Sample Prices & Itineraries for Iceland: A Guide to Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland offers a wide variety of travel experiences, from short city breaks in Reykjavík to extended adventures exploring glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. The cost of traveling in Iceland can vary depending on your itinerary, the season, and the type of accommodation you choose. Below are some sample itineraries, offering insight into what you can experience during your trip, without focusing on specific prices but giving a clear idea of the range of options available.

1. 4-Day Reykjavík City Break: Culture, Hot Springs, and Northern Lights

This short itinerary is perfect for travelers looking for a quick getaway to Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík. Spend your first day exploring Reykjavík’s highlights, including Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the vibrant streets of downtown. On day two, enjoy a relaxing soak at the famous Blue Lagoon and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. Day three is reserved for a guided tour of the Golden Circle, visiting Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area. End your trip with a Northern Lights tour (winter months) or whale watching (summer months).

2. 7-Day Ring Road Adventure: Iceland’s Ultimate Road Trip

For those who want to experience the best of Iceland’s natural wonders, a 7-day Ring Road tour is ideal. Start in Reykjavík, then head to the South Coast, where you’ll visit iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, as well as the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Continue to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for a boat tour among icebergs. On day four, explore the eastern fjords and visit small fishing villages. Head north to Akureyri and take a detour to visit the powerful Dettifoss Waterfall. Day six includes a visit to the geothermal areas of Mývatn before returning to Reykjavík on day seven. This itinerary covers a range of landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and coastal cliffs.

3. 5-Day South Coast and Golden Circle: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Beaches

If you’re short on time but want to experience Iceland’s highlights, a 5-day tour of the South Coast and Golden Circle is ideal. Start with a day exploring Reykjavík before heading to the Golden Circle, where you’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and Geysir. Spend days three and four along the South Coast, visiting Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach. You’ll also have the chance to explore the Sólheimajökull Glacier, with options for glacier hiking or ice caving. End your trip with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon.

4. 10-Day Iceland Expedition: Remote Wilderness and Outdoor Adventures

For adventurers looking for an extended exploration of Iceland, a 10-day itinerary offers the perfect mix of popular sights and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Begin in Reykjavík and head along the South Coast to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. From there, continue to the East Fjords for scenic drives and quaint fishing villages. Spend a few days in the northern region near Akureyri, where you can visit Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss Waterfall, and the geothermal fields of Hverir. On your way back to Reykjavík, stop in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” where you’ll find volcanoes, glaciers, and picturesque fishing towns.

5. 3-Day Northern Lights Tour: A Winter Wonderland

For travelers visiting Iceland during the winter, a 3-day Northern Lights tour offers an enchanting experience. Spend your first day exploring Reykjavík and soaking in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters. On day two, embark on a Northern Lights tour, chasing the aurora borealis in remote locations away from city lights. During the day, visit the Golden Circle or take a glacier hike. End your tour with another night of Northern Lights hunting, ensuring you have plenty of opportunities to see this stunning natural display.

6. 8-Day Westfjords Exploration: Iceland’s Remote Wilderness

For those looking to explore Iceland’s less-traveled regions, an 8-day journey through the Westfjords is a true adventure. Start your trip in Reykjavík before heading northwest to the remote Westfjords, known for their dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and secluded beaches. Highlights of this region include the stunning Dynjandi Waterfall, the puffin cliffs of Látrabjarg, and the red sands of Rauðasandur Beach. This itinerary is perfect for nature lovers and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

7. Family-Friendly 6-Day Iceland Adventure: Fun for All Ages

This 6-day itinerary is designed for families, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Start with a day in Reykjavík, visiting family-friendly attractions like the Whales of Iceland exhibition and Reykjavík Zoo. On day two, explore the Golden Circle with a focus on interactive experiences like visiting Geysir and watching the geysers erupt. Continue to the South Coast, where kids will love walking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and playing on the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Include a glacier hike or boat tour of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and finish your trip with a day at the Blue Lagoon.

These sample itineraries for Iceland provide a glimpse into the range of travel experiences available, from short city escapes to extended adventures exploring the country’s wild landscapes. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a road trip around the Ring Road, or a winter Northern Lights adventure, Iceland offers something for every type of traveler.