Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Travel Guide

As if Iceland couldn’t get any better, with its majestic (and sometimes) volcanic mountain peaks and lava rock fields dotted with hot springs, it also offers one of the best road trip routes in Scandinavia. If you’re looking to take some real time to experience all corners of the island, the Ring Road is a perfect vacation itinerary.

Iceland’s Ring Road circles the perimeter of the country and it’s easy to pick up no matter where you are. All in all, it measures around 828 miles and will take you about a week to complete — and that’s without any lengthy stops.

There are plenty of side roads that will help you get off the beaten path and away from the road-tripping crowds. However, you could drive for hours without spotting another human, and that is a truly wonderful thing. Below, we break down everything you need to know about planning your own trip around the Ring Road.

How to Drive the Ring Road

When tackling this route, you can either drive the entire perimeter of the country or take on specific sections. Each segment offers plenty to see, so doubling back is anything but boring. For example, you might drive from Reykjavik to the Glacier Lagoon and back during a long weekend.

Route 1 is almost entirely paved, providing a relatively easy drive. However, keep an eye out for passing sheep and horses — local wildlife can make an unexpected appearance.

Duration

If your plan involves few stops — just to sleep, eat, and take a few brief moments to admire nature — you can complete this trip in a week. For a more relaxed exploration, consider planning a 10-day drive.

The time of year you choose for your Ring Road adventure also plays a crucial role. While you certainly can visit during winter, be prepared for road closures and challenging weather conditions. News of road shutdowns after snowstorms can significantly disrupt your plans. Consequently, it is advisable to allocate more time for winter journeys compared to summery ones. Therefore, embarking on a road trip in summer is highly recommended. Not only do days lengthen — there’s nearly continuous daylight in late June and July — you will also save money on rental car insurance.

You can lengthen your trip as needed. There’s an abundance to see and do that can supplement an extended journey, should you have the luxury of time. Major cities are typically located off the Ring Road, yet many charming villages and communities await your discovery slightly off the main tourist path.

If you were to hypothetically drive straight through without any stops, the entire Ring Road could be covered in 16 hours. However, where’s the fun in that?

Top Attractions

Listing all the things to do along this route is quite a challenge — the breathtaking scenery is a playground for explorers. Here are a few highlights, organized by region:

South Iceland

The southern section of Iceland dramatically contrasts with the mountainous regions found in the west and north. The expansive lava rock fields resemble a scene from an interstellar movie, with numerous highlights to see along the way. Key sites include:

• Reykjadalur Valley: This valley boasts a hot spring river. It requires about an hour hike each way, but the secluded views reward the effort many times over.
• Seljavallalaug: This hot spring is likely familiar to you from movies or Instagram. Located between the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls (more on those shortly), this public pool can be reached after a 20-minute hike into the mountain valley.
• Seljalandsfoss: This waterfall features a massive cave behind it, enabling a unique perspective as you walk behind the falls. The drive to Seljalandsfoss takes approximately two hours from Reykjavik.
• Skogafoss: If leaving Reykjavik, Skogafoss can be found after Seljalandsfoss. With available time for hiking, this marks the trailhead for a one-day trek leading to Eyjafjallajökull.
• Black Sand Beach Airplane Ruins: Recently made famous by a Justin Bieber music video, the DC Plane Wreck is among Iceland’s most popular attractions. Upon locating the parking area on the southern stretch of the Ring Road, expect a one-hour walk to reach the wreckage.
• Reynisfjara: Situated near the coastal town of Vík, Reynisfjara is Iceland’s most renowned black sand beach. It also features a stunning basalt column cave. Plan for a visit, as the unpredictable tide and wave patterns have proven hazardous in the past.
• Skaftafell: This area, now part of Vatnajokull National Park, deserves an entire afternoon. Activities vary from visiting the Black Waterfall (Svartifoss) and taking ice cave tours in winter, to climbing Hvannadalshnjúkur (Iceland’s highest peak) or going on glacier hikes with a qualified guide.
• Hofskirkja: Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate this turf church, built in a traditional style. Its unique design features moss and earth covering the building’s roof, blending it into the environment while also providing insulation during the harsh winters.
• Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach: These two spots are must-visits! The Glacier Lagoon (Jokulsarlon) offers fantastic viewing of the ice calving from Vatnajokull. Directly across, a black sand beach showcases smaller pieces of ice on the shore.

West Iceland

• Snaefellsnes: The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a geological wonder filled with volcano craters, a massive glacier, and beautiful cliffsides. Don’t miss a detour to Snaefellsnes National Park.
• Westfjords: If you’re considering camping during the summer, devote a few days to exploring the Westfjords. While somewhat of a detour, its remote villages, cliffs, fjords, and red beaches reward your journey.
• Secret Lagoon: A public hot spring that offers a delightful break from the main road. Located in Fludir, this historic spot has long been a place for locals to learn to swim.
• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss: This stunning waterfall set is located just thirty-five minutes from the Ring Road. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are particularly special as they originate from beneath a lava field.
• Esjan: This mountain is visible from Reykjavik on clear days, offering a quick yet rewarding 2-hour hike—perfect for shaking off road trip stiffness.
• Reykjavik: Visiting Iceland would be incomplete without spending time in Reykjavik. Plan a relaxing long weekend to experience the local culture. After a week in the wilderness, unwind at exceptional restaurants or bars featuring the best nightlife the country has to offer.

North Iceland

• Lake Mývatn: If “hot springs” is on your wishlist, head to Mývatn. Surrounded by hot springs and caves, this area features the gorgeous Mývatn Nature Baths for a luxurious experience.
• Grjótagjá: This hot spring is best known as the romantic spot from “Game of Thrones,” but swimming is prohibited. It offers a scenic place to relax and take photos.
• Dettifoss: Located off the Ring Road, you can visit Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Parking is available on both the east and west sides.
• Húsavík: For whale watching, Húsavík is a charming small town about a 40-minute drive from Lake Mývatn, where various tours await your selection.
• Akureyri: No trip through northern Iceland is complete without a stop in Akureyri, the “Capital of the North.” Being Iceland’s second-largest city, it offers nightlife, dining options, and is nestled within a stunning fjord region.
• Godafoss: Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Godafoss is conveniently located along the Ring Road on your way to Akureyri. Legend has it that idols of Norse Gods were thrown into the waters to embrace Christianity.

East Iceland

• Höfn: This scenic fishing town lies an hour north of the Glacier Lagoon. A perfect stopover for hiking and local activities.
• Hallormsstaðaskógur: While Iceland lacks extensive forests, east Iceland hosts the largest concentration of trees here. It’s also approximately eight hours from Reykjavik, marking your halfway point.
• Vestrahorn Mountain: Known as “Swan Fjord,” this area attracts flocks of swans during summer months, making it a favorite for photographers.
• Hengifoss: If you’re eager to stretch your legs, plan to visit this waterfall, which requires a two-hour hike from the parking lot. Hengifoss is surrounded by impressive basalt strata complemented by striking colors of red clay.

Where to Stay

Airbnb presents a wide array of accommodation options as you explore Iceland. Choices range from cozy guest houses to luxurious hotels along the Ring Road. Some top recommendations include the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Five Million Star Hotel, Hótel Laxá, Hotel Budir, and Hotel Ranga. Many more options are available, simply seek lodging in the towns along your route.