Your free-to-use Iceland Ring Road Guide
Welcome to my Iceland Ring Road Guide. I have created this free Iceland Ring Road Guide for you, complete with tips on places to visit, tours, and activities.
Free and exclusive discount codes for hundreds of tours and & travel services in Iceland
Subscribe to receive discount codes instantly for tours, car rentals, camper van rentals, and outdoor clothing rentals.
Thank you! ❤️
Jon Heidar, Editor of Stuck in Iceland Travel Magazine
One of the most popular road trips in the world is the Ring Road in Iceland. Its popularity is no coincidence. In a short time, you can see some of the most incredible scenery and get to know one of the most beautiful countries on the planet.
What Is the Iceland Ring Road?
The Iceland Ring Road — also known as Route 1 — circles the island for about 1,332 km (828 miles). It connects the country’s major towns, waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Driving the Ring Road is one of the world’s most scenic road trips, offering endless photography opportunities and authentic local experiences. There are a lot of options of places to see and things to do and this is why I created this detailed Iceland Ring Road Guide.
Free 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
Here’s my tried-and-tested 7-day Ring Road itinerary with recommended stops, local partners, and discounts. Adjust the pace depending on your time and travel style.
Day 1 – Reykjavík & Keflavík Airport Arrival
Pick up your rental car or camper van at Keflavík International Airport. Use my subscriber discount codes to save on camper van rental, car rental, tours, and travel services in Iceland.
Explore Reykjavík: stroll along Laugavegur, visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, and admire Harpa Concert Hall.
Recommended Experiences – Subscribe to my newsletter to instantly claim discount codes for these attractions
- Lava Show Reykjavík – see real flowing lava indoors
- FlyOver Iceland – a breathtaking flight experience
- Your Friend in Reykjavík – walking tours and food walks
- Hvammsvík Hot Springs – relax in nature
- Sky Lagoon – a world-class geothermal spa
Tip: Reykjavík is walkable and family-friendly, with great food halls like Hlemmur and Hafnartorg.
Day 2 – The Golden Circle
Drive Iceland’s most popular route: Þingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss. Enjoy stunning natural landmarks and geothermal power in action.
- Þingvellir National Park – walk between tectonic plates
- Strokkur Geyser – erupts every few minutes
- Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s iconic golden falls
- Secret Lagoon – relax in a natural hot spring (discount code available)
- Lunch at Friðheimar – a greenhouse restaurant famous for tomato dishes
Day 3 – The South Coast: Waterfalls & Black Beaches
Today’s route offers some of Iceland’s most famous sights and adventures.
- Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls
- Skógafoss – climb the steps for a panoramic view
- Reynisfjara Black Beach and Dyrhólaey cliffs – watch puffins in summer
Vík village – adventure hub for:
- Katlatrack glacier tours
- True Adventure paragliding and zipline
- The Lava Show Vík – see real lava flow indoors
- Reynisfjara Beach near Vík is a must-see with its black sands and basalt columns
Day 4 – Skaftafell & the Glacier Lagoon
- Hike to Svartifoss in Skaftafell National Park
- Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
- Take a zodiac boat tour among the icebergs
- Stay overnight near Höfn and enjoy local langoustine
Recommended hotels: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon and Fosshotel Vatnajökull.
Day 5 – East Fjords & Egilsstaðir
- Drive through scenic fjords and charming fishing villages
- Visit the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon
- Soak in Vök Baths (discount available for my newsletter subscribers)
Vök Baths is one of Iceland’s most elegant geothermal spas, floating on a lake in East Iceland.
Day 6 – The Diamond Circle: Dettifoss, Mývatn & Húsavík
- Dettifoss Waterfall – the most powerful in Europe
- Lake Mývatn – volcanic landscapes and birdlife
- Dimmuborgir and Námaskarð Pass – otherworldly rock formations
- Mývatn Earth Lagoon – a peaceful, less-crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon
- Húsavík – whale watching with North Sailing and bathing at GeoSea Spa. Discount codes for both experiences are available to my subscribers.
Day 7 – Akureyri, Skagafjörður & Return to Reykjavík
- Goðafoss Waterfall – “The Waterfall of the Gods”
- Explore Akureyri – see the whales with Elding Akureyri, visit the Forest Lagoon, Akureyrarkirkja church, and enjoy ice cream at Brynja
- Drive through Skagafjörður – discover Glaumbær turf houses, Icelandic horses, and Grettislaug hot pool
- Optional detour to Reykholt, Krauma Baths, Hraunfossar, and Barnafoss waterfalls
Hraunfossar Waterfalls near Reykholt are a beautiful finale to your Ring Road journey.
Iceland Ring Road Driving Tips
- Never stop in the middle of the road for photos
- Stay informed about the weather and road conditions. Check safetravel.is and road.is daily
- Rent a 4×4 in winter and drive carefully
- The vehicle you are driving must have quality tires and be in good condition before you start driving. This is vital important in winter
- Watch for strong winds, ice, and gravel
- Refuel before long stretches between towns
More resources for your road trip in Iceland, complementing this Iceland Ring Road Guide
- My safety tips
- How to save money in Iceland
- How to pay for goods and services in Iceland
- How to dress in Iceland
About the Author
Written by me, Jón Heiðar, editor and janitor of Stuck in Iceland Travel Magazine.
Since 2012, I have helped thousands of travelers experience Iceland safely and affordably through exclusive discount codes and authentic local insights. I hope that this Iceland Ring Road Guide is highly useful to you.
Map of the Iceland Ring Road Road Trip Plan for the Iceland Ring Road Guide
Iceland road trip articles
Your Ultimate Ring Road Guide Just Got Even Better
Campervan Deal for a Winter Road Trip in Iceland – Save up to 50%
Your Ultimate Ring Road Guide Just Got Even Better
Campervan Deal for a Winter Road Trip in Iceland – Save up to 50%
🇮🇸 Iceland Ring Road Guide – FAQ
Everything you need to know before driving Iceland’s Route 1
What is the Iceland Ring Road?
The Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is the main highway that circles the entire country of Iceland. It’s about 1,322 km (821 miles) long and connects most major towns, natural attractions, and regions — from Reykjavík to the East Fjords, and from the South Coast up to Akureyri in the north.
It’s the ultimate Icelandic road trip.
How many days do I need to drive the Ring Road?
7–10 days is ideal for a full Ring Road trip. You can do it in 5–6 days, but you’ll be rushing and skipping gems. 14 days or more? Perfect for a slower pace, detours (like the Westfjords or Snæfellsnes Peninsula), and soaking in the scenery.
Do I need a 4×4 to drive the Ring Road?
Nope, not in summer. The Ring Road is fully paved and accessible by regular rental cars between May and September.
However, In winter (October–April), snow and ice are common. I recommend 4×4 vehicles for safety, especially if you are driving in the north. If you’re planning to detour into F-roads (mountain roads, like in the Highlands), a 4×4 is required by law — and a strong nerve doesn’t hurt either.
Is it safe to drive the Ring Road in winter?
It can be, but you need to be prepared. Winter in Iceland means short daylight hours, rapidly changing weather, and potential road closures due to snow or high winds. Roads are cleared regularly, but storms can shut things down fast.
Is driving the Ring Road expensive?
It can be, but there are affordable ways to do it:
- Car rentals: Starting around €40–€60/day for small cars in summer. Add more for 4x4s and insurance.
- Fuel: Petrol is pricey
- Accommodation: Budget hostels or guesthouses run €80–€120/night, or go camping in summer to save more.
- Food: Save by buying groceries from Bónus or Krónan instead of eating out every meal.
👉 Tip: Sign up for the Stuck in Iceland Newsletter to get discounts on tours and rentals!
Can I camp along the Ring Road?
Yes, but wild camping is no longer legal in most areas.
You’ll need to stay at designated campsites, which are everywhere and usually cost €10–€20 per person. Many are open from May to September, and some offer showers, cooking facilities, and even hot tubs.
My partners at Happy Campers have an excellent campsite map of Iceland. Sign up for the Stuck in Iceland newsletter to get discount codes that save you money on camper van rental with Happy Campers.
Do I need a GPS or mobile data?
Not necessarily, but it helps.
- Google Maps or Apple Maps work great if you have data.
- Offline maps, such as Maps.me, are a solid backup.
👉 Many rental car companies include Wi-Fi hotspots or GPS systems.
What are the must-see stops along the Ring Road?
Here’s a taste of what you can expect, clockwise from Reykjavík:
- South Coast: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Vík, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
- East Fjords: Tiny fishing villages, puffins (in summer), and dramatic fjord views.
- North Iceland: Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall), Lake Mývatn, and whale-watching in Húsavík.
- West Iceland: Akureyri, Hraunfossar waterfalls, geothermal spots.
What’s the weather like on the Ring Road?
Unpredictable. Iceland’s weather changes by the hour — and by the kilometer. Follow Vedur.is for weather updates.
Typical temperatures:
- Summer (June–August): 10–15°C (50–59°F)
- Winter (Dec–Feb): -1 to 4°C (30–39°F)
👉 Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes no matter the season.
When is the best time to drive the Ring Road?
Summer (June to early September) is ideal:
- 24-hour daylight
- Easier driving conditions
- Open Highland roads & campsites
- You have a chance to see the northern lights in September
Winter (October to April) is magical, but tougher:
- Northern lights opportunities
- Snowy landscapes
- Risk of storms & road closures
👉 Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer a nice balance — fewer tourists, decent weather, and some snow-capped charm.
Can I stop anywhere to take photos?
Short answer: No, not just anywhere.
- Never stop in the middle of the road, even if the view is amazing.
- Use designated pull-outs and parking lots.
- Respect private property and nature — Iceland’s landscapes are fragile.
Should I book tours or go self-guided?
Both work! Many travelers combine:
- Self-drive Ring Road adventure
- A few day tours (like glacier hikes, ice cave tours, whale watching, or snowmobiling)
Should I book tours or go self-guided?
Both work! Many travelers combine:
- Self-drive Ring Road adventure
- A few day tours (like glacier hikes, ice cave tours, whale watching, or snowmobiling)
Where can I get updates, discounts, and insider tips?
Right here! 👉 Join the Stuck in Iceland Newsletter for:
- Exclusive travel discounts
- Free Iceland travel eBooks
- Itineraries, guides, and local insight
Totally free, no spam — just straight-talking advice from folks who love Iceland.