:  from ISK3,200 for a tea blend Opening Hours:  12PM – 6PM (Mon – Sat), closed on Sundays. How to get there: 16-min walk from Reykjavík Old Harbour, or 20-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Feast on Fresh Seafood at Sægreifinn

While Iceland’s clear seas attract all kinds of fish, you’re hard-pressed to find good seafood for cheap. The one exception: Sægreifinn !

This established restaurant serves “the best lobster soup in Iceland” (ISK1,350, ~S$15.60), a sweet-savoury bowl with buttery lobster chunks and a basket of soft bread. Other favourites include the minke whale steak (ISK630, ~S$7.28 for a portion for two), and the juicy salmon and shrimp skewers (ISK1,950, ~S$22.53 each)

Cost:  from ISK630 for minke whale steak Opening Hours:  11:30AM – 10PM How to get there: 4-min walk from Fischer, or 22-min walk from 101 Guesthouse

Day 4: Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon

You’ve not been to Iceland without visiting the Golden Circle, a popular route with beautiful natural attractions. We were entertained throughout our full-day tour , as our guide fed us with interesting facts, and as a former professional opera singer, even treated us to mini performances!

Kerid Crater

Our first stop was the Kerid Crater , a beautiful viewpoint with admission included in the tour (ISK400, ~S$4.62).

Secret Lagoon

Next, soak in the Secret Lagoon , a less-crowded, quaint alternative to the Blue Lagoon. We liked that our tour included our admission fee (ISK3,000, ~S$34.62), lockers, and towels (ISK700, ~S$8.08), so we could spend the entire two hours just showering, changing, and relaxing!

Geysir Hot Spring Area

We then headed to one of Iceland’s most iconic sights: the  Geysir Hot Spring Area ! It’s home to the highly-active geyser, Strokkur, which ejects hot water 100ft into the sky every five minutes.

This was also a lunch stop, with cafeterias selling soups (ISK1,550, ~S$17.88 each), and sandwiches from ISK790 (~S$9.12). If you’re on a budget, pack lunch instead.

Of course, what’s an Iceland tour without seeing one of its famous waterfalls? The 32m  Gullfoss is nothing short of majestic, and so powerful that there were once plans to use it to generate electricity.

Thingvellir National Park

Our last stop was Thingvellir National Park , one of the most historically-significant attractions in Iceland. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir (meaning ‘the fields of parliament’), was the spot where Icelanders declared independence from Denmark and their first president — making it the birthplace of the world’s longest running parliament, the Alþingi, which continues to operate in Reykjavík today.

Thingvellir is also home to geological wonders like the Mid-Atlantic Rift, where you can walk between the edges of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. There’s also the stunning Lake Thingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland.

Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Bus Tour Cost:  ~S$151.59 Tour Timing: 8AM – 6:30PM  Meeting Point: Pick-up and drop-off at downtown bus stops and hotels

*Pro-tip:  Don’t forget to pack swimwear for the Secret Lagoon! Day 5: South Coast & Glacier Walk

Visit the stunning South Coast, home to breathtaking waterfalls and volcanoes. We took a South Coast tour that included a glacier walk, an absolute must-do in Iceland!

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Begin at  Seljalandsfoss Waterfall , which you can actually walk around and behind (prepare to get wet)! If you’re visiting on your own, do note that you’ll have to pay a ISK700 (~S$8) parking fee.

*Pro-tip: Ascend and descend Seljalandsfoss   via the right staircase, as the left tends to get extremely slippery.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Our second stop was  Eyjafjallajökull , the volcano which famously  erupted in 2010 , disrupting flights across Europe. Outside the visitor centre, we saw a photo of the volcano on its first day of eruption, taken by a farmer who lives there!

Skógafoss was our second waterfall of the trip, and this time, we could walk right up to its edge for amazing photo opportunities.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

We then explored the iconic  Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach , with dark basalt columns overlooking the North Atlantic sea. While beautiful, do note that the waves here are extremely dangerous and can sweep you into the ice-cold sea without warning, so you should keep a considerable distance. You can also grab lunch at the Black Sand Beach Restaurant (from ISK1,590, ~S$18.35 for mains), or eat a packed lunch along the beach.

Sólheimajökull

And of course, the day’s highlight — a two hour hike on Sólheimajökull , meaning ‘Sun House Glacier’. Even gearing up felt like an adventure, as we entered an abandoned school bus to collect crampons, ice picks, and helmets.

Our guide was friendly and experienced, making sure everyone was comfortable and safe as we trudged up 250m of rock-solid ice. It’s a slow, casual hike that doesn’t require any prior training, but you do need to watch your step and listen carefully to the guide’s instructions.

It’s an indescribable feeling standing atop the vast, blinding white ice, knowing that the glacier we’re on will melt in the next 200 years. We also got to peer into a moulin (‘glacier mill’), and sample the freshest water on earth — straight from the glacier itself!

Glacier Hike, Volcanoes & Waterfalls Trip from Reykjavik Cost:  ~S$218.49 Tour Timing: 8AM – 7:30PM Meeting Point: Pick-up and drop-off at downtown bus stops and hotels

*Pro-tip: Bring a beanie to wear below your helmet during the glacier walk, as the helmets can get sweaty.

The Easiest Way to Sightsee Around Iceland

To see Iceland without driving, there’s no better way than with guided tours. Not only will you cover Iceland’s must-sees, you’ll also learn about their background and get first-hand insights on Icelandic life.

During our tours, we heard tons of interesting stories, including why Icelandic lamb tastes different from others, the strange connection between Icelandic horses and birth control pills, and what the Blue Lagoon looked like before the tourist boom! Being guided by a local also means extra perks — like visiting the best but unknown spots to view the Northern Lights, or spontaneous stops at private farms to play with Icelandic horses.

Another cool thing about tours is that admission fees and activities are all included — so no hassle queueing for Secret Lagoon tickets, finding your own glacier guides at Sólheimajökull, or settling parking fees each step of the way.

And of course, the best part — napping in a comfy bus between locations!

These are the tours we took: – Reykjavik Grand Excursion Tour  (~S$262) – Northern Lights Premium Tour  ( ~S$114.85) – Whale Watching Classic Cruise  (~S$127.05) – Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Bus Tour  (~S$151.59) – Glacier Hike, Volcanoes & Waterfalls Trip from Reykjavik  (~S$218.49)

So put on your warmest clothes and leave the driver’s license at home as you explore the best that Iceland has to offer!

Read also: 10-Day Budget Iceland Itinerary Incl. Camper Van Experience For $2.8K

Check Flights to Iceland

Can’t see the widget above? Check flight prices from Singapore to Iceland here !

What are you most excited to see in Iceland? Let us know in the comments!

This post was brought to you by  Klook .

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Aug 13, 2019 at 5:43am PDT

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hi there all in all hw Much we need to budget for per pax? Also what airline u fly in n out w? Thx

We’d budget about $2,300 total per pax for 5 days: ~$900 for tours, ~$200 for accommodation, ~$200 for food (mix of eating out and cooking your own meals), and ~$1000 for flights.

We took Finnair to and from Reykjavik, with a stopover in Helsinki.

For a longer itinerary which includes a road trip around Iceland’s ring road, check out our 10D Budget Itinerary too: https://thetravelintern.com/budget-iceland-itinerary-camper-van/

Hi Nicole…..

Im planning to have summertrip with my son for 1 month as he want to explore scandinavia . Can we have the tour contacts ? And should we booked in advance ?

Should we have like some 1 day break in between tour ?

Thanks a lost , your itinirary are the best !

Hi Tovie, we generally booked via Klook previously! For winter, I think it’s okay to book on the spot…. but for summer, it might be better to book ahead of time.

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How to Travel Around Iceland Without a Car

Transfer To and From the Airport Without a Car in Iceland

Day tours and multi-day tours in iceland, vacation packages in iceland, hitchhiking in iceland.

Can you travel around Iceland without renting a car? Is it possible to have a good holiday without driving yourself? Can you still travel to remote reaches of Iceland without a car? Read ahead to learn all about travel to the Land of Ice and Fire for non-drivers.

The incredible landscapes of Iceland beg to be explored in-depth, but for many non-drivers, they seem to be somewhat out of reach.

Popular package tours

Scenic 4-day northern lights tour of vatnajokull ice cave, jokulsarlon & the south coast, amazing 5-day northern lights winter vacation package in iceland with ice caving & the blue lagoon, breathtaking 6-day northern lights hunting package of iceland with ice caving.

After all, Iceland is a reasonably sized European country with a small, sparse population, two-thirds of it clustered in the south-eastern corner. Much of the terrain is rugged Highlands , requiring four-wheel-drives to even begin to penetrate, and some of the most impressive sites are in the East and Westfjords , hundreds of kilometres from the capital.

These guests, however, will be thrilled to discover that a range of options exist for them, which will allow them to access the far reaches of the country as easily as any who chooses to rent a car .

Whether you book a vacation package, in which you will be guided all around this magnificent country, multi-day tours that allow you to enjoy certain areas in depth, bus passports that let you travel on your own, or internal flights to reach distant destinations, you’ll find no limits to the sites you can access.

There are many reasons guests chose one of these options rather than renting a car. Some simply cannot drive; others are not used to driving on the right; many do not want to risk operating a vehicle in wintery conditions that they are not used to; and, of course, a few simply want to relax and not worry about the stresses that come with taking the wheel.

Whether you want to base yourself in Reykjavík , camp through the Highlands or encircle the country, this article will help you make the most of your holiday in Iceland without renting a car.

Keflavík International Airport , the main point of arrival for the vast majority of travellers to Iceland, is not located in the capital city; it is, in fact, about fifty kilometres away. Getting between the two, however, does not require a rental car.

Airport transfer buses run between the destinations every half-hour or hour depending on flights, and many of these have additional services that will drop you off as close to your hotel as possible.

Top Airport Transfers

It is possible to get a direct bus to the capital and back to the airport , although those seeking to maximise every opportunity in Iceland should consider stopping off the Blue Lagoon en route. Available on your outward and return journeys , these buses will allow you to spend as long as you like at one of Iceland’s most famous sites.

The Blue Lagoon, after all, is a spectacular place, due to the unique colour of its water, its healing qualities, and its abundance of therapies, not to mention its incredible location amongst the lava landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula .

Please note, however, that these transfers do not include entry into the lagoon, which must be booked well in advance due to its ever-increasing popularity.

• See also: The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon

While these buses are comfortable, affordable, regular and efficient, they can involve a little bit of queuing and waiting, and you will likely have to change bus once in Reykjavík if you want to be taken straight to your hotel. Those who wish to travel more directly and in more luxury can instead elect to book a private driver.

Such an option also provides you with the chance to speak with a local at the very beginning of your holiday, who can offer you some tips and tricks on how to make the most of your time in Iceland. They may also be able to point out some sites en route, and tell you about the nature and history.

Those on a very tight budget could alternatively elect to take city buses between the two locations, although this will likely take at least two hours from door to door, and is not preferable for those with heavy luggage.

Once you have arrived in Reykjavík and explored its fascinating local culture and history, you’ll no doubt want to get out into nature. While, of course, you could take city buses to nearby sites such as Mount Esjan to the north and the Blue Mountains to the east, day tours and multi-day tours greatly extend the scope of your potential adventures.

Sightseeing routes such as the Golden Circle , South Coast and Reykjanes Peninsula , for example, can all be enjoyed in a few hours, and the vast majority of tours around these areas offer pick-up and drop-off from locations as close to your accommodation as possible.

Similarly, incredible adventures such as snorkelling , horse-riding , glacier hiking , snowmobiling and lava caving can all be enjoyed year-round within a day, without you needing to drive anywhere.

Throughout winter, you can book Northern Lights tours that will depart in the evening and return late at night, often finding more success than those who set out in hunt of them on their own.

This is because Northern Lights guides are experts at locating the auroras, know all of the country’s darkest, most isolated spots, and are often knowledgeable in catching them on camera. They will also have access to the weather website and contact with other guides on the search.

• See also: The Northern Lights

The vast majority of summer-exclusive excursions, such as the amazing  Into the Volcano tour , also offer pick-up and drop-off.

You can also take a day tour in Reykjavík that requires no driving at all; whale and puffin watching tours are conducted on boats from the harbour , and certain city sightseeing tours are done by bike or scooter .

Those seeking to plumb the deeper reaches of nature, however, and to reach the same places those with a car can easily access, should instead look into taking a multi-day tour.

This two-day ice cave tour, for example, will allow you to see far more sites of the South Coast than those who head out in a day; this region is somewhat of a microcosm of Iceland, with volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches, and diverse waterfalls, culminating in the iconic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Ice caves - or more correctly, glacier caves - are incredibly rare features that only appear for a few months each winter; plumbing their depths is an opportunity no winter traveller should overlook, regardless of whether or not they have a car.

This six-day Laugavegur Trail is the most popular multi-day hiking route in the country and takes you to a region where driving is not even allowed.

Going from the geothermal highland area of Landmannalaugar and finishing in the forested valley of Þórsmörk , the route will provide you with an unmatched experience of the country’s wilderness and leave you in no doubt as to why it is nicknamed the Land of Ice and Fire.

Multi-day tours leaving from more remote towns, such as Ísafjörður in the Westfjords, can also be reached by travellers without a car by booking domestic flights. There are over a dozen domestic airports in the country that serve commercial passengers, the most significant being Akureyri in the north, Egilsstaðir in the east, and Bíldudalur and Ísafjörður in the Westfjords.

By flying to such locations, you can organise trips to places such as Hornstrandir , a wild land of dramatic seascapes and abundant Arctic Foxes, and the East Icelandic Highlands, an awe-inspiring world in the shadow of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull .

Top Adventure Tours in Iceland

• See also: Ultimate Guide to Flights in Iceland

Those planning a holiday to Iceland who do not wish to or cannot drive have an excellent opportunity in vacation packages. By booking one of these, everything about your trip will be arranged for you prior to arrival, such as your accommodation, airport transfers and tours. In the majority of these packages, you will also have a driver/guide escorting you from location to location each day.

As such, vacation packages allow you to fully unwind on your holiday, confident that your journey ahead has been thoroughly planned and you have nothing to worry about other than enjoying yourself. These come in a wide variety of forms, to suit groups of all budgets, sizes and interests.

Those taking a short holiday in winter, for example, could look into this six-day package that will introduce them to the Northern Lights, Golden Circle, South Coast and crystal blue ice caves.

Those seeking to enjoy the trip on a shoestring can opt for affordable accommodation and focus on sightseeing, while those with more to spend could choose comfort or quality hotels and add on additional excursions such as horse riding, snorkeling, snowmobiling, and whale-watching.

This package is largely conducted from Reykjavík, but many take you further afield. This twelve-day summer package will take you all around the ring-road and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , with loads of time at some incredible locations such as the Eastfjords and Lake Mývatn .

If you want to see as much as possible, but don’t have as long a trip, consider this week-long package around the south, east and north, with flights back to the capital from Akureyri.

Many vacation packages also tailor themselves to niche interests. Fans of Game of Thrones, for example, will love this eight-day package , designed to bring you to the locations where many of the most dramatic scenes of the series were filmed. Photography lovers, meanwhile, will find a range of tours designed to help build their portfolio, whether they want to focus on the midnight sun , winter landscapes or highlands .

Some vacation packages even involve a day spent exploring a magnificent village in Greenland, as well as a wealth of sites in the Land of Ice and Fire.

Top Vacation Packages in Iceland

The most affordable way in which you can travel to and from the major sites in Iceland is by hitchhiking along the main roads. The country has a culture where hitchhiking is very common and considered safe, although should only be done in summer.

Not only will waiting an indeterminate amount of time in freezing conditions in winter pose a significant risk to your safety, but you also endanger drivers who should not be pulling up on the snowy banks of an icy road.

Considering the long, dark nights of Iceland in this season, you also have only a few hours in which you’ll be visible to be picked up, and could get into serious problems should you be stuck out in the evening.

Though Iceland is considered one of the safest countries for hitchhiking, there are, of course, inherent risks all visitors must consider. It should go without saying that hitchhiking is only recommended during the day in the countryside, not in Reykjavík after a night out, which, in spite of its low crime rates, is still a capital city where incidents can occur.

• See also: A Hitchhiker’s Guide to Iceland

Coming to Iceland without the ability or will to drive need not be an impediment on your holiday. By utilizing day tours, vacation packages, bus passports, and an array of other options, you will find that you can explore just as much of the country’s incredible nature as those who have a car.

Iceland’s infrastructure and tourism industry are there to cater to your needs, allowing you a stress-free holiday where you do not need to worry about reaching Iceland’s unbelievable sites yourself.

Have you traveled to Iceland without a car? How did you get around? Do you have any recommendations for non-drivers? Let us know in the comments below!

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7 Days in Iceland: A Full Iceland Itinerary (No Car Necessary)

last Updated: December 8, 2022 iceland reykjavik

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading to Iceland and looking for the best one week in Iceland itinerary? Continue on, my friend, to learn how I saw the highlights of Iceland in just seven days, without doing a road trip!

Most people visiting Iceland decide on a road trip around the Ring Road, and while it’s definitely an option to consider, the fact that I was traveling solo and hence didn’t want to drive the country alone made me find other ways to see Iceland in one week.

With that being said, it’s more than possible to see OH SO MUCH of Iceland without renting a car/doing a long-distance road trip. And if you’re just beginning to venture into the world of solo travel, Iceland is a WONDERFUL place to begin, being one of the safest countries in the world and all.

→  All my female solo travel tips over here (useful for you men as well, but it’s catered towards women, just FYI). 🙂

I recently returned home from my first trip to Iceland, and can honestly say the country took me by surprise.   I had high high expectations to say the least – Iceland has become a trendy destination in the past few years – but would it live up to the hype? Why, yes. Yes it did. Easily.

Sure, I was expecting vivid landscapes and sweet-natured people, but wow.  Never in a million years did I imagine what my eyes saw in those 7 days in Iceland.  With the midnight sun glowing 22 hours of the day (I visited in June), I was definitely not short on daylight and made sure to take extra advantage of this.

Never in my life have I been more in awe of my surroundings.  I experienced more 360 degree unparalleled views in just one week in Iceland than ever before – and you don’t get many of those in a lifetime.  

AND GOOD NEWS:   This may in fact be the easiest trip you ever plan, since all you really need to do is book a few tours (links below), airfare, and hotels, and your one week Iceland itinerary is basically complete.

General Tips for Visiting Iceland:

1) Iceland is very credit card friendly. If you’re going to exchange money, do as little as possible. We decided not to exchange any money at all and used our credit cards everywhere. Iceland is very credit card friendly. At the time of this publication (early 2018), the exchange rate is approximately 100 Icelandic Krona to 1USD. To make figuring out prices super easy, just move the decimal point two places to the left. For example, 780 krona = ~$7.80. Easy peasy.

2) Food is expensive. There’s no way around it. There are, however, a few iconic foods and places to eat that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. And while we’re talking about food, I made sure to try a few of Iceland’s famed eats, on the cheap of course. Check out what it really costs to travel throughout Iceland here .

3) Stock up on groceries at BONUS , an Icelandic budget grocery store. I bought a loaf of bread, some fillings (nutella, peanut butter, bananas) and a whole lot of snacks which kept me full for all of my lunches. I easily saved at least $20 a day by doing this. 

4) Pack appropriately. Just because you’re visiting Iceland during it’s summer months, don’t expect warm weather. The best thing is to dress in layers so you can easily adjust your clothing depending on the weather, which seems to change frequently everywhere in the country! When I visited in June, the temperature hovered between 55-65 degrees F, although it seemed a bit warmer some days in the sun, and a bit chillier in the wind and near the glaciers (obviously).

5) Book your tours in advance , especially if you’ll be traveling in prime winter months (December-February) or prime summer months (June-August). Tours sell out frequently, and although there are numerous companies to take you around, each are a bit different and offer different things. Do your research ahead of time. I’ll share exactly which tours I took below if you’d like to book the same ones I did (all highly recommended).

Golden Circle | Blue Lagoon with Transfers | Southern Iceland and Glacier Lagoon |  Snaefellsness Peninsula

Iceland Planning Logistics

Where to stay in iceland.

For the duration of my week in Iceland, I based myself out of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city and most populated area. If you’re hoping to take day trips to other areas of Iceland, staying in Reykjavik is your best option.

If you’re traveling solo and are looking for hostel accommodations, I highly recommend both Reykjavik Loft HI Hostel (where I stayed and absolutely loved it) and Kex Hostel and Bus Hostel (where numerous people I met in Iceland stayed and raved about). Note that hostels are much more pricey than other areas of Europe and the world in general, and I spent roughly $70 a night for one bed in a 6-bed female dorm.

There are a bunch of cute hotels in the area (including 101 Hotel , Apotek Hotel , and Canopy Reykjavik ), but they will cost you at least double. If you’re traveling with others and are undecided between a hostel and hotel, be sure to figure out which is a lower cost per person, as hostels sell individual beds, and when booking a hotel room you can obviously share, lowering the cost of the room per person.

How to Get to Your Accommodation from the Airport

Everything in Reykjavik is walkable, so there’s no need to worry about transportation once you arrive in the city. I highly advise you take FlyBus to get from Keflavik Airport (where you’ll most likely be arriving in Iceland) to your hotel/hostel as private taxi’s will be way over priced. It’s possible to book this transfer at the airport, but I found it much easier to book my FlyBus ticket ahead of time .

Be sure to buy the ticket that takes you directly to your hotel (the other cheaper ticket will only take you to the Bus Terminal, which you’ll then need to figure out your own transportation to your hotel). BUY FLYBUS TICKETS HERE . And remember, you’ll need a ticket back to the airport after your week in Iceland is up. 😉

WiFi and Staying Connected

Although you will most likely have wifi at your accommodation, it’s a good idea to bring along a  pocket-sized personal WiFi hotspot , to keep you connected during your time in Iceland. WiFi hotspots are a cost effective option to ensure you can use GPS apps like Google Maps, check your emails, and catch up with friends and family while away.

With  this portable device , you’ll have WiFi wherever you go (even if your phone doesn’t have service), unlimited internet (on up to five devices at a time!!!), and it’s fast and reliable. At less than $9 a day,  this device  can’t really be beat.

Note that some cell phone plans allow for international use, but many of these are costly. I once accidentally turned on my phone service for LESS THAN 2 MINUTES and got charged $150 by my phone carrier! I desperately wished I had a  personal WiFi hotspot  with me then!

Find more information and plan options here . HIGHLY RECOMMENDED especially when you don’t speak the native language of the country you’re going.

And now what you’ve been waiting for: a full one week Iceland itinerary!

A Complete Seven Days in Iceland: The Ultimate Week in Iceland Itinerary

Day 1: explore reykjavik, iceland’s capital city.

If you arrive in Iceland in the morning, or even mid-day (if it’s summer), you can see so many of Reykjavik’s highlights in only a few hours. My flight from Montreal arrived at 6am in the morning, so thankfully I had the WHOLE day to explore (despite ending up overly exhausted and falling asleep with my head on the table at Perlan → true story). A few things to check out and not miss in Reykjavik:

• Hallgrimskirkja : This is Iceland’s most famed cathedral, and you can climb to the top for fantastic 360degree views of the entire city.
• Perlan : A bit removed from the city center, but if you’re up for a half hour or so walk, it’s more than worth it! Make sure to hang out on the viewing platform on the 4th floor and grab a coffee/pastry at the cafe. The architecture is so cool!
• Explore the street art: Everywhere in the city you’ll find colorful murals and pieces of art just waiting to be discovered. I absolutely LOVED this aspect of Reykjavik! Also – don’t miss all the quirky doors! So much fun!
• Take a toilet selfie at Babalu : If you’re a star wars fan, head inside the bathroom. Yes, you read that right – the bathroom. The whole room is decorated with original star wars characters and big mirrors – you’ll see what I mean once you go in! Get a cheesecake to go as well!
• Harpa Concert Hall : If you only have time for 1-2 things during your time in Reykjavik, make the Harpa a top priority. This modern concert hall by the water is absolutely stunning, and if you don’t mind shelling out a bit of cash, I heard the one hour performance of “How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes” is roll on the floor hysterical. But even if you don’t want to book tickets to a show, you can walk around the Harpa free of charge.
• The Sun Voyager : An iconic steel boat sculpture besides the sea in Reykjavik, and not to be missed as well, even if it’s just for a quick photo.

Day 2: Southern Iceland and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

If you have less than 7 days in Iceland, I highly urge you to choose this tour over some of the others. Why?! Because each and every stop is absolutely stunning. Not only will you visit 2 spectacular rushing waterfalls, but you’ll also take a boat ride amongst glaciers – which happens to be one of the coolest things I’ve done in my life (along with a Jurassic Park helicopter ride in Hawaii and bobsledding on an Olympic track in Park City).

Note that many people opt for a tour of Southern Iceland without visiting the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and while you’ll still see the waterfalls and charming town of Vik, you’ll miss out on the real attraction of today, being the glaciers themselves. Yes, it is a ridiculously long day, and can be a bit pricey, but thankfully if you book a tour you won’t be driving and can use the ample bus time to relax and stare out the window at the stunning landscapes passing you by.

Get a cheapie hot dog at the lunch stop to save a few krona and book yourself on a tour that includes the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – you won’t be disappointed.

Read more about my experience in southern Iceland and the Glacier Lagoon. | BOOK TOUR.

Day 3: Relax in Morning /Free walking tour – Blue Lagoon in afternoon/early evening

It wouldn’t be a proper 7 day Iceland itinerary without the inclusion of the Blue Lagoon, now would it?! Your best bet is to visit the Blue Lagoon in the afternoon/early evening (depending on daylight hours) as it’s not as crowded at this time. Most people visit the Blue Lagoon in the morning, but spend a few hours before the lagoon taking a free walking tour of Reykjavik and grabbing some lunch in Reykjavik. You’ll learn all about the history of Iceland and it’s general culture on this 2-hour comical tour.

I had a friend meet up with me in Iceland for two days and I’m glad I decided to visit the Blue Lagoon with her instead of going alone. While the area surrounding the lagoon was beautiful (take a few photos before you head inside the entrance), I suspect I would have gotten a bit bored chilling in the lagoon by myself (although we did meet a few people quite quickly who we hung out with for a while). It’s just always more fun to lather up and take silly silica selfies with a friend. Oh, and make sure you get a blueberry Skyr smoothie – the BEST!

A few things to keep in mind when booking entry tickets to the Blue Lagoon:

• There are different packages to choose from. We opted for the least expensive package, and I advise doing so if you don’t mind bringing your own towel and would rather save a few krona in lieu of robes and slippers.
• If you aren’t renting a car (which I did not do), you need to make sure you book shuttle tickets along with your entry tickets to the Blue Lagoon. These can be bought together here.

Read more about my experience at the Blue Lagoon. | BOOK TOUR and shuttle tickets .

Day 4: Golden Circle

As soon as I booked my flight to Iceland, I signed up for the “ Premium Golden Circle Tour ”. Sure, it’s a tad touristy, but yes, this route is popular for a reason! There’s a reason everyone and their mother raves about the Golden Circle. However, if you want an even better experience, I highly suggest you book the “Premium” tour as I did. Not only does it visit all the typical stops on the Golden Circle, but you’ll also get to see a bunch of others that most people don’t even know exist (like the crater below).

Rushing waterfalls, homemade ice cream (with accolades for the best ice cream in all of Iceland), shooting geysers, volcanic craters, and sweet, sweet Icelandic mini horses, what can be better?

I highly advise signing up for a tour to ensure you’ll see everything the route has to offer without any worry of getting back to Reykjavik for dinner time.  Plus, who wants to deal with the hassle of a car rental and drive anyways? Not I, that’s for sure, especially since I was traveling solo.

Read more about my experience on the Golden Circle . | BOOK TOUR .

Day 5: Snaefellsness Peninsula

Today’s day trip from Reykjavik was the one I had researched the least, and honestly wasn’t really sure what to expect. But OMG, you guys – it ended up being one of my favorite days of the entire trip. Completely underrated, and the quietest and most picturesque.

Commonly referred to as “Iceland in a Nutshell”, it really comprises a whole world of diversity, from its wildlife, beautiful yet very unique landscapes, and charming seaside towns.  It’s almost a miniature version of the island!

With black sand beaches, bird cliffs, waterfalls, spectacular mountains, and volcanic craters making up our stops for the day, I was completely in awe with all the nature I was witnessing. So many differing landscapes in such a small section of the country, each one more epic than the last. This is an exquisite, unspoilt area of natural beauty – let’s keep it that way!  Snæfellsnes Peninsula, you have clearly blown me away in the best way possible.

Read more about my experience on the Snaefellsness Peninsula . | BOOK TOUR .

Day 6: CHOICE DAY

On day 6 of your 7 days in Iceland, you’re undoubtedly going to be quite drained and tired. It’s hard work seeing so much natural beauty day after day, wink wink. Use this last full day on your Iceland itinerary to relax a bit or choose to plan another epic adventure day – my top recommendations of additional activities below.

Some ideas of how to spend your last day during your one week in Iceland:

Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik : Leaving from Reykjavik’s old harbor, you’ll sail in style on the Andrea, the largest whale-watching ship in Iceland, complete with cafe and a panoramic deck offering 360-degree views of the ocean! In the summer, you can also join an express tour on a faster express whale watching boat. The waters off Reykjavik are rich with aquatic life. Most commonly spotted creatures are minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises – and even humpback whales. BOOK TICKETS

Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure : Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure is a unique and exotic underwater experience. Frequently rated as one of the world’s top 10 dive sites, Silfra offers up to 100 m (300 ft) of underwater visibility. Beware, the waters are absolutely freezing, but they’ll provide you with the necessary clothing to bare the frigid glacier temperatures.

Although the chilly waters are too cold to support much in the way of marine life, Iceland’s Silfra crack runs down between the American and European continental plates and offers amazing underwater views – the most dynamic and beautiful greens and blues you’ll ever see. I’m so upset I missed out on this during my week in Iceland, and I’ll be sure to put it on the Iceland itinerary for my next trip. BOOK TICKETS

Secret Lagoon Transfer and Entrance : Want another relaxing day on your 7 day Iceland itinerary? Head to the Secret Lagoon, one of Iceland’s hidden treasures and frequented by locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Iceland as you drive through the countryside to Flúðir.

The natural, crystal-clear lagoon is one of the oldest natural geothermal pools in Iceland. Marvel at the spectacle of one of the surrounding hot springs erupting every few minutes. Take a relaxing bath in the hot water of the “Secret Lagoon” and enjoy its comfortable temperature of between 36-40°C. BOOK TICKETS

Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields : Horse lover? After getting a glimpse of these beauties on our Golden Circle Tour, I so wish I had signed up for this 2-hour horse riding excursion. On this tour, you’ll ride through lava fields and along beautiful green hillsides, while looking for different rock formations in the lava while experiencing the special gait of these horses.

The Íshestar Stables is unique in Iceland with facilities as good as they get. It’s set in beautiful surroundings just outside the town of Hafnarfjörður, about 10 minutes drive from Reykjavík, with hotel pickups available and different time options. BOOK TICKETS

Day 7: Wander Reykjavik | Head to Airport

Your one week in Iceland has come to an end, so make one last stop at Braud & Co Bakery for a croissant and pack up! Depending on what time your flight home leaves, wander Reykjavik one last time and check off any bucket-list worthy things to do in the city that you may have missed on your first day.

And don’t forget to buy tickets to the airport ahead of time to save yourself some last-minute hassle.

Feel free to share this 7 day Iceland itinerary with a friend, and get started planning your trip! Have you been to the country before?! What things on your Iceland itinerary were your favorite?!

TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY SOON? Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of  SafetyWing  when traveling abroad. Recently, I’ve been using SafetyWing since they cover pandemic-related claims (most travel insurance companies do not). Be sure to protect yourself from possible injury, lost baggage, travel delays, and theft before it happens.   Learn more and Sign up here.

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Travelling to Iceland Without a Car: A Comprehensive Guide

Is it possible to visit Iceland without a car? Let’s discover how to get around Iceland without a car and enjoy all the popular spots.

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Is it possible to visit Iceland without a car?

Iceland is a gorgeous tourist destination, and you can visit and explore it without a car. If you’re travelling alone and renting a car makes no sense financially, or if you simply don’t want to drive in Iceland (or maybe don’t have a driver’s licence), you can still enjoy Iceland. 

In this guide, I will give you my best tips on how to travel to Iceland without a car. I’ll include day trips and tours you should join to reach even the most remote destinations in Iceland. 

Say after me: If there’s a will, there is a way! And it doesn’t have to be expensive. Seeing Iceland without a car is possible, and I’ll prove it to you. 

Why consider travelling Iceland without a car?

The best way to travel Iceland is by car, BUT travelling Iceland without a car is definitely possible. In this Iceland blog, I will show you how to do it. 

Exploring Iceland no car can be a unique and eco-friendly adventure for travelers.

I’ve already shared a bunch of Iceland itineraries for road trips, and I feel this is turning into an Iceland travel blog. But the truth is that when I was planning my own trip to Iceland, I wasn’t sure if I’ll be able to afford to rent a car for so long (I stayed for 5 weeks). 

And I started analysing all possible options of how to get around Iceland and what are the best ways to travel Iceland without a car. 

First of all, if you’re wondering how to get around Iceland without a car, the answer is the bus. There are public buses that go in between cities and villages. There is no other means of transport in Iceland, if you want to travel over land. Unfortunately, Iceland has no trains, metro, or trams. 

Just to give you a picture of what you’re about to experience, Iceland doesn’t have that many roads in the first place. 

But they love their nature, and there’s no other way to show your appreciation for Icelandic nature than by visiting it in the most eco-friendly way possible to date, which is by bus. 

Transportation in Iceland

Iceland’s public transport isn’t as comprehensive as you might expect. When we talk about public transport here, we mean the Straeto system. Many towns and villages in Iceland don’t have enough people to justify a regular bus service. So, if you’re used to reliable public transport, Iceland might disappoint you.

Want to see Iceland’s famous natural spots? Public transport won’t be much help. Only a few places near the Ring Road get occasional bus stops. Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss, and many others aren’t served by public buses. 

That’s why in this guide on how to see Iceland without a car, I’m going to tell you exactly how to reach the most popular touristic sites without ever needing a car. 

How to get around in Iceland without a car? 

There’s a bus service for travellers. It’s great for those who are okay with seeing a few sights. These buses are also handy for hikers and backpackers, helping them start or end their treks in remote parts of the country.

Is there Uber in Iceland?

No, there is no Uber or any other car-sharing service available in Iceland.

However, there are normal taxis in Iceland. 

Here are three taxi companies to use in Reykjavik:

• Borgarbílastöðin

Challenges of driving in Iceland

Driving is the best way to see Iceland, BUT it is not the only way. 

The few roads that exist in Iceland will make a lot of first-time travellers to Iceland question if driving in Iceland is safe, doable, or even recommended. 

Don’t be alarmed by the stories you’ll find online. 

Different people have different experiences. 

Many complain about driving in Iceland in December or March, and they conclude that travelling without a car in Iceland is the best option for them. 

Others brag about the fact that they drove all the Rong Road in winter. 

Basically, it all adds up to the weather you get (which is super unpredictable in Iceland – Vedur.is ), the condition of the rental car, and your skills as a driver. 

Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to driving in Iceland. And going without a car in Iceland is definitely a choice a lot of people make. 

This means that many tour agencies and specific bus routes have adapted to serve those tourists who wish to travel without a car in Iceland. 

So don’t worry if you’re travelling on a tight budget, if you’re travelling alone or if you simply don’t want to drive in Iceland… You will be able to see all of the tourist spots and much more. Check out my top tips for a cheap holiday in Iceland .

Navigating Reykjavik without a Car

You don’t need a car to see Reykjavik.

The shuttle bus from the airport (you take it from the very front door of the airport) will drop you off at the bus terminal in Reykjavik . From there, you can actually walk to the most popular place in Reykjavik, Hallgrímskirkja. 

You can also book private transport if you are in a bigger group (up to 4) or have a lot of luggage. This is also a great option if your hotel isn’t that accessible or close to the city centre in Reykjavik. 

Hallgrímskirkja is only 750 m (about 8 minutes) from the bus terminal station . This is also the meeting point for many buses and tours. 

So, if you want to travel to Iceland without a car, the best place to stay would be around this area. At least for a couple of days while sightseeing Reykjavik and doing the Golden Circle day tour. 

Reykjavik is not a huge city and is very walkable. That’s the best way to admire the city’s architecture anyway. 

There are also bike lanes, and you can rent a bike, but I don’t think it is an absolute necessity. If you’re used to walking around cities, this will be fine. 

You can also use public transport in Reykjavik . You can check here the bus schedule and routes on Straeto.is . 

Another popular thing to do in Reykjavik is an evening horseback tour . Icelandic horses are some of the loveliest animals I’ve ever seen. Not to be confused with poneys. 

Luckily, you don’t need a car for this one either. If you book the tour, they also provide transport from the city to the farm. 

Beyond Reykjavik: How to Explore Iceland’s Beauty during Summer

Let’s get into the most important part of travelling to Iceland without a car – how to get to the most popular places. 

I’ve done all the searches for you, and you can start planning for your trip ASAP using these recommendations. 

All these recommended activities for seeing Iceland without a car are more suitable for summer. That’s because of the daylight, which is a lot and makes it possible to see too much during the day. 

If you’re travelling to Iceland in June or July, you’ll have almost no nights, so sightseeing at 12 p.m. is still possible. 

Golden Circle

When you are visiting Iceland for the first time , you will want to include the Golden Circle tour on your Iceland itinerary. Luckily, it’s so easy to visit the Golden Circle in Iceland, even if you don’t want to rent a car. 

This Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik will take you to all those places you’ve seen in all the photos promoting Iceland. You’ll be able to see the famous geysers, waterfalls, an old volcanic crater, and the must-see Þingvellir National Park. 

Blue Lagoon

You might know a lot about Iceland, but I’m sure you’ve heard about its magical geothermal springs. 

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular stop for first-time visitors. 

Of course, you can mix these two tours if you’re short on time and explore the Golden Circle and then relax at the Blue Lagoon in the evening in this Golden Circle with Blue Lagoon day trip . 

South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The South Coast in Iceland is by far the most touristic itinerary for first-time travellers in Iceland. I have included this, with detailed stops, in both of my 5-day in Iceland itinerary and one week in Iceland itinerary.  

The reason this coast is so popular is that it is full of amazing waterfalls and glaciers, hiking trails, and out-of-this-world landscapes. 

Given the diversity of the landscape, the drive isn’t that long, and you can even do it as a day trip from Reykjavik , but that would mean you won’t have any time to stop and actually enjoy the sites. I would only recommend the day trip if you are super short on time but still want to see this place (I can’t blame you). 

In fact, the absolute most popular spot in Iceland is the glacier lagoon , and yes, you can do the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon as a full-day trip from Reykjavik. But it will take at least 14 hours and might be more suitable for summertime (when the day is much longer). 

If you are keen on doing the South Coast as a day trip from Reykjavik, then I would choose to combine it with a relaxing evening at the Sky Lagoon. This South Coast and Sky Lagoon Day Tour is for you. 

But if you have more days, then please consider doing this as a multi-day trip . That way, you will get to see all that the South Coast has to offer. It will not disappoint. 

That’s why the South Coast tour should be at least a 2-day road trip . 

And one last option is to book a 3-day trip , which includes the Golden Circle, South Coast, and the Glacier Tour. So, if you’re staying in Iceland for only four days or less, this is the itinerary for you. 

If you’re looking to do some hiking while travelling in Iceland without a car , then you have to check out the companies that offer pick-ups to and from the start and end of your chosen hiking trail. 

Some of the most popular hiking trails in Iceland are:

• Laugavegur Trail (This trip offers the option to be picked up from Reykjavik) 
• Fimmvörðuháls Trail (You can book buses from Reykjavik with Reykjavik Excursions , Trex , or SouthCoast Adventures buses from Hvolsvöllur (Gas station) or Skógar. But you still need to reach Skógarfoss to use this company.)
• Glymur Waterfall Hike (This popular trail is just 1 hour North of Reykjavik but not a lot of tours will get you here. Consider hitchhiking or booking a private tour ).  
• Glacier hike (This South Coast tour from Reykjavik includes hiking the Mýrdalsjökull glacier)
• Volcano hiking. Read this comprehensive Iceland volcano hiking guide on how to reach the volcanic eruption sites from the past years (including 2023).

Ice caves during summer

Visiting Iceland implies seeing some ice and maybe even hiking on a glacier or in an ice cave. The famous Blue Ice Cave isn’t safe to visit during summer , but the alternative is Katla Ice cave . 

The tour offers a pickup option from Reykjavik, and it is a perfect day trip if you want to visit an ice cave in Iceland during summer (it’s the only option) and if you’re travelling in Iceland without a car. 

Ring Road trip in summer

If you’re looking to see the East Fjords of Iceland, Lake Mytvan, Akureiry or go on a whale-watching tour in Husevik, then you’re actually looking to go on a road trip around Iceland. 

All road trips around Iceland mean driving the Ring Road all around the island. 

So there is a common misconception about the Ring Road in Iceland. The road itself is not that big (only about 1200 km), but given the many attractions along the way, the trip isn’t suitable if you don’t have at least seven days in Iceland . 

And that week is still on a tight schedule, and only for those who decide to rent a car and drive the Ring Road themselves. 

Luckily, you will find great tours to join if you’re interested in a 4-day Ring Road trip or longer.

I think this is great value for the money and the absolute best option if you’re travelling to Iceland for the first time and you plan on seeing Iceland without a car. 

This 4,5,6, or 7-day trip in Iceland is available from May to October. 

Winter trip: How to reach must-see attractions in Iceland without a car

Travelling to Iceland in winter is a very different experience compared to a summer trip. 

The major difference is the number of daylight hours. 

While June and July are considered the peak of the tourist season due to the midnight sun, winter is the opposite. 

But so much nighttime (up to 20 hours) per day will limit your sightseeing options a lot. But the advantage is that you will probably get to see the Northern Lights dancing up in the sky. 

There are also some activities that are only available during winter.

South Coast and Glacier trip

Remember, this is the winter option of the same locations, which is a modified version of what you would visit during summer. 

The best value and option is to go on this 3-day trip , which includes the Golden Circle, South Coast with its gorgeous waterfalls and Reynisfjara black beach, and the Blue Ice Cave of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull. 

The Blue Ice Cave is only available from November to April. During the summer months, it is deemed unsafe to walk under the glacier due to higher temperatures. 

If this is not your first time in Iceland (but your first time during winter), then I would skip the Golden Circle during winter and just focus on this 2-day South Coast tour , which also includes the Blue Ice Cave. 

Ring Road trip in winter

This is going to be much harder to do during winter. 

Since the number of tourists decreases during winter, there’re not many regular tours that offer a trip around the Ring Road during winter in Iceland.

You can, of course, do the South Coast trips, which are offered all year long. 

But if you want to be mesmerised by the East Fjords and Northern Iceland, then you have to plan a bit ahead. 

You need to get to Akureyri , the second-largest city in Iceland. This is valid for both summer and winter travels. 

How to get around Iceland: How to get to Akureyri in Iceland?

Akureyri is the gateway to Northern Iceland. 

Regardless of the time of the year for your trip in Iceland, if you’re travelling without a car, you will need to get here first before looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the North. Let’s talk about how to get around Iceland. 

To get to Akureyri without a car, you have two options:

• Book a flight from Reykjavik with IcelandAir
• Get on a bus from Reykjavik to Akureyri with Straeto (check their summer or winter schedule)

From Akureyri, you can easily go on day trips to see popular sites such as:

• Diamond Circle (Dettifoss, Myvatn, Godafoss, Husavik, and Asbyrgi Canyon)
• Whale-watching tour (Northern Iceland is the best place to do this tour)
• Grimey island (the only place in Iceland located in the Arctic Circle). To get here, you’ll need to catch a morning ferry from Dalvik, which returns the same day. 
• Mytvan Nature Baths (a great budget alternative to Blue Lagoon)

Why join a tour when travelling to Iceland without a car?

I’m not gonna lie, this will be a lot of visiting, but it will be worth it. 

I put a lot of effort into this Iceland travel blog, and you can use all this info as a starting point for your trip. If you’re wondering how to get around Iceland without a car, then this is the guide for you. 

In the end, there is no best way to travel Iceland, and all trips and itineraries will offer you a great experience as long as you prepare for them. 

Going on this multi-day tour on the South Coast ( summer tour or winter tour ) is the best option if you want to see Iceland without a car. Or if you’re trying to travel on a budget in Iceland and you’re travelling alone. 

Another great advantage of joining an organised tour when visiting Iceland without a car is that it lifts all the heavy research you need to do when planning a trip to Iceland . 

You simply book the tour, and they will tell you all there is to know about the places, drop you off right there, and provide transport and accommodation when needed. 

Since Iceland is known for its few roads and many gravel roads, choosing a tour instead of driving there yourself can also give you peace of mind. 

And this is how to get around Iceland

Or, now that you know how to get around Iceland without a car, you can use public transport to move between cities.  Remember to have a look at my Iceland travel tips list for everything else you need to know (food, clothing and more).

You don’t have to worry about any potential issues with your rental car (scratches, flat tires, fines, parking fees, and other toad tolls). I get pretty stressed out when I’m renting a car. And driving on the many gravel roads in Iceland made my heart skip a beat from time to time. 

I also had a flat tire after driving on a gravel road. 

Luckily, I was in Akureyri (Iceland’s 2nd largest city) and was able to reach the service within its opening hours. It also cost me 45 Euros to fix it. So you can add that to the unpredictable expenses during your trip.

Let’s not forget the price of gas. 

Iceland is expensive, and filling up your tank will feel like you have to sell a part of your soul to the gas company. I dare you to find another place where you spend 100 Euros or more faster than that. 

Well, that was a lot of info. Now you tell me, are you ready to start travelling around Iceland? 

Iulia Vasile

Iulia is a travel expert, blogger, engineer, freelance copywriter, and a curiosity-driven personality. She sees travel as the ultimate tool for self-improvement and personal growth, and that's the main topic of her blog, Juliasomething.com.

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The Ultimate 3 to 5 Day Iceland Itinerary (Without a Car)

Planning a trip to Iceland but don’t want to hire a car? No problem. Iceland is still an amazing destination to visit, even without a rental car. I spent a long weekend in Iceland without hiring a vehicle. I had the best time exploring the country in a different way.

Below, I’ve shared an ideal 3-day Iceland itinerary (without a car). I’ve also included two other days in case you have some extra time in Iceland.

Iceland is an incredible destination. It’s home to some of the most wonderful scenery – from eerie volcanic landscapes to mighty glaciers, Iceland is truly one-of-a-kind.

Many people will tell you that the only way to see Iceland properly is to hire a car. Sure, driving a car means you can go further afield and explore at your own pace. However, it’s more than possible to have a brilliant time in Iceland without a car.

The main thing to be aware of when visiting Iceland without a car is that there’s not a great public transport system outside of the city. This means the best way to explore beyond Reykjavik is by joining day tours or even overnight tours. These can be expensive but they’re well worth it and a comparable cost to hiring a vehicle anyway. Iceland is generally an expensive place, but it’s possible to visit on a budget .

In the post below, I’ve shared my ultimate 3 or 5-day Iceland itinerary without a car. This includes a winter alternative and some other ideas in case you have some extra days. In my opinion, it’s the perfect itinerary for first-timers who have yet to experience this wonderful country.

QUICK TIPS: ICELAND WITHOUT A CAR

How long to spend in Iceland with no car : 3 – 5 days

How to get to Reykjavik without a car : Fly Bus or private transfer

Best time of year to visit : most operators run tours throughout the year. May-September brings longer days and calmer weather. October to April is the winter and the best time to see the Nothern Lights.

Where to stay : Reykjavik

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Iceland without a car

The best place to stay in Iceland without a car is Reykjavik , Iceland’s capital city. If you want to see more of the country, you can join several epic day trips from Reykjavik.

Iceland has a population of only 372,000. Almost 123,000 of those people live in Reykjavik or the surrounding area. It’s a lively spot with plenty of nice restaurants and bars. It’s a good base for your time in Iceland.

Discover the best accommodation in Reykjavik in my 7-day Iceland itinerary .

3 to 5 Day Iceland Itinerary Without a Car

Day 1: arrival, the blue lagoon and reykjavik.

Welcome to Iceland, the land of fire and ice. After landing at the airport, your first stop is the famous Blue Lagoon .

This is one of the world’s most famous spas and for very good reason. I’m not the biggest fan of spas, but this is one of my favourite things to do in Iceland . Nestled amongst lava fields, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to kick off your Iceland adventure.

The Blue Lagoon offers direct coach transfers from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon. They also offer transfers to Reykjavik afterwards.

You’ll need to book your slot at the Blue Lagoon ahead of time. It’s Iceland’s most popular attraction and slots can fill up well ahead of time, especially in the peak season.

If you want to skip the Blue Lagoon and head straight to Reykjavik , I’d suggest using Fly Bus to get to Reykjavik without a car. Fly Bus offer regular airport transfers after each flight lands. It’s a convenient and quick way to get into the city.

Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, spend the rest of the day exploring Reykjavik . Some of the best things to do in Reykjavik include visiting the Hallgrimskirkja church , exploring the harbour area and searching for street art .

If you skipped the Blue Lagoon, you could consider a visit to the Sky Lagoon . Relax in the mineral-rich waters in the infinity pool with ocean views. I prefer the Blue Lagoon, but the Sky Lagoon is a great alternative.

Spend the evening enjoying the nightlife in Reykjavik or try one of the many delicious restaurants .

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Day two of this Iceland itinerary will be spent exploring Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle .

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular road trips . The full-day adventure takes you to some of Iceland’s most fascinating natural wonders. This includes the mighty Gullfoss , one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. Just down the road is the Geysir Geothermal Area . This is your chance to witness the volcanic activity taking place right below your feet. Watch the magnificent Strokkur geyser erupt and stroll amongst vibrant lakes and bubbling mud pools.

Thingvellir National Park is another epic spot when exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle. Here, you can walk between two tectonic plates. This is the only place in the world where this is possible.

The Kerid Crater is also considered part of Iceland’s Golden Circle. Visitors can walk around this colourful volcanic crater and admire the green water.

To see the Golden Circle without a car, you’ll need to join a day tour from Reykjavik. There are several different options to choose from and narrowing it down can be a little overwhelming.

I’ve narrowed down the list for you and shared what I consider to be the best Golden Circle tours.

The best Golden Circle tours

On a budget? Pick this classic Golden Circle coach tour .

For something a bit different, this tour takes you to the Secret Lagoon.

Want a more personal experience? Consider a small group tour .

Visiting Iceland’s Golden Circle will take a full day. It’s a long day, so spend the evening relaxing before tomorrow’s big day.

Day 3: The South Coast

Today will be spent exploring Iceland’s famous South Coast. This famous stretch of coastline is filled with natural wonders. With epic glaciers, spectacular waters and black sand beaches, this will no doubt be an unforgettable day.

There are so many tours to choose from when it comes to exploring the South Coast of Iceland. The truth is, there are so many things to see, it’s going to be impossible to see everything in just one day.

I’d recommend choosing a tour which stops at both Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss . These are two of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland and all of Europe. Even if you’re not that interested in waterfalls, these two spots are a must-visit.

Most South Coast tours will also include a stop at the famous Reynisfjara Beach . This black sand beach is known for its basalt columns and dangerous waves.

Many visitors to Iceland are keen to see the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach . The Glacier Lagoon is a five-hour drive from Reykjavik so it’s difficult to do as a day trip from Reykjavik. Having said that, this tour does offer a day trip to the lagoon from Reykjavik. Honestly… while the lagoon and Diamond Beach are both impressive, I’m not sure it’s worth it as a day trip from Reykjavik.

Day 4: The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

If you have 4 or 5 days in Iceland, a trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an absolute must on your Iceland itinerary.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a remote and beautiful region of Iceland. It’s only a couple of hours drive from Reykjavik and it’s the perfect way to spend one of your days in Iceland.

Some of the highlights in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula include the Kirkjufell Mountain , the Budakirkja church and Djupalonssandur beach . I’d recommend joining a small mini-bus tour for the best experience.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has a completely different feel to it than the South Coast. It’s well worth visiting if you have the time.

Day 5: Activity day

Have another day in Iceland? Thankfully, even without a car, there is still SO much to do.

I’d suggest spending today exploring your adventurous side. There are so many once-in-a-lifetime activities in Iceland . Here are a few bucket list activities to consider adding to your Iceland itinerary.

One of the best things to do in Iceland is to hike on a glacier . A fantastic glacier hike in Iceland is on the Solheimajokull glacier. This beast of a glacier is in South Iceland and is full of incredible ice formations, even caves and waterfalls (in the winter).

To hike on a glacier from Reykjavik, I’d suggest joining a South Coast day tour which includes a glacier hike. My friend recently did this day trip and only had good things to say. It also includes a stop at the Skogafoss Waterfall.  

Another epic thing to do in Iceland is to explore its volcanic activity away from the classic Golden Circle route. One way to do this is by hiking to the Reykjadalur Geothermal Rive r . This river is naturally heated by all the volcanic activity going on beneath the ground. It’s a much more natural experience than that of the Blue Lagoon.

If you have half a day to fill, consider a whale watching tour from Reykjavik . Iceland is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching . You can do whale watching tours all year from Iceland’s capital. Look out for Humpback and Minke whales.

Another half-day activity option is swimming between tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park. This unique activity can only be done in Iceland. The tour involves snorkelling in some of the clearest water in the entire world. You’ll be between both the North American and Eurasian plates in the Silfra Fissure. I’ve yet to do this activity but it’s at the top of my list for when I return to Iceland.

Other ideas for exploring Iceland without a car

Multiday tours.

If you have a bit longer in Iceland or want to explore further afield, you could consider joining a multi-day tour. It’s even possible to do the South Coast as an overnight tour. It allows you to spend longer exploring the attractions and go a little further along the road.

The overnight tours do tend to be more on the expensive side, but they normally include your accommodation and sometimes even meals.

This tour takes guests along the South Coast to many of the highlights. This includes a boat ride on the famous Glacier Lagoon , seeing Skogafoss , a hike to a glacier viewpoint and visiting the famous Reynisfjara Beach . The truth is, this wouldn’t be possible to do in just one day from Reykjavik.

You could also look at the likes of G Adventures and Intrepid who offer small group tours in Iceland. I’ve used G Adventures worldwide several times and can’t recommend them enough.

Winter alternatives

If you’re visiting Iceland in the winter, the above 3-day itinerary should still be doable. Most of the tour operators run throughout the year. While the roads to the main tourist attractions are generally kept clear, heavy snow can still cause road closures. Be prepared to change your plans if visiting Iceland in the winter.

Here are a few extra activities available during Iceland’s winter:

• Explore an ice cave : seeing an ice cave is a unique activity in Iceland! In the winter months, it’s possible to explore several ice caves in Iceland. I’d suggest looking at the Crystal Ice Cave or the Katla Ice Cave . Many operators provide day tours from Reykjavik to these destinations.
• Ride a snowmobile : want to ride a snowmobile across a glacier? Well, in Iceland you can. There are several tours from Reykjavik which offer a snowmobile ride, including this one which also takes you around the Golden Circle.
• See the Northern Lights : many visitors head to Iceland in the winter months to see the infamous Northern Lights. Thankfully, you don’t need to join a tour to see the Northern Lights, it’s often possible to see them in Reykjavik. Having said that, if you join a Northern Lights tour you’ll be taken away from any light pollution. This gives you a better chance at seeing the Northern Lights.

Iceland busses

It is possible to catch a bus between some of the towns in Iceland. However, I don’t necessarily recommend this. The bus timetable and network in Iceland isn’t the most extensive. Even if you manage to make it to a town such as Vik, you’re still going to need a car once you’re there to reach the attractions.

While the idea of spending time in a smaller Icelandic town sounds nice, I’m not convinced it’s worth the effort. Of course, it might be you’re planning a relaxing retreat in the Icelandic countryside, or simply want to experience life outside of the capital. In this case, using the bus may be your best option.  

For public buses, check out the official timetable here . This includes buses around Reykjavik and between popular towns.

Note : there is talk online about a tourist “bus pass” which is a hop-on, hop-off service along the South Coast. However, I can’t find any information to verify that this still exists. I’ve contacted the company and have not heard back, so I’m going to assume it no longer exists. If this changes, I will update this section of the post.

If you want to explore an off the beaten path area of Iceland without a car, it’s possible to get a bus into the Icelandic Highlands . The bus takes hikers to popular hiking trails with a few scenic stops along the way.

Hitchhiking in Iceland

Hitchhiking is a common sight in Iceland. On my solo road trip around the ring road , I came across several backpackers trying to flag cars down for a ride.

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, in fact, it’s THE safest country in the world. Serious crime is almost unheard of in Iceland. Many backpackers explore Iceland by hitchhiking and have a trouble-free time. However, hitchhiking can have its dangers.

Hitchhiking is something I’ve never done. I’m not sure I ever will (unless it’s an emergency). Of course, you may feel more confident than me, especially if you’re not travelling alone.

If you’re a solo female traveller in Iceland , I’d suggest sticking to day tours or buses.

Iceland Ring Road without a car

I’m going to be honest here – completing Iceland’s ring road without a car will be difficult and expensive (unless you plan to hitchhike).

Hitchhiking aside, many of the major towns on Iceland’s ring road don’t have bus connections between them. Even if you do make it to the towns, you’re not going to be able to reach many of the attractions.

The best way to see Iceland’s ring road without a car is to join a small group tour .

Summary: Iceland without a car

Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not possible to visit Iceland without a car. They’re wrong. Sure, you might not have the freedom to go off exploring and discovering hidden gems, but it’s still possible to fill your trip with incredible highlights.

Whatever your reason for not hiring a car in Iceland, don’t let it put you off from visiting altogether. There are so many reasons to visit Iceland and many of these can be experienced without a car.

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How to Visit Iceland Without a Car

• Post author: Elina Michaelidou
• Post published: 17/08/2022
• Post category: Itineraries / Travel
• Post comments: 17 Comments
• Reading time: 29 mins read

Volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers and all sorts of impressive landscapes make Iceland one of the top destinations for adventure holidays. However, unless you have a car it can be tricky to get to all those places, as public transport links are not that common. Having your own car is the easiest way to explore the beauty of this country, but understandably this might not be an option for everyone. Here, I detail some ways, you can see the top sights of Iceland without worrying about renting a car .

Disclosure: Please note that this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link marked with [AD] and proceed to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you .

How to explore Iceland without a car?

The easiest solution to this problem would be to join an organised multi-day tour that includes accommodation, transportation and guides to multiple places of interest. This is indeed a popular solution with many tour agencies offering tours to Iceland. However, the problem with these tours is that they lack the flexibility to amend them based on your needs.

The other option for visiting multiple places in Iceland outside Reykjavík is to join organised day tours . There are a plethora of tours you can join that cover many of the top sights in Iceland. They range from small group tours of about 20 people to huge groups of more than 100. Their prices range accordingly as are the exact stops they make.

Clearly, it will be a bit complicated to navigate your way through all these tours to create a custom itinerary that not only covers the mainstream attractions but also some of the easier-to-reach-with-a-car places. Well, I got you covered. This post is all about exploring Iceland without a car.

Original Road Trip Itinerary vs Iceland Without a Car Itinerary

If you arrived here after reading my 12-day road trip itinerary around Iceland , you already know what to expect. Otherwise, let me give you a quick overview. That itinerary includes a wealth of places to visit in southern and western Iceland. Most places are visited by car, so here I am trying to replicate that itinerary, the “original itinerary” using only public transport, organised transfers and group tours. Unfortunately, there are some places which are simply not possible to visit without a car. However, don’t be discouraged as you can still go to the vast majority of them using tours.

If you want to be completely on track with the places mentioned here, then I suggest you have a quick look at the road trip itinerary before continuing to read this one.

Planning your trip to Iceland

The planning that goes into this kind of trip will be considerably simpler, compared to that of the original road trip itinerary. You only have to do the following things:

• Book your flights to and from Iceland
• Research and book accommodation in Reykjavík
• Book airport transfers to and from Reykjavík
• Book tours and transfers for each day of your trip

How to select flights?

My favourite flight search engine is Skyscanner [AD] ! Use it to search, compare and book your flights to Iceland.

Where to stay?

The majority of the tours depart from Reykjavík and even include pick up and drop off from and to central hotels. So, anywhere in the centre of Reykjavík should be good. Note, that many of them arrive and depart from the BSÍ bus terminal and charge extra if you want a door-to-door transfer. So, if you want to save that extra cost, look for something within a walking distance from there.

Booking.com [AD] has a great selection of hotels and holiday rentals in Reykjavík! They have accommodation for every budget and style, so you will definitely find something for your needs.

How to get to and from the airport?

There are a few companies, like FlyBus [AD] , Airport Direct [AD] and Gray Line [AD] that connect Keflavík Airport with Reykjavík (usually the BSÍ bus terminal and selected central hotels at extra charge). Search for their timetables and book the shuttle that is most convenient for your flights.

Note that FlyBus does not have an official schedule for departures from the airport. The reason is that they have buses departing from there on a continuous basis when flights land.

Which tours and transfers to book?

Below you will find a sample selection of tours and transfers you can book to create a similar itinerary as the 12-day road trip . I will include some examples of tours you can book but feel free to do your own research to find the best option for your needs. Most tours are available through the booking platforms of GetYourGuide [AD] and Viator [AD] and are run by local tour operators.

Disclaimer: I only did some of the tours and activities included below, but none with a departure from Reykjavík. I selected the rest of the tours, based on their description and the stops they say they do. I can’t take any responsibility for the accuracy of the tour descriptions and how efficiently they run.

Visiting Iceland without a car

Unlike the original itinerary, this one includes time to visit Reykjavík. If you want to skip the city, then you can end your trip earlier or select another tour to do in the extra time you have.

Strictly speaking, you will need an extra day to arrive in Reykjavík, as the first tour on day one departs early in the morning. Therefore, it will be better if you arrive the previous day. However, the total duration of the trip will not necessarily differ as there is the option to combine two days in the original itinerary into one here.

Day 0: Arrive in Reykjavík

I named the arrival day as day 0 so that the rest of the day numbering matches with the original itinerary. Use this day to arrive in Reykjavík and settle in your accommodation. If you arrive in the morning, you can do some sightseeing in Reykjavík in the afternoon. Here you can find some ideas for things to do in Reykjavík . Don’t worry, the distances there are relatively small and there is an established public transport network. This means that you will not need a car to explore the capital.

Day 1: Into the Glacier

On day one of the original itinerary, the highlight is the Into the Glacier [AD] activity. Normally this activity departs from Húsafell, but if you don’t have a car, they offer a transfer service there from Reykjavík. To do that, simply select Reykjavík as the starting point of the tour instead of Húsafell when prompted.

Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The second day is all about exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There are many tours that cover the area. After doing some research, I found this tour [AD] which covers many of the sights that are included in the original itinerary. Expect to stop at Kirkjufellsfoss, Saxhóll Crater, Djúpalónssandur and more.

Day 3 – 4: The Golden Circle

The next two days are focused on exploring the Golden Circle. There are many many tours that cover the top three sights of the Golden Circle, i.e. Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss and the Geysir geothermal area. If you want to visit just these three, then usually you can follow a half-day tour [AD] . However, I really recommend visiting one of the longer day tours that make a few more stops along the way. For example, this tour [AD] also stops at Kerið crater, this one [AD] at Faxi waterfalls, while this one [AD] has a break at the Secret lagoon and this one [AD] at Laugarvatn Fontana Baths. Some tours like this one [AD] , even make a stop at a farm for lunch.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a tour of my ideal day in the Golden Circle, and no tour covers all the places we visited independently. If you want something more adventurous, you could get this tour [AD] that also includes snorkelling in Silfra at Þingvellir National Park.

As the original itinerary includes 2 days in the Golden Circle, it means that you will have another day to spare. On that day, you could return to the area and follow this guided hike [AD] to the Reykjadalur Hot Springs or even return to Þingvellir National Park for a standalone snorkelling tour [AD] or diving tour [AD] . Some of these tours are only half-day tours, so in the afternoon you can take your time to explore a bit more of Reykjavík. Alternatively, you can use skip this day and bring the itinerary a day forward.

Day 5: Landmannalaugar

Day five includes an excursion to Landmannalaugar. The original itinerary includes transfers to Landmannalaugar using the highland bus. These buses, originally depart from Reykjavík, so there is no need to join a tour for this one. Simply select Reykjavík as the start and end point of your trip when booking your bus ticket. To find out more about visiting the area on your own, check out this post about planning a day in Landmannalaugar .

On the other hand, if you still want to get a tour, this one [AD] offers a guided hike in the mountains.

Day 6: Vestmannaeyjar

This day needs a bit more planning to follow it on your own as there are no organised tours departing from Reykjavík that take you to Vestmannaeyjar. However, it is still possible to visit the site. To do that, you will need to take bus 52 from the BSÍ bus terminal to Landeyjahöfn. Strætó is the operator of the bus and on their website, you can find more information about services and fares. From Landeyjahöfn the ferry terminal is only a short walk away. To return you need to follow the same route.

While in Heimaey you can follow the same activities as in the original itinerary, as no car is involved.

Day 7 – 9: The South Coast

During these 3 days, the original itinerary includes excursions on the South Coast of Iceland. It covers the common points of interest, i.e. the big waterfalls and black sand beaches, along with some glacier activities. With tours, it is a bit more difficult to do that.

Most standard tours on the South Coast cover the most popular sights up to Vík. Some give the option to add a glacier hike departing from the Sólheimajökull glacier, while a few continue up to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Exploring the South Coast – Option 1

If you want to follow a close approximation to the original itinerary, then on day 7 take this tour [AD] to Vatnajökull National Park which includes a boat tour at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the kayaking and glacier hike we did, offered with a departure from Reykjavík.

On day 8, you should take this tour [AD] to the ice caves around the Katla volcano departing from Reykjavík. Finally, on day 9 return to the area to do a dedicated tour [AD] to South Coast up to Vík. Understandably, as you will need to pass from the main road multiple times, the three tours might have some common stops.

Exploring the South Coast – Option 2

If I were you, however, I wouldn’t follow the above as it has a lot of repetition. Instead, I would choose the tour that covers the most attractions in the area, such as this one [AD] that goes up to Jökulsárlón. Then, I might have returned the next day to do a standalone glacier hike [AD] in Sólheimajökull.

Note that this option skips the boat tour in the glacier lagoon and the ice cave. On the other side, it gives you an extra day. You can use it to see Reykjavík or to bring the itinerary a day forward.

Exploring the South Coast – Option 3

If you still want to do the boat tour (but not the glacier hike) and also have the extra day, then you can join this 2-day tour [AD] from Reykjavík. It doesn’t cover more places compared to the other tours, but it avoids the additional transfer to and from Reykjavík.

Day 10 – 11: The Reykjanes Peninsula

The last two days of the original itinerary focus on the Reykjanes peninsula. There is the option to combine all the main attractions of the area in just one day tour. This tour [AD] takes you to the site of the recently erupted volcano and to some of the important sights of the peninsula before ending at the Blue Lagoon. Of course, this will mean that you might not have as much time in the Blue Lagoon, as if you were going outside the tour.

For this reason, I suggest taking a tour [AD] of the volcano and the Reykjanes peninsula on day ten and then on the following day taking the shuttle bus [AD] to Blue Lagoon from Reykjavík. There are many services throughout the day, so it will be easy to find something that suits you.

In the original itinerary, there is the option to visit the Laval Tunnel [AD] . To include this attraction here, you will need to time your visit to the Blue Lagoon, so that you return to Reykjavík by early afternoon. This will allow you to take another shuttle to the Lava Tunnel from there.

Another combination that includes all these activities, is to take two half-day tours on day ten. One of them [AD] to the volcano site and the other to the Lava Tunnel. Then, on day eleven take a full-day tour [AD] , to the Blue Lagoon and the Reykjanes peninsula. Note that for this tour, you will need to arrange a separate transfer from the Blue Lagoon back to Reykjavík.

Day 12: Departure from Reykjavík

This is the last day in the original itinerary and no activities were included there. Depending on the time of your flight, you might want to squeeze in a half-day tour in the morning or visit a couple of museums in Reykjavík.

Eigðu góða ferð!

All photos were taken using the camera  Sony ILCE-5100   [AD] and the  16-50mm [AD]  or  55-210mm   [AD] lense unless otherwise specified.

P.S. I hope you found this itinerary useful. Organised tours can come in handy when you want to go outside a city but don’t have a car and public transport is inadequate. In reality though, when I am travelling I am trying to take as few day tours as possible. I get frustrated with how time-limiting some of the tours can be sometimes. For this reason, I’m always looking for ways to get to places of interest independently if possible.

P.S.II “ Eigðu góða ferð !” means “ Have a nice trip !” in Icelandic.

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This Post Has 17 Comments

This is super useful! I have never been to Iceland, but I will keep in mind your tips. I would love to visit it one day 🙂

I’m glad that you found this useful! I hope you visit Iceland soon!

I’ve always wanted to visit Iceland but the idea of having to drive around stresses me out. Thank you so much for sharing this post, it really helps people like me who prefer to explore a country by public transportation 🙂

I’m glad that you found this useful!

Ah this post is ideal timing as we fly to Iceland in just a few weeks! We’re not planning on travelling with a car on this trip due to the winter weather and limited hours of sunlight but we are hoping to return one year in Spring or Summer to drive the ring road. In the meantime, this itinerary is a great alternative! I’ll be adding some of your recommendations to our plan! Thanks for the great guide!

That’s great to hear! I hope you have an amazing time!

As a non-driver who would love to visit Iceland this is super useful – it’s so good you got to go to Snæfellsnes Peninsula and another place outside of the Golden Circle (which is the tour I usually see for nondrivers) and the bus to Vestmannaeyjar. awesome!

Yeah, there are plenty of places to see in Iceland that don’t require a car

Thanks to your comprehensive guide I now know that traveling around Iceland without a car is doable and full of activities as well. Can’t wait to start our next trip there soon!

I’m glad that you liked it! Enjoy your trip to Iceland!

Great post! It’s great to see that you can still explore so much of Iceland’s amazing scenery even without a car. Thanks for sharing these great travel tips.

Thank you! Yes, it may be a bit more expensive, but definitely possible!

That is a super helpful post. Loved reading it. Thank you for sharing.

Thank you! Glad to hear that you find it helpful!

Iceland is so beautiful! But driving there can be stressful, so it’s good there are options for people who don’t want to rent a car!

Yeah, it’s great that there are so many ways to see Iceland!

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How to visit Iceland in 5 days without a car!

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Lava fields, black sand beaches, waterfalls, hot lagoons and endless stretches of gorgeous scenery.  How do you choose what to do if you only have 5 days in Iceland without a car?

Below is my itinerary for how to explore Iceland in 5 days without a car, and the recommended day trips to take. Even if you are renting a car while you are there, this will also give you a good idea of what you can see during your 5 days in Iceland!

Should I spend 5 days in Iceland without a car?

Renting a car during your 5 days in Iceland is more expensive, but it gives you A LOT more freedom.  You are able to stop any time you see something, for as long as you want. After 2020, this is also the safest option.

Day trips take the stress away from navigating in a new country.  Especially if you are not used to driving on the right hand side of the road, or in unpredictable weather conditions.

Your budget is also something to consider. The price of small group tours during my 5 days in Iceland without a car was much cheaper compared to renting a car.

For more information on whether to rent a car in Iceland or not read this post here.

How to get to Reykjavik (and the Blue Lagoon!) from the Airport

To get to Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon from the airport, you can book bus vouchers either when you purchase your Blue Lagoon ticket, or through  Reykjavik Excursions .

Reykjavik Excursions is a coach bus, and there is free Wi-Fi on board!  They will drop you off at your hotel. If you stay in an AirBnB you will need to walk from the closest hotel.

If you want to go to the Blue Lagoon before checking into your hotel, the bus will stop at Blue Lagoon. Your ticket will be valid from the Airport, with a Blue lagoon stopover, and until you reach your hotel. This makes it convenient stop before or after the airport, or during a layover.

Day 1:  Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour

Morning day 1.

Most flights arrive in Iceland REALLY early (like 4:30AM early).  This is too early to check to a hotel. There are early morning walking tours available in Reykjavik if you prefer, or you can visit the Blue Lagoon.

The first bus to the Blue Lagoon is at 7:30AM.  This will give you time to eat breakfast in the Airport. We chose to have bacon, eggs, toast, beans and coffee at Bergsson Mathus.

The Blue Lagoon is a great place to go either before or after a flight.  There are barely any other people in the Lagoon early in the morning.  We were there for FOUR hours – so relaxing after a long flight!

For a small fee, there is a storage place for your luggage.

Suggested Reading: A First-timer’s Guide to the Blue Lagoon

Evening day 1

During your 5 days in Iceland without a car, you will want to go somewhere really dark to see the Northern Lights. Booking a Northern Lights Tour is a great way to do this.

We booked our tour with GeoIceland.

TIP:  If you book a Northern Lights tour early in your trip and you don’t see them, you can go on another tour later in your trip for free! 

Even if you are staying in downtown Reykjavik, you will still be able to see the Northern Lights! We were lucky and saw the Northern Lights in Reykjavik as we were waiting for our tour bus. We saw them again on the tour.  It was an incredible experience!

Day 2: Reykjanes Peninsula Tour and Exploring Reykjavik

I highly recommend this tour – it was one of my favourite day trips during my 5 days in Iceland without a car. We saw lava fields, a geothermal area, we walked up a cliff to see some incredible views of the ocean, and got to walk between two tectonic plates.

We booked this tour through Gateway To Iceland

This tour offers the option to be dropped off at the Blue Lagoon.  If you do not visit the Blue Lagoon on day one, this is a good alternative. You will be responsible for your own travel back to your hotel.

We opted to be returned back to Reykjavik at around 5pm.  This gave us TONS of time to explore the town of Reykjavik!

Evening day 2

If you didn’t choose the option to stay at the Blue Lagoon after the Reykjanes Day Tour, you will have time to explore Reykjavik in the evening.

Places to visit in Reykjavik: Go inside Harpa, walk along the harbour, visit the Sun Voyager sculpture, go to the top of Hallgrimskikja church to see the views of Reykjavik, and visit the shops on the main shopping street.

Dinner:  We ate at Café Loki, which gave us a great view of the church and the opportunity to try local dishes (fermented shark is def. not my favourite, but the lamb is AMAAAAZING).

Added Bonus – we saw the Northern Lights as we were walking back to our AirBnB!!

Day 3:  Hot Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle takes you to Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and a Geysir that erupts every 5 minutes.  On this tour, we also went swimming in the Secret Lagoon!  This Lagoon has a little Geysir that bubbles hot water into the Lagoon.

We booked this tour through Gateway to Iceland

When we arrived back in Reykjavik we still had more time to explore the city and eat supper.  We tried the local hotdog (with everything on it) from a street vendor, and they were delicious.

Day 4:  South Coast Tour

Our fourth day in Iceland we explored the South Coast.  We saw two waterfalls (Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss), the black sand beach, and walked right up to the edge of a glacier!  We went as far as the town of Vik, before heading back to Reykjavik.

This tour was booked through  GeoIceland Day Tours

This tour was the longest, and we arrived back in Reykjavik at around 7:30pm.  This gave us time to shop and eat supper.  We also walked down to the Sun Voyager statue so that we could watch the Northern Lights – and they were spectacular!

Day 5:  Last Day (free day with many options)

This day was originally intended as a free day to explore Reykjavik.  Since we were able to explore Reykjavik in the evenings during our 5 days in Iceland without a car, we went back to the Blue Lagoon! 

This was booked last minute, which I don’t recommend doing since time slots get booked far in advance.

We were lucky that were was an opening (at 8:00am).  It was just as nice the second time, and a great way to relax before the flight home!

If you have some free time on your last day, there are other options that you can do in 5 days in Iceland without a car:

• Ride an Icelandic Horse.   We saw these all over the country, and they SO cute, and are truly special.
• Go inside a Volcano.  This is a very expensive, but you can do this in half a day.
• Visit a Museum.   A Penis Museum is one of them! Check the hours in advance since most close at 5pm.
• Shopping in Reykjavik .  Some shops close at 5, so spend the afternoon buying new souvenirs!

Have you been to Iceland, or are planning a trip there?  What was your favourite thing to do?  Let me know in the comments below!

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1 thought on “How to visit Iceland in 5 days without a car!”

Iceland is totally a bucket list destination for me! But I’m so scared of the cold. I’m a total California girl. HAHA

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A Solo Traveler's Guide to Iceland without a car

Updated: Feb 27

Iceland. The land of fire and Ice. Where do I even begin? It has been one of my most requested itineraries. It was also my first solo trip . I did a lot of research before settling on Iceland for my first vacation alone. I was most drawn to it due to it's naturally diverse landscape - from massive icebergs, to towering waterfalls to bubbling lava, this is simply the most stunningly beautiful country I have been to so far.

I visited Iceland in June, 2017...since then just one other country has even come close to replacing this place as my most favorite country of all time. When I visited in 2017, this place was just starting to get on the "tourist" radar. Now, of course, there are over a gazillion itineraries on the internet. What I am doing here is giving you a guide for everything I covered during my 6 day trip.

I don't drive, so this itinerary will help big time if you are a) traveling solo and b) looking to avoid driving for some reason. I did all my trips with Extreme Iceland . They were professional, shared lots of information about the country, were on time - and, most importantly, all their tours included pick up and drop off at the hostel. I couldn't recommend them enough - they do have offers. I usually go with guides that have great reviews like this .

P.S. I clicked around 500 pictures during my trip but I lost almost all of them when I was transferring some data a while back. These are all mostly phone pictures..

FIRST TIMER'S ITINERARY One day in the Reykjavik area

Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss. Pingvelir. Kerio, Hverageroi) South Iceland (Vik, Black Sand Beaches)

Western Peninsula (Snaefellsnes). 

Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Diamond Beach. Optional - Blue lagoon

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Where I Stayed

Costs + Getting Around If You Don't Drive

Vegan + Vegetarian Food

Final Thoughts

FLIGHTS + VISA

I traveled by Qatar Airways (literally just a week before all the trouble with our country began) - definitely one of my favorite airlines. I flew into Denmark and then flew with WOW Air into Iceland.

Schengen Visa required for entry into Iceland. There was no immigration as such since I flew in from Copenhagen. Just walked right out with my trek bag.

WHEN TO VISIT I have been asked if it’s worth visiting Iceland in summer. Iceland is one of those places that you can visit all year round. I went in June and was welcomed by fantastic weather, lush green mountain, crystal clear waterfalls and acres of lupine meadows. It was beautiful and dramatic at the same time. Iceland is unique, and it will definitely surprise you. Iceland is magical any time of the year. Pack your bags. Just go!

The official language spoken in the country is Icelandic but almost everyone I encountered was fluent in English.

Travel and Medical Insurance is mandatory to travel to all Schengen countries. Currency is Icelandic Krona.

WHERE I STAYED

I stayed at the Bus Hostel in Reykjavík. Shared with 3 other travelers. They have the most amazing views of the alps from their hostel. This is where you can pick up breakfast and coffee in the AM. The hostel was comfortable enough with a shared kitchen and bathrooms. The bathroom was spacious, which was a pleasant surprise.

COSTS + GETTING AROUND IF YOU DON'T DRIVE

When I booked my tickets with WOW Air , I also booked a bus shuttle from the airport to and from the hostel. They picked me up right outside the airport. On my way back to the airport, I called to confirm the pick time from the hostel. Since I went in the summer, I enjoyed walking in the city. I also decided to do tours every day, all my trips outside the city were included in the package.

That being said, Iceland is expensive - I spent 8 EUR for a tiny cup of coffee!

WINTER TRAVEL

If you are going in winter and would like to see the Northern lights , you should definitely look at booking a tour that will guarantee a sighting.

SOLO TRAVEL + SAFETY

One of the best places in Europe and probably the world for a solo trip. I was alone throughout my trip. One of the safest countries I have ever been to.

VEGAN + VEGETARIAN FOOD

There was not a lot of decent vegetarian food available (but I already expected this). I carried ready-to-eat oatmeal, noodles/pasta, granola bars on my trip. Used the hostel kitchen to cook myself a meal at night. During the day, I managed with juices, coffee and light sandwiches. Either way, good food IS expensive, so carry food IF you are looking to save.

IF TRAVELING IN THE SUMMER, WHAT TO PACK?

Even the summers here can be unpredictable. I got lucky with absolutely no rain. You should still pack waterproof jackets and pants. A thick fall jacket and a beanie, if you are camping. Good trek shoes. Pro tip: Pack an eye mask (I always carry one with me anyway), you will need it. It's bright out throughout the day (hello, midnight sun). Your body cycle will definitely get affected. Camera - DSLR, phone and tripod. I had so much fun clicking my own pictures.

Unfortunately I lost all my pictures from here but here are some of the places I covered by hitching a ride with fellow hostel mates.. Hallgrimskirkja Church Harpa - concert hall Maritime museum Perlan and Tjornin at the city center

WEST ICELAND

My second day in Iceland was spent exploring West Iceland or the Snaefellsenes Peninsula. What I covered during the day: Ytri-Tunga Beach Unlike most beaches in Iceland, this beach has golden sand and not black sand. This is also the best place to find seals..

Snæfellsjökull National Park The National Park is close to the glacier Vatnshellir and was the setting Jules Verne chose for the start of his famous adventure.

An iconic landmark in West Iceland with uniquely shaped structures that are actually the remains of a volcanic crater eroded by the sea. If you are up for a hike, drive to Malariff and take a 1 hour walk from there.

Arnarstapi area

After a small hike in the Arnarstapi village, came across this incredibly beautiful arc - pretty much the highlight of this place. It was straight out of a Tolkien novel.

Djúpalónssandur beach

The Djúpalónssandur beach is different compared to the other beaches on the Southern Peninsula because it’s filled with lava pebbles. This place has an eerie vibe to it. I spent an hour walking along the beach but I wish I had the time to stay longer. This is also where I got to see for myself how cold the Atlantic Ocean is in June.

Kirkjufell Mountain and falls

Our last stop for this mountain that I still can't get over being so close to. You might have seen tons of pictures during the winter but believe me, nothing can compare to seeing it during the summer.

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

If it is your first time in the country, you have to do this to get a sense of the crazy diverse landscape this country offers.

The Kerið Volcanic Crater

This crater has red volcanic slopes and is nearly 3,000 year old. As a result of minerals from the volcanic soil, the water is a unique and strikingly vivid aquamarine shade of blue.

Geysir geothermal area Strokkur geyser, which spouts every five minutes or so and projects steaming water. We had a mini break here for lunch. I spent some time exploring the area around the Geothermal park.

Gullfoss or the golden waterfall gullfoss, meaning "golden waterfall," is a massive waterfall on the river hvita in western iceland. the name is inspired by the phenomenon when glacial sediment in the water turns the falls golden in the sunlight. the water plunges 105 feet in two steps over a deep, dramatic crevasse in the river valley. as i climbed up, i was able to hear the falls well before i could see the wild, tumbling water. , faxi waterfall.

On the way back from Gullfoss, stopped by the beautiful Faxi waterfall, which is in the river Tungufljot..

Icelandic horses Of course, I had to spot these cuties on our drive back to the city.. they are just like their country of origin - little but oh so fierce. They are smallish horses and are more like ponies.

JOKUlSARLON

Another 9 a.m. pick up - today we were going to be driving to the two most photographed falls in all of Iceland. Keep in mind that there’s an overwhelming amount of waterfalls, valleys, coastal retreats and more that months could be spent exploring them all; an amazing feat if you stop to think about it.

Fact: I think we all have a certain level of skepticism whenever we see stunning photos online or in calendars and books. In Iceland there’s no need for photo editing – it really is that gorgeous.

Seljalandsfoss One of the most popular falls in Iceland. Classic from the front, the 60 meter drop reveals a magical sight when you walk behind. Get ready to get soaking wet as you wait for the right moment to take that one perfect photo.

Skogafoss next stop was the skogafoss waterfall. this is also 60 m in height and is one of the most amazing sights i have come across..

P.S. don't miss the double rainbow!

For lunch, we stopped near the Vik area, Iceland's southernmost village facing the Atlantic Ocean. What I loved most about this place were these lupines - they were in full bloom and were visible almost everywhere. We then drove to the mind blowing black sand beach in Vik with surreal basalt column formations and these magnificent Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

On the way to Jokulsarlon, I saw enormous devastated areas of sandy plains covered with green moss. Not all effects of glaciation take place over thousands of years.

Pro Tip: take a small walk through the Skaftarhreppur as you drive up to Jokulsarlon.

At around 6, we were ready to call it a day at a lodge near the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Stay at a cozy cabin and dinner was provided as a part of the tour.

DIAMOND BEACH On the last day of the trip, we drove to the Diamond Beach (the main reason for my trip) In true Iceland form, the weather was cold and really windy even in summer BUT it was a clear day and the sunshine reflecting off of the glaciers on the beach was beyond beautiful. Our guide dropped us off to explore the area on our own for a few hours (honestly, I would have never left...)

I remember sitting here mesmerized at the way the glacial water gently lapped at black sand, and how the clouds appeared to be slicing the sky in two.

After lunch, we were ready for our Glacier Hike in the mighty Vatnajokull , the largest icecap in Europe. The hike was close to 3 hours. The hike was riddled with ice caves and sink holes. Blue Ice and Volcanic rocks appeared like a painting from another world.

I always pictured glaciers as big old blocks of ice floating in the middle of the ocean but Solheimajokull is a glacial tongue that is riddled with ice caves and sink holes. Blue ice and black volcanic rocks appeared like a painting from another world!

Lastly the Gljufrabul. This hidden waterfall in Iceland deserves so much more recognition. I was envisioning a 10 feet drop when I walked to the other side of this waterfall but I was welcomed by an almost 30 feet drop that was spectacular.

Pro tip: GET YOUR FEET WET. You can walk all the way through to the other side in knee high water to get closer to the waterfall - just be careful with your camera. I left mine with a friend to avoid getting it wet.

LAST DAY I spent the last day exploring the city and taking a sauna bath before my flight back to Copenhagen. In case you were wondering, yes I skipped the blue lagoon . I'm not a fan of pools no matter how colorful they are. If you wish you to do this, perhaps save it for the last day so you can unwind after a hectic trip.

Final thoughts there are very few places that leave me with such vivid memories. even after two years everything is as fresh as it was the day i visited. the afternoon glow, the “greener” than green moss, the fresh flowing water, the magical air..

This is a country where you will find surreal sights with every road bend. I took this trip all by myself - with complete strangers. On hindsight, I doubt I would have been as mesmerized by it had I gone with company. The landscape I saw all around me was beyond stunning and left me with goosebumps more often than not. When you’re in Iceland you just learn to appreciate the privilege you have to live on this beautiful planet.

I have always seen myself as a jungle person. The waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and pure beauty in you has me completely mesmerized. Thank for helping me find pieces of myself. Thank you the fantastic weather everyday. Forever grateful. Forever thankful. Till next time, I will be thinking of you, beautiful.

Drop your comments below and show some love. Feel free to shoot me an email with your feedback.

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How to Travel Around Iceland Without a Rental Car

Whilst renting your own car in Iceland can be an incredible adventure, there are plenty of alternatives to exploring the country. You might be wondering how to get from the airport to Reykjavik or even how to travel the entire Ring Road without a rental car; don't worry, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll give you all the information you need to travel across Iceland without a car and we'll cover travelling by bus, taxi, bike, hiking, carpooling, hitchhiking, plane, and boat.

Travelling Iceland by Bus

Transferring to / from the airport & reykjavik with the bus.

If you're arriving in Iceland via an airplane then chances are you'll be landing in Keflavík International Airport, the main port of arrival within the country. Keflavík International Airport is not actually in the capital city, in fact, it's around 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Reykjavik. 

Keflavík Airport Express Bus

Don't worry though, there are several ways of transferring easily between Keflavík and Reykjavik without a rental car. The first option is the Keflavík Airport Express Bus, which operates every 30 minutes and drives between Keflavík and Reykjavik Gray Line Bus Terminal at Klettagarðar.

The advantage of the Express Bus is that it's low cost, quick and convenient. Another great feature is that each passenger has a baggage allowance of 2 bags, each weighing up to 30kg each. One downside is that once you arrive in Reykjavik, you might need to catch another bus to your accommodation, depending on where you are staying. The bus does stop at six different stops in Reykjavik, however, be sure to check where you are staying first as the city is quite spread out. Whilst public transport is easy to navigate in Reykjavik, this option is suited to those who are travelling light. 

Click here to know more and make your booking.

Airport Direct Premium Bus

If you're looking for more convenience and less hassle, then you can upgrade to the Airport Direct Premium Bus. The premium bus is a door to door service, which means you'll be brought directly to your accommodation; no transfers needed. Each bus has eight seats, so make sure you book this service before your arrival.

Private Airport Transfer

Finally, if you'd prefer a little more privacy and convenience then there's also the option to get a private airport transfer. Depending on the size of the group you're travelling with, there's the private airport transfer for 1 - 4, as well as for 5 - 8 people. The private transfer is, of course, a door to door service as well, which means you'll be driven straight to your accommodation from the airport. This transfer is ideal for families or individuals who are travelling for business.

Getting Around Reykjavik with the Bus

Reykjavik: Public Transport 

Once you arrive at your accommodation in Reykjavik you'll probably want to explore the city. Much of downtown Reykjavik around the Hallgrímskirkja area is walkable. Some museums and other sites, however, are slightly outside of the city centre. 

The good thing is, Reykjavik has a brilliant and easy bus system. The bus company in Iceland is called Strætó BS, which is operated by Reykjavík City and other neighbouring municipalities. They run a network of 27 bus routes within the capital city and 21 further routes outside of the city. 

Buses in Reykjavik run every day of the week. On weekdays they start running around 6:30 AM, on Saturdays around 7:30 AM and on Sunday's and public holidays at 9:30 AM. The cost of a single fare is 470 ISK (approx. 3.35 EUR or 3.70 USD). Although you can buy tickets on the bus, please note that the drivers do not carry change any more. The easiest way to pay for a ticket is through their App - which you can download here .

Taking the public bus is a great way to experience Reykjavik through the eyes of a local. If you choose to take the bus then we recommend considering the Reykjavik City Card . This card not only gets you 24, 48 or 72 hours unlimited travel throughout the city but also gets you free access to various attractions around the country.

Reykjavik: Private Tour

If you'd prefer to go around Reykjavik in a group or tour, then there are plenty of opportunities for this as well. For example, you can book a Reykjavik City sightseeing tour with a minibus. For three hours you'll join along on a tour of all of the most iconic sites in the city, including the Perlan dome, Hallgrímskirkja, the old harbour and a few other stops. 

Click here for Reykjavik City Sightseeing Tour

Another brilliant tour to consider is the northern lights & stargazing trip around Reykjavik. Iceland is known to experience some of the most beautiful night skies in the world. You'll be joined by a team of experts, who have been hunting the Aurora Borealis for years and years. These guys also know the perfect spots to see them; so you'll be in good hands!

Click here for Northern Lights & Stargazing tour

Getting Around Rural Iceland with the Bus

The great thing about Iceland is that not just the capital has great public transportation facilities; the rest of the country does as well. There's a very easy and convenient Public Transport Map , that shows you every bus route in Iceland. The map has been designed so that you can simply click on the bus route you'd like to take and it'll take you to the company offering that route so that you can simply book your tickets. 

Many of the bus operators offer a ?bus passport,? which allows you to travel freely around the country without worrying about tickets. However, these bus passports can be quite pricey and it does limit you to only one bus operator who may not travel to every spot you'd like to visit - so make sure to research where the buses drive to before you buy a bus passport. Please also note that buses run very frequently between June and September. Outside of these months, bus schedules may vary, especially as the road conditions start to become tricky.   

Travelling Iceland by Taxi

Travelling via taxi can be an option if you're travelling within Reykjavik. Be aware that taxis in Iceland can be quite pricey, so if you're on a budget then this option might not be suited to you. That being said, sometimes a taxi is the easiest option to get around, especially if you don't have much time. Many taxi companies in Reykjavik operate 24/7, and can often be found in the city centre near restaurants and bars, outside the airport as well as bus stations. 

Taxis in Iceland come in all colours and sizes, there's no one particular type of taxi. Companies like Uber and Lyft don't operate in Iceland, so you'll need to wave down a car with a yellow taxi sign on top like the good old fashioned way. You can also call a taxi to come to pick you up. There are two main taxi operators in Reykjavik, Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir and BSR. To order a taxi with Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir, you can call +354-588-5522 , and for BSR you'll need to call +354-561-0000 .

Travelling Iceland by Bike

Another great way to explore Iceland without a rental car is by bike. There are plenty of opportunities to rent city bikes and ride around for all experience levels in Reykjavik. However, if you're planning on touring the entire Ring Road then you'll need to be an experienced cycler who is well everything from strong gusts of winds, sandstorms and heavy rain. Before heading out into the countryside make sure to bring a puncture repair kit, plenty of water, as well as a phone with you. 

Cycling Iceland has produced a free cycling map of Iceland - which you can download here . The map highlights all of the roads suitable for riding a bike. Please be aware that for much of the Ring Road you'll be riding close to the traffic and roads can get quite narrow. When you're on a bike you'll need to abide by all the normal traffic laws of Iceland.

Many airlines allow you to carry your bike in the hold of the aircraft if it's packed correctly. Conveniently, once you arrive at Keflavík Airport, there is a Bike Pit , kindly provided by the airport operator. It's free to use and open 24/7 and it's a great place to either assemble your bike upon arrival or pack it away properly before departure. Another option to bring your bike to Iceland is to take a ferry from Denmark.

Travelling Iceland by Foot

If you've got the time, then exploring Iceland via hiking trails is another fantastic experience. Hiking is similar to cycling in that you'll be fully exposed to Iceland's temperamental weather; so it's important to come prepared. The most ideal time to go hiking in Iceland is during the summer months, between May and September. Not only is the weather slightly calmer during this period, however, the days are also much longer. In June there are nearly 24 hours of daylight, whereas December averages around 4-5 hours of daylight.

Some of the great hiking trails can take several days, so you'll want to bring both wind and waterproof clothing that will keep you warm. Several of the trails in Iceland have been used for over 1000 years since the first settlers arrived on the shores of Iceland. Walking these paths is a great way to experience what life was like back then when walking and horseback were the only modes of transport. 

If you do plan on hiking in the winter then you'll need crampons, as well as an ice axe. The paths will be extremely snowy and icy, especially in the highlands, and without these two bits of equipment, you will likely get stuck. You'll also want to bring a good GPS, as the landscapes can be difficult to navigate, especially when the weather conditions get bad. Don't worry if you don't have all of the equipment for this already; there are shops in Reykjavik that rent out the suitable gear.

Along the trails, you will usually find small huts along the way which you can book ahead of time. Each hut is different, but you will usually need to bring a sleeping bag as bedding is not provided. These huts are usually equipped with kitchen and bathroom facilities, however, make sure to research this before you set out in order to avoid disappointment. It's also possible to camp at designated campsites, again make sure you bring the right equipment beforehand. Many parts of Iceland are very rural, with few inhabitants and even fewer shops. 

There are some brilliant websites out there, such as All Trails or Nat.is , with detailed hiking maps. These maps show you how to get around and where you can find accommodation. If you'd prefer to not go at it alone then you also have the option to join a hiking tour. These tours are operated by professionals who have been navigating the Icelandic terrain for many years and definitely know what they are doing.

Click here for Hiking Tours

Travelling Iceland by Carpooling

Samferda.net.

If you're not looking to hire your own car, then sharing a ride with others might be another option for you. In fact, there's even a whole website dedicated to carpooling in Icelandic, it's called samferda.net . Samferða is an Icelandic word which literally translates to ?travel together?. The website was created back in 2005 when a German girl by the name of Anita Hubner came up with the idea after realising that travelling around Iceland can be both expensive and difficult. Anita then partnered up with Birgir Thor Halldorsson to establish the website, and it's been smoothly running ever since.

The way the website works is that users either request a ride or passengers. So in your case, you'll be requesting a ride from point A to B. Someone with a car will then have the opportunity to accept your request and you'll agree on a place where they can pick you up. All travellers then split the cost of gas and other transportation costs, in order to make it fair for the driver. The price isn't always available on the website, however, there are always contact details so you can negotiate in advance.

There are more cars than people in Iceland, so there is bound to be someone, somewhere in Iceland that will be travelling to where you're looking to go with an empty space in their car. Samferða is better for the environment, and it also can be great fun meeting and chatting to new people. The whole website is in English and it's incredibly easy to navigate.

Skutlarar! Facebook group

Another option for carpooling is a Facebook group called Skutlarar! . Skutlarar means drivers, and the principle is very similar to the website above in that users either post where and when they plan on driving or they request a ride. People can then match up and exchange details such as the price of the ride and pick up information. These trips are usually much cheaper than if you were to call a taxi.

The Facebook group was started 6 years ago and already has over 45,000 members, and that number keeps on growing. Much of the content in the group is Icelandic, as it was designed by Icelanders for Icelanders, however many here also speak English. On a side note, even though Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, always make sure you feel comfortable with the person you're about to share a ride with. It's a good idea to contact them beforehand via telephone to get a sense of whether you trust them or not. 

Travelling Iceland by Hitchhiking

If you like the idea of carpooling but want to be more spontaneous with your travelling then an alternative is to hitchhike. Jumping into the back of a complete strangers car can seem unsettling for most people, and it surely isn't for everyone. However, do remember that Iceland consistently ranks as the number one safest country in the entire world, according to the Global Peace Index . 

You still need your wits about you and you should always follow your gut instinct if something is telling you not to get into a certain car. Getting out of Reykjavik can be a challenge, as many of the main roads heading out of the city are difficult to stop at the side of the road. So it's probably a good idea to try at a gas station or a calmer side street. The Ring Road is much simpler to hitchhike, as there's only one road all around the country with lots of space and little traffic. 

It's recommended to hitchhike during the summer months, from June to September. Not only is there more traffic then, however, there's also much more daylight and the weather conditions are more favourable. Most people drive the Ring Road counterclockwise, south-east of Reykjavik, so it's probably easiest to be picked up if you go where the traffic is flowing. Hitchhiking is another environmentally friendly mode of transport and a way to meet people as well.

There is plenty of accommodation along the Ring Road for you to stay in. If you're planning on camping then make sure you find out where the nearest campsite is. Wildcamping is forbidden in nearly all parts of Iceland and we do not recommend this either as it can do significant damage to the already fragile environment. 

Travelling Iceland by Plane

Iceland has a fully functioning network of domestic flights across the country. Tourist arriving in Iceland via aeroplane always arrive and depart at Keflavík International Airport. However, there are smaller domestic airports in Reykjavik, Akureyri, and other cities and towns around Iceland. Throughout the winter months when the roads are blocked with snow, flights can sometimes be the only connection between some towns.

There are two main domestic flight operators, Air Iceland Connect and Eagle Air Iceland . Travelling via aeroplane can significantly cut the travel time. For example, to drive from Reykjavik to Akureyri takes you around 5 hours on the road. In the aeroplane the journey would take you a mere 40 minutes. And although you don't get to witness the beautiful landscapes from the road, you do get a unique perspective of the island from above. 

If you're unsure where you can fly to from Reykjavik, then take a look at their website here . As you can see on their website, there are currently 12 destinations within Iceland that you can reach from Reykjavik. You'll also note that it's possible to fly to Greenland and the Faroe Islands from Reykjavik Airport. 

Travelling Iceland by Boat

Travelling by boat gives you access to parts of Iceland that are otherwise inaccessible, such as the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords or the Westman Islands in the south of Iceland. Most ferries in Iceland only have limited spots available, so it's usually a good idea to book in advance, especially if you're travelling in the busiest times of the year. 

The various destinations by boat include the Westfjords, Hrísey, the Westman Islands, Grímsey Island, Viðey, Hornstrandir, Látravík, Papey, and Drangey. Take a look at this website, Rent.Is , to learn more about the various boat journeys available in Iceland and where they set off.

Iceland Solo Travel Without a Car: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling in Iceland without a car is possible, and there are several options for getting around and exploring the country.

Some of the alternatives to renting a car include guided vacation packages, day tours, multi-day tours, and public transport.

Popular package tours, bus passports, and domestic flights can help you reach remote areas and explore the incredible nature of Iceland without a car.

Solo travelers can also join group tours to visit glaciers, waterfalls, ice caves, and other nature spots.

Additionally, it’s recommended to book a place in Reykjavík as a base and use it as a starting point for various tours and activities.

While having a car provides flexibility, non-drivers can still experience the beauty of Iceland through these alternative transportation methods.

Table of Contents

Is it possible to visit Iceland without renting a car and still enjoy all the popular spots?

Yes, it is possible to visit Iceland without renting a car and still enjoy all the popular spots.

There are alternative ways to travel around Iceland, such as guided vacation packages, tours, bus passports, and day tours.

Iceland’s infrastructure and tourism industry are designed to cater to the needs of non-drivers, allowing them to explore the country’s incredible nature without the need to worry about reaching its unbelievable sites themselves.

Additionally, there are bus services for travelers, which are great for those who are okay with seeing a few sights and also handy for hikers and backpackers, helping them start or end their treks in remote parts of the country.

Therefore, by utilizing these options, it is possible to visit Iceland without renting a car and still experience the beauty of the country.

What are the best day trips and tours to join in Iceland when traveling without a car?

When traveling in Iceland without a car, there are several day trips and tours that you can join to explore the country’s incredible nature.

Some of the best day trips and tours to join in Iceland when traveling without a car include:

Golden Circle Tour : This tour covers iconic sights like Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park.

South Coast Tour : Explore the stunning waterfalls and black sand beaches along Iceland’s south coast, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.

Northern Lights Tour : Experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights on a guided tour that takes you to the best viewing spots.

Glacier Hiking Tour : Join a guided glacier hiking tour to walk on a glacier and witness Iceland’s unique ice formations.

Whale Watching Tour : Embark on a whale watching excursion from Reykjavík to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Multi-Day Tours : Consider multi-day tours to explore more remote and inaccessible areas of Iceland, such as the Highlands or ice caves.

By joining these tours, you can experience the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes and natural wonders without the need for a car.

The tours often include transportation, activities, and admission fees, making them convenient and cost-effective for non-drivers.

How convenient is it to get around Iceland without a car using public transport and organized tours?

It is possible to get around Iceland without a car using public transport and organized tours.

The country has an extensive bus network operated by Strætó, which covers various regions, including Reykjavík and the whole circle of Iceland.

Additionally, numerous private bus companies offer scheduled tours, package- and day trips, as well as excursions from Reykjavík to many destinations all around the country.

There are also ferry services to various islands and fjords, and regular flights from Reykjavík to domestic airports in all parts of the country.

Furthermore, there are organized bus tours and sightseeing tours available, making it convenient to explore Iceland without a car.

The tour bus stops are designated for pick-ups and drop-offs, and public buses operate on fixed schedules and routes.

Therefore, while public transport is available, organized tours and the bus network offer a convenient way to explore Iceland without a car.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of renting a car versus joining guided tours when traveling solo in Iceland?

When traveling solo in Iceland, both renting a car and joining guided tours have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Renting a Car

• Advantages:
• Flexibility: With a car, you can venture off the beaten path and explore at your own pace.
• Cost-Effective: Renting a car can be more cost-effective, especially when splitting the bill with a travel companion.

Freedom: You have the freedom to visit attractions that guided tours may skip and take advantage of the longer daylight hours.

Disadvantages:

• Responsibilities: You are responsible for navigation, driving, and potential issues like running out of gas.
• Limited Information: You may need to do more research on attractions and their history.

Guided Tours

• Expert Guidance: Access to an expert guide at all times.
• Hassle-Free: Everything is usually taken care of, and there’s no need to worry about driving or planning the itinerary.

Social Aspect: Opportunity to meet and make friends with other travelers.

• Limited Flexibility: Tours have a set itinerary and operate on a strict schedule.
• Cost: Can be more expensive than renting a car, especially for solo travelers.

Ultimately, the choice between renting a car and joining a guided tour in Iceland comes down to personal preference, travel style, and the specific needs of the traveler.

Are there any specific challenges or safety considerations for solo travelers in Iceland, especially when not renting a car?

Solo travelers in Iceland, especially those not renting a car, may face specific challenges and safety considerations.

While traveling solo in Iceland is generally safe, not having a car can limit access to remote areas and popular attractions.

Some challenges include the need to rely on public transportation or group tours to reach certain destinations, limited flexibility in itinerary, and potential difficulty in accessing help in remote areas.

However, Iceland is known for its low crime rate, English-speaking population, and excellent mobile and Wi-Fi coverage, which can contribute to a safe and relatively easy experience for solo travelers.

It’s important to pay attention to safety tips such as being careful of what you rent, observing speed limits, avoiding pulling over to the side of the road, and being cautious on single-lane bridges.

If you’re considering solo travel in Iceland without renting a car, it’s advisable to plan your itinerary carefully, consider alternative transportation options, and stay informed about safety recommendations.

What are some alternative ways to meet other solo travelers or locals in Iceland when not having the flexibility of a car for independent exploration?

Meeting other solo travelers or locals in Iceland without a car can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can employ:

Online Communities : Utilize online platforms such as Reddit’s Visiting Iceland subreddit, where you can post under the “Meeting Other Travel Buddies” thread, or join Facebook groups dedicated to Iceland travel.

Hostels : Stay at hostels in Reykjavik, which are often frequented by solo travelers and may provide opportunities to meet others interested in sharing a car rental or joining you on activities.

Ride Shares : Check out Samferda, which is Iceland’s equivalent of Craigslist for ride shares, to find others traveling in the same direction.

Walking Tours : Participate in walking tours like the Reykjavik Viking Walking Tour or a Folklore Walking Tour, which can be a great way to meet other travelers and locals.

Museums and Food Tours : Visit museums such as the Iceland National Museum or engage in food and drink tours, which can be social activities that attract other solo travelers.

Mobile Apps : In Iceland, many people use mobile dating apps like Tinder, which can be a safe and easy way to meet local people.

Adventure Tours : Join more adventurous tours, such as hiking tours to the Highlands, where you’re more likely to encounter friendly solo travelers.

Remember that while group tours may not always be the best place to meet other solo travelers due to the prevalence of couples and families, selecting the right type of tour can make a difference.

Always exercise caution and common sense when meeting new people, especially in a foreign country.

What are some recommended itineraries and activities for solo travelers in Iceland who choose not to rent a car?

Solo travelers in Iceland who choose not to rent a car can still enjoy a variety of activities and itineraries.

Some recommended activities and itineraries for solo travelers in Iceland who choose not to rent a car include:

Day Tours : Consider joining day tours to popular attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, Great Geysir, Seljalandsfoss, and Gullfoss. Day tours are easy to book, more affordable than renting a car, and provide access to expert guides. They also offer a wide range of options, including glacier tours, whale watching, Golden Circle tours, and helicopter tours.

Bus Tours : Bus tours are another convenient option for solo travelers, as they are easy to book and more affordable than renting a car. They provide a set itinerary, specific driving routes, and often include admission to paid attractions. However, they operate on a strict schedule with limited flexibility.

Hitchhiking : For the more adventurous solo traveler, hitchhiking is a potential option for getting around Iceland. However, it’s important to consider the remote nature of some areas and the unpredictability of weather conditions when hitchhiking.

Guided Tours : Consider joining guided tours to explore the natural wonders of Iceland. These tours can be a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to renting a car, as they provide transportation, expert guides, and interesting insights into local history, culture, and nature.

Public Transportation : While public transportation in Iceland is limited, it is still possible to use buses to reach certain destinations. This option requires careful planning and may not be as flexible as other modes of transportation.

It’s important for solo travelers in Iceland to consider their comfort level, budget, and the specific attractions they wish to visit when choosing the most suitable transportation options.

Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to weigh them based on individual preferences and travel style.

Helpful Resources

https://guidetoiceland.is/travel-info/how-to-travel-around-iceland-without-a-car

https://www.wayfarerfootprints.com/post/a-solo-traveler-s-guide-to-iceland-without-a-car

https://apassionandapassport.com/7-days-in-iceland-itinerary-with-no-car/

https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/comments/1497xw8/looking_for_advice_iceland_trip_without_renting_a/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g189970-i594-k13757319-Traveling_Iceland_without_a_car-Reykjavik_Capital_Region.html

Albert Detrick

Albert’s expertise lies in seamlessly blending travel with work, inspiring others to explore the world while staying connected and productive. His engaging writing style and practical advice make DigiNomadGo.com an essential site for modern travelers seeking to embrace the digital nomad life.

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Five Days in Iceland Without a Car

Almost every piece of advice you read about traveling in Iceland mentions that in order to really see Iceland, you need to rent a car. Even with all of that advice, I still chose to visit without renting a car. Now, after visiting, I agree with this advice: in order to really see Iceland, you need to rent a car. Having a car gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and explore the Icelandic countryside. Reykjavik is a small capital city with not a lot to do. The real joy of Iceland is found outside the cities and in nature.

When I visited Iceland in 2018, I was hesitant about renting car. I was traveling solo and renting a car was slightly outside my budget (although I could have managed it). I was also nervous about driving a car in a foreign country. After the trip, I think it’s safe to say that those fears were a bit unfounded. I loved my time in Iceland and hope to go back one day. When I do, I’ll definitely be renting a car.

But if you’re like me and you’re still not convinced that renting a car is the best way to see the country, you still have options. Rather than driving yourself, you can use Reykjavik as a base and take guided day trips from here. Like everything in this country, these day trips can be expensive. However, I was a solo traveler. These guided trips around southern Iceland were comparable to renting a car (and paying for the gas and insurance).

Here’s how I spent five car free days in Iceland.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hello, Iceland!

My flight from the US landed early in the morning and by 7:30 am, I had cleared customs. Since I wasn’t renting a car in Iceland, I jumped on a bus headed for Reykjavik. Keflavik airport is nearly an hour outside of Reykjavik, so getting to the center can take some time. However, Iceland has a small population, so traffic is not a concern, especially if you arrive as early as I did. I used a bus service at the airport to go to the main bus station in Reykjavik. From here, you can rent cars, catch another bus to your hotel, or simply walk like I did. By 10:00 am, I had made it to my guest house.

Despite my early arrival, my room was ready and I was able to drop off my bag. If you are not able to store your bag at your accommodation, there are lockers at the bus station.

I never book any sightseeing in advance for my first day in a new city. There’s always a chance something could go wrong with travel and you will end up delayed. So instead, I spent the afternoon wandering through the city center of Reykjavik. This is the largest city in Iceland, but one afternoon is more than enough time to wander the streets, pop into the main church, grab an expensive lunch, and stop for some groceries. If you’re just wandering in Reykjavik, this is one day where you definitely won’t need a car in Iceland.

Take advantage of the grocery stores here. Meals in restaurants can cost over $30 per entree. That said, every meal I had from a restaurant in Iceland was delicious.

Day 2 – The South Coast of Iceland and the Black Sand Beaches

Most of the beauty of this country is found outside of its cities. This is why nearly everyone encourages you to rent a car for your visit to Iceland. But even without a car, you still have options.

For two of the five days of my trip, I booked excursions with Your Day Tours . I picked this company because they offer smaller groups. So rather than an oversized bus packed with tourist, our small group traveled in a minibus. The tours are capped at 18. But on both of my trips, we only had about ten people, and we all of us plenty of space.

Each morning, the driver picked me up at my guesthouse. One day I was the last person to be picked up, while the other day I was first. It just depends where your hotel is and where you’re going that day. Since these tours are small groups, it does not take long to pick up everyone and get on the road.

Today was all about the south coast of Iceland : waterfalls, glaciers, and the black sand beaches. Our first stop was at Skogafoss, which is a massive, iconic waterfall. Here we had enough time to take our photos and climb to the very top. This is the one stop where I wish we would have had more time. At the top of Skogafoss, a hiking trail, nicknamed “The Waterfall Way” leads off to even more waterfalls and scenery. I know I wouldn’t have hiked the entire trail, but I would have liked to follow it at least part of the way. But I had to get back to the bus so I didn’t get stranded here. Not that this would have been a terrible place to get stranded.

Next, we continued down the coast before eventually ending at Vik and Reynisfara. Since this was the only place along the way that sold food, we stopped here for a longer stop so people could get some lunch. I skipped lunch and spent time walking along the black sand beaches before the rain started.

After lunch, we turned around and headed back toward Reykjavik, stopping for to walk out to Sólheimajökull, a glacier and UNESCO world heritage site. Later we stopped at Seljalandsfoss, another waterfall that is positioned in such a way that you can walk behind the falling water.

We were back in Reykjavik in time for dinner.

Day 3 – Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

On day three I woke up early for another excursion, this time to have a once in a life time experience. In Iceland, the North American and Eurasian plates meet and between them, you’ll find the Silfra fissure full of crystal clear water. You can snorkel in this fissure and while it’s very cold, it still remains as one of the coolest things I have ever done.

Again, I did this with a tour company that provided transportation (although if you had rented a car for your Icelandic vacation, you could have driven here yourself). They picked me up at my guesthouse and dropped me back off after. They provide drysuits or wetsuits (depending on your preference at booking), as well as all snorkel gear. The drysuits will keep you mostly dry and go over your clothes and limit your movement. If you want more freedom of movement, book a tour that offers a wetsuit. Just realize it will be cold in a wetsuit. The water here is just above freezing, so it’s very cold, even in a wet suit. You’re cold initially, but your body adjusts and you realize how crazy of an experience this is. However, by the end, I was more than ready to get out and put on some warm, dry clothes.

This excursion only lasts a few hours, so it can be done either in the morning or the afternoon, leaving the other free. I opted to do this in the morning, which proved to be a great decision since we had sunshine in the morning and rain in the afternoon. Weather changes constantly in Iceland so you just have to hope the weather cooperates with your plans.

Back in Reykjavik, I wandered downtown some more, did some souvenir shopping, and relaxed a bit. If you want to pack in even more adventure, consider booking another tour in the afternoon, or combining your snorkeling with another tour.

Day 4 – The Golden Circle

This is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik. In fact, it may be one of the most popular things to do in this country. If you rented a car, you can explore on your own. For those of us traveling Iceland without a car, there’s several tour companies that will take you to the most popular sights.

The Golden Circle takes you through some of Iceland’s most beautiful scenery, stopping at waterfalls, national parks, and a hot spring. What’s not to love? I also booked this tour with Your Day Tours, who once again picked me up and dropped me off at my guesthouse. This time I had a different guide and despite it being another full day tour, her talk about Iceland was different than what I learned on Day 2. I was thrilled that I got to learn something new instead of listening to the same history of Iceland again.

We started at Þingvellir, a national park northeast of Reykjavik. Here we walked between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates (not as cool as snorkeling between them, but it was a much warmer experience!), took in the scenery, and visited Gullfoss, another waterfall here in Iceland.

Later we visited Geysir, the geyser that all other geysers in the world are named after. Geysir is no longer active, but just a short walk away is another geyser that is active and attracts hoards of tourists. This was tied for the most tourists I saw in one place during my entire trip to Iceland (the other place was the Blue Lagoon).

For our last stop we went to Secret Lagoon, a hot spring where we could all soak and relax for awhile before heading back to Reykjavik. This hot spring has a significantly different feel than the Blue Lagoon. This hot spring had tourists, but it was also being used by locals who have incorporated it into their routine.

We got back to Reykjavik later in the day, which left enough time to get dinner.

Day 5 – The Blue Lagoon and Flying Home

My flight left Iceland at 2:00 in the afternoon and I was unsure of how I wanted to spend my morning. My original plan before landing in Iceland was that I could explore more of Reykjavik. But by day five, I was kind of bored with Reykjavik. So while booking my transfer back to Keflavik airport, I decided to splurge and go to the Blue Lagoon. Since the Blue Lagoon is on the way to the airport, many transfer services offer connections between Keflavik airport, the Blue Lagoon, and the Reykjavik city center (and the reverse).

I had originally not planned on doing this because I just heard how touristy it was. However, the idea of hanging around my guesthouse for hours in the morning didn’t sound too appealing, so I decided to give it a try. I was in Iceland after all. I’ll admit, I enjoyed the Blue Lagoon a lot more than I thought I would. Maybe it was because I had low expectations going into it, but it was very relaxing sitting and soaking in the hot spring. It was so much better than sitting in the airport or my guesthouse.

When it was time to leave, I boarded the same bus and headed out to the airport. Good bye, Iceland.

Final Thoughts

This itinerary worked very well for me. There were a few places I would have loved to stay at longer (Skogafoss) as well as some places I was ready to leave sooner (Reynisfara). However, with group tours you just don’t have that luxury. Still, I think an itinerary like this is a great option if you want to avoid renting a car, but still have more freedom than a multi-day tour. With these day tours, not only do you see the amazing natural beauty of Iceland, you also get a dose of history and culture from your guides. If I had had my own car, I wouldn’t have learned as much about the history of Iceland as I did.

If I were to do this first time trip to Iceland all over again, I believe I would still do it the same way, with day tours instead of a rental car. The tours gave me a great introduction to Iceland and allowed me to figure out which parts of Iceland I want to dive deeper into on my next trip. At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference. Despite what you may read online, it’s absolutely possible to see Iceland without a car.

Continue Your Adventure

Silfra Fissure : Snorkeling at Silfra is an incredible experience and one you have to do when you’re in Iceland.

South Coast of Iceland : From waterfalls to beaches to glaciers, the South Coast of Iceland has a little bit of everything.

Golden Circle : For more waterfalls and a national park, travel around Iceland’s Golden Circle .

Iceland : Check out my Iceland Travel Guide to learn more about planning your trip.

For More Nature and Hiking Focused Itineraries : Try 10 Days in Colorado , 9 Days in Costa Rica , or 10 Day Utah National Park Road Trip .

For More Short Trips: Try 5 Days in Zurich or Two Days in the Loire Valley (Without a Car!) .

The trip sounded fantastic and your photos were stunning

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Perfect 10 days in Iceland itinerary without car

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It would be difficult to do justice to the natural beauty of Iceland in such a short amount of time, but 10 days is enough to get a good taste of what this unique country has to offer. We are sharing our 10 days in Iceland itinerary to help make your trip planning a little easier!

From the capital city of Reykjavik to the stunning scenery of the Golden Circle and the North, Iceland is a place that will stay with you long after you leave. 

By following this Iceland 10 day itinerary you can not only check off various natural sites and attractions but also soak in multiple geothermal spas with ease!

10 days in Iceland itinerary: Planning your trip to Iceland and sightseeing 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

As you must have read in the title, this 10 day Iceland itinerary is perfect for those who do not wish to rent a car and drive. 

I experienced this itinerary firsthand when I traveled solo, as I had no intention of driving, so I researched, read reviews, and picked day tours, excursions, and flights to enjoy everything that I had on my Iceland bucket list . 

Here is how my Iceland itinerary looked like, 

10 days in Iceland itinerary

• Day 1 in Iceland: Arrive at Keflavik Airport and enjoy the Blue Lagoon. Overnight in Reykjavik
• Day 2 in Iceland: Explore Reykjavik. Optional northern lights tour
• Day 3 in Iceland: Take a day trip to the Golden Circle highlights
• Day 4 in Iceland : Check off south Iceland waterfalls and Vik + Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (optional)
• Day 5 in Iceland: Visit the Snaefellsnes peninsula
• Day 6 in Iceland: Learn about Icelandic sagas in the Highlands (Silver Circle)
• Day 7 in Iceland: Activity day (volcano hike, snowmobile tour, glacier walk, ice caving tour) 
• Day 8 in Iceland: Travel to Akureyri in north Iceland. Overnight in Akureyri
• Day 9 in Iceland : Day trip to Myvatn Lake area and waterfalls
• Day 10 in Iceland: Return to Reykjavik and soak in Sky Lagoon

Other Iceland trips : 3 days in Iceland itinerary | 5 days in Iceland | 8 days in Iceland itinerary

If you are looking for a 10 day Iceland Ring Road trip itinerary, you can use the same attractions and stops for each day as outlined above – just that you will be driving yourself without a guide leading the way. 

It is totally possible to do it on your own, relax and enjoy your Iceland road trip. 

In terms of costs, if you are traveling solo remember that you won’t be splitting car rental, insurance, and gas expenses with anyone, so it is worth considering a day tour (and not worrying about driving, gas, parking fees, etc). 

Popular tours like Golden Circle, South coast, and the excursion to Snaefellsnes peninsula are usually available for around/less than 100 USD per person (it includes pick up, drop off from the hotel, and parking fees on the natural attraction site).

I have included links to all the tours I took, plus a few extras to cover different seasonal activities and a Plan B should you need one. Some tour operators require at least 2 bookings to launch the tour, hence the extra options! 

Based on tour availability you can always move the days around. For the most part of the Iceland itinerary, you will be based out of Reykjavik and going on day tours from there. 

For exploring northern Iceland we will suggest a flight ride (but more on that later).

Is it possible to visit Iceland without a car?

Yes, it is. We never rented a car in Iceland on all of our trips. It is 10000% possible to explore Iceland, including the famous Ring Road attractions, waterfalls, cool landscapes, and more without renting a car or driving. 

We rely on public transportation, and tours to explore destinations, and Iceland was no different. 

Don’t hesitate to book a guided tour. Tours in Iceland are not intrusive – they will pick you up and drop you off, and provide guidance so that you are safe and able to enjoy (without hand-holding).

I personally had a great time. I was able to relax, and take a TON of photos and videos (I used my tripod and got my own shots without any people in them!). 

So yes, it is totally possible to see and enjoy Iceland without renting a car!

Day 1 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Arrive at Keflavik Airport, visit Blue Lagoon and stay overnight in Reykjavik

Your first point of entry into Iceland will be at the Keflavik International Airport . It is the main airport of the country and is located about 45 minutes from the capital city of Reykjavik. 

Keflavik is the hub of IcelandAir, so you won’t have any issues finding flights. 

Most flights from North America arrive in Keflavik in the morning and that gives you ample time to settle in on your very first day. 

If you are picking up a car rental, we recommend reserving a vehicle before your arrival. You should be able to start from the airport for your Iceland ring road trip. 

If not renting a car – perfect! You can ride an airport transfer bus to Reykavik. It will take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour (with a stop at the BSI main Bus Terminal). 

Note that a bus transfer is one of the affordable ways to get to the capital city, without renting a car or paying for a taxi. 

Here is our detailed guide with a step-by-step process for getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik.

Book a Keflavik to Reykjavik transfer

Stop at Blue Lagoon 

With a bus ride, you can also arrange for a stop at the famous Blue Lagoon Spa before making your way to the capital city. It is located about 15 minutes from the Keflavik airport. 

Tickets: 

• Transfer only: Book this transfer from Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik. 
• Tickets + Transfer: Book Here

The Blue Lagoon is a man-made geothermal spa and it is still on every first-timer’s Iceland bucket list. And for a good reason. It is known for its healing waters. 

And the lovely warm pool is the perfect place to unwind after a long flight, and enjoy its mineral-rich waters. 

Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on this Icelandic institution.

We recommend making a reservation prior to your visit to the Blue Lagoon . Their tickets get sold out fast (and sometimes weeks in advance), so plan ahead of time and make your bookings online.

• There are 3 types of packages available for purchase at the Blue Lagoon. 
• The basic or the Comfort Package is all you need. In this, you get access to the waters, public changing facilities, a silica mud mask, a drink, and a towel. 

Once in, you can stay as long as you like. 

If you are hungry you can grab a bite to eat at the Cafe, or enjoy drinks from the swim-up bar. 

There is a luggage storage room at the Lagoon entrance area where you can store your backpacks and suitcase. Storage fees start at 800 ISK.

We recommend spending 2-4 hours at the Blue Lagoon and then making your way to your centrally located hotel in Reykjavik. 

When paying for the transfer ticket, pay attention to the timetable/schedule so that you can get a ride to the capital city. 

Where to stay in Reykjavik Iceland?

• Center Hotels Plaza: I loved staying at the Center Hotel in Reykjavik, and it is hands down one of my favorites! I had a lovely deluxe room with a panoramic view of the entire city – imagine waking up to this view – every morning! The hotel offers free breakfast as well and is within walking distance of many attractions. Book your stay here
• Guesthouse Sunna: Sunna is located near the iconic Hallgrimskirkja. Popular Loki cafe is also a few steps away. I stayed here solo and highly recommend this clean guesthouse. You can pay for breakfast and parking when renting a car. Check out more review 
• Room with a View Apartments: Located on the main street of Reykjavik Laugavegur, we stayed here on our very first trip to Iceland with my husband. The rooms are very spacious and perfect when traveling with a lot of gear or luggage. Book your stay here

Walking food tour in Reykjavik

After checking into your hotel, relax and get ready for a nice stroll in the evening. 

You can also book a three-hour food tour that offers five samples of Icelandic delicacies including a beer! Here is what I booked

This will be your dinner. 

If you prefer not to do a tour, then you can pick one of these options for a traditional Icelandic meal. 

• 101 Reykjavik Street Food
• Baejarins Beztu
• Svarta Kaffid 

Be sure to try some traditional Icelandic food like lamb stew or smoked salmon, and don’t forget to sample the local beer and Brennivin schnapps. 

Reykjavik might be small compared to other major cities, but it has a big personality, and you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to keep you entertained. Read our guide on free things to do in Reykjavik

Day 2 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Explore Reykjavik. Optional northern lights tour

Day 2 of the Iceland itinerary is all about exploring the capital city. You won’t need a car to visit Reykjavik’s prime attractions. They can be easily explored on foot. 

If interested you can either reserve a spot on a free walking tour or a Viking history tour here

Now, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city, and it’s full of charm. Start your day with a warm breakfast at Cafe Loki and then head to the Hallgrimskirkja church for a panoramic view of the city.

Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja is the tallest church in the whole of Iceland. The interiors of the church are simple yet grand. 

Step inside the church to admire the pipe organs and the simplicity of the altar and the hall. 

There is no cost to go inside or around the building. 

Right outside the prayer hall, you will find a small souvenir and ticket shop. 

Here you can buy entry tickets to access the church lift to the top. It costs 1 000 ISK. 

We have to warn you that it gets super windy up there, but the ride is worth the money and effort as the city look pretty colorful and charming from up there!

Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church and is open every day. 

Right outside the church, you will find a massive statue of Leif Eriksson, an Icelandic explorer. 

You will occasionally find musicians, performers, and parades taking place here at the church square/complex. 

Next, go strolling down the streets and take in the colorful buildings and vibrant street art. 

It is a good idea to head towards the beautiful harbourfront, and this is where you will find the gorgeous Harpa Concert Hall (the same place from where the food tour kicked off on day 1), and then make your way to the Sun Voyager. 

The Sun Voyager Sculpture

The Sun Voyager is a sculpture made of steel and glass structure and it denotes a dreamboat or an ode to the Sun. 

The sculpture stands for dreams of hope and progress. 

It is completely free to visit the Sun Voyager or take photos. 

Up next is the Perlan, another of Reykjavik’s iconic buildings. 

The observation deck at the Perlan offers 360-degree views of the city and surrounding mountains and makes for a nice stop if you are tired from all the walking. 

Inside the complex, you will also find a museum and a large planetarium. There is also a café, restaurant, and gift shop inside Perlan. 

The cost of admission is different for the museum, and tours at the Perlan Wonders of Iceland. 

Museums in Reykjavik 

Reykjavik has some cool and quirky museums that will just blow your mind! 

• The National Museum of Iceland : Learn about the cultural history of Iceland at the National Museum, which dates back to 1863. The entry fee is 2500 ISK (free with City Card ). 
• The Icelandic Phallological Museum : This quirky museum with genitalia/penises on display is visited by 70,000 people annually. It is located in the heart of the city and is open until 07:00 in the evening. 
• Reykjavik Maritime Museum : There is the Reykjavik Maritime Museum to learn about Iceland’s rich maritime history. The entry fee is 2,050 ISK and is free with the City Card .

Another museum worth visiting is the Reykjavík Art Museum . The museum has three locations in Reykjavik: Hafnarhus, Kjarvalsstadir, and Asmundarsafn. You can visit all three for the price of one (and free with the City Card).

Reykjavík Art Museum Ásmundarsafn is located further away from the city center. But if you are driving you can surely make a trip there – it is a studio – an open museum with sculptures and outdoor exhibits.

Finish sightseeing by checking off the Reykjavik City Hall and Tjörnin (aka The Pond) in the evening. 

Reykjavik City Hall and Tjörnin

The striking Reykjavik City Hall is located on the shores of Tjörnin, the city pond. We love taking a walk around the pond’s embankment – it is just so serene. 

It’s also a great place to take photos, relax and feed the ducks!

If you have time, step inside the City Hall. This is where you will find a large mural by the Icelandic artist Hálfdan Pétursson. This mural depicts the country’s history and culture.

Winter/evening activity: 

When visiting during the months, particularly from late September to mid-April, you can chase northern lights in and around Reykjavik at night. 

It is possible to book a northern lights tour which leaves at around 09:30 pm from your accommodation.

Or you can pair a northern light and a south coast Iceland tour (which can be done on 2 separate days). 

During our very first trip, our northern lights tour was canceled due to low visibility, and we were offered a free tour the next day. 

And we got lucky – we saw those gorgeous green dancing lights aka aurora borealis! 

We highly recommend a tour to see it all, if you are not driving around yourself. 

Northern Lights Tour options:

• South Coast : South Coast, Glacier Hike, and Northern Lights Winter Tour
• Northern Lights Bus Tour Only: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik with access to the Aurora Museum for free
• Northern Lights and Yacht: Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Tour

Day 3 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Take a day trip to the Golden Circle highlights

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes, and this is where you will be going on day 3 of the Iceland 10 day itinerary. 

This scenic drive takes you through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, including the Thingvellir or Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Geysir.

It is also one of the easiest day tours to embark on from Reykjavik. You can book a full-day tour of the Golden Circle Route, along with Secret Lagoon

Thingvellir National Park

Day tours usually pick you up at around 08:30 am and your very first stop is at the Thingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the world’s oldest parliament – alpingi. 

The national park is located in southwest Iceland, about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik. 

If you are driving you can take your time here and enjoy hikes, chase waterfalls or enjoy a self-guided walking tour. 

With or without a day tour, you can also add on a snorkeling adventure and swim between two of the earth’s tectonic plates – the North American and Eurasian Plates. 

Book here : Golden Circle with snorkeling in Silfra (equipment provided)

Your next stop is the gorgeous waterfall – Gullfoss. This waterfall is found in the Hvítá river canyon in Southwest Iceland. 

Once you reach the parking lot, it is a short walk/hike to get to the viewing platform. 

There are two viewing platforms to see this beautiful waterfall. Because the falls come with such a force it is possible that you will be completely drenched from the closest platform. So ensure you wear waterproof clothing. 

Also, keep in mind that the viewing areas will be slippery. But there are guardrails around for support. 

Note that there is a restaurant on-site, and washroom facilities are available if you need a quick break. 

Also, located near the viewing platform at Gullfoss is a sculpture and informative plaque about Sigridur Tomasdottir, who was an Icelandic environmentalist. 

She is known for her efforts in preserving the Gullfoss waterfalls, from industrialization.

Geothermal area

The last stop on the Golden Circle route is the Geysir geothermal area. This is where you can see the erupting geysers – Strokkur and Geysir, in action. 

These two geysers are the most active in the park and erupt every 10 minutes or so.

The Haukadalur geothermal area has a lot smaller hot pools that you will most likely see along the way. 

Always follow the marked pathway, whether you are on a guided tour or not. 

Golden Circle Route tour add-ons

The highlights of the Golden Circle route can be done in as little as four hours. That’s why many tour operators also offer this as a half-day excursion for those on an Icelandic stopover. 

A typical full-day tour will be 6+ hours with ample rest stops and sightseeing time along the way. 

You can add the following add-ons to your day trip itinerary for a more in-depth exploration of the route. 

• Kerið Crater: Click to view the tour
• Blue Lagoon: Another option is the Golden Circle Kerid Crater + Blue Lagoon tour  
• Secret Lagoon: Click to view the tour

Kerid Crater is spectacular at all times of the year. The blue waters make for an amazing photography subject. A short hike is essential to get to this awesome view. 

If you do not wish to walk/hike anymore, then opt for a final stop on the Golden Circle route to the Secret Lagoon . So this way you can make the most of your trip on a single day. 

We did the Secret Lagoon combo tour, and LOVED it! 

The Secret Lagoon is a cheaper alternative to the popular Blue Lagoon. The standalone tickets are not super expensive, but it was a very relaxed way to end the day with the Golden Circle! 

There are changing facilities as well as a restaurant and a bar on-site, where you can relax and break the journey before traveling back to Reykjavik. 

Day 4 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Check off south Iceland waterfalls and Vik (+ Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon)

The Golden Circle might be a popular route, but the gems on the southern coast of Iceland will steal your heart! 

On this day, you will get to check off the highlights such as the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, as well as the smallest village of Vik (and its Instagrammable church).

Now, if you have a rental car, you can follow directions to Seljalandsfoss first, it will take you about 2 hours to get there, then stop at Skogafoss, followed by Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Vik. 

Without a car, you can book a full-day tour of the South Coast . 

During our tour, we stopped at Skogafoss first, and had ample time at the Seljalandsfoss for a short hike, and then relaxed at the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Vik. 

On a guided tour, many exclusions can be added such as glacier walking, horse riding, and hiking excursions. Here are the options

• South Coast Day Trip with Glacier Hike
• South Coast Classic with Sólheimajökull glacier
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach with a zodiac boat tour

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is one of the iconic waterfalls in Iceland. This is the famous ‘you can walk behind these waterfalls’. 

And even enjoy a hike in the nearby areas.  

To get to the falls, you don’t have to hike, it is just a short walk. 

If you wish to walk behind the waters, ensure you have waterproof clothing and shoes – the area has rocks that you have to climb unto, and it is slippery – so exercise caution as you go.

Note : This waterfall is located about 130 kilometers (about 80 miles) south of Reykjavik, on the road to Vik. It is completely free to access the site of the waterfall and view it. Parking costs 800 ISK.

Skogafoss is the next waterfall on your south coast itinerary. It is located about 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) from Seljalandsfoss. 

Skogafoss is fed by the glacial river Skoga and has a height of 60 meters. 

There is a parking lot in the area, and within a short walk, you will be near the falls.

Reynisfjara black sand beach and Vik

The iconic basalt columns and the gorgeous black beach of Reynisfyjara are next on the list. 

This is a nice photo spot, and we are sure you will love to take a walk here and stretch your legs. 

Many of the horse riding tours take place here. 

From here, you can also hike up to the beautiful white and red church – Vikurkirkja, in the village of Vík í Mýrdal .  

Pro tip : Because of its location along the Ring Road, Vik is a convenient stop for food, views, and souvenir shopping as well. 

Day 5 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Visit the Snaefellsnes peninsula

Mini Iceland aka Snæfellsnes Peninsula is worth exploring. 

Although there are lots to explore, on a quick day tour you can still check off some of the highlights (without a lot of driving yourself). 

Here is the full-day tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula to book. It does make for a long day, but the attractions that it covers make it amazing. 

Pack some snacks, and drink/s, and wear hiking shoes for a full day of sightseeing!

Each day trip excursion includes Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss, Saxhóll Crater, Djupalonssandur, and Budakirkja and you can even check out seals on the beach!

If you are on a road trip from Reykjavik, you can follow similar stops. It takes about 1.50 to 2 hours to get to Snaefellsnes.  

Your first stop will be at Borgarnes , a small town where you can pick up food, fuel up, or use a washroom break. All tour operators stop in this town as well. 

Located here is the Berserkjahraun lava field and which is over 4000 years old. 

From here, make your way to the Kirkjufell.  

Kirkjufell means ‘church mountain’, and it is widely popular due to its feature on the “Game of Thrones” television show. 

It greets you as soon as you get closer to the sightseeing area parking lot. 

From the parking lot, it is a quick walk to the mountain and the waterfalls. 

On a day tour, you can go on a short hike. 

There are more hiking trails near the mountain but the waterfalls are accessible without a strenuous hike. 

It is absolutely gorgeous on a lovely day to soak in the views of the mountains and falls! 

Up next is the Saxhóll Crater. It is a 100-meter-high volcanic crater, and to get to the top you will be taking the ‘Stairway to Heaven’. 

You have to climb the steps/stairs to get to the top of the crater. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the creator and the nearby mountains. 

Up next is Djupalonssandur. 

Djupalonssandur is a sandy beach and bay on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland, just above Snæfellsjökull. 

It was previously home to one of the peninsula’s most active fishing towns, but it is now unpopulated. 

Once you disembark from the tour bus, you can head to the viewing platform first for views and then hike down to the beach. 

You can also enjoy a circular loop from the black sand beach, craters, and rock formations and back. 

From Djupalonssandur, the tour continues to the land of Icelandic sagas and history, to Arnarstapi. 

This is where you can check out the sculpture of Bárður Snaefellsnes. Bárður is believed to be the Protector of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. 

The giant monument actually looks beautiful from the harbor views. From here, you can walk to check the beautifully eroded cliffs and listen to seagulls at play!

The trip continues on to the Black Church or Budakirkja. This little church is an absolute Instagrammable spot in Iceland with a gorgeous mountain backdrop. 

You can enter the church for free, and also view historical artifacts from the 19th century. 

The last stop on the day tour is the beach of Ytri-Tunga. This is a seal beach, and on a nice warm day, you will find seals relaxing on the rocks and soaking in the sun. 

Other stops on the Snæfellsnes peninsula

When on a self-guided day trip (or a longer stay) you can add/swap one of the attractions from the list below,

• Glymur falls : Take a detour and hike Iceland’s second-highest waterfall (only Morsárfoss is taller). The trail is 7.5 km (4.66 miles). 
• Mt. Eldborg: Alternately, you can also hike to the edge of Mt. Eldborg- a volcano that’s no longer active. The trail is 7 km (4.3 miles). Both hikes can take anywhere from 1.50 to 2 hours.
• Kirkjufell: You can hike to the top of the Kirkjufell. Keep in mind is for advanced hikers. The roundtrip takes about 3 hours and fatal accidents have occurred so be careful and take your time navigating this trail. 

Day 6 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Learn about Icelandic sagas in the Highlands

Known as the Silver Circle route, this is another west coast road or day trip from Reykjavik. 

Home to more beautiful waterfalls, sagas, hot springs, and geothermal pools , the Icelandic Highlands are completely different from what you saw on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. 

For sightseeing, you can also book a full-day tour. This day tour is not super jamp packed like the day before – it is slightly relaxed with food and restroom stops.

If you are driving, you can make it at a stop at Borgarnes first (reachable in an hour), and then follow along with the attractions as mentioned below.  

The route surely takes you away from the touristy and busy Ring Road into forested landscapes and glacial rivers with the Langjokull. 

The very first sightseeing stop is the Glanni waterfall . From the parking lot, it is a short walk to the viewing platform where you can soak in views of the pretty falls. 

The waterfall has multiple tiers that fall down on old lava fields known as the Grabrokarhraun. 

As you make you way to the viewing areas, you will see signs of vegetation and greenery, juxtaposed to black landscapes (lava-ridden sites we saw before). 

The next stop is Deildartunguhver, and this is where you will find the most powerful hot spring in Europe. 

You will see the steam and heat from a distance, as the water is super HOT at 97°C (200°F). 

The water is used to provide heat to the nearby cities of Akranes and Borganes. 

Spend sometime at the site, but be very careful and not step inside the guard rails. 

Located near the hot spring is a greenhouse and a spa – Krauma geothermal baths and spa .

After the hot springs, head to the historic site of Reykholt. One of the most important tourist spot is the Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool), which was the home and pool of Icelandic poet and chieftain, Snorri Sturluson, who wrote many sagas. 

Today, Snorralaug is a protected archaeological site. 

There are no entry fees here. You can admire the pool, and also enter the house to see what it looks like (it’s like a cute turf house). 

Just like the south coast of Iceland, you can also stop at waterfalls in this part of the country – and they are equally surreal! 

The first one is the Hraunfossar, or the “Lava Waterfalls.”  Here you will see a series of small waterfalls flowing over a lava field, called the Hallmundarhraun. 

This was created a thousand years ago by a volcano eruption (under the Langjokull glacier located nearby).

Hraunfossar is unlike other waterfalls seen in this Iceland itinerary. There are many walking and hiking trails located at the Hraunfossar. 

Plus there are small bridges and viewing platforms from where you can even see the meltwater from the Langjokull glacier over the lava fields, pouring into the Hvita river. 

No strenuous hike is necessary to access the viewing platforms to see the waterfalls . 

From here you can follow signs to see another waterfall called the Barnafoss. 

Also known as “the waterfall of the children ”, this is smaller in comparison to the Hraunfossar, but is still pretty!

Legend has it that the name of the falls comes from a very sad story of two local children, who lost their lives here by drowning. 

When you are on a guided tour, you have 2 excursion option to add to your Silver Circle route

• Lava tour: The first one is a lava tour at the Vidgelmir Lava Cave. This 90 minute add-on takes you through the guided experience of visiting a lava cave. The cave is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, with lava formations and multi-colored rocks. 
• Husafell Canyon Baths : Husafell Canyon Baths (Giljaböð hot springs) is unlike any of the spa you have experienced in Iceland. It is all natural, and the baths uses the concept of a traditional Icelandic hot spring experience in a remote location in Hringsgil canyon. 

We have written a detailed guide to experiencing the Husafell Canyon Baths here.  

Note that this excursion is only available with a guide, and a 4×4 vehicle is required to access the Baths entrance. 

At the site, there are 2 geothermally-heated stone pools (both almost of the same temperature), plus a fully functional washroom and changing rooms. 

As part of the Husafell experience you will also get to explore a waterfall nearby, called the Langifoss.  

There is a short walk to get to the viewing platform, so we recommend wearing proper hiking boots to get there. 

Day 7 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Activity day (volcano hike, snowmobile tour, glacier walk, ice caving tour) 

Day 7 of the 10 day Iceland itinerary is all about activities. We recommend choosing an activity based on your interest and season. 

Iceland offers some of the kickass excursions from Reykjavik with round trip transportation from your central hotel, so why not take the advantage. 

These excursions are typically led by an expert, so if you are not opting for a tour, and are driving there yourself you still have to reserve a slot (+ equipment). 

During my recent trip, I signed up for a 8 hour Fagradalsfjall volcano tour . 

The tour included 2 hours of guided hike, along with stops at the Bridge Between Continents, Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, Lake Kleifarvatn, and Gunnuhver Hot Springs on tour from Reykjavík (total of 8 full hours).

The hike was great and doable for hikers of all levels. Trust me the views from up there were worth it. 

The trail has some steep and inclined patches and we recommend wearing proper hiking shoes to enjoy it to the fullest. 

Without a tour , you can drive to the Geldingadalur Valley yourself, and there is a parking lot (fees apply) available near the site. 

Ice cave tours (November to March)

In the winter, add a cool ice cave tour to your Iceland itinerary instead. 

You can book such an experience as a full day tour , or if you are driving you can get to the meeting point yourselves and then participate in the guided excursion. 

Tour options:

• 4-hour ice cave + glacier hike: Skaftafell – Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike
• 3-hour ice cave tour: Vatnajökull Glacier – Ice Cave Tour

Here are some of the seasonal excursions

Day 8 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Travel to Akureyri in north Iceland. Overnight in Akureyri

From Reykjavik, you will be flying to Akureyri on day 8 of your Iceland 10 day itinerary. 

Without renting a car, flying to Akureyri is your best bet, and in this, you will also get to explore the second-largest settlement in Iceland. 

Flying into Akureyri airport: 

You can book flight tickets, departing from the Reykjavik Domestic airport to Akureyri. 

Note that this is not the Keflavik airport near the Blue Lagoon. 

The Domestic Airport is only a 5 minute drive from the City centre. I took a taxi to get to the airport from my hotel and it cost about 15 USD. 

Flights are operated by the national carrier – IcelandAir, and there are multiple trips in a day. The flight duration is 45 minutes. 

Both airports are super small, and there are no security checks for yourself/your luggage. However, you will find ample parking space, a cafe, and staff on-site for assistance!

We recommend a morning or noon flight for Akureyri, after a nice breakfast in Reykjavik. 

Now, the driving time from Reykjavik to Akureyri is 5+ hours (one way).

Once you land in Akureyri, take a cab and get to your hotel. 

Here are a few options we recommend,

Where to stay in Akureyri? 

• Icelandair Akureyri: I stayed at the IcelandAir Akureyri and it was amazing. My room had a nice big window with views. The hotel has a huge parking lot, a beautiful patio restaurant, and a bar. You can opt for breakfast (paid), and it is a good idea because some of the cafes in town don’t open very early. Check availability here
• Hotel Kea by Keahotels: Another centrally located hotel is the KEA. It is super close to the Church of Akureyri, which is one of the touristy spots in the city. Click to view photos and book your stay here

After you are settled in, take a walk and explore the cute little town of Akureyri. You can easily check off most of the main sites in a few hours – 4 to 6 hours. 

We have a detailed one day in Akureyri itinerary and an Akureyri walking tour that you can refer to for your trip!

Now, here is what you must visit

Akureyri Church or Akureyrarkirkja

The Akureyri Church or Akureyrarkirkja is a beautiful Lutheran church located in the centre of the town. 

The church was built in 1940, and due to its location (elevation), you are welcomed to the stunning views of the fjords and the colorful town below. 

A series of steps leads you to the church entrance and inside you will find a large organ pipe. 

The church is free to enter and is open on weekdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (on Friday, it closes at 4:00 pm). 

Akureyri Arctic Botanical Gardens 

Arctic Botanical Gardens and Public Park is a free attraction in Akureyri. As the name suggests it is a garden and it makes for a nice stroll in the summer or warmer months. 

There are over 7,000 species of plants on display and a few greenhouses. The site also conducts scientific research on a regular basis.

During winter, certain sections of the park and gardens may be closed. 

But there is an awesome cafe inside the park which is open all year and perfect for a nice afternoon sit down with a book!

Akureyri Waterfront 

The waterfront area of Akureyri is lovely, just like the one in Reykjavik. 

But this one is sprinkled with cute wrecked ships, covered wood bridges, beautiful paved areas, and of course the views of the fjords. 

Landemar Monument 

Monument Landnemar à Akureyri is the First Settlers Statue located in Akureyri. The statue showcases Helgi, the lean, and his wife – Þórunn Hyrna, overlooking the town from above. 

It is believed that he came to this area in the 9th century. 

You can walk/hike to the First Settlers Statue from the Town Hall Square and get there in 15 minutes or so. 

Akureyri town centre 

If you are tired and don’t wish to explore all the spots, no worries. Just take the time to wander the Akureyri main street. 

There are tons of cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs and even soak in the views of the Akureyri Church from afar! 

Day 9 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Day trip to Myvatn Lake area and waterfalls

On day 9 of your Iceland itinerary, take a day trip from Akureyri to check off the Myvatn Lake area (Diamond Circle). 

You can book a day tour, which also includes pick-up from Akureyri hotels. 

The tour covers 5-7 stops which we will cover below. It also includes an entry pass for the Myvatn Nature Baths . 

Book this full-day tour here

If you are driving we recommend setting aside a total of 8 -10 hours with ample stops along the way. 

Whether you are driving or joining in a tour, you will get to soak in the scenic coast of Eyjafjordur along the way!

Goðafoss Waterfall

On this route, explore the Waterfalls of the Gods aka Goðafoss. 

This waterfall is named so because one of the prime lawmakers in Iceland threw the pagan gods/statues into the waterfall after converting to Christianity.

The falls are gorgeous and formed by the glacial river Skjálfandafljót. 

From the parking lot, it is a short walk to get to the viewing platform of the Godafoss. There are many trails in and around the waterfalls. 

You can also get to the lower section of the falls and get really up close and personal. 

Unlike the waterfalls of the southern coast of Iceland, this is not super crowded. You can spend anywhere from 1 to 2 hours here, checking out the falls from various levels, and bridges. 

On the Godafoss site, there is a restaurant, souvenir shop, and washrooms.

Pseudocraters of Skútustaðagígar

The pseudocraters of Skútustaðagígar are unique to this region and are a special geological phenomenon. 

Normally craters are formed due to volcanic eruptions. During an eruption when lava runs across an area, the heat and water trapped underneath to create a crater-like shape. 

But a pseudo-crater is not a real crater but looks like one. It is caused when lava flows and crosses over a water body (like a lake, or a pond) and then causes an explosion of steam through the lava. 

Later the gases erupt from the surface like a normal volcanic eruption, which creates a crater-like surface!  

This site is great for light hikes and photography! 

I was sooo tempted to get a drone to capture this landscape – it is so unique and gorgeous! 

Dark fortress

Dimmuborgir or Dark cities/Dark fortress is one of the stops on the North Iceland day tour. 

This area is known for its dramatic black lava and rock formations. Many of the structures look like castles, caverns, and caves and hence the name – dark fortress.

A quick walk through the site will take you to a different world. Hiking is one of the popular activities here. 

But there is more. Have you heard of the yule lads or the Icelandic Santa Claus? 

So there is a famous folklore of half-troll, half-ogre Grýla (female), and her submissive husband Leppalúði. 

They have 13 children (Yule Lads) who come to visit little kids thirteen nights before Christmas. 

It is believed that their story originated here. You can read info boards about them, or follow signs to see their abode. 

Lake Myvatn and Nature Baths

The highlight of the North Iceland tour is Lake Myvatn and the gorgeous nature baths which are perfect for a soak after a day of sightseeing. 

Lake Mývatn is a volcanic lake and is best known for fishing and bird-watching opportunities. 

East of the lake is Mývatn Nature Baths , also called the Blue Lagoon of the North!

If you missed out on the Blue Lagoon, you will happy to know that Myvatn is never super crowded or pricey. So you will be able to find a slot that works for you. 

Your entry ticket will be included when you choose Baths to the day tour, as an add-on upon checking out. 

You can spend 1-2 hours here and then return to Akureyri for the night.  

Day 10 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Akureyri Museum, whale watching tour. Return to Reykjavik

This is your final day in Iceland. Depending on the flight back home, feel free to switch a few activities around. 

In the morning, head to the Akureyri Museum and the Nonni House, and then enjoy a whale-watching tour before flying back to Reykjavik. 

Akureyri Museum & Nonni House 

So the first stop for the day is the Akureyri Museum. It is one of the main attractions in the city. 

The museum along with the Nonni House and a 19th-century church is located on the same site, and with one ticket you can access all three. 

Tickets are 2000 ISK per person. To enter the grounds and garden is completely free.

There are two permanent exhibitions at the Akureyri Museum. The permanent collection highlights the life and stories of residents from its early settlement days to modern times. 

As you leave the museum, you will see a nice garden with a cannon on display. 

The Nonni House, located on the site, is a wooden house dating back to 1850. This is one of the oldest houses in Akureyri and is very well-maintained. 

Inside the house, you will find furniture, clothing, and utensils from the 19th century. 

Everything is kept in immaculate condition. This house is named after its owner, who was lovingly known as Nonni.

Whale watching tours

In the afternoon, join a 3 hour whale watching tour that leaves from the downtown area of Akureyri. 

Humpback whales are a common sighting in this region from April to September. 

You will be provided with thermal overalls, raincoats, and blankets to stay warm and toasty on the ship. 

As you sail, you will be greeted with unobstructed views of the rugged coastline of Eyjafjord, and snow-capped mountains.

You will also find a bar and café on-board where you can purchase refreshments. 

The guide also shares about the lifecycles of the humpbacks and alerts you to the whales when sighted. 

Once the tour concludes, you will be dropped off from the pickup location in downtown Akureyri. 

From here, pick up your luggage and get to the Akureyri Airport to fly back to Reykjavik or Keflavik and fly out!

Day 10 of Iceland 10 day itinerary: Return to Reykjavik and soak in Sky Lagoon (alternate option)

If you are driving, plan for a long drive to get back to Reykjavik, about 5+ hours (maybe longer in the winter). 

In this case, you might have to return to the capital city without a whale-watching tour – depending on your travel plans. 

Once you arrive in Reykjavik celebrate your 10 days in Iceland by soaking in the newest geothermal spa – Sky Lagoon! 

Sky Lagoon 

Sky Lagoon is located just 15 minutes drive from Reykjavik. 

It is a man-made lagoon as well, but I have to admit the Sky Lagoon is just fantastic – the sauna room, the infinity pool and all the amazing views from the warm waters are truly unmatched!

It is a beautiful place to take a dip and enjoy all the goodness of Icelandic traditions. We recommend paying for the Pure Pass to enjoy one round of the 7-Step Ritual at the Sky Lagoon.  

Tickets for Sky Lagoon: Pure Pass (mid-level) | Sky Pass (luxury level)

Sightseeing Map: 10 day itinerary for Iceland

Iceland Travel Tips

So you see there are plenty to see and do in Iceland in 10 days. We will leave you with some planning tips for Iceland.

Iceland tourist visa

Iceland is not a part of the EU, but as a European state it follows the Schengen Visa agreement. 

If you require a tourist visa to visit most of the countries in Europe, the same Schengen visa will apply for Iceland. 

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

Best time to visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland really depends on what you want to see and do while you are here.

For example, if your primary focus is to see the Northern Lights, then you will want to come during the winter months when there is less daylight, particularly from late September to mid April. 

On the other hand, if you want to experience Icelandic nature at its finest – with long days and plenty of sunlight – then you will want to come during the summer months. 

This is also when you can experience the midnight summer hours (June to early August).  

In general, the shoulder season (May-June and September-October) is a great time to visit Iceland as the weather is more stable and there are fewer crowds. 

This also means that prices for accommodation and activities will be slightly higher than during the winter months.

Must add pack for Iceland

No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, you should always pack layers and waterproof clothing. 

• A waterproof jacket is a must – all year round
• Hiking shoes – all year round
• Swimsuit (when visiting spas) – all year round

In the winter, pack some extra warm clothing like thermal base layers, sweaters and accessories like colorful beanies, scarf, and gloves. 

Plus your winter boots and warm parka jacket.

Additional Iceland tips and FAQ:

Iceland as a country is not very huge. It is possible to drive around the country in a day or so (non-stop drive).

Iceland ring road is a popular tourist route in the country. This route encircles the entire island and provides visitors with stunning views of Icelandic landscapes.  It takes you past glaciers, lava fields, volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more.  You can drive the entire ring road in about 20 to 24 hours without stopping in good weather conditions.  Here is a 8 day ring road itinerary for Iceland (with campervan tips compiled with the help of another traveler). If you’re planning on driving the ring road, be sure to check the conditions of the roads before you go. The weather in Iceland can change very quickly, and the roads can be slippery and dangerous.

Iceland in October is the perfect crossover month to experience the best of warm (more daylight) and winter activities.  If you are planning a road trip or love to hike, the summer months are best. In June – July Iceland is warm and you can also experience midnight summer. 

On an average expect to spend the following per day, $125 (budget hotel) + $100 to $200 (day tour) + $50 to $150 (food) = $275 USD minimum I stayed at a mid budget hotel in Iceland on all of my trips, and traveled during the slow months/off-season. Typically, price range for a 3 star hotel is $125 to $175 USD per night . It is totally possible to get a decent accommodation in that price range in the capital city of Reykjavik.  Round trip airport transfer is around $55 USD per person. Day tours are typically in that price range. You can spend more and book snowmobile or ATV tours or private tours if you like; but a small group tour to the natural sites will be around 100 to 200 USD.  Geothermal spa/lagoons/nature baths – starts at $30 USD (cheapest tickets). Popular spa will be around $80 to $100 USD (+ add-ons).  Hotels + Tours is something you can always book and budget for in advance. Plus your flight tickets.  For food we recommend making a budget and also be open to move it up a bit, especially if you are a foodie.  You can stay under budget by doing groceries (all accessible without a car in Reykjavik or Akureyri) and choose healthy and affordable meals.  Food : $5 to $30 USD (street food to sit down restaurant) Drinks : $6 to $20 USD (lattes to cocktails, the latter are very expensive)  Eating out everyday will be expensive. During my 10 day Iceland trip, I paid for breakfast in the hotel room rate (in Reykjavik it was included), and for lunch I had a snack packed from the grocery store.  I did spend a lot on coffee (I really love my mid day caffeine, but you don’t have to).  My dinners ranged from a hot dog to Arctic char, salmon and traditional lamp soup – depending on the day.  This combination of fancy and non-so-fancy meals helped me to stay under budget and yet try out new things. Oh and I also did a food tour, which was my dinner!

Off-season is great for traveling to Iceland, which is spring, and fall. We recommend choosing a crossover month like April or October to get the best of two seasons and save on flights and accommodation.

The official currency of Iceland is Icelandic króna, or ISK. In Iceland you will see it marked as “kr.” before or after the prices.

No, you don’t.  And it is better if you don’t (I know I will have a hard time counting all the cash – most prices are in thousands of kronas!!!!).  On all of our trips to Iceland, credit cards were super handy. You can also use your debit card with ease, no problems! 

The most common food in Iceland consists of some type of meat, be it fish, or lamb. Ice creams and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt) are popular too. 

Yes, you can. The tap water in Iceland is safe to drink. Don’t forget to carry a reusable water bottle for that!

How to enrich your Iceland experience: Iceland Travel Guide

Geothermal pools

If you’re looking for a more authentic Icelandic experience, there are plenty of geothermal pools to choose from. 

The Myvatn Nature Baths are a great option, and the Secret Lagoon is another popular choice. 

Whichever pool you choose, make sure to take advantage of Iceland’s unique geothermal pools!

Hikes in Iceland

Lots of hiking opportunities in Iceland, from the Vatnajokull National Park, to the Highlands and beyond. 

With going on an Iceland ring road trip, you can join guided hikes led by an expert. Just make sure to pack your hiking boots, and follow along. 

For a truly unique experience, consider taking a glacier hike or even an ice cave tour (winter). 

These tours typically need to be booked in advance, so make sure to plan ahead.

Photography and drones

Iceland is extremely photogenic and Instagrammable! It is a great place for practicing drone shots, landscape and astrophotography. 

Because many of the attractions won’t be super crowded you can easily capture photos, clips or videos for Reels without a lot of people (except for cute Icelandic sheep)!

Ensure you pack your camera gear, get a sturdy tripod like my Peak Design Travel design, and a waterproof cover for all gear!

Is 10 days enough for Iceland?

It is possible to have a well rounded Icelandic experience in 10 days. 

Whether you are roadtripping on the Ring Road in a full circle or taking day tours from Reykjavik and Akureyri, you can surely touch the iconic attractions such as south coast waterfalls, northern Iceland to the west for exploring the Highlands and the Snæfellsnes peninsula. 

And also soak in the mineral rich geothermal waters (more than once). 

Pin: Iceland 10 day itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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How to Get Around Iceland without a Car

The 5 best ways to see iceland without driving yourself.

How to Get Around Iceland Without a Car

Travel by Bus

Hop on a boat, fly in plane, hike around iceland, join a tour, related tours, related blogs.

Unsure how to get around Iceland without a car? Iceland is often thought of as a place to explore by car, but that’s not the only way to get around.

From epic Iceland cruises to small-group bus tours, there are many great ways to travel the country without taking the wheel. Here are the 5 best ways to get around Iceland without a car:

Bus Travel Between the Airport and Reykjavik

If you’re traveling to Iceland by plane, it’s almost certain you’ll fly into Keflavik Airport. To get to Reykjavik without a car, we suggest using the airport transport bus service.

The shuttle bus is fairly priced and travels to and from Keflavik Airport frequently. The journey takes between 45 to 60 minutes. It’s also possible to take a taxi from the airport, but the starting price is roughly $110.00 USD.

Public Buses in Reykjavik

If you’re wondering how to get around Reykjavik , public transportation is the best option. Bus transportation in Iceland’s capital city is easy, cheap, and gets you to the best spots in the city. The price for a regular bus ticket is 480 kr (3.30 USD) during the day and 960 kr (6.55 USD) at night. For bus routes, times, and fares, check out Reykjavik’s public transport company , Straeto.

Bus Around Iceland

Iceland has a good network of bus routes that allow you to see the country without a car. The key to using public transportation in Iceland outside of Reykjavik is to plan ahead. Check out the map of Iceland’s public transportation routes to get a sense of where you can go via bus. 

Another great way to travel around Iceland without a car is by boat. There are plenty of great boat trips in Iceland to choose from. Set sail on a boat from Reykjavik to visit places in Iceland only reachable by water. Explore Iceland’s most remote and isolated spots such as Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands).

Similar to the bus network, Iceland has decent domestic flight options. Many locals use air travel to get around Iceland, especially in winter when road travel to certain destinations is impossible. The two domestic airlines in Iceland are Eagle Air and Icelandair . Another great air transport option is to fly over Iceland in a helicopter with an expert pilot. 

As one of the most beautiful places on Earth, Iceland is a paradise for hikers from around the world. If you want to get up close to the country’s best nature, foot travel is an excellent way to go. The easiest way to go hiking around Iceland without a car is to join a guided hiking tour with comfortable bus transport from Reykjavik. 

Want to sit back, relax, and see the best sights that Iceland has to offer? Then why not let someone else take the wheel by joining an Iceland adventure tour ! A local adventure leader can pick you up straight from the airport and guide you to the best spots in the country.

Travel the Ring Road, visit most remote locations, or hit the most popular Iceland attractions – the choice is yours! All you need to bring is yourself and your luggage.

Want to know what fun activities you can do in Iceland? Find our wide selection of adventure tours  with easy bus transport and local guides included!

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

14-day Iceland itinerary: 2 EPIC weeks! (no 4WD)

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

There is a lot you can see with 2 weeks in Iceland. Below is my ideal 14 day Iceland itinerary for first-timers, where no 4WD is required. You will see the entire Ring road and much more. And I have also included my top tips and alternatives to help you make the most of your time in Iceland!

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

• Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
• Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
• Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal

14 day Iceland itinerary – Map and Summary

Overview of this unforgettable 2 week iceland itinerary.

The entire detailed itinerary with pictures is available below in the article, but let’s start with an overview of the road trip:

Day 1 – Golden Circle

Day 2 – south coast waterfalls.

• Day 3 – Skaftafell National Park

Day 4 – Glacial Lagoons and icebergs

Day 5 – east fjords.

• Day 6 – Dettifoss, Powerful waterfall
• Day 7 – Lake Myvatn area
• Day 8 – Lake Myvatn area
• Day 9 – Akureyri, Northern capital

Day 10 – Drive to West Coast

• Day 11 – Silver circle

Day 12 – Snaefellsnes peninsula

• Day 13 – Reykjavik
• Day 14 – Reykjavik

I have tried to create an itinerary that include at least one of each of the wonders of Iceland: waterfalls, lava fields, fjords, volcanoes, towns, glaciers, black sand beaches, lava caves… Below are some of the places you will see:

Iceland 14 day itinerary Map

And below is a map of where you are heading around the Ring Road and the island:

Not for Winter

A quick note. This itinerary is not applicable for Winter, when days are shorter and conditions much more difficult. If you are looking for Winter itineraries, head to this article .

2 weeks in Iceland – essential info

Before I share with you the details about the itinerary with all the main stops, where to stay and pictures, below are some essentials to understand.

Renting your car

To be able to complete this itinerary, you need to rent car. All the amazing locations included are easy to access. So you can rent any standard car. The driving on this itinerary will be very easy. Don’t worry!

I recommend:

• Comparing car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – it is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
• Booking early to have a large choice of vehicles (you will not find any last minute deal, the island is very poplar!)
• Reading all my tips about  renting a car in Iceland

• Book your accommodations early as well – Iceland is popular and in some area, choice can be limited (although the offering is growing) – see the wide offering on Booking.com
• Learn more in  my article about where to sleep in Iceland
• Don’t plan too much every day – you will get frustrated not to be able to stop as much since it is stunning everywhere
• As you are approaching your Iceland road trip,  stop watching the weather forecast . It will change every day and during the day, so just go with the flow of your planned Itinerary.

Adapt this itinerary

I tried to allow you to cover a lot without making so crazy that you run from one place to the next. You can have time to enjoy each area. However, I have also listed a few alternatives, if you are looking for a few other things. And you can use my travel guide eBook, to create your own itinerary with my pre-selection of my favorite stops, GPS coordinates and practical maps:

Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 130+ original photos to help you choose

Iceland ring road itinerary 14 days + more of Iceland

Driving time =  2h45 drive

• Driving time from Keflavik airport = 1H15
• Stop 1 – Thingvellir National Park Plan half a day to explore the area with the huge fissures created by the movements of the tectonic plates. Consider doing the Main Fault walk from parking 1 and the Oxararfoss waterfall walk from Parking 2 (or combined with first walk). Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 50min drive
• Stop 2 –  Haukadalur geothermal area (and geyser) Admire the intense geothermal activity in this small area: mud pools, boiling water, and the Strokkur geyser erupting every 5 to 8 minutes.  Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 10min
• Stop 3 – Gullfoss waterfall Gullfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. The impressive falls are over 2 steps with an impressive surround sound. Learn more in my article
• Driving time to accommodation in Fludir = 30min

Where to stay? Choose accommodation on the Golden Circle such as near Haukadalur – check out options Or head to Fludir to be able to enjoy a relaxing time at the Secret Lagoon hot spring – Check out the best-rated accommodations

A really unique activity to enjoy at Thingvellir is to snorkel in the crystal clear water inside one of the fissure – See availability and book your experience . To pay in your own currency and avoid extra charges, prepay your entry to the Secret Lagoon .

Driving time = 2h10

• Driving time = 1h05
• Stop 1 – Seljalandsfoss Discover the famous 60m high waterfall where you can walk behind. A magical landscape. And walk to the nearby Gljufrabui falls hidden in the cliffs. Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 25min
• Stop 2 –  Skogafoss Another 60m high waterfalls, but this one is wide. It looks like a shower curtain. Take the time to get up close at the bottom and to climb the 370 stairs to the upper viewing platform. And if you started the day early and like walking, you can keep hiking along the river at the top. But don’t forget to stop and turn around, as the trail can continue for days! Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 30min
• Stop 3 – Reynisfjara beach Visit the famous black sand beach with its cave and basalt columns. But be careful as the wave can suddenly get much higher! Learn more in my article
• Drive time to accommodation in Vik = 10min

Where to stay? Vik is a really central town on the South Coast and a great place to stay – Check out the best-rated 2accommodations

Once in Vik, if you want a short stroll at the end of the day, head to the church on top of the hill for a view of town, beach and cliffs.

Day 3 – Wild South Iceland 

Driving time = 2h30 to 3h

• Driving time = 1h
• Stop 1 – Fjadrargljufur canyon The feather Canyon is a great place to go for a walk and admire the tortuous structure created by the water. Waterfall at the end. Beware, it can be closed for regeneration Learn more in  my article
• Stop 2 – Skaftafell National Park Discover the South side of the Skaftafell National Park. Activities include: hike to Svartifoss, walk to the tongue of the glacier, or guided hike on the glacier Book an unforgettable glacier hike – check details and availability Learn more in my article
• Drive towards the glacier lagoon of Fjallsarlon and Jokulsarlon If you did not hike much and you still have time in the day, enjoy for a first time the glacier lagoon. Seeing them with different weather and light is worth it! You can also go to Jokulsarlon for sunset

Where to stay? You can find a few hotels or guesthouses in the area, and these will allow you to get there for sunset, sunrise or the northern lights faster – See options I stayed at the Hotel Smurlabjorg, 30 min drive East of Jokulsarlon. It was clean and practical – Check out photos and availability

Driving time = 1h30 to 2h

• Driving time = 0 to 30min
• Stop 1 – Fjallsarlon Fjallsarlon is the lesser known of the 2 glacial lagoon. Water does not flow to the ocean but the glacier tongue is closer and the views more impressive in my opinion (with a clear weather). Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 15 minutes
• Stop 2 – Jokulsarlon Jokulsarlon is the famous glacial lagoon.  Here you can see icebergs detach from the glacier and float towards the sea. You could spend hours just watching the shapes and colors. Or you can book a boat tour to get closer to the glacier – book here Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 0
• Stop 3 – Diamond beach Walk or drive 2 minutes to the other side of the road, to the beach. Admire the icebergs on the black sand beach. The sight is so unique! Some icebergs are white, others are blue or have black stripes Learn more in my article
• Drive time to accommodation = 1h

Where to stay? Höfn is a great place to stay between the South Coast and the East Fjords – Check out the best-rated accommodations

Come back to Diamond beach several times over 2 days, to see it with more or fewer icebergs.

Driving time = 3h20

Itinerary: Today is mostly driving and taking in the views of the East Fjords. Stop by the road on various occasions:

• Hvalnes lighthouse
• Fauskasandur beach
• Small town of Djupivogur
• Don’t take the shortest road, head all the way to Faskrudsfjordur
• Drive time to accommodation in Egilsstadir

Where to stay? Egilsstadir is a great town with lots of accommodations. It makes the connection between the East fjords and North Iceland – Check out the best-rated accommodations.

Day 6 – Powerful waterfall

Driving time = 3h30 to 5h

• Driving time = 1h15
• Dettifoss and Selfoss Head to the powerful waterfall of Dettifoss. And walk to the horseshoe series of waterfalls of Selfoss. They can be observed from the East and the West banks. Both are worth it. Learn more in my article And then head to Myvatn = 1h15
• Alternative 1 Start the morning with a drive down to the gorgeous fjords and colorful town of Seydisfjordur. And visit just one side of Dettifoss or do both for a much longer day
• Alternative 2 Start the morning with a drive and hike to Hengifoss, the 3rd highest waterfall in Iceland. And visit just one side of Dettifoss or do both for a much longer day

Where to stay? Choose your accommodation around Lake Myvatn for 3 nights – Check out the best-rated accommodations I really enjoyed my stay by the water at the Dimmuborgir guesthouse – check out availability

Day 7 & 8 –  Lake Myvatn area

Driving time = 1 to 2h per day

Explore the magnificent area of Lake Myvatn. Take the time to relax in the middle of your big road trip. There is much to do around Lake Myvatn – learn more . My favorite attractions are:

• The Myvatn Pseudocraters Walk around a pond and admire the conical shapes that were not formed by traditional explosions. Some explanations are around the pond and more in the town of Reykjahild. Learn more in my article
• Dimmuborgir Field with giant lava rock formations. This is a great place to look for elves and trolls. Better early morning before the crowds Learn more in my article
• Hverfjall Giant circular crater in excellent condition. It is possible to walk all around the rim! Learn more in my article
• Hverir geothermal area Explore the amazing fumeroles, mud pools and cracks of the geothermal area. With the orange earth and the cracks, it feels like you landed on another planet. But don’t stay longer than 1 hour! Learn more in my article
• Leirhnjukur A lava field that it still fuming… should I really say more? Learn more in my article
• Myvatn Nature Baths, Krafla Viti Crater, Hofdi…

Where to stay? Same accommodation around Lake Myvatn for 3 nights – Check out the best-rated accommodations

Pre-purchase your Myvatn Nature Baths entry ticket to avoid bank fees – see here

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a  compact car  for the narrow streets in villages
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Day 9 – Northern Capital

Driving time = 2h

• Driving time = 40min
• Stop 1 – Husavik Appreciate the small village and Book a Whale Tour – see options Learn more in my article
• Stop 2 – Godafoss Admire the waterfall of the gods with its beautiful horseshoe shape Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 30
• Stop 3 – Akureyri Visit the Capital of the North!

Where to stay? Enjoy the vibrant town in the evening and spend the night in Akureyri – Check out the best-rated accommodations

You can also skip Husavik and do a whale watching tour in Akureyri, but sightings are not as good because of all the commercial boats.

Driving time = 4hLots of driving today.

• Driving time =1h15
• Stop 1 – Glaumbaer Visit the turf houses and learn more about how people used to live in those typical houses. Learn more in my article
• Driving time = 2h20
• Enjoy the views along the way
• Stop 2 – Grabrok craters Just off the Ring Road, the well-preserved Grabrok craters offer nice walks up to the rim or through the lava field… Learn more in my article
• Driving time to accommodation = 25min

Where to stay? Borgarnes is a great base to explore the Snaefellsnes peninsula and the Silver circle. You can stay for 3 nights – Check out the best-rated accommodations I really enjoyed the Icelandair Hotel Hamar. The views from the room were beautiful and the food really nice –  Check out photos and availability

If you don’t mind more driving, you can do another detour in the North, after Glaumbaer to see the rock formation called Hvitserkur.

Day 11 – Silver Circle

Driving time = 2h15

• Stop 1 – Deildartunguhver  This hot spring is the most powerful geothermal springs in Europe. It is hard to imagine: It provides 180 l per second of hot water (47.5 gallons per second). The water is at 97°C (200°F) when it exits.
• Stop 2 –  Reykholt A small historical village and an easy stop in the middle of the amazing natural attractions.
• Driving time = 15min
• Stop 3 – Hraunfossar and Barnafoss First you see Hraunfossar, also known as Lava Falls. It is 1km wide and clear water flows from every little crack in the lava. It is quite a unique sight! Then you walk upstream and discover Barnafoss (also known as Children’s Fall). It is not a waterfall in height but mostly the powerful River Hvita rushing in a narrow gorge in the lava. 
• Drive time = 20min
• Stop 4 – Vidgelmir lava tunnel It is a well-preserved lava cave / lava tube. It is located in the Hallmundarhraun lava field. Today you can enjoy a guided visit on a well set up trail to discover the incredible lava formations. Pre-book and pay in your own currency
• or Stop 5 – Ice Tunnel In Summer, it is not possible to visit natural ice caves, since ice is less stable. But you can visit this man-made ice tunnel under a glacier. Book your tour
• Learn more in my article about the Silver Circle

Where to stay? Go back to your 3-nigh accommodation in Borgarnes – Check out the best-rated accommodations

Driving time = 4 drive

Drive all around the Snaefellsnes peninsula. There are a lot of attractions to discover. Below are some of my favorites:

• Kirkjufell and its waterfalls It is one of the most photographed mountains, with its mesmerizing shape and 2 waterfalls. It is particularly great under the  Iceland Northern Lights … (if visiting in Autumn). Learn more in my article
• Londrangar lighthouse and lava field on the other side You can walk a well-maintained path to platforms with nice views of the cliffs or walk towards the cliffs via the lava field (right from the parking facing the ocean).
• Budakirkja The small black church surrounded by nature
• Arnarstapi  Coastal area to explore with interesting lava formation such as the Gatklettur Arch, a bridge and some columns. Plus, it offers wonderful views of the Arnarstpi mountain.
• Saxholl Crater A wonderful crater where you can hike to the top and enjoy wonderful views
• Learn more in my article about the Snaefellsnes peninsula

Where to stay? Go back to your 3-nigh accommodation in Borgarnes –  Check out the best-rated accommodations

You could replace one of your 2 days in Reykjavik with a second day exploring the magnificent peninsula, known as Iceland in Miniature. In that case, i recommend staying in Grundarfjordur – Check out the best-rated accommodations

Day 13 & 14 – Reykjavik

Drive to Reykjavik: 1h10

Explore the vibrant capital city of Iceland. Consider:

• Sculpture of Sun voyager at sunrise
• the Cathedral
• Perlan Museum
• Flyover Iceland fun experience
• Whales of Iceland museum
• and many historical or quirky museums

See all the entrance tickets you can pre-purchase in your own currency.

Check out the best-rated accommodations in Reykjavik.

To relax after your entire 2-week Iceland road trip, you can plan for a Blue Lagoon experience (45min drive from Reykjavik).

More Nature alternative!

Another “must-see” in Iceland is Landmannalaugar in the Central Highlands. It can only be reached by 4WD, but there are day tours getting you there from Reykjavik. Therefore, if you prefer Nature to City, you can choose to book that for one of the 2 days – see options

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Alternatives for your 2-week Iceland itinerary

If you don’t want to drive – 2 weeks in iceland without a car.

If you really don’t want to drive, you can still see a lot of Iceland. I recommend you spend some days in Reykjavik and discover the rest of the island with a guide and driver. For example, you can choose:

• an 8-day Summer tour with a small group – see itinerary and availability
• an 11-day private tour of Iceland – see itinerary and availability

Experienced Iceland traveler – 2 weeks away from the Ring Road

If you have already traveled around Iceland, you may be looking to discover some new areas. In that case, my recommendations are :

• To still tour the island on the Ring Road but reducing the time, stopping only at your favorite places you want to see again
• adding 3 or 4 days in the West Fjords
• adding 1 or 2 days to tour the Trollaskagi peninsula North of Akureyri
• Adding 1 or 2 days for the Reykjanes peninsula (South of Reyjavik)
• or planning some off road driving in the Central Highlands (if you can drive 4WD and cross rivers)

Check out my eBook to help you plan your itinerary:

Alternative: 2-week Iceland itinerary with West-Fjords

You can also spend less time on the Ring road and around Snaefellsnes, but add some time in the West fjords.

Check out this self-drive package (including car and accommodations)

Getting ready for your two weeks in Iceland

Where you will land.

Note that the international airport is not located in Reykjavik but in Keflavik (45min drive). If your flight arrives late in the evening, and you are following my itinerary, sleep near Keflavik. Do not head into Reykjavik for just the night.

Compare flight prices

First, check the Visa requirement for your type of passport. Iceland is part of the Schengen Visa Agreement. Here is the list of countries where a visa is needed to visit Iceland 

Get ready to drive

Driving in Iceland is relatively easy. Towns are small, the pavement is in good condition. The main dangers are some farm animals in a few areas, wind gust and looking at the scenery… Check out all my tips and my video about driving in Iceland .

What to pack

You need layers. You can have 4 seasons in one day. So have:

• Something for when it is warm
• a layer for when it gets chilly
• a layer for when it gets rainy
• a layer for when it is windy

And check out my detailed checklists both for Summer and Winter – HERE

And keep track of your own trip!

Understand the name of places

Also, there are a few words that are useful to be recognized so that when you see a sign, you can realize what type of scenery it will be, and you can decide if you want to explore:

• Jökull – Glacier
• Kirkja – Church
• Sarlon – Lagoon
• Fell – Mountain
• Foss/Fossar – Waterfall
• Hraun – Lava

Money 

• Currency: Icelandic Kronur
• Tipping: not mandatory
• Payment: Cash dispensers only in the cities (so plan ahead) but credit cards are taken everywhere and for all amounts
• Exchange your cash before leaving because you will not be able to do it outside Iceland

Good to know

• Showers: hot water can smell like sulfur. Don’t worry, it’s just from the heating system. No danger.
• Wifi – often available for free in gas stations. All the accommodations where I stayed had wifi at least in the common areas.
• Telephone – no problem along Route 1
• Physical level – I was a little worried before I left because I was not very fit but for most places, access is very easy.
• Don’t forget to have insurance!
• Hot dogs are famous is Iceland

2 week in Iceland Cost

It is very difficult to give you an idea of what it would look like because it depends on a lot of factors (type of accommodation, type of cars, number of travelers…). Just know that Iceland is quite expensive.

For a couple:

• an economic tour (shared bathrooms, no tours, cheap small car rental) – 4000 to 6000 USD, depending on month
• a comfort tour (private bathrooms, medium range accommodation, budget car) – around 5000 to 7000 USD, depending on month
• A quality tour (higher range accommodation, comfort 4WD car) – around 7000 to 10000 USD, depending on month

Best time to visit Iceland

June-August

• PROS – Long daylight hours, green scenery
• You can see – lupine fields (June-July), midnight sun in June, whales, Puffins (May to mid-July)
• BUT Peak season: higher prices, more tourists; no chances of seeing aurora borealis (not enough dark hours)

May & September-beginning October

• My favorite time
• PROS – Still enough daylight hours, spring and autumn colors, roads still in good condition
• You can see – aurora borealis, Whales between May and September (Killer whales in May), Puffins in May
• BUT fewer accommodations are open, colder weather

Learn more on my article about the best time to visit Iceland.

• PROS – Not too many tourists, stunning landscapes with snow, interesting low light for photography, good prices
• You can see – aurora borealis, winter wonders such as the blue caves, frozen waterfalls, 
• BUT Difficult driving conditions, many roads closed, not many hours of light
• If you are planning a road trip in Winter –  head to this article instead

Is 2 weeks in Iceland too long?

2 weeks is a wonderful length of trip to explore Iceland. It is not too long. It allows you to see a little bit of every region: you can visit the entire ring road and travel beyond it!

How many days in Iceland is ideal?

To be able to get a snapshot of everything Iceland has to offer, 10 is the minimum, but 2 weeks gives you a lot of options. However, even if you have only one week in Iceland, you can some of the most famous sights on the South side of the island.

How long does it take to loop around Iceland?

Without stopping at all and staying only on Route 1, it would take you 16 to 17h to drive all around Iceland. There are many places to see along the Ring Road. You can do it in 7 days, if you don’t do any detours. However, 10 days to 2 weeks is much more comfortable.

Want to see more of the best Iceland has to offer?

• 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Iceland in pictures – read article
• The best stops on the Ring Road – read article
• The best locations off the beaten path around Iceland – read article
• 21 Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland – read article
• Top 5 places to see around Myvatn – read article
• 5 best Lava Fields in Iceland – read article
• The 5 most beautiful black sand beaches in Iceland – read article

To plan your itinerary, you can check out:

• My general post about planning an Iceland road trip
• My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
• My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
• My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
• or get one of my practical eBooks to help you plan your ideal itinerary:

Want to see more of ICELAND?

PREVIOUS: 

10-day Iceland itineraries (4 option)

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Choose your Iceland Self Drive Tour

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Travel Iceland Without A Car

Travel Iceland Without a Car

Iceland, the land of ice and fire, is a mesmerizing destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences. While many visitors opt to explore the country by renting a car, traveling without one can be equally rewarding and environmentally friendly. This article will guide you through the enchanting sights of Iceland and show you how to explore this scenic country without relying on a vehicle.

Public Transportation in Iceland

Iceland boasts a well-developed public transportation system that allows tourists to navigate the country easily. The main bus operator, Strætó, provides reliable and comfortable services that cover most major towns and tourist attractions. With extensive routes and frequent schedules, you can efficiently plan your journey and visit popular landmarks such as the Golden Circle, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as the famous Blue Lagoon.

The bus network offers flexible ticket options, including discounted tourist passes for unlimited travel within a specified period. Additionally, travelers can enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way while letting someone else handle the driving, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes.

Join Guided Tours

For a hassle-free travel experience, joining guided tours is an excellent option. Numerous tour operators offer comprehensive packages that cater to various interests and budgets. Whether you want to explore the mesmerizing ice caves, experience the magical Northern Lights, or trek across awe-inspiring glaciers, there is a tour for everyone.

These guided tours provide expert guides who are knowledgeable about Iceland’s history, geology, and folklore, offering valuable insights and perspectives about the places you visit. They provide transportation, accommodations, and often include meals, ensuring that you have a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Exploring on Foot

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural beauty is by exploring on foot. The country boasts an extensive network of well-maintained hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and interests.

Whether you want to marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Landmannalaugar, hike through the otherworldly terrain of Þórsmörk, or venture into the remote highlands, Iceland offers unforgettable hiking experiences. Lace up your boots, grab a backpack, and embark on an adventure that will take you to places inaccessible by car.

Alternative Transportation Options

If you prefer a bit more independence and flexibility, several alternative transportation options exist for exploring Iceland without a car. Bicycles can be rented in many towns, allowing you to enjoy Iceland’s picturesque countryside at your own pace.

Furthermore, electric scooters have recently become popular in cities like Reykjavík, offering an efficient and eco-friendly way to explore the city’s attractions. These scooters are widely available for rent and offer a fun and convenient mode of transportation for short distances.

Environmental Considerations

Traveling without a car in Iceland not only allows you to have a unique and immersive experience, but it also contributes to the preservation of Iceland’s pristine environment. By utilizing public transportation, joining guided tours, or exploring on foot, you minimize your carbon footprint and help reduce the impact of tourism on the fragile Icelandic ecosystem.

Additionally, traveling without a car provides an opportunity to connect with local communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives. By staying in guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and engaging with Icelandic traditions and customs, you can have a more authentic and responsible travel experience.

# Additional Sections

Local Experiences and Cultural Encounters

One of the advantages of exploring Iceland without a car is the opportunity to engage with local communities and immerse yourself in Icelandic culture. By using public transportation or joining guided tours, you can easily interact with locals and gain insight into their way of life.

Visit small towns and villages off the beaten path, where you can experience the rich Icelandic folklore, taste traditional cuisine, and even participate in local celebrations. Take the time to strike up conversations with locals, ask for recommendations, and embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Icelandic people.

The Benefits of Slow Travel

Traveling without a car in Iceland encourages a slower pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the country. Instead of rushing from one destination to another, you can take your time and savor each moment.

By relying on public transportation or exploring on foot, you have the freedom to pause and admire breathtaking landscapes, observe wildlife in their natural habitats, and connect with the natural world around you. Embrace the concept of slow travel and let Iceland’s serene beauty captivate your senses.

Traveling During Winter

While traveling without a car in Iceland is feasible year-round, it may require additional considerations during the winter months. The weather can be challenging, with snowy and icy conditions, reduced daylight hours, and occasional road closures.

However, with proper planning and precautions, winter travel in Iceland without a car can still be a rewarding experience. Opt for guided tours that are specifically designed for winter conditions, ensure you have appropriate winter clothing and equipment, and stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions.

Alternative Accommodation Options

When exploring Iceland without a car, consider alternative accommodation options that enhance your experience. Instead of traditional hotels, choose guesthouses or farm stays, which provide a more authentic glimpse into Icelandic life.

These accommodations often offer unique experiences such as traditional Icelandic meals, learning about local traditions and crafts, and even taking part in outdoor activities like horseback riding or sheep herding. Embrace the opportunity to connect with locals and create lasting memories beyond the typical tourist experience.

Joseph Herbert

Joseph Y. Herbert is a journalist, author, and travel writer based in Iceland. He is passionate about exploring the culture and history of Iceland and sharing insights into its unique landscapes and people with his readers.

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The Katie Show Blog

Extraordinary travel experiences for ordinary people.

Solo Female Travel In Iceland Without A Car – How To Make The Most Of It

• By Katie Mac
• May 2, 2017

26 Comments

UPDATED FEB 2020. When I visited Iceland, I wanted to see as much of the beautiful nature as possible, but there was a catch. I didn’t want to do all the driving. When I’m traveling solo I just can’t drive around all day. I don’t know about you but there’s something about driving that makes me so tired. If I don’t have someone to talk to or play car Karaoke with (for the record, I do a pretty great Beyonce performance) then I get tired really fast. When I was planning my trip, I had to figure out how to see it all without having to drive all day and I’m happy to say that I found a way. Here’s a guide for solo female travel in Iceland and how to make the most of your trip even if you won’t have a rental car. 

Disclaimer:

This post was written in partnership with Bustravel Iceland.

Day tours for solo female travelers in Iceland

The best way I could see a lot of the sights was to jump on a couple of day tours. I did day tours for the sights on the Golden Circle and explored Reykjavik on the other days by walking around on my own.

I found Bus Travel Iceland for the tours and took the Glacier Lagoon tour and Grand Golden Circle tours.

Solo female travel in Iceland with a car

Before we get started, I want to mention that solo female travel in Iceland is entirely doable with a car.

It’s a personal preference of mine to avoid most times on my solo trips because I get tired after about 40 minutes.

If you want to rent a car, the most important thing to know is that the weather is harsh and unpredictable. When we were traveling on the bus tour, the wind was pushing the bus!

Stay updated with Safe Travel Iceland to check alerts before driving each day and download their app so that you can check it during the day.

Glacier Lagoon tour

In my opinion, the Glacier Lagoon is the must-do. It’s a 14 hour day that allows you to see so many of the incredible natural sights.

On this tour, you can do it all from standing under a roaring waterfall to holding icebergs on a black sand beach.

It’s hard to pick a favorite part, but I think it might’ve been the Glacier Lagoon because it was such a surreal area. As you stand there with cold air hugging your face, looking out at the silky water broken by the huge icebergs, it feels like you’ve been transported into a travel magazine.

Like one of those places you know exist somewhere on Earth but would probably never be able to see. I was even lucky enough to see seals frolicking in the water.

For those of us who wanted to go, our guide walked us to a black sand beach with icebergs washed up on it which was another unreal beauty.

The Glacier Lagoon was by far my favorite tour and the one I recommend the most.

Grand Golden Circle tour

The Grand Golden Circle tour was an 8-hour day, so a little shorter duration but still impressive when it comes to seeing incredible natural sights.

On this tour, you can see waterfalls, boiling water shooting out from the ground at Geysir, and even a volcanic crater with its own lake.

In hindsight, if I was doing the trip over I would do the Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour instead. I mean, why not add in a dip in the heated thermal water to your adventures, right?

Travel Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket if you want to get close to any of the waterfalls. They’re huge so they have a good amount of spray coming from them.

What to expect on a day tour with Bus Travel Iceland

The day tours allowed me to maximize time exploring but it was not at a pace that was too fast to enjoy.

We were given plenty of time at each stop to check out the area and, of course, take pictures before returning to the bus.

For the driving time, I got to sit back and relax in comfort as I looked out the window at the other-worldly type landscapes outside.

The bus was really easy to spot in the carpark too with a big Bustravel Iceland sticker on the side so there was no risk of getting into the wrong bus after each adventure.

There is wi-fi onboard which is handy for uploading photos on the go.

Solo female travel in Iceland was easy and convenient with these tours.

Navigating Iceland’s unpredictable weather

It’s probably a good time for a reminder that the weather in Iceland is quite unpredictable and mother nature doesn’t muck around out there.

We had the weather turn on us during one of the tours and it was intense!

When I was walking outside the wind was strong enough to push me off a footpath then it turned into a rain/wind/snow combination.

I was glad about my choice to take the bus tour because the driver was able to navigate it smoothly and drive through the intense wind without even flinching.

If I was driving by myself, on the other hand, I would’ve certainly been flinching up a storm.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Katie McIntosh (@katieshowblog) on May 10, 2017 at 12:11am PDT

The group tours are fun

The guides on both of the tours were awesome.

As we drove around they shared information about life in Iceland that I probably have known had I driven around by myself. It was interesting and gave new life to the land we were exploring.

Instead of just seeing the Icelandic horses in paddocks I learned about their history, the reason that they are the size they are and the strict quarantine and import rules.

If I was by myself I would’ve just seen a cute animal, taken 3000 photos of them and that would be it so I appreciate having the guides there to share interesting information.

Taking these day tours made solo female travel in Iceland super easy and convenient.

It was the best way for me to maximize time without having to rent a car. I highly recommend it for anyone else planning a trip.

For more information:

Visit the Bustravel Iceland website

Follow them on Instagram  for updates

Other guides to help you plan a trip to Iceland

The No Drama & No BS Guide To The Iceland Plane Wreck Hike

Iceland Ring Road In 7 Days – Here’s Your Step By Step Itinerary

A Detailed Guide On Cheap And Free Things To Do In Reykjavik

If you found this post useful, return the favor by sharing it or following me on Instagram !

Wow, Iceland is so beautiful! I didn’t realize those buses were an option, that’s great! I always thought everyone was renting cars/vans over there! We still need to go check out Iceland’s beauty for ourselves one day!

Thanks Megan, I hope you get to visit one day! I always thought people were driving too but I was glad to have the bus tour option!

O wow! This is such a great option for solo travelers. I love that the bus has wifi, since that really helps to kill the time. And great tip on bringing a waterproof jacket 🙂

Yes, definitely helps to kill the time so that was a bonus!

This sounds really fun! I did a couple bus tours when I was traveling on my own and too young to rent a car and had really great experiences — I’m still friends with some of the people I met on them.

I live in a city and don’t have a car, so driving in Iceland was a bit of an adventure for me. I got used to it after the first day, but I think my wife was expecting to die every second of the way. I’m sure she would have much preferred a professional driver!

Aww Cori that’s so awesome that you are still in touch with people you met on the tours. That’s one of the best parts about them! BTW go you for braving the roads – that’s badass!

I have always found Iceland a fascinating place to visit. I went over 10years ago but there was a tourism set up then and it was hard to get around. I have always wanted to go back and your post and pictures, just want me to pack my bags and go right now. The Glacier Lagoon wow that just looks amazing.

Wow Mel, that’s so cool that you got to see Iceland before the crowds and big changes! I hope you get to go back and see it one day xo

Iceland must be the safest place for a solo female traveller. Even though I am from Norway and Iceland is pretty close. I haven’t been there yet. I really want to go and explore it both summer and winter. Your photos look amazing. The waterfalls there looks truly breathtaking! Thank you for sharing 😀

You’re from Norway?! That’s my favorite country! So glad to e-meet you 🙂 I hope you get to visit Iceland one day!

This is so great! I imagine how you look like when you’re trying to do a Beyonce performance when your driving. Anyway, I’m glad that there’s a bus tour services In Iceland that allows you to see and have a perfect panoramic view of Iceland’s nature’s bounty. I’m sure that you really have enjoyed your tour and I guess Iceland is really safe and cool for a female solo traveler. I can’t wait to hear more of your travels. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

Haha! Hmm in one word it’s embarrassing! Iceland is definitely a safe and cool place for a solo traveler and I was so glad for the bus tour to be able to see as much as possible.

Loved reading about the wonderland that is Iceland. I never seem to get enough of this beautiful place. I could almost feel the cold air at the Glacier Lagoon as I read about it. Your lovely pictures and words virtually transported me to this haven of nature.

That’s so sweet, thank you Sandy! I’m happy I got to virtually take you to Iceland!

Fun!!! Usually most Iceland posts are written from the perspective of couples or people traveling in groups so its nice to read something from a new perspective. We never made it to Glacier Lagoon but I would’ve loved to see it in person! True what they say about those waterproof jackets too, had no idea the waterfalls would be so powerful!

Thanks so much Izzy! Oh yeah, they definitely have some power and I got soaked! – but worth it for the photos 😀

Yes, Iceland is a friendly travel destination for a female solo traveler. I had a very beautiful experience in this matter. A few months back, I had visited this country. At that time Discover Iceland helped me a lot. I really enjoyed my trip.

So true Janna, it’s a very solo travel friendly place!

I’ve been seeing so many posts about Iceland, and it’s making me want to visit even more than I already did! The Blue Lagoon has been at the top of my bucket list for years now. Definitely one of those ‘dream come true’ visits when it finally happens! Your photos look beautiful, and the Glacier Lagoon bus tour sounds awesome! 😀

Thank you, I hope you get to visit Rhiannon! It really is an amazing place 🙂

Did you go to the blue lagoon? The lava facial was divine!

I bet they are amazing! I didn’t go to the Blue Lagoon though – I went to all the local pools instead.

Thanks for the info. I’m going in Late June. What month did you travel and for how many days? If I stay about a week, I wonder if there is an opportunity to do a tour but stay the night near some of the spots so as to have more time to enjoy than say fit it all into a 14 day. I’ll be traveling there Solo too.

Hi Ariana, how exciting! I hope you have the best time! I went in April and stayed for 4 days. I am not sure about doing the tour like that but I would email them to see if its possible. Have fun!

Iceland looks lovely! I have been seen a lot of people going there recently and I have to admit that made Iceland go up my bucketlist LOL 🙂 x

Thanks so much Stephanie! I hope you get to see Iceland soon 🙂

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Shallow Obsession

Iceland 4 days Itinerary without a car

Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is defined by its dramatic rugged landscapes and scenery. The Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon, volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls top the list of must-sees. Iceland is also famous for its history and being settled by the Vikings. It is known as “The Land of Fire and Ice” due to its contrasting…

Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is defined by its dramatic rugged landscapes and scenery. The Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon, volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls top the list of must-sees. Iceland is also famous for its history and being settled by the Vikings. It is known as “The Land of Fire and Ice” due to its contrasting landscapes.

Most of the population lives in the capital, Reykjavik, which runs on geothermal power and is home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history. Iceland is one of those country that always make you want to come back if you love nature and action.

When to Come

Iceland is beautiful all year round and the landscape changes so much from spring, summer, autumn and winter.

The summer months; July and August are Iceland’s warmest, and have long been the most popular time to visit. And June, with its 24 hours of daylight, sees just about as many tourists as the peak of summer. This is the season where everyone will flock to Iceland, renting a car or camper-van and drive around the ring road and highland.

Northern light is the second reason people come to Iceland. Many people come in December and January during winter to see northern light and enjoy winter activity such as ice cave tour and snowmobiling.

How to get around

The best way to enjoy Iceland is thru self-driving either by renting a car and stay at Hotel or guesthouses or renting a camper-van for more flexibility. However if you visit Iceland in winter, self driving may not be an ideal option especially in the month of December and January where you can face snow storm, sleet or icy rain. Daylight in December and January is also very short, so you wouldn’t want to spend your days driving in the dark for hours.

Whether you are coming in winter and you don’t have winter driving experience or you are not comfortable with driving you can still enjoy Iceland by taking tour. Why tour because sadly Iceland public transportation only caters for local to move from one place to another and not for tourist to visit Iceland’s best spots.

Here we’re curating itinerary without car you can copy if you are planning for 4 days, 6 days and 8 to10 days in Iceland. Bear in mind that Iceland weather can change dramatically and when the weather is harsh tour can get cancelled.

4 Days Itinerary

Day 1 : Assuming you land Keflavik in the afternoon, you can take flybus or public transport (read here to know how) to take you to your accommodation in Reykjavik. Spend the day strolling thru Reykjavik to beat that jetlag and had early dinner before leaving for Northern light tour. Always book for northern light tour on your first night so if there is no sighting you can try again the next day. Some providers have policy to give second tour for free if there is no sighting.

Day 2 : Day tour to Golden Circle Tour and Blue Lagoon. Golden Circle Tour is Iceland Classic tour which takes you to visit Thingvellir national park, geysir and Gulfoss waterfall. This tour can come with many varieties such as snowmobiling in winter, visit to Kerid Crater in summer, Silfra snorkeling in Thingvellir, Visit to Fredheimar Tomato farm, thermal bath in Blue Lagoon/SkyLagoon/Secret lagoon and etc.

Day 3 and 4 : Take 2 days tour going to South Coast and Jokulsarlon. This tour will take you to see 2 waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, black sandy beach Reynijsfara, the town of Vik, Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. If you go in winter take the tour which includes saphire blue ice cave in Jokulsarlon. During summer visit to Glacier lagoon usually include zodiac boat tour. You will return to Reykjavik on the second day.

Day 5 : Flying back

6 Days Itinerary

Day 2 and 3 : Take 2 days tour going to South Coast and Jokulsarlon. This tour will take you to see 2 waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, black sandy beach Reynijsfara, the town of Vik, Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. If you go in winter take the tour which includes saphire blue ice cave in Jokulsarlon. During summer visit to Glacier lagoon usually include zodiac boat tour. You will return to Reykjavik on the second day.

Day 4 : Day tour to Golden Circle Tour. Golden Circle Tour is Iceland Classic tour which takes you to visit Thingvellir national park, geysir and Gulfoss waterfall. This tour can come with many varieties such as snowmobiling in winter, visit to Kerid Crater in summer, Silfra snorkeling in Thingvellir, Visit to Fredheimar Tomato farm, thermal bath in Blue Lagoon/SkyLagoon/Secret lagoon and etc.

Day 5 : Day tour to Snaeffelness Peninsula

Day 6 : Spend one day in Reykjavik and soak in Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon in late afternoon.

Day 7 : Fly back

8-10 Days Itinerary

If you have 8 to 10 days our suggestion is to take 6 to 8 days ring road tour around Iceland and spend the first day and the last day exploring Reykjavik on your own. Stroll around Reykjavik on day 1 when you land and after tour finishes spend the last day in Reykjavik where you can explore more of Reykjavik or take up the Whale watching tour if they are in season from April to September and end your adventure by enjoying a thermal bath in Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.

Ring Road Tour has different itinerary in winter vs summer so bear that in mind when you’re browsing thru the program. Below are examples of Tour Operator which offers multi-days ring road tour:

• Six days around Iceland with Arctic Adventure
• Seven days guided Ring Road Tour with Nice Travel
• Eight days around Iceland Summer mini bus Tour with Iceland Adventure Tours
• Eight days around Iceland Summer Tour with Troll Expeditions
• Eight days around Iceland Winter Tour with Troll Expeditions
• Eight Days Ring Road Tour with Marina Travel

Where to book the tours

The easiest way to find available tour is to browse Get your Guide Website . Advantage of booking thru Get your Guide is they usually have 24 hour cancellation policy which is more flexible Vs booking direct. However booking direct to local operator comes at a slightly cheaper price and you get to choose a more recommended local operator. Another alternative is to book thru local aggregator company such as Guide to Iceland .

When booking for tour always go for a smaller group. Even though they cost more than the big bus tour but the experience is so much better.

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Travelling Around Iceland Without a Car - How and Where? - Iceland Forum

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1) Am I able to travel around Iceland on my own without a car ?

2) Where should I go since I won't be renting a car ?

I figure I'll have a few days in Reykajavik - one day to arrive/explore, one to do the Golden Circle Tour and one for Blue Lagoon . That leaves 3 - 4 days for 1 or 2 other places. Where could I go?

1) I don't think so.

Perhaps you can go with a friend who can drive a car ? Driving a car is pretty straightforward in August.

Also, check out this: https://www.icelandonyourown.is/ or this https://www.re.is/iceland-on-your-own

I took bus #9 and I recommend this.

- There is always hitchhiking.... But if you are looking for something like public transport I can tell you to forget about it altogether. Public transport doesn't even drive to Þingvellir, Blue Lagoon , Gullfoss, Geysir and most other tourist sites. And where I've seen a public bus the "stop" was no longer than on a regular in-city bus stop. Not nearly enough to enjoy, or even go to the bathroom.

- Tour companies offer any sort of tours, ranging from a couple of hours up to 3 weeks AFAIK. Also, if you are a self reliant camper/backpacker you can use the summer bus system. It's sort of a "hop-on hop-off" system where you buy a bus pass to reach certain areas or simply buy certain routes. Such systems could be:

https://www.re.is/iceland-on-your-own/

http://www.sba.is/en/scheduled-bus-service/summer-schedule

http://www.sternatravel.com/summer-bus-schedules/

http://greyline.is/tourslistindex.aspx

http://trex.is/scheduled-bus/

Thanks for your responses but I think I should've been more specific about my question.

I then have 3-4 days to go to another city/part of Iceland . What city would you recommend I go to from Reykjavik to stay for another few days that I can get to by bus somehow? From that new city I don't mind taking tours again but I'd like to also see a different place. I'm also considering doing whale watching or puffin watching if those are actually good. They might actually sound cooler than it is in real life.

The only other large town is Akureryi all other places are little more than villages. Most of these won't have a large number, or any, organised tours.

http://www.sba.is/en/home

You get a discount (or at least you used to, if you book online).

While flying to Akureyri is convenient and quicker, it costs more, especially when you bear in mind that the airport is a few kms out of town with no bus service. Some of the tours mentioned though do pick you up at the airport, so this may be a good option on the first day there at least, I am sure you could ask the driver to drop you off at your hotel or downtown afterwards. It isn't a big town, so you should easily be able to walk, even with luggage.

Details of bus services to and from Akureyri from Reykjavik can be found here

http://www.nat.is/travelguideeng/bus_stop_southwest_iceland.htm

Air Iceland operate the flights to and from Reykjavik domestic airport, and their website is here

https://www.airiceland.is/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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How to get around Iceland, from the highest peaks to the deepest fjords

Mar 6, 2024 • 9 min read

These transportation tips can help you navigate the volcanic, vast and varied terrain of Iceland © Creative Family / Shutterstock

Vast landscapes stretch between volcanoes and ice-capped mountains. Coastal roads snake around fjords, passing fishing villages, isolated churches – plus the odd sheep bleating on the roadside. Iceland ’s countryside is as diverse as it is dramatic.

It's also relatively tiny – at roughly 40,000 sq miles, Iceland is a tad smaller than the state of Ohio. But despite its size, it can still be a tricky country to navigate. All those volcanic landscapes and fjords make for difficult terrain, and as all the locals know , the fickle weather patterns can throw the best-laid travel plans into disarray. Luckily some of the country's top spots are just a few miles from Reykjavik , meaning that you may not need to travel very far to see some of Iceland's most iconic sights .

But there's also a whole country out there for exploring. From hiring your own transportation to taking the bus, here's how to get around Iceland.

A car or campervan is the most flexible way to get around

Exploring Iceland on your own four wheels gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, and the network of roads is generally adequate with low traffic. Route 1 (better known as the Ring Road) encircles the country, with other paved or gravel roads spiraling into the rest of the country like the roots of a vine. During the summer, a 2WD car is all you need to navigate Iceland’s main roads. Unless you have a 4WD, you should avoid the highlands or anything prefixed with an F (such as F88).

Taking a coastal route is an especially scenic and enjoyable way to see the countryside, although navigating Iceland’s fjords can sometimes add an hour or more to a trip. Many mountain roads close in the winter, so plan ahead. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website posts regular updates on closures.

Drivers from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries must have a valid driver’s license from their home country. Many places will accept an International Driving Permit (IDP) provided by the automobile association of your home country.

Tips for renting a car:  Renting a car is fairly straightforward in Iceland, although it pays to consider a few things like prices, insurance and what to do in the event of a breakdown.

International rental agencies like Europcar, Budget and Avis are available. Still, local agencies like Blue Car Rental , A Car Rental , and Go Car Rental might be able to provide extra services like wi-fi hotspots or included insurance at better rates. In Iceland, car rental costs are often higher than in other countries, and it's worth booking in advance for a cheaper rate.

Depending on where you're headed or when you're traveling, consider the additional gravel or sand and ash insurance protection. Most insurance policies don't cover these types of damage on regular damage waivers, so if you're traveling during autumn or spring when sand or ash storms can be particularly bad, get this extra insurance. Anyone heading out into the F-roads should consider gravel protection as well.

Be sure to do a thorough inspection before signing for the keys. Due to Iceland’s gravel roads, bumps, scratches and dings are common. Notify the rental agency and take photos of anything larger than a fingernail.

Tips for renting a camper: Combining accommodation and transportation costs into one expense, campers are a popular way for travelers to explore Iceland. Unlike most accommodations, Iceland’s campsites don’t need to be pre-booked, so traveling in a motor home allows for an amount of spontaneity.

Summer is the best time to see Iceland in a camper. During winter, most infrastructure that services campers, such as campsites and public bathing facilities, close up shop. Moreover, winter weather can derail even the best-planned trip.

Most major rental agencies offer some type of motor home, but it pays to go local. A cottage industry of Icelandic camper rental companies has sprouted up in the past few years, offering everything from family-sized behemoths to all-terrain setups equipped for the highlands. Many companies will throw in GPS or wi-fi hotspots, cooking gear or fishing equipment. Common favorites include CampEasy or Go Campers .

Tips for filling up with gas:  The rental agent will tell you which type of fuel to use (diesel vs gasoline), and usually there’s a sticker on the tank door if you forget. Gas stations are regularly spaced along Iceland’s main roads, but if you’re traveling into remote areas like the highlands, be sure that you have adequate gas beforehand.

Most small gas stations are unstaffed and pumps are automated. All automated machines require a card with a PIN. If you don’t have one, you can purchase a prepaid card at an N1 station to use at automated pumps. Some US credit card companies will issue a PIN; call yours to check.

Familiarity with a car jack and how to change a spare can go a long way when a tire goes flat in the middle of a long and empty road. If anything happens to your rental, call your rental agency for help.

The bus is a good option for budget travelers

Iceland’s bus networks are a hodgepodge of public bus routes and tourist-service routes, the latter of which runs only during the summer (typically July and August). Still, the bus network makes it possible to get around Iceland without a car, which is a better option for travelers on a budget .

Public buses serve most main towns and coastal areas

Iceland’s public bus services are made up of Stræto , which nearly circumnavigates the country on the Ring Road; Svaust in the east, which connects to the Straeto Ring Road route at Egilsstaðir and Höfn; and West Iceland’s local bus lines. This network of routes services most main towns around the coast, as well as popular hiking areas .

Iceland’s public buses run year-round, but many reduce services during the winter months, and some stop altogether. Iceland’s fickle weather can also cause havoc on schedules and routes, so plan plenty of time into your schedule if there are delays.

Scheduled tourist buses have seasonal services

Throughout the summer, buses operated by various tour companies like Reykjavik Excursions , Volcano Huts  and Iceland By Bus shuttle visitors around highlights in Western Iceland. These bus routes can serve as sightseeing transportation or as a simple A-to-B service. Many buses are equipped with GPS tracking that allows you to track where your bus is, and some have onboard wi-fi as well.

Domestic flights are worth considering in winter

Domestic flights are a quick but expensive way to navigate the country. The main domestic airports are in Reykjavik (note: not Keflavik, which is exclusively international), Akureyri  and Egilsstaðir.

Due largely to Iceland’s difficult terrain, locals have adopted air travel as a mode of transportation almost akin to national bus or rail networks, especially in winter. A full listing of airports, including nearby attractions and parking information, can be found at the national airport provider, Isavia .

Cycling is rewarding, but conditions can be tough

Around the coast, roads are generally flat and paved, and cycling is an excellent way to see this part of the country. Be warned, though: Iceland’s weather can be hell to bike through, so be prepared to face wind that seems perpetually against you, cold and torrential rain, and sand- and snowstorms, even in summer.

Most of the Ring Road doesn’t have much of a hard shoulder, so you’ll frequently be forced to ride in traffic (such as it is in Iceland). The majority of the Ring Road is open to cyclists, except for two stretches in the west – the Hvalfjörður Tunnel and the area around Reykjavik, where the road becomes a proper motorway. Most cyclists can complete the Ring Road in two weeks.

Top tips for cyclists:  Cycling necessities like tire repair kits and spares can be easily found in Reykjavik, but they’ll more or less vanish outside of town. Make sure to stock up before departing. Most cyclists bring their own bikes to Iceland, but Reykjavik Bike Tours offers multi-day mountain bike rentals that serve as touring bikes.

Boats and ferry services make for lovely day trips

Boats are mainly sightseeing options for travelers, heading out for a day on the water and then returning to the same port of call. However, there are a few areas where taking a ferry is the main way to get around. Most major routes carry vehicles as well.

Take the ferry from Reykjavik to the uninhabited island of Viðey

Leaving Reykjavik, this ferry makes regular trips to uninhabited Viðey Island and its wealth of hiking trails, seabird colonies and historic buildings. Buy tickets at ferry terminals at Skarfabakki and in the Old Harbor (summer only). Cars are not allowed on Viðey Island.

Head out to Heimaey on the Vestmannaeyjar f erry to  spot puffins

This route connects southwestern Iceland to Vestmannaeyjar, an archipelago of craggy sea cliffs with birdlife, including millions of puffins that come here to breed. The picturesque town of Heimaey is nestled within a lava flow that nearly destroyed half the town in the 1970s. Visit Herjólfur  to book tickets.

Save time on the road by taking the Brjánslækur ferry

This year-round ferry shaves off a significant amount of time traveling to the Westfjords from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Departing from Stykkisholmur on the peninsula, the ferry stops at Flatey Island before docking at Brjánslækur.

Go towards the Arctic Circle on the Grímsey ferry

Transporting travelers to the Arctic Circle to view colonies of puffins, scenic cliffs and basalt rock formations, the ferry from Dalvík to Grímsey will give you about two to five hours worth of exploring on the island before it's time to head back. Or you can overnight at one of the island's two guesthouses or the campground. Book tickets online .

Experience the relaxed island of Hrísey after a short ferry ride

Easily reached from the mainland, Hrísey is a low-key escape (population: under 200) with spectacular views of Eyjafjörður in the central-north part of Iceland. Departing from Árskógssandur seven times every day, the ferry takes about 15 minutes. See the full schedule online .

Accessible transportation in Iceland

Iceland can be a difficult place to travel around for those with mobility issues. Although things are slowly improving, particularly at nature sights, getting around is a different matter altogether. 

Reykjavík's buses are wheelchair accessible, though users must enter and exit via the middle door on their own. Outside of the capital, the majority of regional buses aren't wheelchair accessible.

Iceland Unlimited is the only tour agency that can organize accessible tours and rental cars with hand-controls. The latter are only suitable for people in manual wheelchairs that can be placed into the boot of the car.

See Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel resource page for more information.

This article was first published August 2021 and updated March 2024

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13 Iceland Road Trip Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Iceland is a magical country. It just feels out of this world, like you’re on another planet. The rugged volcanoes and black-sand beaches give the island a desolate but striking appearance. If you ask me, it’s right up there with New Zealand and Norway in terms of the most beautiful countries in the world.

And, just like both of those destinations, it’s an amazing place to take a road trip.

Thanks to its stunning natural beauty, safety, and ease of transportation, Iceland has become a popular destination for solo travelers and first-time road trippers. Yes, it can be expensive, but it has so much to see and do , including tons of amazing hikes and waterfalls that are free to enjoy. You don’t need to break the bank here.

Having been to Iceland a handful of times over the years, I think taking a road trip is the best way to explore the country. So, to ensure you save time and money and stay safe during your trip, here are my top 13 Iceland road-trip tips:

Table of Contents

1. Make sure you have car insurance

2. rent the right vehicle, 3. download the right apps, 4. bring a paper map, 5. choose your direction wisely, 6. avoid the f-roads (if you have a car), 7. check the weather often, 8. only pull over where there is space, 9. keep an eye on your gas tank, 10. don’t rush, 11. avoid the summer (and also the winter), 12. pick up passengers, 13. follow the rules of the road, iceland road trip faq, get the in-depth budget guide to iceland.

I never leave home without travel insurance . And I never rent a car without comprehensive auto insurance either.

In most destinations, this might seem like overkill. I mean, how often do you actually use your car insurance?

In Iceland, however, the weather changes often — and drastically.

Rain and snow are common, and gravel and sand often damage windows. But the real threat most drivers aren’t prepared for is the wind. The gusts here are so strong that car doors are regularly ripped off their hinges (every time I’ve rented a car here, the company has reminded me of this).

Combine that with winding, narrow roads and an abundance of active volcanoes, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for car trouble.

That’s why I always recommend travelers have comprehensive car rental coverage when they visit Iceland. Because it’s much better to be safe than sorry here!

When it comes to renting a car, I recommend Discover Cars . When you book, it’s super easy to add car insurance onto your purchase with the click of a button. They make it clear what is covered and how much it costs.

You can use the widget below to get a quote. It’s fast and free:

It’s easy to rent a car in Iceland. You don’t need an International Driving Permit if you have a valid license using Latin letters with a license number, photograph, and expiration date. That means Americans, Canadians, Australians, Brits, and New Zealanders can all rent a car here with their regular license.

When renting a vehicle in Iceland, you have three main choices:

• A 4×4 (4WD)

If you’re just planning to see the main sights while sleeping in hostels, hotels, and/or Airbnbs, a regular car will do the trick. It’s the cheapest option too.

If you want to explore the rugged interior (known as the Highlands), a 4×4 is required, since the roads there are often unpaved, gravel ones called “F-roads,” which can only be traversed by 4×4 vehicles (if you drive a regular car on them, your insurance coverage will be void).

Your final choice is a campervan/RV. These are for travelers who want to sleep in their vehicle as they travel. They are the most expensive option, but you’ll save money on accommodation, so it kind of balances out.

Just keep in mind that standard transmissions are the norm here, so reserve an automatic-transmission vehicle if that’s a requirement for you.

( Note : No matter what type of vehicle you have, never drive off-road. It is highly illegal due to the fragility of Iceland’s ecosystem. Not only does off-roading damage this beautiful environment, but you could face stiff fines if caught.)  

Everyone road-tripping around Iceland should have the following apps downloaded to or websites bookmarked on their phone:

• Google Translate – While English is widely spoken, the app can be helpful for reading signs and directions. Just make sure to download Icelandic for offline use so that you can still translate things even without mobile data.
• Google Maps – The best app for looking up directions. Make sure to download your maps so you have them for offline use.
• Safetravel.is – This app shares weather alerts, road closure information, and more. It’s good to have so you can be kept up to date should inclement weather or emergencies arise.
• Vedur.is – This is the best weather app for Iceland.
• Samferda – This website is great for finding passengers if you want to share a ride with someone. (If you’re a passenger and need a ride, you can post here too.) Another helpful site for finding passengers is Couchsurfing .

Check the international policies and charges on your phone plan before leaving, so as to avoid unexpected charges when using these apps and/or websites. If you want to stay connected with unlimited data on your trip, get an eSIM .  

Whenever I go on a road trip, I always bring a paper map. I know, Google Maps is easy and free, and mobile data coverage in Iceland is reliable. But it’s better to be safe than sorry. You never know when your phone is going to break, if your signal will be lost, or there will be an emergency.

Give yourself peace of mind: bring a paper road map with you, and just leave it in the glove box. You likely won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it!  

The vast majority of travelers road-tripping through Iceland drive the Ring Road (aka Route 1, the country’s main highway) counterclockwise. This allows you to start with the famous Golden Circle and then head toward popular sights like the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the Sólheimasandur crash site, the glacier lagoon, and more. If you only have a few days to explore, this is the best direction to choose. If it’s your first-time visiting Iceland, this is the direction I suggest.

However, if you want to be contrarian or you want to get off the beaten path, head clockwise. There are still some sights you can visit to kick things off, such as the postcard-perfect Mount Kirkjufell and the rugged Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

If you really want to get off the beaten path and beat the crowds, head to the Westfjords. Only a fraction of travelers come here, so it’s home to some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the country. It was also the highlight of all my time in Iceland.  

As mentioned above, F-roads are rugged, unpaved routes that generally lead off the main Ring Road into the interior. Driving on these roads requires a 4×4 (4WD). If you have a regular car, you won’t be permitted to drive on them. You will void your insurance coverage while also risking blowing a tire or damaging the car. It’s not worth it!  

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the weather in Iceland changes rapidly. For that reason, you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast. While driving in wind or rain might not be an issue, if you’re planning to get out and hike or visit some of the waterfalls, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for the weather. The Vedur.is app (mentioned above) is a must.

No matter what time of year you visit, bring rain gear (including a hat), waterproof footwear, and a sweater. Even in the summer, Iceland is rarely hot, and rain isn’t uncommon either. Prepare accordingly so your trip isn’t ruined (especially if you plan on hiking).  

You are going to be tempted to stop your car often to take photos. And I mean really often. Not only are the main sights in Iceland awe-inspiring, but the average sights are stunning too. You’ll come across random vistas and waterfalls, craggy moss-covered hills, black-sand beaches, and so much more.

It will be tempting to pull over to get out and take photos, but do so with caution. Try to pull off the road only at designated stops or where there is room to do so without impeding traffic. While the Ring Road isn’t a superhighway, it is a busy route with regular traffic in both directions. Don’t endanger yourself or others for a photo. Stick to designated stopping areas.  

Once you leave the busier part of the island around Reykjavik, gas stations become few and far between. For that reason, you’ll want to fill up when you can. Don’t just wait until you have a quarter tank, as you might run out of gas before you get to the next station.

While you can generally look up where gas stations are via Google Maps, I always make sure to top up when I can. The peace of mind is worth it. You’ll also be covered in case you get delayed or change your travel plans at the last minute.  

A lot of people think that, because Iceland is small, you can see the sights in just a matter of days.

You can’t.

If you’re looking to drive the entire Ring Road, plan for at least 10-14 days. While you can do it in less, you will be rushed and will spend more time driving than I’d recommend. (If you just want to see the main highlights in the south and east, 5-7 days is sufficient.)

I prefer quality over quantity, so I always suggest travelers slow down and really soak in the sights. You won’t regret it.

If you’re looking for recommended itineraries, this post breaks down all my suggestions for different time frames , all the way up to an entire month.  

Iceland suffers from success. The country is swamped by travelers during the summer, between late June and early August, as that is when the weather is the warmest and the days are the longest. While “busy” in Iceland is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Barcelona or Venice, it can still be crowded around Reykjavik and the sights closest to the city.

For that reason, I suggest visiting in the shoulder season. The weather is still warm and there will be far fewer people. Everything will be a little cheaper too.

If you are set on going in the summer, I’d suggest heading off to the Westfjords. It’s the least-visited area of the country and offers some of the most untamed and beautiful landscapes in Iceland.

Additionally, I suggest avoiding winter visits too if you plan on driving. Road conditions are less than ideal, and snowstorms are frequent. Unless you have lots of experience with winter driving, skip that season. (You can definitely do a winter visit to see the northern lights, I just wouldn’t rent a car for that.)

Personally, I think late May to early June and late August to early September are the best times to visit. Prices are cheaper, the weather is decent, and the crowds are thinner.  

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider taking passengers. Having people chip in for gas for a leg or two of your journey is a great way to save money while also connecting with like-minded travelers. As mentioned above, you can use websites like Samferda or Couchsurfing to find them.

Another option is to pick up hitchhikers. In the warmer months, hitchhiking is super common along the Ring Road ( I hitchhiked here and had a great experience ). While they generally don’t have money to contribute, they likely have cool stories and great tips. It’s an easy way to help other travelers and liven up your own trip.  

Being a responsible traveler means following local norms and laws. Be aware that Iceland has stricter driving laws and penalties than you may be used to. Make sure to do the following:

• Never drive off-road . Respect the fragile Icelandic ecosystem and never drive off-road.
• Never drink and drive . Iceland has very strict laws about driving under the influence (0.02% is the limit). Not only are you endangering yourself and others, but the fines are extremely high (100,000 ISK).
• Never use your phone while driving . Use a hands-free setup if you need to talk and drive, or else pull over. Not only is it dangerous, but you could face high fines as well.
• Watch out for others on the road . This includes sheep (there are more sheep than people here) and cyclists. Pass slowly and give them a wide berth.
• Know who to call . If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance. It’s the equivalent of 911 in the US/Canada.

How long do you need to road-trip around Iceland? If you plan to drive the entire Ring Road, you’ll want at least 10 days (14 days would be better). If you just want to see the main sights in the south and east, 5-7 days should be plenty.

Is Iceland very expensive? Iceland can be very expensive. Food, accommodation, rental cars, and gas are all pricey. However, there are plenty of ways to save too. By sharing a vehicle (and splitting costs), cooking all your meals, and camping or sticking to hostels , you can easily do it for under $100 USD per day.

Is it worth renting a 4×4? I would only rent a 4×4 if you have prior road trip experience and are planning to go off road. For the average visitor looking to see the main sights, a 4×4 is not necessary.

What is an F-road? An F-road is a route on which only 4×4 vehicles can travel. They are very rugged, unpaved roads, generally leading you into the interior.

If you have a regular rental vehicle, you’re forbidden to drive on them.

Is it safe to drive solo in Iceland? Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. If you’re new to solo travel, it’s the perfect place to start.

Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s also one of the best (and easiest) places to do a road trip. While it may be expensive, it’s very safe and easy to get around, and there are lots of free things to see and do to keep costs down . Just follow the tips above, and you’ll have a fun and safe visit to this rugged island nation!

Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need. You’ll find suggested itineraries, tips, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, and my favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, transportation tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Iceland? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Iceland for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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How to Get Around Kauai With and Without a Car

Trying to figure out how to get around kauai i’ll teach you some tips for getting around kauai without a car so you can see if getting a rental car is the right choice for you.

Kauai is such an amazing island that you could very well spend your entire vacation there. You could also choose to split your time between some of the other islands as well.

No matter what you choose, the way you get around the island will depend on what you plan on doing.

In my personal experience, I have found that not all transportation options are the same! That’s why I have compiled a list of the best ways to get around Kauai locally and long-distance!

Popular Kauai Tours/Activities

• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour (this one also goes to the forbidden island of Ni’ihau)
• Kauai Helicopter Tour (this is the BEST way to see waterfalls on Kauai)
• ATV Tour to a Private Waterfall (this is a romantic adventure that feels like a secret getaway)
• Mountain Tubing (this is a low-key adventure down an old sugar cane canal)
• Luau Kalamaku (you can do a little train ride and feed farm animals before the luau)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Kauai Resorts/Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Kauai (this Poipu resort has a luxurious pool area, romantic restaurants, and a stunning ocean view)
• Koloa Landing Resort (this is a luxury resort with an amazing pool area and truly spacious rooms)
• Royal Sonesta Kauai (we LOVE the pool here because it’s the largest one in Hawaii)

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Kauai itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

The best ways to get around in kauai.

Let’s first take a look at how you can get around if you stay locally!

Walk Around Town

Because the island is so small, it is actually really easy to get around easily by walking in whichever town you stay in!

If you are staying in Poipu , there are many different places you can easily walk to. There are a lot of cool walking paths along the beaches, and shops, food trucks, and restraints are all easily walkable as well!

You can also walk around Princeville and Hanalei on the North Shore. Princeville is more of a resort, and it is easy to get around by bike or walking on the available paths. 

Hanalei is also easy to walk around as well, but if you are hoping to head out further from the town, you may want to think about taking the bus or a shuttle.

The East Shore is also a great place for tourists and it is also easy to walk around there as well if you don’t want to use a car.

No matter if you stay in Kapaa , Wailua , or Lihue , getting access to transportation isn’t a challenge, as there are all sorts of things to check out along the streets, and if you don’t want to walk it, you can always take the bus or ride a bike.

Finding transportation won’t be hard if you stay in Lihue, Wailua, or Kapaa. You can also ride bikes or take the bus.

Rent a Bike or Scooter

Tons of great rental shops can get you a bike that will help you get around the city much easier.

If you happen to be in Kapaa, I would highly recommend going on a bike ride along the coast with a rental bike. The bike trails on the beaches are fantastic and it makes for such a cool experience!

The Hele on Kauai is a great place to get a rental bike that you can also book online.

Lihue also has Kauai Mopeds that you can rent out. These can be a bit pricy, but if you rent them for multiple days, most places will give you a discount to help with the price.

It is also important to remember that if you want to ride a moped in Hawaii, you will need a motorcycle license. You only need a driver’s license if you want to ride on a scooter.

Take the Kauai Bus

If you are trying to get around the island on a budget, the bust is always a fantastic option! For just a couple of dollars, you can get almost anywhere you need, which is best for traveling locally in a city.

There are a couple of things to be aware of before taking the bus.

Firstly, the bus is not optimized for tourists, as it is mostly the locals who use the bus to get to and from school and work. So, this isn’t the best option if you must bring a lot of luggage.

Additionally, there is a limit on a bag for each person, and you have to be able to put it on your lap.

You can also only get from Kekaha to Hanalei using the bus, so if you are trying to get to a place like Haena State Park, this isn’t going to be an option.

The Kauai bus schedule online is useful for figuring out how to get around. 

Overall, the bus is a budget-friendly and convenient way to get around. Just make sure to respect the locals and plan ahead when you travel!

Car Services and Ride Shares

There are a ton of different car services you can find on the island, ranging from private cars to taxis, to the more traditional ride-share services like Lyft and Uber. However, it can be difficult to get a car because the area is semi-rural.

You will find most of the taxi companies at the airport, and the government regulates the taxi fees, so you don’t have to worry about the taxi company hiking up the price.

Because the island is pretty small, this can be a convenient and affordable way to get around, but be sure to book a taxi in advance because the taxis can get taken up pretty quickly.

There are also luxury service companies like Kauai Luxury Transportation that can make the entire process even more stress-free.

There are also companies such as Execucar that are similar to rideshare apps in that they have their own app to communicate with the driver and figure out where they are.

Lyft and Uber are also great options that most people know how to use. The rates for rideshares are also less than car services and taxis, and it is cool to look at the app and figure out how much it is going to be.

Car Rentals in Kauai

If you want to head around the island at your leisure with the greatest amount of flexibility, getting a car rental on Kauai is going to be the best way to get around. 

Despite the ease of use of these cars, congestion of highways has gotten much worse on the island, even to the point where the local DOT is looking into having visitors pay parking fees to stay at public beaches.

However, don’t feel like you can’t use a rental car at all! The best thing that you can do to help is to limit how much you use the vehicle in the first place.

Try planning out your itinerary beforehand, and look for times when you can walk to your location or go on a larger tour that picks you up from where you are staying.

You can also pick a single day where you plan all of your parking and spend the day going out of the town you are in to explore!

Discount Hawaii Car Rental

The best way to obtain a rental car is by using Discount Hawaii Car Rental . They have some of the best rates on a bunch of national companies, so you should definitely check it out. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Kauai Shuttle Service

If you are going to be hanging around your resort, one of the best ways to get around the island is through a shuttle service. There are all sorts of shuttles to fit your needs and the distances you need to go.

Companies such as Speedi Shuttle are even available right by the Lihue Airport’s luggage claim, and it is a great and affordable way to get around.

Additionally, hotels also offer shuttles that can get you to and from the airport for free, so be sure to check it out before you book.

Shuttles are a fantastic way to travel if you don’t want to shell out the cash for a rental car, and there are companies such as Polynesian Adventures that provide a wide range of shuttles on Kauai that can take you sightseeing, or just get you from place to place!

Those who are staying in Poipu should check out the Aloha Spirit Kauai Shuttle , which has different options for you to choose from and even an evening shuttle service that will take you to shops for free!

As I mentioned earlier in the article, if you are planning on checking out Haena State Park , the park has its own shuttles that you can reserve beforehand for a quick trip to the park. Just head to Hanalei’s park and ride; the shuttle will get you to the park in just half an hour!

So, What’s the Best Way to Get Around Kauai?

Kauai is an amazing place with so many beautiful experiences to look into!

If you want to go farther than your city, getting a car rental, car service, or shuttle can get you to where you need to go. And if you are trying to stay on a budget, public transit is also another option that is available to you.

Remember that some places on the island aren’t fully developed, which can make it harder to get to those places specifically.

My personal recommendation for the best way to get around Kauai without a car is by booking shuttles. A shuttle can be a fantastic way to experience so many cool things, and they can sometimes be offered for free by your hotel. Also, you will help to clear up the highways, which is helpful for everyone.

FAQ about Transportation in Kauai

Yes, there are Ubers available all around the island, and you can even book an Uber 30 days in advance to make sure that you have one there and ready for you. However, they aren’t as reliable as the ones on the mainland.

Not only is driving around the island easy, but it also offers some of the best views along the roads with views of the magnificent ocean and stunning beaches that truly make the driving experience incredible!

If you are only going to be traveling to Kauai, having at least 7 to 10 days is going to be enough time for you to check out the beaches, go on some tours, and most importantly, have some time to relax!

How to Get Around Kauai Wrap Up

No matter where you plan to stay on the island, there are a ton of ways to get around that are convenient, stress-free, and most importantly, help you make the most of your vacation!

Looking for more Kauai travel resources? Find out the best Na Pali Coast tours , Poipu Kauai vacation rentals , cheap Kauai hotels , how many days to stay on Kauai , and guide to North Shore Kauai .

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In a heist of biblical proportions, thieves pilfered about $30 million in cash from a Los Angeles-area vault on Easter Sunday — and no one even noticed the empty vault until the next morning.

The burglary took place Sunday night at the GardaWorld facility in Sylmar, which handles cash for several businesses in the area, sources told Eyewitness News .

The thieves were so stealthy that the safe showed no signs of a break-in from the outside — and the operators of the business were none the wiser until they opened it on Monday, the Los Angeles Times said .

The thieves accessed the facility through the roof and managed to avoid setting off any alarms when they got into the money storage area, officials familiar with the investigation told Eyewitness News.

Footage of the facility on Wednesday showed what appeared to be a gaping hole in the side of the building with a pile of debris next to it — though it was unclear if that damage stemmed from the break-in, the outlet said.

Very few people would have known how much cash was stored at the nondescript facility, the LA Times noted.

The elaborate scheme was likely executed by a crew of seasoned burglars, sources told the paper.

The heist is one of the largest in Los Angeles history and also outpaced all of the region’s armored car thefts, Los Angeles Police Department Cmdr. Elaine Morales confirmed to the outlet.

As of Thursday, the incident is under investigation by both the Los Angeles Police Department and the FBI.

The LAPD and the GardaWorld facility did not immediately return The Post’s request for comment.

The Easter Sunday theft comes nearly two years after up to $100 million in jewels and other valuables were taken from an armored big rig at a Grapevine truck stop.

The thieves stuffed 20 large bags full of gems during the 27-minute robbery that took place during the driver’s nap and meal break.

That crime remains unsolved.

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The one thing you'll want to do is the only thing not to do while driving during solar eclipse

The 2024 solar eclipse will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the celestial event?

We know Americans should wear certified eclipse glasses when looking directly at the eclipse. And millions of Americans are in the eclipse's path of totality , the moment that occurs when the moon completely blocks the sun's light from reaching us. During totality, the eclipse can be viewed with the naked eye.

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path. If you plan to drive during this time, you may not only have to contend with traffic , but need to take steps to stay safe.

Here's what to know about driving during the eclipse.

Where to get free solar eclipse glasses: Libraries, Warby Parker and more giving glasses away

Is it safe to drive during an eclipse?

It's safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse.

"Anyone operating a vehicle should not be attempting to look up at the sky during the eclipse – their eyes should be on the road," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

The automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," Diaz said.

Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving

It should go without saying, but authorities are also reminding people to not drive while wearing eclipse glasses .

The Missouri and Texas departments of transportation are both advising drivers to not wear eclipse glasses during the natural phenomenon and to focus on the road.

"Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving," reads a list of safety tips from the Texas department. Thousands people are expected to drive to towns along the path of totality, including Dallas, ahead of the eclipse.

Several state transportation departments  released similar warnings  ahead of the 2017 total solar eclipse. Wyoming's, for example, warned people traveling to the state about how they wouldn't be able to see the road with solar eclipse glasses on.

"When the glasses are worn, a person shouldn’t be able to see anything except the solar eclipse, which is why it is unsafe for a person to wear them when driving," the warning reads.

"Eclipse glasses are for eclipse viewing, not driving. They shouldn’t be treated like normal sunglasses," Diaz said.