16-day road trip in Iceland: itinerary + map

Set off for an unforgettable road trip on the Icelandic roads! In this journey to the heart of the land of ice and fire, every day is a new adventure, between waterfalls, volcanoes, and lunar landscapes. 

If you want to know the perfect itinerary, find inspiration and receive the best advice for traveling where nature reigns supreme, you are in the right place. Follow me through this 16-day tour in Iceland!

Map of the 16-day tour in Iceland

Summary of the 16-day tour in Iceland

Day 1 : The Golden Circle region

The Golden Circle, a true jewel of Iceland, reveals a spectacular concentration of emblematic natural sites. Start your tour in Iceland with the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where the tumultuous waters of the Hvítá river plunge into a breathtaking canyon. 

Continue your journey towards the Geysir geothermal area, where the boiling water jets of Strokkur will dazzle you with their regularity. Finally, do not miss the Þingvellir National Park, a historical and geological site where the fault between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is impressively outlined. 

A tip, arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowd and make the most of these natural wonders. Good hiking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails around Gullfoss and Þingvellir, and don’t forget to bring waterproof clothing, as Icelandic weather can be changeable.

Days 2-3 : Vik i Myrdal

Vik i Myrdal is a must-see with its impressive cliffs and its famous black sand beaches. Discover the majestic basalt formations of Reynisfjara, the Reynisdrangar needles and the panoramic view from Dyrhólaey, which overlooks the south coast. Even more magical at sunset!

Vik is also the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding glaciers, including Myrdalsjökull. Caution is advised on the beaches due to the powerful waves of the Atlantic.

If you can, travel a few kilometers from Vík to discover the Skogafoss waterfall and its 60 meters high.
 

Calculate the price of your car rental for a 16-day tour in Iceland

 

Days 4-5 : The coast of Vatnajökull

The coast of Vatnajökull, on the east of Iceland, offers a breathtaking natural spectacle, where glaciers plunge into the ocean and create a breathtaking landscape. Explore the glacial tongues descending from Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, and discover unique formations sculpted by millennia of erosion. 

Do not miss the Skaftafell park, where hiking trails will take you through breathtaking glacial landscapes, up to viewpoints offering panoramas of the surrounding glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls. 

Diamond beach, the Jökulsárlón lagoon, the Crystal Cave ice cave, and the Svartifoss waterfall are also must-sees in the region.

Make sure to be well equipped and prepared for changing weather conditions, as the weather can be unpredictable, as you will notice throughout your road trip in Iceland. Guided glacier tours are an excellent option to safely explore these glacial landscapes with an experienced guide.

Day 6 : Egilsstadir

Located in the east of Iceland, Egilsstadir is a small town nestled in the heart of breathtaking landscapes. Surrounded by mountains and vast expanses of wilderness, Egilsstadir is an ideal stop along the Route 1 in Iceland. 

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of Lagarfljót lake, where the legend of a monster similar to the Loch Ness monster adds a touch of mystery. Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous opportunities for hiking and exploration in the surroundings, including visiting the Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfalls, famous for their basalt columns. 

Do not leave Egilsstadir without enjoying the geothermal pools of Vök Baths.

A tip, take advantage of the long summer evenings for a night walk along Lagarfljót lake and maybe spot its mysterious legendary monster. In the daytime, take a walk in Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, which is the largest in Iceland.

Day 7 : Akureyri

Akureyri, known as the capital of the North, is a lively city located on the edge of the Eyjafjörður fjord in the north of Iceland. Known for its picturesque charm, streets lined with colorful houses, and relaxed atmosphere, Akureyri is an essential stop on a journey through the north of the island. 

Wander through the city center to discover its craft shops, cozy cafes, and cultural venues, such as the open-air museum and the Museum of Arts. Don't miss the church of Akureyri, perched on a hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. 

Nature lovers will be delighted by the opportunity to hike through the fjords and admire the Goðafoss waterfall. Do not hesitate to also make a detour to Húsavík to go whale watching by boat.

Explore the surroundings of Akureyri, like the Tröllaskagi peninsula, to discover spectacular coastal landscapes and picturesque villages, without forgetting to taste the local culinary delights, including the famous Icelandic lamb stew.

Day 8 : Holmavik

Holmavik, in the Westfjords region, is a small town steeped in history and mystery. Known as the starting point to explore the isolated region of the northwest fjords, Holmavik is the perfect stop for a peaceful getaway far from tourist crowds. 

Explore the Icelandic Museum of Witchcraft and Magic to dive into the legends of Iceland then visit the Lutheran church of Holmavik. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Steingrímsfjörður fjord from the hiking trails surrounding the village. Holmavik is also known for its local handicrafts. 

Take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Holmavik and let yourself be charmed by the authentic appeal of this isolated coastal town.

Days 9-10 : Isafjordur

Isafjordur, a gem nestled at the end of a majestic fjord in the distant Westfjords of Iceland, offers a picturesque getaway in a breathtaking natural setting. With its colorful houses and imposing mountains as a backdrop, Isafjordur is a gem not to be missed. 

Explore the historic city center, where traditional architecture bears witness to the maritime heritage of the region. Do not miss the Everyday Life museum and the white church of Isafjordur. Outdoor lovers will find their happiness from the observation deck of Bolafjall which offers a exceptional panorama of the Westfjords.

Explore the surroundings of Isafjordur by taking the scenic route along the fjords to discover incredible landscapes and small fishing villages.

Day 11 : Patreksfjordur

Patreksfjordur is the dream stop for a tranquil retreat in a preserved natural setting. Visit its church and fishing harbor then explore the surrounding hiking trails to discover picture-postcard scenery.

The region of Patreksfjörður is also a true paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. To relax after a day spent exploring the surroundings, come bathe in the warm waters of the thermal baths of Pollurinn. Do not miss the cliffs of Látrabjarg which are also the easternmost point of Europe.

Days 12-13 : The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often dubbed "Iceland in miniature", is a true condensed version of the natural wonders of the island. Dominated by the majestic Snæfellsjökull volcano, immortalized by Jules Verne in his novel Journey to the Center of the Earth, this place offers a unique setting ranging from steep cliffs through the Vatnshellir lava caves to fishing villages. 

Walk along the cliffs of Londrangar to admire the impressive basalt formations. Also, do not miss the charming village of Arnarstapi, with its unique rock formations and spectacular hiking trails along the coast not to mention Kirkjufell which is undeniably one of the peninsula's must-visit spots.

Whether it's for a day of adventure or a longer getaway, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula promises a total immersion in Icelandic nature, with breathtaking landscapes at every turn.

Days 14 to 16 : Reykjavik

It is in Reykjavik, the capital, that this road trip in Iceland comes to an end. Begin your exploration by discovering the charms of the city center, where you will find a multitude of cafes, local craft shops, and art galleries. 

It's impossible to visit Reykjavik without seeing the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, whose summit offers a panoramic view of the city. Also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bars and restaurants on Laugavegur street.

Dive into Icelandic history by visiting some museums such as the Saga Museum or the Perlan museum. Also explore the surroundings of Reykjavik in the Reykjanes peninsula to discover its unique volcanic landscapes. End your stay in style by relaxing in the hot springs of the Blue Lagoon.

This marks the end of this 16-day tour in Iceland. Feel free to ask your questions in the comments !