Iceland
Reykjavík and Southeast Iceland
Yay! You're Planning a Trip to Iceland!
So, you’re thinking about visiting Iceland—how exciting! Whether you’re still dreaming of this adventure or already have your trip booked, you’re probably wondering where to begin. Which parts should you explore? What are the must-see sights and unforgettable experiences? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
In this post, I’m sharing the detailed itinerary from my one-week journey. You’ll find a day-by-day breakdown of the places we visited and the highlights we loved to help you craft your own dream adventure. We decided to stay in 2 different areas during our time in Iceland, 4 nights in Reykjavík and 2 nights in Southeast Iceland, in order to explore the glacier caves!
Of course, Iceland has so many incredible places to see, and while I wish I could have explored more, this itinerary was the perfect fit for us. Hopefully, it sparks some ideas and inspires your own unique trip to this beautiful country.
Itinerary Summary:
1 week in Iceland!
Reykjavík: 3 days
South East Iceland: 2 days
Final day head back to Reykjavík
Booked Activities:
Day 1: Blue Lagoon
Tip: If you have an early morning flight, you can head straight to the Blue Lagoon! Blue Lagoon has bus transfers from the airport to the Blue Lagoon and from the Blue Lagoon to Reykjavík.
Morning: We landed bright and early at 7am in Iceland, ready to kickstart our adventure! We headed straight to the iconic Blue Lagoon which is only a 30 minute bus ride from the airport. Soaking in the steamy, mineral-rich waters with a picturesque volcanic backdrop was the perfect way to shake off the travel fatigue. The day we went was absolutely freezing but once you step into the water it is so warm it feels amazing!
Afternoon: Feeling refreshed, we stayed for about 4 hours then took the bus and set off to Reykjavik!
Day 2: Golden Circle Day Trip
Today was all about the Golden Circle! Our full day tour was an 8 hour tour by bus seeing the best sights of South West Iceland!
Morning: We started the day with a stop at a local bakery for fresh pastries before heading to our tour starting the in Reykjavik at 9am.
Our journey included the volcanic crater at Lake Kerid, passing through the Icelandic farms, geothermal area of Geysir, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the stunning Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart at a rate of a few centimeters per year. The landscapes felt like something out of a dream.
Evening: we were back in the city, indulging in some much-needed relaxation.
Day 3: Reykjavík
City day!
Morning: We kicked off the day with a stroll down Rainbow Street, marveling at the colorful murals and vibrant atmosphere. From charming streets to cozy cafes, the city welcomed us with its vibrant energy.
Afternoon: After lunch, we visited the Hallgrímskirkja church and headed to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: As night fell, we joined a Northern Lights tour. Unfortunately, it was rainy and cloudy but hopefully you will have the chance to see the auroras danced across the sky, painting it with green and purple hues.
Day 4: Road Trip
Time to drive to the South East Iceland! We are heading to see Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Iceland, and the second largest in area in Europe. The drive is 6 hours!
Morning: Get some breakfast then pick up car rental. We used Blue Car and it was super easy process. Start your 6 hour journey!
Afternoon: Driving through Iceland was such a cool experience! There are so many places we pulled over to take pictures because of how beautiful the views were. We made sure to make 2 stops to see Saljalandsfoss waterfall and the famous Skógafoss waterfall.
Evening: Check into your hotel and relax after that long journey!
Day 5: Glacier Cave & Diamond Beach
The Ice Cave Tour was by far the coolest experience I have done and the highlight of our trip!
Morning: Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel then head to Vatnajökull National Park for the tour!
The journey started with a monster truck ride from the lagoon into the rugged wilderness of Vatnajökull National Park. Upon arriving at the glacier, your guide will equip you with all the gear necessary before heading into the mesmerizing Crystal Ice Cave. The crystal-clear blues of the glacier were surreal and unforgettable! The whole tour is about 3 hours and then we returned to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
After the tour quickly drive over the Diamond Beach!
Evening: Wrap up the day with a nice meal and staying warm after being inside an ice cave!
Day 6: Drive back to Reykjavik
Morning: Enjoy final breakfast at the hotel then head out for the 6 hour journey!
Afternoon: We didn’t stop as often for this drive to get to Reykjavik as soon as possible but enjoy the scenic drive!
Evening: We got to Reykjavik and enjoyed an Icelandic dinner and drink!
Day 7: Sky Lagoon & head home
If you have time before your flight like we did we headed to Sky lagoon for some relaxation before we head to the airport!
Morning: Grab breakfast then head to Sky lagoon, a luxurious geothermal spa!
Enjoy the lagoon’s infinity-edge pool, blending seamlessly with the ocean, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Make sure to do seven-step ritual—complete with a cold plunge, sauna, and body scrub—left us feeling rejuvenated and connected to Iceland’s natural elements.
Evening: Head to the airport and say goodbye to Iceland!
