Iceland 9 Day Ring Road Itinerary
9 days

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

1

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.

2

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!

3

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.

4

Sun Voyager

Sightseeing

Sculpture symbolizes hope and freedom

The Sun Voyager is a cool sculpture in Reykjavík, Iceland, created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason. It's like a dreamboat or an ode to the sun, symbolizing hope, progress, and freedom. The artist wanted it to represent the promise of undiscovered territory. Some people argue about its location and whether it faces the right way, but hey, art is open to interpretation, right? Overall, it's a unique piece that invites observers to let their minds wander and be part of the artwork.

5

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre

culture

Iconic architectural gem in Reykjavík

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a stunning architectural gem located in Reykjavík, Iceland. Designed by Henning Larsen Architects and artist Olafur Eliasson, the building boasts a unique colored glass façade inspired by Iceland's basalt landscape. Originally part of a larger redevelopment project, Harpa faced uncertainty during the 2008 financial crisis but was eventually completed in 2011 with government funding. Since then, it has become a hub for cultural events, concerts, conferences, and even made appearances in popular culture, like in the Netflix series "Sense8" and "Black Mirror." With its striking design and versatile spaces, Harpa continues to be a symbol of Iceland's resilience and creativity.

6

Ingólfur Square

park

Vibrant plaza in Reykjavik

Ingolfstorg Square, also known as Ingolfur Square, is a bustling plaza in downtown Reykjavik that's famous for its shops, events, and winter festivities. Named after the first settler of Iceland, Ingolfur Arnarson, this square is a popular spot for locals and tourists to shop, dine, and enjoy community gatherings. With its central location, Ingolfstorg is surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. During the winter season, the square transforms into a festive wonderland with an ice skating rink and Christmas market. It's the perfect place to experience Iceland's rich culture and warm community vibes.

7

Tjörnin

Sightseeing

Historic birdwatching spot in Reykjavík

Tjörnin, also known as Reykjavík's Pond, is a beloved inner-city feature in Iceland's capital. Originally formed around 800 AD, it has a rich history intertwined with the development of Reykjavík. The pond is home to over forty bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. With its charming surroundings and cultural significance, Tjörnin is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Reykjavík.

8

Perlan

museum

Interactive nature museum in Reykjavík

Perlan in Reykjavík is not your average nature museum—it's a total game-changer and super friendly for kids! With mind-blowing exhibitions like an ice cave, Northern Lights show, and volcano display, it's like stepping into Iceland's wildest wonders without leaving the city. Plus, you can soak up epic views of Reykjavík from the observation deck and treat yourself to some tasty treats at the café. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to dive deep into Icelandic nature in a fun and interactive way.