What you'll do
The Ultimate 9-Day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
Planning a trip to Iceland and don’t know where to start? I've got you. This digital itinerary is your no-stress, road trip-ready guide to exploring the best of Iceland in 9 unforgettable days. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or cruising past lava fields, this itinerary does the heavy lifting so you can focus on the adventure.
What’s Inside:
A day-by-day breakdown of your route around the island
Activities and stops that actually make sense based on location and road flow
A mix of iconic sights and lesser-known magic (because you deserve both)
This itinerary is perfect if:
You’re renting a car or camper van and doing a self-drive adventure
You like having a plan but also want a little wiggle room
You want to spend less time researching and more time soaking up the views
You appreciate the kind of details only someone who’s driven these roads can give you
Plus, it’s digital—so you can take it on the road with you, pull it up from your phone anytime, and never worry about losing a crumpled piece of paper to the Icelandic wind (it will try to snatch your stuff, trust me).
Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more Iceland magic, this 9-day itinerary was designed to help you make the most of every mile.
Day 1
Welcome to Iceland! You will start by picking up your rental car at Blue Car Rental, about a 10 minute walk to the left of Keflavik Airport.
Reykjavik is a beautiful Nordic City filled with food, culture, & colorful houses. While you may feel a little wonky after a redeye flight, I've left this day pretty simple, with some notable sights and great shopping streets to peruse! Both Skolavordustigur and Laugavegur are Reykjavik's top shopping streets with lots of fun eateries, locally owned shops, and cafes.
Blue Car Rental
car_rental
Hassle-free car rental in Iceland
Blue Car Rental in Iceland offers hassle-free car rental services with a focus on customer satisfaction. With a fleet of new vehicles, online check-in options, and zero waiting time at the counter, they make renting a car in Iceland a breeze. Their Blue+ Reward Club offers discounts for loyal customers, and their commitment to safety ensures a worry-free driving experience. Whether you're exploring the Golden Circle or venturing off-road, Blue Car Rental has you covered for a memorable Icelandic adventure.
Hallgrimskirkja
Sightseeing
Iconic Lutheran church in Iceland
Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík, Iceland, known for its unique design and towering presence. Standing at 74.5 meters tall, it's the largest church in Iceland and a prominent symbol of the country's national identity. Designed by State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson, the church's architecture is inspired by Iceland's natural landscape, with a curved spire resembling volcanic formations. Inside, visitors can light candles, admire two large pipe organs, and even take a lift to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavík. The church also features a statue of Leif Erikson gifted by the United States.
Skólavörðustígur
culture
Vibrant pedestrian street in Reykjavik
Skólavörðustígur is a vibrant, rainbow-colored pedestrian street in Reykjavik, Iceland, known for its colorful shops, cozy cafes, and unique cultural vibe. Located in the city center, it's a must-visit spot for tourists looking to shop for souvenirs, enjoy local cuisine, and soak up the lively atmosphere!
Laugavegur
Sightseeing
Scenic Icelandic wilderness trekking adventure
Reykjavik's main shopping street, Laugavegur, is lined with shops, boutiques, cafes,and restaurants. It's a vibrant area to explore, especially for those interested in Icelandic design, fashion and artwork.
Sand Hotel by Keahotels
hotel
Chic boutique hotel in Reykjavík
Sand Hotel by Keahotels is a chic boutique hotel located in the heart of Reykjavík, offering 78 luxurious rooms with modern amenities and stylish decor. Guests can unwind in the cozy bar and lounge, enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, and explore the vibrant city center just steps away.