Ready to plan a trip to Iceland? Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ll help you with everything you need to know.
Iceland may seem like a remote and completely exotic destination, which could make planning a trip daunting. Well, here’s the thing - travelling in Iceland is easy.
Iceland is well-designed for tourism, and there are plenty of amazing Iceland tours to make your travels even easier.
Whether you plan to go on an exciting road trip or just want to relax in a quiet village, here’s everything you need to know about how to plan an Iceland trip.
When Is the Best Time to Plan a Trip to Iceland?
The best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the best weather, longer daylight hours, and access to all tourist sites, including the Highlands. It's also the best time for whale watching and enjoying the midnight sun.
However, if you're interested in seeing the Northern Lights, visiting between September and March is ideal, though the weather will be much colder and more unpredictable.
How Long Should You Spend in Iceland?
For a trip to Iceland, we’d recommend you spend at least five nights to see the country’s main highlights, like Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes Peninsula - all of which can be comfortably explored over five nights.
A week is the minimum time you need for driving the 1332km Ring Road around the island, but 10-14 days are ideal for a more relaxed and thorough Iceland road trip. This allows you to fully explore Iceland's diverse landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic areas and coastal towns.
If you want to venture further to areas like the West Fjords in Iceland, then you might want to add on a few extra days - especially if you do a multi-day tour in Iceland.
How to Get Around Iceland
The best way to get around Iceland is by renting a car. This gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace and reach remote locations.
The Ring Road, which circles the island, is well-maintained and easy to navigate. If you prefer not to drive, there are bus tours and domestic flights available. In Reykjavik, walking and public buses are convenient options.
If you plan to visit the Highlands and head out on off-road adventures, then you’ll definitely want to rent a 4x4 vehicle.
Another great option is to join a guided tour that includes transport and transfers. Tours can be done from all major towns in Iceland, and using local public transport to reach these towns is pretty easy.
Before You Arrive: Iceland Trip Plan Preparations
When figuring out how to plan an Iceland trip, you’ll want to do as much preparation in advance as possible.
Here are some essential things to do before you arrive in Iceland.
There are a lot of unique experiences you can have in Iceland, like kayaking through glacial fjords, and the best way to experience this is with a guided tour.
Before heading to Iceland, you’ll want to book these tours well in advance. Many attractions, like the Blue Lagoon and glacier hikes, can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. And if you take multi-day tours, then you’ll need to book them early to plan your trip around them.
Many activities, like Northern Lights hunting, whale watching, and exploring ice caves, require local expertise and planning ahead based on weather conditions. Book your tours early, and your trip to Iceland will go a whole lot smoother.
If you plan on camping for the bulk of your trip, we’d recommend purchasing an Iceland Camping Card.
This card provides access to campsites across Iceland, making it a cost-effective option for accommodation. It's especially useful if you're travelling in a campervan or tent and plan to explore different parts of the country.
The Camping Card covers multiple nights at various campsites, giving you flexibility and saving you money. Just ensure you check the campsite locations and facilities beforehand to plan your route efficiently.
Save Up
Iceland is expensive, so having a good budget will help you enjoy your trip without worrying about your daily expenses. While you can travel Iceland on a budget, the more money you have available, the more relaxed you’ll be while travelling.
Book Accommodation
If you’re travelling in the summer, you’ll definitely want to book your accommodation well in advance. This applies whether you’re camping in Iceland or staying in BnBs.
Pack For all Seasons
No matter what time of year you’re travelling to Iceland, bring warm layers and waterproof clothing as the weather can change in an instant. Don’t forget your hiking boots (hiking in Iceland is amazing)and a swimsuit for enjoying the many geothermal pools.
The Ísafjörður Bay
Essential Considerations When You Plan a Trip to Iceland
There’s a lot that you can fit into your Iceland trip plan, and there’s a lot to consider before you go. Here are some important things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.
Choose Your Must-Sees
There are endless attractions and experiences to fill your Iceland itinerary. So, before you go, establish exactly what you need to do while you’re there.
If you love the outdoors, include activities like hiking, kayaking Iceland’s fjords, and experiencing the many natural attractions. If you're into culture, plan visits to museums and historical sites. Enjoy relaxing? Make time for Iceland's many spas and swimming pools.
You can always be flexible when you arrive, but choosing your must-sees helps with your Iceland trip planner.
Allow Extra Time for Driving
Driving in Iceland can take longer than expected due to gravel roads and frequent photo stops. You can also never be certain about the weather and never know when snow or intense winds or rains might hit.
We’d advise you to add an extra hour to your driving estimates. This helps you stay relaxed and enjoy the journey without rushing. We’d also advise keeping an eye on the weather every day to be prepared for any changes.
Hvalfjörður Fjord
Stay Flexible in Winter
Winter weather in Iceland can be extremely unpredictable, leading to road closures and itinerary changes. If you plan a trip to Iceland in winter, then realise that nothing is set in stone.
Embrace flexibility and be prepared for spontaneous adjustments. Locals are helpful, so don't hesitate to seek assistance if plans change.
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Avoid rushing from one sight to another just to check off your bucket list - Iceland’s not that kind of a destination.
Take the time to soak in the beauty and tranquillity of Iceland's landscapes. Spend time outside simply appreciating the views and landscapes. Take it slow.
Leave Room for Surprises
Accept that you won't see everything in one trip to Iceland. However, you will see a whole bunch of things you never planned for.
Be open to spontaneous adventures and discoveries. Take the smaller roads that detour from the highway, and be willing to deviate from your planned route to explore unexpected gems along the way. We can assure you it will be worth it.
What to Do on a Trip to Iceland
The best way to plan a trip to Iceland is to be prepared. This means understanding all the do’s and don’t’s involved in travelling to Iceland.
Here are some important things to keep in mind before you go.
Take the Icelandic pledge:Pledge to be a responsible tourist by respecting nature and local culture. This initiative encourages visitors to protect Iceland's environment.
Be flexible: Iceland’s weather can change quickly, causing cancellations of tours or making roads unsafe. Always have backup plans and be ready to adapt your itinerary.
Check road conditions: Before setting out each day, check this map for up-to-date information on road conditions and closures. This is crucial for safe travel, especially in winter.
Explore the lava fields: Take a walk through one of Iceland's amazing lava fields. The Berserkjahraun lava field on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a highlight with its rugged and unique landscape.
Explore remote areas: Remote parts of Iceland, like the West Fjords region, offer some of the most amazing experiences. Try to get off the beaten track and visit places outside of the Golden Circle.
Visit waterfalls: Expect to see many stunning waterfalls. Dynjandi in the Westfjords is particularly breathtaking and worth the visit.
Hunt for the Northern Lights: From September to mid-April, look out for the Northern Lights. It's best to stay in the countryside, away from city lights.
Make the most of the midnight sun: In the summer, Iceland experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight. Use this unique opportunity to explore at any hour and enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty.
Drive carefully: Always drive with your headlights on, and be cautious of sheep on the roads. Fill up your petrol tank whenever possible, as stations can be sparse in remote areas.
Relax in hot pots and swimming pools: Soak in geothermally heated pools and hot pots found even in small towns. Remember to shower thoroughly before entering, as this is a strict local custom.
Experience the beaches: Take a walk on Iceland’s dramatic beaches. Rauðasandur, the red beach in the Westfjords, offers stunning views and a unique landscape.
Enjoy Icelandic cafes: Treat yourself to delicious hot chocolate and cakes at cosy local cafes. It’s a great way to warm up and relax.
Here are some useful things to avoid when you plan an Iceland trip:
Underestimate the weather: Icelandic weather is unpredictable and can be dangerous. Always check the weather forecasts and be prepared with extra layers and waterproof clothing.
Drive in a storm: Avoid driving during storms. Strong winds can blow cars off the road, and sandstorms can damage your vehicle. Stay safe and wait for better conditions.
Stop on the road: Never stop in the middle of the road to take photos. Always pull over into designated parking areas, even if the road seems empty.
Wild camping: Independent wild camping is banned in Iceland. Always use designated campsites for campervans and tents to avoid fines and protect the environment. If you want to experience legitimate wild camping, then you can go on a kayak and wild camping tour of the Icelandic coast.
Be silly about taking photos: Respect safety barriers and signs. Do not get too close to cliff edges or the surf, as rogue waves and falls have caused fatalities. Those signs and barriers are there for a reason.
Go onto a glacier without a guide: Never try to explore glaciers without a proper guide. Hidden crevasses can be deadly.
Drive off-road: Driving off-road damages Iceland’s delicate landscape and results in high fines. Stick to marked roads and paths.
Feed wild horses: Don’t feed the horses - it’s bad for their health. Instead, visit a horse farm where you can interact with them safely.
Iceland Travel Plan
Iceland vacation planning mainly comes down to how much time you have available for your trip. While we won't go into detail about your travel itinerary (you can find detailed routes in our guide to Iceland road trips), here are some ideas for a long or quick trip to Iceland.
Very Short Trips
For a quick 2-day trip to Iceland, focus on Reykjavik and the nearby Golden Circle. Spend one day exploring Reykjavik’s charming streets, Hallgrimskirkja church, and Harpa Concert Hall.
The next day, drive the Golden Circle route to see Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. If time allows, relax in the Blue Lagoon before heading to the airport.
Alternatively, if you can add an extra day, you could experience an epic three-day wilderness hiking and camping trip in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
Sort Of Short Trips to Iceland
A short trip of 4-5 days allows you to explore more of Iceland’s highlights.
Spend a day in Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, then venture to the South Coast. Visit waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, and the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. If visiting in winter, take a tour to see the Northern Lights.
For a longer trip of 10-14 days, you can drive the entire Ring Road to fully experience Iceland’s diverse landscapes.
Start with Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, then move on to the South Coast, Eastfjords, and the beautiful North. Explore Lake Myvatn, Akureyri, and the stunning Westfjords. This allows time for hiking, whale watching, and soaking in hot springs, providing a comprehensive Icelandic adventure.
Conclusion
There’s a lot to consider when you plan a trip to Iceland. However, travelling in Iceland is also easier than you might think. When you do plan a trip to Iceland, don’t forget to leave enough room in your travel plan for spontaneous adventure.
We recommend you book a tour for the best Icelandic experience, as the local guides will be able to show the best that the country has to offer. This is the easiest way to plan an amazing trip to Iceland.
