5-Day Iceland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Reykjavík to Southern Region
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Iceland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Reykjavík, Southern Region, and Vík. This road trip itinerary in Iceland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Iceland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Reykjavík and 1 night in Southern Region. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Iceland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Reykjavík, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Iceland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Iceland. Blue Lagoon and Þingvellir are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Hallgrímskirkja, learn more about the unique Seljalandsfoss, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kerið.
As you hit the open road and drive through Reykjavík, Southern Region, and Vík, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Iceland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Iceland.
Throughout your road trip in Iceland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Iceland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Iceland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Iceland today!
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Day 1
- Reykjavik - Arrival day
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- Blue Lagoon
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Your road trip adventure in Iceland begins as soon as you reach Reykjavík and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Reykjavík for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Reykjavík is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Blue Lagoon, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Reykjavík. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Iceland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Reykjavík, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Kröns, an iconic dining spot in Reykjavík. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ROK, a popular restaurant in Reykjavík. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of 101 Reykjavik Street Food, a hidden gem nestled in Reykjavík. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lebowski Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Veður is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Ölstofa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Iceland!
Day 2
- Reykjavik
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Drive 17 km, 56 min
- Reykjavík Botanic Garden
- The Sun Voyager
- Rainbow Street
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Perlan
- Miðborg (Downtown Reykjavik)
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Reykjavík. You’ll stay in Reykjavík for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Miðborg (Downtown Reykjavik) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Reykjavík, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Reykjavík. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Reykjavík Botanic Garden is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Reykjavík. Next, head to The Sun Voyager, a worthwhile art installation, known for its noteworthy features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rainbow Street. This breathtaking street is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Hallgrímskirkja and Perlan. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Iceland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Reykjavík. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Laundromat Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Jómfrúin - Scandinavian Kitchen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Krua Thai. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Reykjavík.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kofinn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dillon Whiskey Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Skúli Craft Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Iceland!
Day 3
- Reykjavik
- Selfoss
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Drive 181 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Öxarárfoss
- Thingvellir National Park
- Strokkur
- Great Geysir
- Faxafoss
- Kerið
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On day 3 of your road trip in Iceland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in South Iceland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Southern Region, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Reykjavík. Begin your sightseeing with Öxarárfoss. This often recommended waterfall is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Þingvellir, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Reykjavík, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Strokkur. This notable geothermal field is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Great Geysir, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Faxi is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Kerið and uncover why it's recognized as one of the region's most locally renowned attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Southern Region. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Southern Region's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Krisp Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vefjan beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pylsuvagninn. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Southern Region tonight.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Iceland!
Day 4
- Selfoss
- Reykjavik
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Drive 346 km, 4 hours 54 min
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skógafoss
- Dyrhólaey lighthouse
- Black sand beach
- Hálsanefshellir cave
- Icelandic Lava Show
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Iceland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - South Iceland and Vík. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Reykjavík. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start your day at Seljalandsfoss. This romantic waterfall is an interesting place to see in Southern Region. Then, wander over to Skógafoss. If eye-catching sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dyrhólaey Lighthouse. This visually striking lighthouse is a favorite among visitors.
Southern Region offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Reynisfjara Beach is an often recommended spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the peaceful Hálsanefshellir Cave. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing cave. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Southern Region's top attractions with a visit to Lava Show In Vík.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Reykjavík, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Reykjavík. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Reykjavik Fish, a top-rated dining destination in Reykjavík. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Old Iceland, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Garðurinn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Reykjavík this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Drunk Rabbit Irish Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Microbar Reykjavík. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Einstök Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Iceland!
Day 5
- Reykjavik - Departure day
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- Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
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Day 5 of your road trip in Iceland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Reykjavík before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Harpa Concert Hall And Conference Centre, a visually striking concert hall before you head out.
On your last day in Iceland, take time to indulge in shopping at Reykjavík’s popular marketplace, Laugavegur. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Iceland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Reykjavík.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Kopar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grillmarkaðurinn is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Reykjavík. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Iceland!
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