Driving in Iceland is a dreamy experience, offering the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. Imagine gliding along a road that curls around a snowy hillside, with steep rocky slopes on one side and the surf beating against vertical cliffs on the other. The crystal blue waters of yet another fjord stretch out before you, inviting you to discover the beauty of Icelandic landscapes.
There’s no better feeling than heading out and seeing where the road takes you. However, for those who require a bit more structure in their adventure, we’ve selected eight unforgettable road trips in Iceland to get you started.
1. Hit the Road on the Blue Diamond Tourist Route
Best Road Trip for Volcanic Activity
Keflavík International Airport – Keflavík International Airport; 75–115km (50–70 miles); 1 day
From Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Diamond tourist route loops around the otherworldly lava landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, leading you through quiet seaside villages and the wondrous Reykjanes Geopark, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.
Here, the boundaries between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visible, showcasing signs of geothermal and volcanic activity. The milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon steam into the sky, while Geldingadalir continues to amaze visitors. Be sure to check safety alerts before you visit.
Discover even more along the route, including the windswept shore by Reykjanes lighthouse and the infamous Kleifarvatn Lake, home to a legendary wormlike monster the size of a whale. Numerous hiking trails await for those wanting to immerse themselves in the stunning landscape.
Planning Tip: A round trip can be completed in less than a day, but staying longer allows you to explore the region more fully.
2. Take Road 435 as an Alternative to the Golden Circle
Best Road Trip in Summer
Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 225km (140 miles), 1 day
For a unique perspective on the Golden Circle, try Nesjavallaleið (Road 435), which is open in the summer. This road weaves through moss-covered lava landscapes and steep hills, with breathtaking views of Þingvallavatn Lake appearing in the distance. Along the route, several marked hiking trails invite you to get up close with Iceland’s stunning geography.
Look for steam rising ahead as you approach the Nesjavallavirkjum Power Plant and the exclusive ION Adventure Hotel. The road then leads past tranquil lakes, including Úlfljótsvatn with a church perched on its banks, through a summer house region favored by city dwellers for weekend getaways.
After visiting Gullfoss waterfall and the iconic Geysir (which gave all other geysers their name), drive back via Þingvellir National Park to make a brief stop at the curious cave houses of Laugarvatnshellar.
3. Drive Through the Remote East Fjords
Best Road Trip to Explore Iceland’s Maritime Heritage
Egilsstaðir – Egilsstaðir; approx 820km (510 miles), 5 days
Set up camp in Egilsstaðir and you’ll find yourself in prime position to uncover the magical East Fjords. Start your journey in the village of Vopnafjörður, where Selárlaug swimming pool offers relaxation by a salmon-filled river, perfect for those enjoying fishing. In summer, consider crossing the spectacular but challenging mountain pass Hellisheiði eystri (Road 917).
For a more manageable return, take Road 85 and Road 1 back to Borgarfjörður eystri, where you can recharge at Bakkagerði with its hotel, spa, and famous puffin-watching spots. This area also hosts a popular music festival, Bræðslan, every July. A hike to Stórurð, a turquoise lake surrounded by massive boulders, is particularly popular.
Return to Egilsstaðir for the next leg of your journey to Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður, where maritime heritage is honored in beautifully renovated historic houses, now home to atmospheric restaurants. Drive back through Fáskrúðsfjörður to Stöðvarfjörður and visit Petra’s Stone Collection museum, showcasing a variety of minerals from the east.
4. See the Westfjords by Road and Ferry
Best Scenic Road Trip
Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 765km (475 miles)
Your journey to the Westfjords from Reykjavík passes through the rural region of Dalir. Make a great first stop at Erpsstaðir, a dairy farm where you can learn about traditional farming and sample homemade cheeses. Nearby, visit historical sites like Eiríksstaðir, a living museum about Viking-era life, and Guðrúnarlaug, a replica of the legendary heroine’s bathing pool.
Continuing your adventure, Reykhólar awaits, boasting Sjávarböðin spa, renowned for its seaweed baths. Driving along the peninsula’s southern coast provides breathtaking views, but be warned—steep gravel roads can be daunting. However, you’ll be rewarded with sightings of the red-sand beach Rauðasandur and the majestic cliffs of Látrabjarg, home to diverse seabird populations, including puffins.
Take the ferry from Brjánslækur, stopping at the idyllic island of Flatey, a peaceful retreat with only seven residents. The ferry continues to Stykkishólmur, where beautiful harbors and distant lighthouses create an enticing view that might tempt you to stay awhile.
5. Cruise Around the Otherworldly Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Best Road Trip for Varied Landscapes
Start/End – Reykjavík; approx 440km (275 miles)
On clear days, the alluring ice cap Snæfellsjökull is visible from Reykjavík, and the journey there is filled with ever-changing landscapes. From beaches to volcanoes, glaciers to deserts—the peninsula showcases incredible natural beauty.
Southern Snæfellsnes is defined by the breathtaking Löngufjörur white-sand beach, perfect for horseback riding, alongside the surreal lava fields surrounding Búðakirkja. The northern region features charming fishing villages and Kirkjufell, often hailed as one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains—especially under the enchanting northern lights. Although a day could suffice for a whirlwind tour, taking several days allows for ample hiking, bird watching, and simply soaking in the immense glacier views.
6. Drive Beyond the Ring Road on the Ancient Kjölur Route
Best Road Trip for Iceland’s Interior
Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 1378km (856 miles), at least a week
Enhance your Ring Road adventure by venturing into the interior via Road 35, which branches off Route 1 near Gullfoss waterfall. This historic Kjölur route runs between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers, ideal for 4WD vehicles and open only in summer. The F-road provides a few challenges, but generally lacks the complexity of other highland routes.
About halfway through, Hveravellir offers a natural oasis within the snowy desert landscape, featuring a lodge, a natural thermal pool, and multicolored geothermal areas with marked hiking trails leading to the Kerlingarfjöll mountains. Re-enter the Ring Road about an hour’s drive from Akureyri, the cultural heart of North Iceland, ideal for galleries and nightlife.
7. Explore Local Legends on the Diamond Circle
Best Road Trip of North Iceland
Húsavík – Húsavík; approx 250km (155 miles), 2 days
The Diamond Circle is North Iceland’s answer to the Golden Circle. Make Húsavík your base, then head east to Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon within Vatnajökull National Park. Its vertical cliffs are stunning, particularly when viewed from Eyjan, offering panoramic prospects of the North Atlantic.
Don’t miss the alluring Mývatn area on your drive back, featuring unique landscapes, lush lava fields, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling hot springs. Marvel at the majestic Goðafoss waterfall, known as the “waterfall of the gods,” steeped in local lore about Iceland’s conversion to Christianity. Aldeyjarfoss, another breathtaking waterfall adorned by columnar basalt, should also be on your itinerary.
8. Take a Leisurely Drive Along the Arctic Coast Way
Best Coastal Road Trip for Taking Your Time
Hvammstangi – Bakkafjörður; approx 900km (560 miles), 2 weeks
Designed for slow travel, the Arctic Coast Way runs along Iceland’s northern coastline, revealing sleepy villages, six islands, and astonishing natural sites. Starting in the seal-watching town of Hvammstangi and concluding in the wind-swept Bakkafjörður, this route invites drivers to experience dramatic views and fascinating stories.
In Þrístapar, learn about Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the last woman executed in Iceland, while at Brimslóð in Blönduós, forage for your own dinner. Skagaströnd offers the chance to have your fortune told at the Museum of Þórdís the Prophetess. In summer, the midnight sun illuminates the ocean, while winter brings the captivating dance of the northern lights across a pollution-free sky.
Don’t miss the stunning Hvítserkur sea stack, the massive Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn, and the gannet colony at Stóri Karl on Langanes for memorable experiences.
When exploring Iceland, take your time to appreciate the unique landscapes and venture into each location at your own pace. Every road leads to new adventures, making your journey truly unforgettable.
