Iceland Ring Road Itinerary 7 Days: Complete Day by Day Guide

Planning a 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary? This compact, detailed itinerary is tailored for travelers eager to explore Iceland’s wonders but are limited to a week. We’ve packed rental car advice, essential packing tips, and safety guidelines into this concise guide to ensure a memorable, albeit tight, journey around the island.

Table of Contents

• What Is the Ring Road in Iceland?
• Ring Road Route + Attractions Map
• Choosing the Best Rental Car
• 7 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
• How Much Does it Cost?
• What to Pack
• Top Tips for a 7 Day Ring Road Trip
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Ring Road in Iceland (and How Long Does It Take to Drive)?

Iceland’s Ring Road is one of the most popular road trip routes in the entire world, allowing visitors to access the country’s top highlights within a 1,332-kilometer (828-mile) loop. While you could drive it in under 24 hours, a 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary lets you actually enjoy the highlights without rushing.

With 100s of things to do and see, planning your 7 day itinerary on your own can take a lot of research and organization, and you can end up missing some hidden gems. So, we’ve gone ahead and pulled together the ultimate Iceland Ring Road itinerary, broken down day by day so you don’t have to plan yourself and won’t miss out on anything.

This itinerary is best suited for summer road trips, as the road conditions are better, and you will have more hours of daylight. If you’re planning a winter trip, just include 1 to 1.5 days of buffer time in your itinerary to account for any delays due to Iceland weather. You can, of course, adapt this itinerary based on your own interests, but it’s a great blueprint to use for your Iceland adventure.  

7 Day Iceland Ring Road Route + Attractions Map

Note: YELLOW pins mark the must-see stops; BLUE pins are optional extras for those with more time.

What is the Best Way to Drive the Ring Road in 7 Days?

Self-drive is the best way to explore the Ring Road. It gives you flexibility, access to small towns, and the freedom to stop whenever you like.

• Start and end in Reykjavík (KEF Airport).
• Book accommodation in advance, especially in summer.
• Check weather and road conditions daily at vedur.is and road.is.
• Fuel up frequently, as some stretches have long gaps between stations.

Choosing the Best Car for Your 7 Days Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Picking the right rental car for your 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary will make a big difference to your comfort, flexibility, and safety. The good news is that the Ring Road (Route 1) is paved and well-maintained year-round, so you don’t need a 4×4 unless you plan to explore Iceland’s F-roads or remote regions.

Here’s how to choose:

• Summer travelers: A 2WD compact or mid-size car is perfectly fine for driving the Ring Road in summer (May–September). It’s the most budget-friendly and fuel-efficient choice for solo travelers or couples.

• Winter travelers: A 4×4 SUV is strongly recommended from October–April, when icy roads, wind, and snow can make driving more challenging. A 4WD vehicle offers better traction and clearance, especially in the north or east.

• Groups or families: Choose a larger SUV with enough luggage space for everyone’s gear and bags.

• Adventurous or camping travelers: A campervan is ideal if you want to combine accommodation and transport. You’ll find plenty of campgrounds all along the Ring Road, open mostly from May to September.

If you want the flexibility to venture off the main route (for example, into the Highlands or Westfjords), you’ll need a 4×4 as it’s required by law on any F-road in Iceland.

Booking tip: Reserve your car early, especially for summer, when demand and prices are highest. You can pick up your rental directly at Keflavik International Airport, making it easy to start your Ring Road trip as soon as you land.

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary 7 Days: Full Day-by-Day Guide

Now, let’s dive into the heart of your adventure. The following is a day-by-day breakdown of your 7 day Iceland Ring Road journey. Keep in mind that this is a general guide and can be adapted based on your preferences and interests.

Day 1: Arrival in Keflavik and Reykjavik

• Start: Keflavik International Airport
• Destination: Reykjavik
• Approximate driving time: 50 mins
• Spend the night in: Reykjavik
• Key attractions: Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall and Laugavegur shopping street

Your Iceland Ring Road itinerary 7 days adventure starts the moment you land at Keflavik International Airport, which serves as the primary gateway into Iceland for most travelers. One of the great conveniences of this airport is that you can pick up your rental car directly in the arrivals hall. This means that as soon as you land, you’re ready to hit the road without the need for additional transportation.

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is just under an hour’s drive from the airport, and it’s very straightforward to navigate. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you can head straight to your accommodation to check in and spend the rest of the day exploring some of the city’s key attractions.

Don’t miss including the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, known for its stunning city views from the tower. Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural masterpiece and cultural center, offers world-class events throughout the year, and the Old Harbour is another must-visit, providing a picturesque setting with its restaurants, shops, and the Maritime Museum. For further restaurant and shopping options, head to Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street and historical center.

Day 2: Reykjavik to Akureyri

• Start: Reykjavik
• Destination: Akureyri
• Approximate Driving Time: 4.5-5 hours
• Spend the night in: Akureyri
• Key attractions: Grábrók, Akureyri

Your first full day will take you north to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. It’s a fairly long drive, so aim to head out as early as possible, as there is lots to see along the way, making it much more than just a travel day. This portion of the journey offers various opportunities for hiking, exploration, and indulging in local cuisine.

The first place we recommend stopping is Grábrók, a volcanic crater that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Borgarfjordur countryside and the encircling mountains. The hike only takes about one hour, and although it is slightly steep, there are stairs built to aid your ascent. For history buffs, you can take a quick 30-minute detour to visit the village of Reykholt, home to one of Iceland’s most notable historical sites and home of Icelandic author Snorri Sturluson.

You will also have the option to stop near Hvammstangi, at the Hvitserkur rock formation, as a detour from the Ring Road, if you love to see specially shaped rock formations. This 15 m (49 ft) tall basalt rock stack protrudes from Húnaflói Bay, resembling either a dragon drinking from the sea or a troll, depending on which angle you view it from. 

Day 3: Akureyri to Mývatn

• Start: Akureyri
• Destination: Mývatn
• Approximate Driving Time: 1.5-2 hours. If you want to reduce the driving time on the following day, you also have an option to drive to East Iceland biggest town Egilsstaðir and spend your night there
• Spend the night in: Myvatn Area (or Egilsstaðir town if you like)
• Key attractions: Goðafoss, Hverir Geothermal Area, Dimmuborgir Lava Field, Myvatn Nature Baths

Before you leave Akureyri in the morning, take some time to stroll around the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Gardens and observe the nearly 7000 plant species and birdlife. You’ll be heading to the Mývatn region today, known for its unique geothermal wonders, striking volcanic landscapes, and abundant birdlife.

It’s a relatively short drive from Akureyri, so if you’re interested in doing a whale-watching tour in Akureyri or Icelandic horse riding, there is an opportunity to do so before setting out towards Mývatn. That said, there is tons to see and do around Lake Mývatn, so it can easily take up a full day. 

A highlight of this journey is Goðafoss waterfall, often referred to as the waterfall of the gods. It’s a majestic sight and should be number one on your list of things to see today. Just east of the lake, you’ll find the Dimmuborgir lava rock formations and caves, also called the Dark Fortress.

You’ll also pass Hverir, a geothermal area filled with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents that are a result of the geothermal activity. A walk here is akin to stepping onto another planet, each step echoing the dynamic dance of earthly energies, narrating the vibrant saga of Iceland’s geothermal majesty.

You can use your time here to hike through the volcanic terrain , lava fields and then head to Mývatn Nature Baths until the sun goes down to soak in the milky blue geothermal waters.

Day 4: Mývatn to Höfn via Egilsstaðir

• Start: Mývatn
• Destination: Höfn
• Approximate Driving Time: 5.5-6 hours
• Spend the night in: Hofn town
• Key attractions: Dettifoss, Egilsstaðir, Hofn

Today’s drive is long but incredibly scenic as you cross into East Iceland. On your way, make the short detour to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Continue toward Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, then drive through the East Fjords, where towering cliffs meet the sea.

Stop at small fishing villages for local food and photo opportunities, or stretch your legs in Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest. By evening, you’ll reach Höfn, a seaside town famous for its lobster dishes and views of Vatnajökull glacier.

There is no shortage of places where you can stop for a rest or a short hike to take photos of the breathtaking landscapes in this part of the country. However, it’s essential to remember that while the journey is sprinkled with an array of captivating attractions, time may not permit the exploration of them all. You will need to prioritize, choosing which jewels of nature to delve into deeply.

Day 5: Höfn to Vik via Jökulsárlón

• Start: Höfn
• Destination: Vik
• Approximate Driving Time: 4-4.5 hours
• Spend the night in: Vik or the villages close by
• Key attractions: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Vik

As you leave Höfn and continue south on the Ring Road, you’re entering one of the most scenic stretches of your 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary. This section is packed with glaciers, black sand plains, coastal views, and some of Iceland’s most photographed landscapes.

Your first major stop is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Here, massive icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift across the lagoon in constantly changing patterns. The colours and textures of the ice are incredible, and it’s not uncommon to spot seals swimming between the bergs. Right across the road is Diamond Beach, where smaller pieces of ice wash up on the black sand and look like scattered crystals. It’s one of the most unique and photogenic sights on the Ring Road.

After the lagoon, continue west toward Skaftafell Nature Reserve, an excellent area for hiking and glacier views. Whether you opt for a short walk or a guided glacier hike, Skaftafell gives you a close look at the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull and sweeping views across the surrounding landscape.

From here, the scenery opens into long stretches of black sand deserts and moss-covered lava fields before transitioning into the dramatic coastline near Vík. Before reaching the village, stop at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This beach is stunning but extremely powerful, so keep a safe distance from the waves.

End your day in Vík, a small town with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and viewpoints overlooking the coast.

Day 6: Vik to Reykjavik via the Golden Circle

• Start: Vik
• Destination: Reykjavik
• Approximate Driving Time: 6-7 hours (Vik to Reykjavik is approx. 2.5-3 hours driving and the Golden Circle itself requires another 3-3.5 hours)
• Spend the night in: Reykjavik
• Key attractions: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, Thingvellir National Park

From Vík, today takes you through the final stretch of the South Coast before looping into the famous Golden Circle, making this one of the busiest and most rewarding days of your Iceland Ring Road itinerary 7 days.

Your first stops are two of the most iconic Iceland waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss offers the rare chance to walk behind the cascade, giving you a completely different perspective. A short drive away is Skógafoss, a massive 60-meter waterfall known for its rainbows on sunny days. If you have time, you can climb the staircase to the viewing platform above.

Continue west toward the start of the Golden Circle. Your first stop on the loop is Kerið, a volcanic crater filled with a vivid blue-green lake, surrounded by red and black volcanic rock. It’s a quick but worthwhile visit.

Next is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. The double-tiered cascade drops into a rugged canyon, sending mist into the air and creating dramatic views from the walking paths. Just up the road is the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20–40 meters into the air.

Finish the day at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart. You can walk through the Almannagjá gorge, see the Öxarárfoss waterfall, and explore a landscape shaped by centuries of geological movement and historical significance.

From here, it’s an easy drive back to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend your final night.

Day 7: Departure from Reykjavik-KEF

Your 7 day Iceland Ring Road itinerary wraps up today. Depending on your flight time, you may still have a few hours to enjoy Reykjavik before heading to the airport. Grab breakfast at a local café, visit a public geothermal pool for one last soak, or browse Icelandic design shops along Laugavegur.

If you didn’t visit earlier in the trip, this is a great time to stop at the Blue Lagoon, which is conveniently located near Keflavik International Airport. The milky-blue geothermal water makes for a relaxing end to your journey.

Drop off your rental car at KEF and prepare for departure. After a week of waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal wonders, and coastal views, you’ll have completed the full 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary.

How Much Does a 7 Days Iceland Ring Road Trip Cost?

For a self-drive Iceland Ring Road itinerary 7 days long, most travelers spend $1,200–$2,400 per person excluding flights when sharing costs.

Core Costs for 7 Days

• Rental car (per car): $500–$1,200 for the week
  Varies by vehicle class, insurance, and season. Split between 2 people ≈ $35–$85 pp/day. Find our full rental car costing guide here.
  
• Fuel (per car): $300–$500 for ~1,332 km. Find out more here.
  
• Accommodation: Camping: $15–$25 pp/night, Hostels: $35–$60 pp/night, Guesthouses/Hotels: $120–$400 per room/night
  
• Food (per person): $40–$100/day depending on self-catering vs dining out
  
• Activities (per person, optional): Many sights are free; guided tours typically $80–$250 each (glacier hike, whale watching, lagoons).

Keep in mind that seasonality can significantly impact costs. Prices for cars and stays are highest June–August, lower in April–May and September–October, and lowest November–March outside holidays. If you are visiting in the summer you can save by camping at one of the many Ring Road campsites, booking everything early, choosing lodgings with kitchens and shopping at Bónus/Krónan.

What to Pack for an Iceland Itinerary 7 Days

Navigating through Iceland’s diverse landscapes and weather conditions requires strategic packing. Here’s an essential packing list to ensure comfort and convenience throughout your journey:

Clothing and Apparel:

• Waterproof Jacket: A quality waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against unpredictable weather.
• Layers: Thermal tops, fleece jackets, and breathable fabrics for layering, ensuring warmth and comfort.
• Hiking Boots: Waterproof, sturdy hiking boots for exploring various terrains.
• Gloves and Hats: Insulated gloves and hats to keep warm in chilly conditions.
• Swimwear: For enjoying the geothermal pools and lagoons.

Equipment and Gear:

• Camera: A good quality camera with extra batteries for capturing Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Binoculars: Handy for wildlife spotting, especially for viewing birds and seals.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated; Iceland’s tap water is pristine and drinkable.
• Portable Charger: Ensure your devices are always powered up.

Navigation and Safety:

• Maps and Guides: Physical maps and guides as backups to digital versions for navigation.
• Emergency Kit: Basic first aid supplies, flashlight, and multi-tool for safety.
• Car Essentials: Spare tire, jack, and basic tools if you’re renting a car for self-driving.

Personal and Comfort Items:

• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun can be strong, especially during summer months.
• Snacks: Energy bars and snacks for fuel during long drives and hikes.
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toiletries; consider eco-friendly options to reduce plastic waste.

Adhering to this Iceland travel packing list ensures that you are adequately equipped for every element of your Iceland journey, promising a seamless and enjoyable adventure amidst the magical landscapes of the Ring Road.

Important Tips Before Going on a 7 Day Iceland Ring Road Trip

Preparation is key to a successful and stress-free road trip in Iceland. Before embarking on your adventure, consider the following tips:

• Be ready for unpredictable weather. Even during Iceland’s summer, heavy rain and storms can often strike. Pack waterproof clothing, layers, and sturdy hiking boots to stay comfortable.
• Iceland is a popular tourist destination, especially in the spring and summer months. Book accommodations, tours, attractions, and rental vehicles well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the high season.
• Be strategic with your packing based on your travel plan. Make sure you bring layers, regardless of the season, and don’t forget activity-specific wear like hiking boots and a bathing suit. 
• Travel insurance is a must, especially when driving in a foreign country. Be sure to get comprehensive coverage, including car rental insurance, for peace of mind.
• Always check the weather forecast and road closures before driving.
• Don’t overpack your days with activities, as some drives can take longer than they look.
• Respect local rules and marked trails; off-road driving is illegal.

FAQs

• • How long do you need to do the Ring Road in Iceland?
    A fast loop is 7 days if you keep stops short; 8–10 days is more relaxed with extra hikes and detours.

 

• • What is the best way to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?
    Rent a car, drive the loop in 7 days, go clockwise (this itinerary), start early daily, book stays ahead, and check vedur.is (weather) and road.is (roads).

 

• • Are there tolls on the Ring Road in Iceland?
    Route 1 itself has no general tolls. One tunnel near Akureyri (Vaðlaheiðargöng) charges a toll; pay online if you use it. You can also take the longer toll-free route over Víkurskarð.

 

• • What are the alternatives to Ring Road?
    Shorter classics include the Golden Circle, South Coast (as far as Vík or Höfn), the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or a focused North Iceland + Diamond Circle loop.

 

• • Can you drive Ring Road in 5 days?
    Possible but rushed. You’ll be driving most of each day. If you only have 5 days, do South Coast + Golden Circle instead.

 

• • Can you drive the Ring Road in one day?
    Technically yes (nonstop ~17–20 hours), but it’s unsafe and you’ll miss the sights. Not recommended.

 

• • Is 7 days enough to see Iceland?
    Yes, for a highlight loop of the Ring Road. For Highlands or Westfjords, plan 10–14 days or a separate trip.

 

• • Which is better, Golden Circle or Ring Road?
    For a day trip, choose the Golden Circle. For a full Iceland itinerary 7 days, do the Ring Road and include the Golden Circle on Day 6.

 

• • Where to stay when doing Ring Road?
    Aim for these bases on a 7 days loop: Reykjavík (Day 1), Akureyri (Day 2), Mývatn or Egilsstaðir (Day 3), Höfn (Day 4), Vík (Day 5), Reykjavík (Day 6–7). Book early in summer.

 

• • What is the best way to drive the Ring Road in Iceland?
    Self-drive with a 2WD in summer or 4×4 in winter/shoulder, start early, keep fuel topped up, and watch weather/road alerts.

 

Prepare for Your Iceland Ring Road Adventure 

Your 7 days Iceland Ring Road itinerary promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through many of Iceland’s top highlights and attractions. From the dramatic landscapes of the south coast to the serene geothermal wonders of Mývatn, every day of your journey offers a unique experience.

We encourage you to consider this plan when planning your Iceland trip, keeping in mind that it can be adapted to suit your preferences. With only 7 days to explore, it’s essential to make the most of your time, and with careful planning, you can explore the best of Iceland in just one week.

For a seamless and comfortable journey around the Ring Road, we recommend renting a car with Hertz Iceland, which can be picked up directly in the arrivals hall at KEF airport. Always book as many aspects of your trip in advance as possible, including accommodation, tours, and your rental car, to ensure that you secure the best rates and get exactly what you’re looking for. 

Rent a Car with Hertz Iceland Today!