Exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes is a dream for many travelers, and what better way to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland than by renting a car? The freedom and flexibility afforded by a rental car in Iceland allow you to traverse scenic routes at your own pace, unveiling hidden treasures and iconic sites along the way.
In this article, we present the ultimate 7-day self-drive itinerary, ensuring you experience the best of Iceland’s diverse offerings. Having your own car will provide you with all the flexibility you need to explore Iceland’s incredible landscapes; so it’s definitely our top choice when it comes to exploring this island.
Embarking on this journey, you’ll find that a car rental in Iceland is the most convenient option to explore the island’s gems. Whether it’s the vibrant culture of Reykjavik or the serene landscapes of the East Fjords, your Icelandic adventure promises to be memorable.
Day 1: Explore Reykjavik and the Golden Circle
Let’s start our exploration of Iceland in Reykjavik, the heart of Iceland’s cultural and artistic scene. Here you can pay a visit to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, a striking landmark that offers panoramic views of the city and beyond from its tower.
Delve into architectural brilliance at the Harpa Concert Hall, a venue that exemplifies modern Icelandic design with its harlequin glass facade. No trip to Reykjavik is complete without wandering through its vibrant streets, discovering local arts and cuisine.
From Reykjavik, we’ll start our self-drive journey along the Golden Circle, an essential Icelandic experience easily tackled from the capital. The best way to brave this incredible adventure is with a rental car, so make sure to book yours in advance.
Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its historical and geological importance, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Head to the highly active geothermal area in Geysir and witness the Strokkur geyser erupting magnificently every few minutes. Conclude your tour at the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where powerful cascades create a natural spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. With a rental car, each of these attractions is easily accessible at your desired pace, allowing for spontaneous stops and exploration.
Day 2: Discover the South Coast
Driving along the South Coast offers flexibility and stunning stops at your own pace with a reliable car rental. So, on the second day, you’ll be able to head to the enchanting South Coast, home to some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.
Start with Seljalandsfoss, where a unique footpath lets you walk behind the falls for a stunning viewpoint rarely seen. Continue to the thunderous Skógafoss waterfall, a 60-meter marvel that provides not only dazzling sights but also beautiful rainbows in the sun’s glow. Having a car provides flexibility, enabling hikers to explore nearby areas such as the Skóga Trail and Eyjafjallajökull glacier.
Day 3: Journey to Vik and the Black Sand Beaches
Your third day will take you to Vik, a charming village known for its dramatic black sand beaches like Reynisfjara. With a rental car, you can easily reach the black sand beaches and spend as much time as you want exploring. The beach itself is renowned for its volcanic sands and striking basalt columns, making it a paraside for photographers and nature lovers.
Just east of Reynisfjara, you can explore the cliffs of Dyrhólay, home to puffins and providing sweeping views of the coastline. Using a rental car allows access to these remote areas, making your exploration effortless and personalized.
Days 4-6: Embrace Iceland’s East and South
Skaftafell National Park
To experience Iceland’s diverse landscapes, renting a car is essential. And nowhere is this more apparent than at Skaftafell National Park, now part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park, a hub for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Known for its unique geological features, including the Svartifoss waterfall surrounded by hexagonally jointed basalt columns, Skaftafell offers diverse hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. The lush landscapes, expansive glaciers, and vibrant flora create an outdoor paradise that entices visitors from all walks of life.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon awaits exploration, where colossal icebergs drift serenely in a vast glacial lake. Boat tours bring you closer to these magnificent ice structures, often home to curious seals. Engage in photography sessions that capture the lagoon’s breathtaking beauty against a backdrop of shimmering waters and the surrounding mountains. What makes Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon unique? This site stands out due to the dynamic interplay of ice and water, where each iceberg possesses a unique shape molded by natural elements. Its evolving appearance makes every visit a new experience, showcasing the power and beauty of Iceland’s natural environment.
East Fjords
The East Fjords offer a less-traveled spot, presenting an untouched wilderness surrounded by tranquil fjords and quaint villages. The region’s remoteness introduces visitors to a slower pace of life, where nature is at the forefront of every scene. From fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður to the stunning sights from Fáskrúðsfjörður, every corner offers a postcard-perfect view. Why are the East Fjords a must-visit?
The East Fjords are a haven for those seeking peace and solitude in nature’s embrace. The area’s isolation enhances the overall experience, allowing for reflection and appreciation of Iceland’s rugged beauty, unmarred by heavy tourist traffic.
Day 7: Return to Reykjavik via the Ring Road
To conclude the itinerary, embark on a journey back to Reykjavik along the famed Ring Road. This road is very easy to navigate, and a car rental ensures you don’t miss hidden gems. This is the road you came from along the south coast. To complete the entire ring road, you’ll want several more days – which you won’t regret.
This route offers captivating vistas of landscapes that shift between mountains, fjords, and lava fields. Along the way, anticipate discovering hidden gems tucked away from the usual path—secret waterfalls, hot springs, and picturesque villages nestled against the hills.
How Does a Self-Drive Experience Enhance Finding Hidden Spots?
With a self-drive option, you have the freedom to stop and explore at will, uncovering locations that might otherwise be neglected on organized tours. The opportunity to personalize the trip creates an intimate connection with the land and fosters unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the journey ends.
In summary, an “Iceland 7-day itinerary” crafted around the freedom of a rental car promises an extraordinary journey . This exploration encapsulates all of Iceland’s quintessence, ensuring that visitors not only see but truly experience the vibrant realms of ice, fire, and history. Whether chasing waterfalls, strolling along black sand beaches, or standing before the serene beauty of glaciers, this self-drive itinerary invites you to embrace the spirit of adventure and discover Iceland your way.
A rental car is the best option to experience Iceland’s natural wonders; so make sure to book yours in advance before heading to this amazing country!
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