#Budget car rental Reykjavik
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Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Iceland
Timing Your Rental Right
June and August are this place’s peak travel seasons, so the rates go sky-high. If your visit is to be during off-peak seasons, usually April-May or September to October, your rental budget can easily be reduced by at least 30%. Economy car rental in Iceland became quite affordable during those periods. Moreover, one will need more competition against the available vehicles.
Location Matters
It depends on where you collect your hire car and can vary enormously in the final cost. Car rental in Iceland Keflavik is incredibly convenient, picking you right off your flight, but will typically charge you top money to do so. Take the shuttle into Reykjavik and collect your car hire there instead. This can save you a fair sum of cash that may cover several nights of accommodation.
Insurance Considerations
The weather in this place might be a bit unpredictable so you would need insurance coverage, not an option. You’re not required to take any package from the rental firm at an outrageous fee. Check if your credit card covers car rentals picked up at the airport. Many cards include collision damage waiver protection, saving you $20–30 a day.
Vehicle Selection Strategy
A common mistake tourists make is renting a larger vehicle than necessary. While 4x4s look exciting, a compact car works perfectly fine for Ring Road adventures during summer months. Most vehicle rental Iceland companies offer fuel-efficient small cars that can handle paved roads well while cutting fuel costs significantly.
Fuel Economy Tips
Petrol prices at this place rank among Europe’s highest. Plan your routes and fill up in larger towns where prices tend to be lower. Many rental companies offer diesel vehicles, which typically use 30% less fuel than their petrol counterparts. The savings add up quickly on long road trips.
Hidden Cost Prevention
Read the rental agreement carefully before signing. Some companies charge extra for additional drivers, GPS units, or child seats. Bring your GPS device or download offline maps. Pack your child’s car seat if the airline allows it to be accessible. These small decisions can save you $100 or more over a week-long rental.
Smart Booking Tactics
Book your rental car at least three months ahead for the best rates. Prices typically rise closer to the rental date, especially during peak season. Many companies offer early bird discounts of up to 15%. Compare prices across multiple rental agencies, but remember that the cheapest option is sometimes the best value.
Documentation Preparation
Having all necessary documents ready prevents costly delays and potential issues. This includes a valid driver’s license, credit card, and proof of insurance. Some Car rentals at Iceland Airport companies offer discounts for presenting certain memberships, such as AAA or airline loyalty programs.
Additional Money-Saving Strategies
Plan your arrival and departure times carefully to keep your rental period efficient. Most companies charge for 24-hour periods, so picking up a car at 10 AM and returning it at 2 PM counts as two days. Adjust your schedule to avoid these extra charges.
Conclusion
Savvy travelers know that saving money on car rentals doesn’t mean compromising quality or safety. By planning, choosing the right vehicle, and avoiding unnecessary extras, you can explore Iceland’s magnificent landscapes without breaking the bank. Remember to compare different rental options, read reviews, and book early to secure the best deals for your Icelandic adventure.
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How to Choose the Right Rental Car for Your Travel Needs
When planning a trip to Iceland, choosing the right rental car can make a big difference in your travel experience. Whether you’re visiting for the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, or natural wonders, having the right vehicle ensures you can explore everything Iceland has to offer comfortably and safely. Here’s a guide to help you select the best rental car for your travel needs, especially if you're considering a car rental in Iceland.
1. Assess Your Travel Plans
Before selecting a car, evaluate your travel itinerary. Are you staying mostly in the city, or will you be venturing into Iceland’s rugged terrain? If your plans involve Reykjavik and surrounding areas, a compact or economy car from an Iceland car rental at Reykjavik Airport might suffice. These vehicles are fuel-efficient, easy to maneuver, and perfect for urban driving or exploring popular tourist spots along paved roads.
However, if you plan on exploring Iceland's remote regions, such as the Highlands or the famous Ring Road, it’s essential to rent a 4x4 vehicle. Many of these areas have gravel roads, and a 4x4 vehicle offers the stability and control you’ll need for a safe journey. Check with your Iceland car rental provider to confirm if the roads you plan to travel on require a four-wheel drive vehicle.
2. Consider the Season
Iceland's weather is unpredictable, and the season you choose to visit will play a major role in selecting the right rental car. During winter months, snow, ice, and unpredictable storms can make driving a challenge. In these conditions, it's essential to choose a car that is equipped with snow tires and offers a strong grip on icy roads. A reliable 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for winter travel to ensure safety when traversing more treacherous paths.
In summer, the roads are generally more accessible, and a 2WD vehicle is suitable for traveling around the main tourist spots and well-maintained highways. Opting for an affordable car rental in Iceland during the summer can save you money, especially if your plans don't involve off-road driving.
3. Focus on Comfort and Space
Another important factor in choosing the right rental car is ensuring that it accommodates the number of passengers and luggage you’re traveling with. Iceland is known for its breathtaking road trips, so spending time in the car is inevitable. You’ll want a vehicle that offers comfort, especially if you’re driving long distances.
If you’re traveling with family or friends, a larger vehicle, such as an SUV or van, might be a better fit. These options provide more space for passengers and luggage, making the journey more comfortable. On the other hand, if you're traveling solo or as a couple with minimal luggage, a smaller, more affordable car rental in Iceland will suit your needs perfectly.
4. Compare Prices and Look for Deals
Car rental prices can vary greatly depending on the type of car, rental duration, and additional services such as insurance. It’s always a good idea to compare rates from different Iceland car rental companies and look for any seasonal deals or discounts.
Additionally, consider picking up your vehicle directly from the Iceland car rental Reykjavik Airport for convenience. Most rental agencies offer competitive rates and a wide range of vehicle options at the airport, allowing you to start your journey immediately upon arrival.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rental car for your travel needs in Iceland is all about understanding your itinerary, the season, and your budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable car rental in Iceland or need a sturdy 4x4 for off-road adventures, taking the time to assess your travel plans will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With the right car, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the magnificent landscapes of Iceland with confidence and comfort.
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#Cheap Car Rental Iceland#car rental Reykjavik#Best car rental Iceland#Reykjavik airport car rental#Cheap car rental Reykjavik#Budget car rental Reykjavik#Best car rental Reykjavik
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Car Hire Girona Airport
Car Hire Girona Airport
Enterprise's Brad and Dave show how you get UK car hire with US customer service. We inquired several times and finally (around noon) decided that JB rent-a-car had breached the contract and we demanded restitution of our money. After air travel, choosing an airport rental car service makes for a convenient and stress-free way to get you on the road as soon as possible. And rental is based on the age and type of model of taxi leased. Wherever you decide to go, you'll find we're based at more than 1,300 locations in 99 countries worldwide - you can rent a car at the airport when you land, or just visit us downtown for quick and easy car rental. You no longer have to depend on a taxi or other transport system but can have a car of your choice to move around as and when you like to. It is not just for people who are visiting Dubai but even the locals can also best rent a car Dubai if they cannot access their own car due to any reason.
In fact, you can even consider getting luxury car hire services for your grand Holiday. First I asked at the airport about their vehicle fleet because I know that airports all around the town started to offer a car service. It's a car rental company that provides customers with peer to peer car rental services. Free to book, modify and cancel: Unlike other car rental comparison sites, we don't charge najam vozila sa vozacem any fee for booking with us and for modifying or cancelling your reservation. AND - thanks for he tip about rental cars at DEN. Our global locations offer a selection of cars to suit a wide range of needs, from city run-arounds to family saloons and people carriers. It connected with respected travel companies like Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, others including other offline travel agencies.
By selecting the size of a car, we can make the family vacation to be more comfortable: for example, an estate car is more ideal that time, since all the luggage and even the baby stroller or other bigger stuff shall be packed in the vehicle. It's unnecessary that one may get you a car hire to visit the town just in the airport. Founded in 1914, Sixt's goal in retiring rental cars from its fleet has always been to create the best overall used car buying experience. Green Motion Milano Malpensa Airport offers their rental customers the opportunity to reduce their excess by purchasing one of our excess reduction packages. Whether you need transport for employees, have seasonal rental demands, or need an alternative to pool cars, we can develop a flexible programme that's right for you.
In any case, the lessees' maximum liability will always be the vehicle's market value, according to the maximum price established in the Ganvam (Spanish Association of Car Dealers) guide in force at the time of the accident. If the rented vehicle is taken over - and the rental agreement has remained in the vehicle - a copy of the original agreement can be asked for during the opening hours, indicated on the website. Brisbane Airport is well connected to the city's public transport network, but often hiring a car works out cheaper. We also offer a wide variety of insurance options, including roadside protection, third party cover, personal accident protection and much more to ensure that you drive away from our Nice airport branch with peace of mind. Forget Europcar Hire and Budget Car Rental, Thrifty Car Rental and Hertz Car Hire, or Avis with their big prices.
Rule 2(l)(B) of Cenvat Credit Rules 2004 excludes from the definition of input services - Services provided by way of renting of a motor vehicle, in so far as they relate to a motor vehicle which is not a capital goods. Additional features: After you consider the services made available, you are certain to get more comprehensive features along with amenities than you get with a motor vehicle rental service that's located far from the airport when you stick to offsite companies. Car rent a car beograd hire at Rome Fiumicino Airport is made easy with Europcar. This means you can pick up your car from the airport but also reach us at our Reykjavik office if you have a problem with your car hire. Hire a car at Wellington Airport with Omega, and you can relax knowing that your very own set of wheels is locked in and ready to go. It's fast and easy to do everything online: use our quote generator, navigate the search process and pick the vehicle that suits you and your travel plans.
I think $2.50 per day of use would be fine, but not for EVERY day of the rental regardless of whether the service was used or not. Our Auckland Airport branch is located outside the airport terminal so we save on cost, and that means we can pass those savings on to you the customer on your car hire from Auckland Airport. Similarly, people aged 70+ may find some companies will charge a Senior Driver Fee, or may not rent to them at all. Whatever your travel plans, you'll need to hire a car that's up to the job. You have stumbled across this page because you were searching for information on rental cars in Manila, or possibly wanted to check out the credibility of JB Rent A Car , one of the most visible rental car companies when searching on Google. Splendid automobiles: Transfer Company always offer very latest and branded type of vehicles which is equipped with classic leather seats , latest navigation and alarming system for safe and secure drive at your destiny.
Various driving companies can be found all around town that rent vehicles or hire well trained chauffeurs to be at your full service. So, my rental is $53 a day. The taxi providers offer many types of cars like a sedan, saloon, SUV, MPV and executive cars along with high standard facilities. It can help associate the local and international travel agencies to encourage the travelers to rent a car bez depozita use their cars, giving them to increase their transaction, profitability, publicity and etc. Only in T2 "Car Rental Center" excepted for Sixt Card Holders, who will be served at our desk in terminal 1. You can proceed to the "Car Rental Center" outside the terminal building. ACE Rent A Car offers free and fast airport pickup for car and van rentals at Miami International Airport (MIA).
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Iceland is the land of Fire and Ice. Made famous by Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in the movie Diwale; this is also where Lord Eddard Stark famously said ‘Winter is coming’ in Game of Thrones. This is where the word geyser comes from. Blue Lagoon. Little really hairy horses. Waterfalls everywhere. Active volcanoes. Glaciers. It’s things like these that sometimes move us to want to visit a country for the holidays. We knew our budget was in trouble when we started looking for reasonably priced accommodation. Really expensive and not many to choose from. Car rental was expensive especially when we include insurance. You need insurance. Seriously. The weather is unpredictable. Our insurance specifically state it does not cover damage to the car if a sudden gust of wind rips off the door! Guess what; it nearly happened to us at Vestrahorn. The wind was so strong Noraini and I had difficulty standing still; and the sand was continuously spraying on our face to the point that it hurt. Get insurance. If one is simply just touring the Golden Circle, you might not need to rent a car. There are packages for day trips. But if you are circling the whole country, obviously you need to rent a car or a caravan. Don’t know why but we decided to go anti-clockwise from Reykjavik heading upwards towards Hvolsvöllur and Vik. Go full circle and back to Reykjavik. We would pace ourselves. Stop whenever we can. Picnic; eat sandwiches while we soak in the majestic beautiful of Iceland. Beside car insurance, important tip; fill up your car whenever you see a petrol station. You are not sure when you will come across another one. Very easy to get stranded. Never run on empty; or even half tank for that matter. More on our adventure in future posts. #Reykjavik #Iceland #GoldenCircle https://www.instagram.com/p/CXfpXijv5U7/?utm_medium=tumblr
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Hello! This post I would like to share some of my adventures in Iceland last month. There was definitely some unexpected aspects of this trip that I wish I would have known prior to my own adventure. So here are my highlights/tips and how I would budget for future trips. Getting there: Flying to Iceland is more accessible than ever thanks to Wow Air and Icelandair based out of Reykjavik! These are budget airlines that basically operate as a connection hub to Europe or a final Nordic destination from several cities in the US and Canada. So that’s what initially opened this opportunity up for me, being able to travel to Europe for only $265 bucks! Hotels/Getting around: As you will discover when searching for accommodations, Iceland is quite expensive and the hotel choices are limited. It’s such a small country and it’s simply just not the same scale as any other destination that I’ve travelled. We looked to Airbnb to book a location that was centrally located in Reykjavik and had decent street parking for our rental car. Speaking of which, a rental car is 100% necessary if you plan on travelling anywhere in the country beyond Reykjavik. We rented a cute little red Ford Fiesta that was great on gas mileage. As I will keep mentioning, Iceland ain’t cheap so I would budget to spend at least $200 for a weekends worth of gas. If you plan on doing any off-roading, definitely recommend renting a vehicle equipped for that! Getting around Iceland is fairly easy. There’s only one highway for the entire country, and it’s essentially how you have to get around to any other city. Food/Drinks: I had a very negative impression on what the Nordic cuisine would entail based on prior research. Surprisingly I didn’t have one bad meal! I tried the iconic hot stand Baejarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavik, and it was amazing (and one of the cheaper meals). We also went to Skal, a very impressive spot close to our BnB. We had an amazing Arctic Char with Yukon gold potatoes and I was in love. The chefs were so friendly and walked us through their preparations in front of us. I would budget about $250 on food for a weekend in Iceland. This sounds nuts and like you’ll be eating like a king, but it’s just so expensive to eat/drink in Iceland. I realized this when we were in a small town and the only option was KFC (two sandwiches were $30!!) My best advice is that a pizza goes a long way, and to prepare your own coffee every morning. Also if you want to go to bars, a cheap beer is about $10 and a mixed drink about $17. I literally feel like Iceland nightlife is more pricey than NYC! What to see: there’s no shortage of adventures in Iceland. We were only there for a weekend so definitely had to prioritize which landmarks we wanted to see the most. If you’re in Iceland, chances are you are trying to see some volcanoes. My favorite was our hike up to Snæfellsjökull, an active volcano on the northwestern part of the island. You also probably want to see some waterfalls, which are so amazing. If you head Southeast towards Vík, you will hit several waterfalls and general tourist destination. The best part of Iceland adventuring, in my opinion, is the ability to pull off the side of the road anywhere and admire whatever strikes you at the moment. Blue Lagoon: It's literally the most iconic landmark in Iceland, and one of the 25 wonders of the world. If you plan on going, you must book tickets in advance, as it is so popular. Also, account for about $200 dollars for this experience (Oh Iceland). The photos of this geothermal hot spring speak for itself, but what you might not know is how to prep for the lagoon. They recommend that you shower/condition your hair prior to entering. I made the monumental mistake of showering, but not conditioning. The result was the minerals/silica created a very stiff/tangly feel to my hair. I thought maybe afterwards I could just deep condition and be back to normal. NOPE. It took 3 weeks until my hair normalized. I tried everything imaginable from deep conditioning to multiple washes in one shower, nothing. The only thing that I think speed up the process was applying a food grade coconut oil mask to my hair. I applied this about 4 times before seeing results. I also used a purifying charcoal shampoo to try and remove the minerals from my hair. Also if you have colored hair, that will likely fill or fade out in the Lagoon so I would suggest hair up for sure. Overall we had a great experience. I think 4 days was just enough time to explore, and frankly the most money I would want to spend! The country felt very European and we even got to watch Iceland play in the World Cup! I’m connecting in Iceland again in September and can’t wait to fly over those views again! Have you travelled to Iceland or plan to? I’d love to hear about it!
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Today was crazy and exhausting and so much fun!! We landed in Reykjavik at 6am and picked up our Duster 4x4 rental at 8am. We then drove to city hall in downtown Reykjavik to get free maps. From there we walked around the city and ate breakfast. We only had 1.5 hours in the city today because we had to drive to our first stop in Holmavik....but first we sat in the car for 30 mins bc we couldn't figure out how to put it in reverse.... We drove through unreal scenery. At times I felt like I was driving around on mars. There are lots of rocks everywhere and almost no trees. The more North we went, the more snow and ice we encountered. We stopped a few times along the way, including Bonus, the grocery store. We are on a tight budget for the next 5 months. We will cook most nights and eat out on special occasions. We made it to our first house at 4pm. Our host's family has lived on the same farm here since the 900s. It is quaint and beautiful. Our house is on a cliff side overlooking the sea. It truly feels like a dream. More pictures coming soon!
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Growing up in the islands of Batanes in the Philippines, I am no stranger to natural terrains and formations that can easily take anyone’s breath away. In fact, I’m quite hard to please when it comes to such things; but of course, this does NOT mean that I do not appreciate nor acknowledge the beautiful sights that I see in my travels — because I do! However… in order for me to be in utter awe and wonder, the landscapes must be far incredible. To date, there have only been a few places that has made me felt this way and on top of that list would have to be the far-flung yet stunning Faroe Islands.
Right from the moment that I landed there, I have felt as if I was sucked into a grand fairy tale — every where I looked, there would be something that will draw my breath in awe, as I constantly question myself if I was still on Earth!
Yes, it was that majestic and surreal.
It might still be an understatement to say that the Faroe Islands are a natural masterpiece; but either way, it is my hope that you will see the outstanding beauty of this place in the flesh!
I bet that you have this now on your travel bucket list and surely, it would be my pleasure to help make your travel planning easier… and so, with this post, I give you the ultimate travel guide for the Faroe Islands — complete with infos, tips, resources, and itinerary that you’re free to customize depending on the length of your stay or the style of traveling that you will do! Enjoy! .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }
Faroe Islands : 5-Day Itinerary
» PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE
But before we go on, let me give you some quick and basic facts about the Faroe Islands…
It’s a self-governing small group of islands under the external sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark. The Faroe Islands or Føroyar are quite far from Denmark; truth be told, its 18 rocky and volcanic islands are closer to Iceland, Norway and Scotland. But one important thing to mention is that though Denmark is part of the European Union, the Faroe Islands are not.
TRIVIA: One of the inhabited islands, Koltur, has only one resident! (…Or two, because I keep seeing conflicting info online; but some of the locals said that there’s only one left there. Maybe they were talking about 1 family which are these 2 residents.)
TRIVIA: The Faroese language is said to be one of the North Germanic languages and it is closely related to Icelandic and the now extinct Old Norse Language. Anyhow, English is widely spoken especially by the younger ones.
TRIVIA: The name of the islands first appeared as Faereyjar (in 1225) which means “Sheep Islands” that was given by the Viking age settlers from Norway in the 9th century.
When is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands? Weather here can be quite unpredictable. It’s common to somewhat experience all 4 seasons in just one day! But yes, generally, sunny days here are rare because the islands are mostly windy, cloudy and chilly. For starters, expect cool summers (with an average temperature of 13°C) and mild winters (with an average temperature of 3°C). I went here in the summer around end of June and the days can really have long hours of sunlight with the sun setting after 11PM or even later! (The longest day will be in June 21 spanning at almost 20 hours). As for winter, it can be as short as 5 hours — imagine that…
With all that said, it’s best to visit the archipelago around June to September to enjoy the green scenery. Don’t forget to pack your jacket! ;)
How to get to the Faroe Islands? By air. There are currently 2 airlines that fly to the Faroe Islands. First is Atlantic Airways that has 2 flights per day from Copenhagen, Billund, Aalborg, Bergen and Reykjavik. Flighs cannot be booked through travel websites so you’ll have to book directly on Atlantic Airways website here. The other one is Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) that just started having daily flights to the Faroes.
By sea. Smyril Line’s ferry, M/S Norröna, sails to the Faroe Islands from Hirtshals in the north of Denmark and from Seyðisfjørður in Iceland. It doesn’t sail as frequent though so make sure to check by its website for the scheduled departures.
What kind of clothes should I pack? If you’re coming around May to September to the the Faroe Islands, you should pack for chilly weather so your bare essentials should be a sweater, a raincoat, and a set of good comfortable (hiking) shoes. If you’re like me who can get cold quite fast, go and pack a warm hat or even some gloves just in case!
Of course if you visit around winter or the colder months, your clothing essentials will be different. The same goes for when you’re coming here mainly to camp or hike.
Where to best stay (for accommodations)? The central city of Tórshavn is where you will find most of the accommodations and it’s a strategic place to base yourself in for all your adventures around the islands. (Of course it can get cheaper if you get places outside of Torshavn, but for the best capital picks, they would be the following). Luxury: Hotel Foroyar / Mid-Range: Hotel Hafnia or AirBnB / Budget: Kristjanshavn or AirBnB
How can I go around the islands? By car. Driving your own car is highly recommended (to make the most of your time!) and you can arrange a rental online before your arrival on the islands. Rest assured, you can rent a car (from small cars to SUVs) on-the-spot when you land at the airport since there are stalls there by Sixt, AVIS, HERTZ, and Unicar. Once you start driving around the Faroe Islands, be mindful of the driving conditions and rules because for instance, there are one-way tunnels in the islands and you have to make way for incoming vehicles (you can find all the details in here).
By bus. The main inter-town bus that they have is called Bygdaleiðir (they’re easy to spot since they’re big and in the color of dark blue). To see the complete timetable of the buses, go here. It helps to note, however, that public transportation is expensive in the Faroe Islands, so it’s best to buy a travel (multiple-ride) card beforehand with Strandfaraskip Landsins (the mother company of Bygdaleiðir) at the airport or at the main bus terminal in Torshavn. This travel card already covers busses and ferries around the islands (except to Mykines Island) and can cost 500 DKK ($70~ / Php 3,500~) for 4-days or 700 DKK ($100 / Php 4,900~) for 7 days.
By ferry or by helicopter. Since this place is made up of islands, some are not connected by roads so you’ll sometimes need to hop on a ferry. The schedules for this can be found on Strandfaraskip Landsins. Now if a helicopter ride seemingly sounds expensive to you, don’t worry! Here in the islands, the service is subsidized by the government so it’s quite cheap and it is serviced by Atlantic Airways (see timetable here, and remember, booking in advance is mandatory). With these affordable helicopter rides, I say take advantage of it!
By bike. Some districts like the capital, Tórshavn, can be explored on city or sports bikes. You can rent these from Visit Tórshavn that is located in Steinatún in the city centre. The cost for a day can start at DKK 150~. To book, just send an e-mail to [email protected] or call (+298) 302425.
What tour operators can I contact? In case you don’t like to DIY your trip and want to have someone take care of everything for you, I suggest that you book through local operators in order to help support the local economy. Some of them are as follows:
62°N Tours
GreenGate
MakeTravel
MICE
Should I get a visa to visit the Faroe Islands? Even if the Faroe Islands are connected to the Danish immigration policies, like I’ve already mentioned above, there are some differing factors to take note of. So…
If you come from a Nordic country: showing off your document of identification with photo is enough to enter the islands.
If you come from an EU (European Union) or Schengen country: if you’re an EU citizen, you may enter with just your ID card with photo. However, EU residents are not part of such scheme because you must be a citizen (so for instance, it follows that if you have a Danish residence permit, you still need a visa to the Faroes). If you have a Schengen visa or Danish visa, it is NOT applicable for entry to the Faroe Islands — you still need to apply for a separate visa that is specific to the islands (the requirements will be similar to obtaining a Danish visit visa).
If you are of any other nationality: naturally, you need to apply for a Faroe Islands visa (remember: NOT a Schengen visa) at the Danish embassy in your country of residence — unless your nationality is exempted from getting a Danish visa then you can enter the Faroe Islands.
Helpful Faroese phrases the official language of the faroe islands is faroese which is a Germanic language that descended from Old Norse. Since they are within the Kingdom of Denmark, the locals also speak Danish. Rest assured, most of the people can speak English (sometimes even German and Norwegian). All in all, it doesn’t hurt to learn a few of the local phrases.
Hello: Halló (hahloh) Thank you: Takk fyri (Takk fi-reh) or Takk (Takk) Yes: Ja (Ya) No: Nei (Ney) Goodbye: Farvæl (Far-vyel)
I’m sorry: Orsakið meg (Or-sha-kee mey) Excuse me (getting attention): Orsaka (Or-sha-ka) Excuse me (begging pardon): Umskylda (Um-shil-da) How much does that cost?: Hvat kostar tað? (Kvat kost-ar tay?) Is there someone here who speaks English?: Dugir nakar her eingilskt? (Du-cheer nak-ar her ain-gilsk?) Help!: Hjálp! (Yolp!) Cheers!: Skál! (Is-kol!)
Now, before I begin with the itinerary guide, if in case you’re more of a visual person, you can already watch my video below to get a ‘ brief peek’ into what the islands can offer.
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» Day 1
» Day 2
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» Day 4
» Day 5
Explore parts of Vágar and Streymoy Islands
After you land and pick up your rental car at the airport, I highly advise that you don’t go straight to Tórshavn yet (which is likely where your accommodation will be) because there are some nearby spots around the airport that are worth looking into!
You might be thinking, “I can visit those later!” — sure you can, but the thing is… they’re quite far and to save time, I think it’s best that you visit them ASAP while you’re in the vicinity. (Otherwise, you can visit them on your last day on your way to the airport, depending on your scheduled flight back.)
If you want to see one of nature’s mind-blowing ‘optical illusions‘, make sure that you drop by Lake Sørvágsvatn (also called as Leitisvatn). It is the largest lake in the Faroe Islands and it has been dubbed as the “lake over the ocean” — this is because if you go up a certain angle, it will appear as though the lake is floating directly above the ocean! The lake is just 40 meters above sea level with a magnificent waterfall at the end of it that’s called as Bøsdalafossur.
To get here, set your GPS and near the location or by the church in Miðvágur, you will find signs to “Trælanípa/Bøsdalafossur”. Follow these signs until you find a parking spot. You will then find a gate and you must start walking from here to the south towards the ocean by following the gravel path. The hike takes about an hour (one way) and in order to get to the spot that shows the iconic ‘illusion’, you must go to the southern tip (not on the southwest end of the lake). You will know if you’re in the right place when you see 3 small sticks sticking up or if you see a steep hill. (Doesn’t matter if you end up at the wrong vantage point because every angle is stunning here! But if you really want some more specific instructions, go to this page and scroll to page 36 to 37.)
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This is yet another iconic landscape in the Faroe Islands which is just an 18-min ride away from Vagar Airport. As you will see from the photo above, the Mulafossur Waterfall is a grand sight! It is nestled within this small village of Gasadalur and there are 2 ways to see it: with minimal effort and with some effort. What do I mean by this? You can see this glorious spot by car as you do some short walking from the main road; or if you’re a dedicated hiker, you can do a hiking trail that the villagers used to take before the car tunnel was built.
TRIVIA: Gasadalur used to be one of the most isolated places in the islands. Residents had to hike through 700-meter mountains just to get in and out of the village! After the car tunnel was built, access to the town got a lot better, but to date, the residents here still number at only 18!
Since I didn’t have much time (and a bit tired from my flight), I opted to just drop by here with my car as I enjoyed the waterfall and do a bit of strolling in the village itself. If you want some more detailed tips for this place, like how to find the trail that leads to this vantage point and how to do the longer hiking trail itself, check out my guide found here: Gasadalur & its Mulafossur Waterfall
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The central city of Tórshavn is where you will find most of the islands’ accommodations and it’s a strategic place to base yourself in for all your adventures around the islands. But of course it can get cheaper if you get places outside of Torshavn, but for the best capital picks, they would be the following. Luxury: Hotel Foroyar / Mid-Range: Hotel Hafnia or AirBnB / Budget: Kristjanshavn or AirBnB
I stayed over at a guesthouse with a local though and unfortunately, it’s not really a place you can book — but I wish it was because the house was in the traditional style and it was so cozy with a great view of the sea and a river!
• • •
Like a natural amphitheatre, Saksun is a splendid remote hillside village that is known for its serene atmosphere. The place where it lies now used to be a deep inlet in the sea (fjord) and during low tide, you can walk along the lagoon’s sandy shore which is found at the foot of the village.
Whilst here, make sure you check out the village’s church and Dúvugarðar, a farm that houses 300 ewes — which also functions as a museum.
• • •
This is the largest waterfall in the Faroe Islands at a hight of 140 meters. Located near the village of Haldarsvík, this waterfall has two cascades that falls down to the sea. If I may share a tip, it’s best to come here after some heavy rainfall because that’s when it becomes even more spectacular!
TRIVIA: Fossá in Faroese means “river with waterfalls”
• • •
As the night falls, you can choose from an array of restaurants that speckle the city of Tórshavn; but if I may suggest, go and dine at Barbara Fish House! It has a great menu that consists of Faroese seafood dishes; plus, the place itself is quite charming given that it is built into the rocks.
Kalsoy and Gjógv
Rev up your car, wear good shoes, pack up some food and sail to the nearby island of Kalsoy! You can spend a whole day here to explore its various sights. If you still have time by the end of the day, you can drop by the charming village of Gjógv.
Kalsoy is like a flute-shaped island due to its thin shape. You can reach it by ferry along with your car by driving from Tórshavn to the port of Klaksvík (this is a 1-hour drive). It’s best to catch the first or earliest ferry to Kalsoy’s Syðradalur port so that you’ll have enough time to explore the island. To check the timetables, see this page (take note of the departure times as well so you can time when you will have to drive back to port). Take note: it’s not possible to book in advance so you have to pay on the spot (DKK 160 for one vehicle), and if you’re coming with your car, make sure you arrive there 15 minutes before departure.
Once on the island, there’s no need for maps because there is but just one highway with lots of tunnels — make sure that you watch out for sheep because they can come up anywhere and block the road, seemingly seeking for some sort of showdown.
First, I recommend that you go straight to the north to Trøllanes not only to see the surroundings of the village but to also hike up the mountains to see Kallur lighthouse because the view here is superb. I actually had a hard time finding the trail that leads to this place because there are no signs that lead me to it. Thankfully, my companion and I saw a tour group by the road who were headed to the lighthouse and they gladly invited us to join them.
Basically, somewhere on the road before the village, you will find a small red gate along the fence. This is closed but you can open it — most of the gates in the island are closed not for people, but for sheep. Once inside, you just have to climb up the hill toward the north direction until you see the white Kallur lighthouse. With this in mind: make sure to wear good and comfortable hiking shoes! Rest assured, the climb up isn’t that hard but it can get a bit steep.
On the way back, make sure that you stop by the village of Mikladalur to visit Kópakonan, or the “Seal Woman”, which embodies one of the popular folktales in the islands. Made of bronze and stainless steel, it stands above a rock near a waterfall with a great backdrop of the mountains and the sea. The legend that surrounds this is quite sad and dark though and you can read all about it here.
TIP: Pack your own lunch and snacks because I personally had a hard time looking for a restaurant in Kalsoy. There was a canteen in Mikladalur but it only served snacks.
• • •
Just an hour away from Tórshavn, this is the northernmost village in Eysturoy island. Nominated by the Nordic Council for the Nature & Environmental Award in 2014, this well-preserved town is nestled by mountains on all sides and filled with traditional houses that are made of timber and turf roofs. For those who are fond of hiking, there are also several trails for you to do here! What’s one thing that you absolutely must NOT miss? it would be the natural harbour that they have which is a picturesque gorge.
• • •
Once you’re back at the capital, have some more classical Faroese dishes — but this time around, try some fine dining at Aarstova!
All about mountains
The way I see it, the Faroe Islands is a hiker’s dream paradise! In fact, almost all of the best landscapes can be seen via hiking.
But for those who don’t have the stamina for such things (like me), don’t fret because there are hiking trails that are at an easy level. …Yet if you could push yourself — by all means, do so! I have personally done a difficult hike up the mountain of Villingardalsfjall, and I was so glad that I pushed myself to do it even if my legs were about to give way because the view that I saw up high was one of the most jaw-dropping landscapes that I’ve ever seen in my life!
» READ: Hiking Trails in the Faroe Islands
Anyhow, if you think you can’t really do any moderate to high level hikes, you can spend this day visiting the villages of Saksun or Gjógv if you haven’t managed to do so in the past days. You can even revisit the past spots I’ve mentioned if the weather became a lot more favorable for this day.
(Hiking difficulty: medium) Towering at 880 meters, Slættaratindur or “flat summit” is the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands so it’s an absolute must-see! According to Guinnes World Records, this is the world’s longest sight line because due to the light bending effects of the atmosphere, the largest glacier in Inceland called as Vatnajökull can be seen from here on a clear day (aside from the fact that you can have awesome views over the whole Faroese archipelago). For complete hiking instructions, go to this page and scroll to page 22 to 23.
• • •
This is the hike that I was talking about — as a non-hiker, this has been one of the most difficult hikes of my life but also one of the most rewarding (together with Norway’s Trolltunga)! The whole hike to the top takes 3 to 4 hours with a distance of 6 kilometers yet at a steep height of 841 meters. I can talk on and on about this place, but I think it’s best that you read my blog post below to read more about my experience as well as to see the other views you will witness from its summit:
Hiking Faroe Islands’ Stunning Mountain of Villingardalsfjall
• • •
Good news: this does NOT involve hiking. The top of this mountain plateau near Hotel Føroyar can be reached by car and reaching its amazing viewpoint will only take you a 30-meter walk.
A Mykines kind of day
Mykines island is a favorite in the Faroe Islands! You need a whole day for this mostly because the transportation to the island usually only happens in the morning, and the ride back in the afternoon. Regrettably, when I visited here, the weather wasn’t good. In fact, once we arrived at the island, we were stranded in a small cafe together with other tourists as we waited for the heavy rain and strong winds to pass.
It still ended up as a great day though because we met a lot of interesting individuals — one of which was a well-known harp player from Ireland who was on tour at that time and who gladly played songs for everyone. Still and the same, before leaving the island, my companion and I braved the rain so that we could at least glimpse at the cute puffins that live on the cliffs!
Anyhow, it’s my wish that you get a good day so that you can see the great sight below.
There are 2 ways to reach Mykines: by boat or by helicopter. Remember how I said that helicopters are subsidized by the government of the Faroe Islands? With that in mind, I highly suggest that you take a one-way helicopter trip to this island by booking in advance! I say one way because Atlantic Airways’ helicopters mainly service a round trip route to Mykines in the mornings only from Vagar Airport. To see the complete timetable, see this page. For the boat or ferry, timetable can be found here.
Once on the island, you can hike from the old turf-roofed-filled village to the lighthouse which is at the western end of the islet of Mykineshólmur. If it’s summer time, make sure to visit some clifftops to see an endless sea of cute puffins nestled in the burrows. After all, this is called as the “paradise of birds” so take advantage of this fact and do some birdwatching while you’re there!
As you wait for your ferry back to Torshavn, take your time exploring the small village. One important thing to take note of though is that if you take a helicopter to the island from Vagar Airport, the ferry will land somewhere else and it’s at the port of Sørvágur — so if you parked your car at the airport, you have to do a 20-minute walk back, or you can take the 300 bus. (Details here).
TIP: Much like Kalsoy, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch and snacks. There’s a small cafe in the middle of the village but it mostly serves light food.
NOTE: Just recently, a new policy has been set that tourists have to pay DKK 100 to travel to the Mykineshólmur lighthouse for maintenance of the birdlife and nature on the island. This fee includes a certified guide to ensure that everyone sticks to the path and not disturb any of the local fauna. For more information, you can contact the Visit Mykines office.
• • •
Assuming that it’s summer, by the time that you come back to the main island, it will still be light outside so if you could, make a stopover at Kirkjubøur. One notable attraction that you must see here is the huge black building at the center of the village that is called Kirkjubøargarður. It’s arguably the oldest inhabited wooden house in the world with over 17 generations of the same family that’s living there (there are sections that are turned into a museum). It even once housed the episcopal residence and seminary of the Diocese of the Faroe Islands.
You could also visit the old churches that they have such as Magnus Cathedral and Saint Olav. And if you go by the shore, you will see two old stone houses.
Before capping the night, while you’re already in the area…
• • •
I highly recommend this restaurant since I have dined here myself! What’s special about KOKS? Well, it has been awarded as the best restaurant in the Nordic countries in 2015 by the Nordic Prize; plus, it is also the first and the only Michelin star restaurant in the islands. The restaurant which only uses local ingredients is housed in a private house that has been turned into a guest room, and it has an open kitchen where you can watch the chef and his assistants cook (but there is a bigger kitchen in the back).
Dining here is obviously not cheap, but if you have the money to spare, I urge you to give it a try. I’ve dined all over the world and this is one of the best places I’ve ate in. Besides, they surely know how to do pairings!
Basically, dinner here is a tasting menu and you can choose to pick your own drinks or choose their wine pairing or juice pairing set — YES! You read that right, juice pairing! This might sound boring to you but their juice pairings were simply phenomenal. I never though that fresh juices can be mixed in such ways that would perfectly complement a dish. Aaaah… simply put: I hope you get to try it to experience a truly gastronomical feast!
Explore the rest of Tórshavn
We’re now on the last day and I think it’s time to fully explore and enjoy the main capital of Tórshavn. Let yourself get lost in the city’s small streets; if not, you can take your pick from the array of activities below…
Tinganes is an area where you can see a beautiful clutter of red wooden houses. These are one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world that once functioned as a meeting place for Vikings. Today, it houses the office of the prime minister. You will rather find the Faroese parliament — the Løgting (‘Law assembly’) — a few streets down. What’s great about this area too is that there are enough signs and plaques to explain the history of the place.
• • •
Go over to the waterfront and you will this store that’s housed in an old factory building. They sell products made in the islands itself such as traditional clothes, wool sweaters, postcards, posters, and other design products. For sure, it’s worth looking into!
• • •
You can experience a magnificent horseriding experience in and around Tórshavn and you can do it with the tour provider, Berg Hestar, who uses Icelandic horses. The experiences vary in difficulty and price range but take note that it’s only allowed for 7 years and older. To protect the horses, there’s also a weight limit of 95 kilos. To book your spot(s), check by their website here.
• • •
This experience will grant you a unique perspective to the Faroe Islands as you sail by the most remote and breathtaking sights that the islands have to offer — one of which is to circle around the nearby island of Hestur. RIB62 tailors tours upon request every day of the weak so feel free to contact them for inquiries. (Departure for this boat tour is from Gamlarætt which is 15 minute away from Tórshavn).
Wondering where to dine in the Faroe Islands or the local dishes that you must absolutely try?
Check out this blog post to find out: Top Faroe Islands Restaurants . .
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Overall
It’s clear to see that the Faroe Islands has an untouched beauty that’s worthy to be seen and explored! I guarantee you that it is the kind of place that will fit your fancy, NO matter the kind of traveler that you may be.
Besides, it’s a destination that a lot of travelers have NOT heard of yet, so why not be one of the “forerunners” (like me) who will sing its praises? Through that way, the Faroe Islands could soon be known by more people, thereby paving the way for its popularity — which they so rightly deserve!
How about you?
What do you think of the Faroe Islands?
Would you like to visit? Why or why not?
Or have you visited here before? How was it?
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The post DIY Trip Faroe Islands Itinerary: 5 Days (More or Less) appeared first on I am Aileen.
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Keflavik
All good things must come to an end and true to that sentiment our time in Iceland was wrapping up. We packed up and departed our Reykjavik hostel to drive the hour to Keflavik, opting for an airbnb that would be very close to the airport for our morning departure. Keflavik was much smaller and sleepier than Reykjavik. It seemed most the residents made a living thanks to the airport, either as car rental agents, flight attendants, or as our airbnb host did, as a worker on the pavement of the airport. We had a quiet room in the upstairs of the family’s home, and after cleaning out the rental car and reorganizing our suitcases for the flight we decided to spend the remaining afternoon/evening checking out Keflavik.
There wasn’t very much to see but we walked around the small harbour, enjoying the “giant’s lair” that had been built into the rocks and watching a few locals fish from them. The water around the boat slips was clear but there wasn’t much to see on the bottom. After tiring of the marina we stopped by a kind of pizza/fast food/ice cream parlor/candy shop joint and got soft serves, a spontaneous treat and one that shouldn’t have gone well with the chilly weather but did nonetheless.
It was early to bed because our rental car had to be returned by 5am to make our flight back to the states. Naturally, it was light out when we went to bed, and light out when we got up at 4:30 to make the short drive to the rental agency. The same employee who checked us in did a cursory glance over the car before we piled into the airport shuttle. She seemed to be running behind and making the other travelers already at the rental agency nervous about missing their flight. While we were good on time, I was most nervous about the possibility of a speeding ticket from the camera traps on ring road - which after researching on the internet can be upwards of $1000 and can come anytime within 6 months of driving. Fortunately, I never received a ticket but at the time it seemed inevitable after thinking the roadside signs picturing a camera were for sightseeing rather than speed traps. Ignorance is not bliss sometimes! After spending a full week in Iceland for somewhere around $1000 (it can be done!) a hefty fine would have ruined the budget friendliness of the trip, but even that would be difficult to sour an otherwise amazing week in some of the most dramatic, constantly surprising, awe inspiring landscapes I have ever seen.
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Are you planning to travel Faroe Islands? Here’s my complete Faroe Islands guide and itinerary with details on the best places to explore, eat and sleep in 4 days.
Travel Faroe Islands: A Complete Guide & Itinerary
In the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, tiny islands with jagged peaks and vertiginous cliff faces jut out from the sea, piercing into the sky like giant daggers. Sea stacks, craggy bird cliffs and black sandy beaches dot the coast, while steep snowcapped mountains stretch across the length of the islands.
This archipelago of 18 islands lies in the intersection point of three popular destinations: Iceland, Scotland and Norway. Just like its neighbors, the Faroe Islands has it all. The Northern Lights, world-class hiking trails, an abundance of nature, wildlife and Scandinavian traditions. But few people know about them, and the Faroese prefer to keep it that way.
What makes the Faroe Islands so special to me is that it’s so rugged, wild and small. It truly feels like you’re in the middle of the ocean here. No matter where you go on the Faroe Islands, you are never more than 5 km from the coast. The country is largely covered by wilderness and even the largest towns on the island have populations in their hundreds.
READ MORE: Faroe Islands in Photos
History of the Faroe Islands
The first people to settle here were Irish monks, who arrived in the 6th century. Norsemen then settled the Faroe Islands in the 9th century and the islands became a part of the Kingdom of Norway in 1035. Norwegian rule on the islands continued until 1380, when the islands became part of the dual Denmark–Norway kingdom.
The Faroe Islands came under the administration of Denmark following the 1814 Treaty of Kiel that ended the dual Denmark–Norway kingdom. After an independence referendum in 1946 (unrecognized by Denmark), the Faroe Islands were given extended self-governance with the Danish Realm in 1948.
The Faroes may be a part of the Kingdom of Denmark (just like Greenland is), but they have a cultural identity of their own and they are extremely proud of it. They have been self-governing since 1948, they have their own language (that is closer to Icelandic than Danish), traditions and customs. Ask any Faroese how they feel and they would reply, “We are not Danes — we are Faroese.”
When to Travel Faroe Islands
As with most parts of northern Europe, summer (May to August) is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands. Not only is the weather warmer and conditions better for driving and sailing, most hotels, restaurants and ferries will be in full operation. However, prices are also at their highest during the peak travel season.
Summer is also the best time to see puffins on Mykines island as that is their nesting season. Each summer, they gather on the slopes of the island, burrowing holes to build their nests. I saw hundreds of them on Mykines even in May during my visit – so try to time your trip to this time of the year if you want to see them.
In my opinion, you can also visit during the shoulder season (May-June and September-October) if you’re looking to travel on a budget and have the place to yourself. Whenever you choose to visit, be aware that weather in the Faroe Islands is a fickle beast at any time of year so come prepared for all eventualities.
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On the Puffin Trail — Mykines, Faroe Islands
How to Get to the Faroe Islands
As wild and remote as the Faroe Islands are, they aren’t really that difficult or expensive to get to from mainland Europe. Don’t expect to pay prices that you would for a standard flight in mainland Europe, but they are actually affordable considering what a special place the Faroe Islands is. The most common way is of course on a plane but it is also possible to get there by boat from Denmark and Iceland. Here’s a detailed look at how to get to Faroe Islands.
By Air
Flying is an easy and convenient way to get to the Faroe Islands, PLUS the views of the Faroe Islands from the air are just mindblowing. I flew there from Copenhagen and got some great aerial shots when we were about to land in Sorvagur. There are currently 2 airlines that fly to the Faroe Islands:
Atlantic Airways: the national carrier, has 2 flights per day from Copenhagen, Billund, Aalborg, Bergen and Reykjavik. A return flight from Copenhagen to Sorvagur in summer costs around US$300.
Scandinavian Airlines: this well-known carrier now runs daily flights to the Faroe Islands from Copenhagen. It also has direct flights from London, Reykjavik and Copenhagen to Sorvagur.
Search for flights to Faroe Islands
By Sea
Smyril Line’s ferry, M/S Norröna, sails to the Faroe Islands from Hirtshals in the north of Denmark and from Seyðisfjørður in Iceland. It doesn’t sail frequently though, so make sure to check by its website for the scheduled departures. The best thing is that the ferry acts as a car ferry so you are allowed to transport your vehicle on it (at an extra cost).
This can make it quite a good deal if you rented a car in Iceland or Denmark and want to drive it here to save money on accommodation. The only thing to be aware of is that under rough seas the ferry may not be able to dock.
How to Get Around the Faroe Islands
Seeing that the Faroe Islands are so wild and rugged, they are surprisingly accessible by various modes of transport: car, ferry, helicopter and bus. Of all them, car and ferry are the best way to get around the Faroe Islands. Much of the Faroe Islands are covered by wilderness and many of the most beautiful and interesting sights are only accessible by small roads that zigzag through steep mountains.
There is a good public bus network that runs all over the islands, but buses don’t go to many of these remote but essential sights. Helicopters are surprisingly cheap, as they are subsidised by the government, so consider booking a helicopter flight if you are short on time.
By Car Rental
I would highly recommend renting a car even if you are on a budget. I booked my car rental from Guide to Faroe Islands and the total cost of a 4-day rental was around 3,500 DKK (US$550). Get a friend to come along or find a travel partner online to split the car rental cost. I didn’t get a 4WD, but it might be useful if you intend to drive off road. A 4×4 cost around US$113 per day, while a compact car cost $90 per day to rent. Check here for car rental options!
When driving around the Faroe Islands, pay attention to the driving conditions and rules. Most roads are single lane, and it’s not allowed to overtake other vehicles on most highways. As the Faroe Islands are relatively mountainous, you’ll find yourself going up and down slopes and winding along fjords. Don’t be too distracted by the scenic landscapes when driving and only pull up when there is a road shoulder or parking space!
Book your Car Rental here!
By Ferry
To cross from one island to another, the ferry is the easiest, cheapest and most convenient choice. You can go to the island’s municipal website to check the ferry schedule. Most of them don’t need an advanced booking, except for the Mykines ferry that gets booked up easily (go here to book it in advance). You won’t make any payment when booking in advance — make sure you have cash to pay when you’re boarding the ferry.
Some towns (e.g. Sorgavur where you pick up the ferry to Mykines) do not have ATMs. Many islands are also served by car ferries — such as Kalsoy — and they usually don’t take advanced booking. So be sure to get there 30 minutes early to get in line.
If you’re looking to go to Skuvoy or another lesser-visited island during the low-season, you are best off giving a call to order that ferry. The fare isn’t extra, but they simply don’t run it otherwise. Be sure to check the ferry schedule always ahead of time.
For more information, including ferry schedules, head to Strandfaraskip Landsins website.
By Helicopter
Atlantic Airways, the national carrier, also has a network of helicopter services to connect the islands. The service is subsidized by the government so it’s quite cheap and almost the same price as the ferry. For instance, you can fly from the main airport at Vagar to Mykines and the capital Torshavn. As you’d expect they save you time and offer some spectacular aerial views of the islands. I was going to book a helicopter ride to Mykines but it was fully booked at the time, so be sure to reserve a seat in advance.
Book your domestic flights here!
By Bus
The main inter-town bus that they have is called Bygdaleiðir, which are easy to spot as they are dark blue. Check here for the complete timetable of the buses. It helps to note, however, that public transportation is expensive in the Faroe Islands, so it’s best to buy a travel (multiple-ride) card beforehand with Strandfaraskip Landsins at the airport or at the main bus terminal in Torshavn. This travel card covers busses and ferries around the islands (except to Mykines Island) and can cost 500 DKK (USD78) for 4-days.
Within the Torshavn municipality, the bus lines are free and there are six lines that operate in the area. In addition, these buses also will transport passengers out to the historic city of Kirkjubøur, a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the history of the Faroe Islands and the people that inhabit them.
Booking Day Tours on the Faroe Islands
For solo travelers who cannot or prefer not to drive, it is possible to explore the Faroe Islands by booking day tours. These day tours are also great for those who are seeking adventure in the form of kayaking trips or horse-riding excursions. Day tours in the Faroe Islands are not cheap, but they tend to be about the same price as a day of car rental. I recommend booking your day tours on Guide to Faroe Islands, which has the most options to choose from. Here are some day tours I recommend:
Kayaking to Dranganir — Row to the famous sea-stacks Drangarnir and further to the Tindhólm or Gásadal where you can feel the spray from the free-falling waterfall Múlafossur.
Guided tour of Mykines — Visit Mykines with a local, see puffins and hike all about the island.
Vestmanna Sea Cliffs — Hop on a boat trip along the base of Vestmanna Sea Cliffs.
Horseriding around Torshavn — Horseback riding is a unique opportunity to explore the rough landscape around the capital Tórshavn.
Home dining experience — Enjoy an authentic Faroese dinner in a private home called Hanusarstova, originally built in 1898 and totally renovated in 2014.
Where to Stay on the Faroe Islands
There’s a good variety of accommodation providers on the Faroe Islands, with at least one guest house in every town (not village though). I found that even remote areas like Gjogv and Mykines had very good accommodation standards. Every single guest house and hotel I stayed at was comfortable and excellent.
Camping in the Faroe Islands, sadly, is only permitted at designated campsites. It is not permitted to stay overnight in your campervans along the road, at rest stops, lay-bys or view areas. Because of the unpredictable weather even in summer, it is advisable to have sturdy, waterproof and windproof camping equipment.
Here are the best places to stay on the Faroe Islands:
Hotel Føroyar –This is easily the best hotel in the Faroe Islands. The stylish four-star hotel is perched on the hilltop of Torshavn, overlooking the city from above. It’s very modern and elegant, perfect for the last stretch of your trip. The setting is dramatic and the atmosphere here even more so. Plus there’s a spectacular view of the capital city and bay right from your room window (pictured below).
Book here
Hotel Vagar — Located right next to the airport, this simple hotel makes you feel like you’re in the countryside surrounded by sheeps and plains. Love the black exterior and Scandinavian design. Great base to explore the Bøur, Gasadalur and Sorgasvatn areas. It’s also perfect for those who land late or have an early morning flight the next day as it’s within walking distance from the airport. The breakfast spread is really good, with lots of variety.
Book here
Hotel Gjáargarður in Gjogv — Possibly my favorite hotel in the Faroe Islands, this quaint guesthouse has an old-world charm and stunning views of Gjogv. The main building is a typical Nordic wooden cottage (pictured below) painted in black with turf grass on its A-frame roof. It also has several new rooms which are separate from the main building. They are very tastefully designed and spacious. Highly recommend staying here to kick back and decompress.
Book here
Where to Eat on the Faroe Islands
This is one aspect of the Faroe Islands that I sadly failed to experience. Since I mostly bought food at the supermarket (to save money), I didn’t try much of Faroese food. A meal on the Faroe Islands can set you back at least 20-35 euros, even for a simple guesthouse meal.
My guide in Torshavn explained that the most popular local food in the Faroes is fermented lamb meat which is made in everyone’s home. After slaughtering the sheep in their own homes, their meat – still warm – will be hung in a special drying hut and left to dry with the natural saltiness of the air.
That said, dining choices on the Faroe Islands are actually quite limited. You won’t find any restaurants or cafes in villages (and there are only around three towns in the Faroes besides the capital). If you’re lucky, you might find a guesthouse that serves coffee and some simple snacks in the more visited areas.
The best restaurants on Faroe Islands are all located in the capital city of Torshavn. The habit of dining out only started 25 years ago in the Faroes. As a result the dining scene is still in its infant years. However, there are quite a few of upscale restaurants in Torshavn that are highly recommended by my guide. Check out the top restaurants in Torshavn on Tripadvisor.
Barbara Fish House: a traditional seafood restaurant in the historical quarter of Torshavn, best known for its Barbara fish soup and set menu. Read the Triapdvisor review.
Aarstova: another long-time fixture in the local dining scene, serves up the best roast lamb in town. Read the Tripadvisor review.
Etika: a modern and stylish bistro that offers interesting takes on Japanese-Faroese fusion cuisine. Read the Tripadvisor review here.
READ: Best Restaurants on Faroe Islands
How Much Does It Cost to Travel Faroe Islands
In my opinion, the Faroe Islands only has one big flaw: it’s expensive. Anyone who’s been to Nordic countries will know how pricey things can be in this part of the world. Prices in the Faroe Islands are comparable to that in Norway. Accommodation prices start from 35 euros per person for a hostel bed and 100 euros for a three-star hotel. Restaurant prices are around 20 euros for a meal and ferries cost around 15 euros return.
However, there are ways to keep your budget down. I bought food from the supermarket and made my own sandwiches for lunch and soups for dinner. I also met a few American travelers who had rented a jeep with a tent on the top-bunk to save money on accommodation. Another traveler I met saved money on car rental and instead traveled around the islands by public transport.
What to Pack for Faroe Islands
If you’re traveling Faroe Islands between May and September, you should pack for chilly weather. 2-3 layers should do: a wool bottom, a fleece, and a thin water and windproof outer layer. For those traveling in fall and winter (September to December), you’ll need 4-5 layers: the above mentioned, plus a thermal layer at the bottom and a down jacket or thick winter parka.
I’m a strong believer in ‘less is more’. The less you travel with, the more convenient it will be to move around. If you can’t see yourself using something daily, you probably don’t need it.
Here are some of the essentials to pack for a trip to Faroe Islands:
1. Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Tees: The key to staying warm on the Faroe Islands is layering. Bring some long sleeve t-shirts that are great for hiking, that you can easily remove throughout the day and night.
2. Fleece-lined Long Sleeve Thermal Underwear: Pack thermals even if you’re traveling in summer. Mine turned out to be very useful and I wore it several days in a row. Temperatures can dip below zero – and they’ll be particularly useful if you’re camping.
3. Fleece Base: This is my favorite gear for cold climates. It’s thick but lightweight, and keeps me warm even in sub-zero temperatures. Plus most fleece are cheap and easy to find everywhere. I usually get one that can be zipped all the way down, so I can easily remove layers when I’m warm.
4. Soft Shell Jacket: Pack a thin waterproof, soft shell jacket regardless of the weather you’re traveling. It’s particularly useful for the rain. This also acts as an extra layer between your shirt and down jacket or parka. I used this almost everyday on my trip.
5. Quick-Dry Pants: These are something I wear on almost every trip. They’re lightweight, thin, comfortable and waterproof. I can wear them in winter and summer, without feeling too warm or cold.
6. Fleece-lined Leggings: For ladies, these are brilliant to keep warm and comfortable, being looking too shabby. I usually wore them without any pants over them.
7. Hiking Boots: A pair of sturdy hiking boots that are waterproof and protective for hiking in mud, streams or snow. I’ve used mine for around 2 years now and they’ve been to many countries and different types of terrain with me. Instead of getting those high boots that are ridiculously heavy and thick, I think it’s better to travel with hiking boots like these. Mine were perfect for Iceland.
Travel Faroe Islands: 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Gásadalur and Sørvágsvatn
14.05 Arrival with Atlantic Airways from Copenhagen. Pick up keys for rental car at the 62N desk in the arrival hall of the airport. Drive straight to Hotel Vagar, just a 5-minute drive from the airport. Check in and take a quick rest.
15:30 Drive to the villages of Bøur and Gásadalur, just 5 mins from the hotel. Both villages are absolutely stunning, but the Múlafossur waterfall in particular is the icon of the Faroe Islands. The whole assembly of the cascade tumbling down the cliff’s edge, backdropped by the imposing mountains behind the tiny village is a truly dramatic one.
This iconic picture has been featured in many publications including National Geographic. It’s one of the things that have put the country on the tourist map and appear in every Faroe Islands travel guide. When you emerge from the car tunnel (that was built recently, previously the village could only be accessed by foot), you’ll see this exact view.
18:00 Go on a leisurely 2-hour hike around the Sørvágsvatn lake right near the hotel.
You may not have heard of it — but I’m sure you’ve seen a photo of it. The biggest lake on Faroe Islands is famous for the optical illusion that appears where the lake flows into the Atlantic Ocean. In reality, it doesn’t look like an optical illusion at all; it only appears so in photos. But it’s still a scenic place for a hike. Walking along the water’s edge to the hilly top where the lake flows into the ocean is simple and easy and takes just two hours.
Day 2: Visit Mykines and Gjógv
10.00 Drive to Sørvágur ferry terminal and take the boat to Mykines. Spend the day on the island, hike to the lighthouse and the puffin and gannet colonies. Remember again to book your ferry tickets or helicopter flight in advance. Alternatively, book a guided tour of Mykines to explore the island with a local and go deeper under the surface.
As the westernmost of the 18 main islands on the Faroes, Mykines is wild and rugged, with no roads and just hiking trails crisscrossing the isle. It’s famous for large numbers of puffins that inhabit the Mykineshólmur area. The Mykineshólmur hike takes around three hours return and well worth the effort as it takes you up ridges and down the vertiginous walls of the island to the northernmost tip of the island.
Before the trip, I was worried that a day on Mykines wouldn’t be enough to see the famous islands. But seven hours are actually more than enough to hike all over the island and even have a drink at a local cafe. Remember to bring a packed lunch so you can enjoy the hike as much as possible, but there are also small restaurants in town.
Book a Guided Tour of Mykines
17.05 Catch the boat back to Sørvágur and drive towards Gjógv. Check into the guesthouse Gjaargarður.
Located on the northeast tip of the island of Eysturoy, this remote village is��only accessible by one road. You do kinda have to go out of your way to get there, but trust me, it’s worth every minute of the drive. The journey there is an experience on its own, weaving through mountains and in between fjords. The village itself has an extremely dramatic setting: with imposing snow-peaked mountains forming the backdrop and the rocky outcrops forming the foreground, being tormented by massive waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
You’ll probably get there pretty late, but daylight hours are very long in summer so you’ll still be driving when it’s light out.
Day 3: Drive to Kalsoy, Tjørnuvík and Saksun
09:00 Drive to Klaksvik and catch a car ferry to the island of Kalsoy. Alternatively, book a day tour departing from Torshavn which will bring you on a hike.
This island between Eysturoy and Kunoy is wild and remote, only accessible by car ferry. The narrow islet has just one road linking north to south. The road meanders along the coast at first, revealing clear views of the striated rock faces of the neighbouring island. I recommend driving all the way to Trollanes in the northernmost tip of Kalsoy, where the road ends and hiking trail begins.
The steep hike leads you to the Kallur lighthouse that’s perched on a vertiginous slope. It takes around two hours to reach the lighthouse but it involves steep climbing in the initial part of the hike. From the lighthouse, you get a view of the back face of the mountain and the hollow cave on the underside. It’s home to huge kittiwake colonies.
Book your Day Trip!
13:00 On the way back visit the village of Mikladalur and see the new statute of the Seal woman. This 9 ft bronze and stainless steel statue of Kópakonan (The Seal Wife) was created by Hans Pauli Olsen and was installed in the Mikladalur Harbor on August 1st, 2014. The statue commemorates myths about selkies (seal women) and in particular two well known myths about the Seal Wife on the Faroe Islands.
One well known story is about a beautiful Selkie trapped by a fisherman on the island of Kalsoy, who hides her seal skin while she is on land one night. One day however, he goes fishing and she finds her seal skin hidden in a chest in their home. She escapes and leaves behind a message to not follow her and to not harm her Selkie family. The fishermen however ignore the warning and end up killing both her Selkie husband and Selkie children. In revenge she curses the men of the island to die in frequent accidents until as many have perished as can link arms around the whole island.
15.30 Catch the car ferry back to Klaksvík. From there, drive to the village of Tjørnuvík with view to the seastacks Risin and Kellingin, the Troll and the Witch. You’ll be driving along the large waterfall Fossá.
Tjørnuvík is known for its special hymn singing, the Kingo-songs, which is an ancient hymn tradition that originates from the Danish hymn writer Thomas Kingo. The village has a choir that performs Kingo hymns. Tjørnuvík also has a nice sandy beach and striking waves that attract many surfers.
18:00 Visit the village of Saksun where you can walk along the beach towards the ocean. Saksun has a beautiful lagoon surrounded by sand in the fjord. The tall mountains give the area an air of mystery, but not least unimaginable beauty. The fjord used to be a good natural harbour, but after a heavy storm in the 1600s, the fjord was blocked with sand.
20:00 Drive to Torshavn and check in at Hotel Føroyar, the best hotel on the Faroe Islands.
Day 4: Get to Know Torshavn
10.00 Go on a walk in the old part of Torshavn the capital city, Reyni,and Tinganes, where the Government sits. Its historic harbour area actually has one of the earliest governing meeting points in the world! The quaint town is an excellent place to just wander and get lost. Learn about the Faroese history and try some of its local food in the restaurants I recommended above.
Paintings, drawings, sculptures, and graphic design are on display at the National Museum of the Faroe Islands, on the edge of a small park close to Nordic House. The permanent collections of individual historic and modern artists, such as the 20th century painters Sámal Joensen-Mikines and Ruth Smith, have been assigned their own rooms.
Don’t miss the fish market that’s located right by the harbor next to downtown Torshavn. It’s a busy area with lots of people bidding for fish that have been just caught from the sea.
12:00 Drive to the nearby Kirkjubøur village. This is the site of the country’s most important historical site with the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral from around 1300 and a runestone found near it. The stone which is referred to as the Kirkjubøur stone dates back to the Viking Age.
13:00 Drive to the village of Vestmanna and join a boat tour along the Vestmanna Seacliffs. The Vestmanna boat trip costs around $45 and will bring you up close to the cliffs for a chance to see the rich birdlife.
There are many tours to choose from, the most popular however being the boat-tour to the renowned Birdcliffs and Grottos north of Vestmanna, the Vestmannabjørgini. This is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Faroe Islands.
They’ll take you through narrow sounds, into deep grottoes, carved by the surf through ages, and close to the over 1500 feet high-rise cliffs where thousands of seabirds are nesting. I thought it was extremely impressive – just cruising under the sheer cliffs and seeing sheeps cling on to the edges was an experience on its own.
Book your Boat Trip here!
Day 5: Fly home
08:00 Departure from Vágar Airport with Atlantic Airways. Drop your car keys off at 62N/Information desk. Be at the airport by about 7:00 (drive from Tórshavn takes about 1 hour).
Bid farewell to the Faroe Islands!
Did you find this helpful? Let me know if you have any other questions!
Inspired? Pin it!
Disclaimer: Thanks to Visit Faroe Islands for assisting me with this trip! As always, my opinions expressed above are my own.
More from WildJunket
Faroe Islands in Photos — The Secret Isles of the Atlantic
On the Puffin Trail — Mykines, Faroe Islands
My Camino de Santiago Guide
10 of the Cheapest Countries to Travel
The post Travel Faroe Islands: A Detailed Guide and Itinerary appeared first on Wild Junket Adventure Travel Blog.
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Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice
Posted: 1/24/2019 | January 24th, 2018
Windswept volcanoes. Black sand beaches nuzzled against rugged coastlines. Secret hot springs hidden in misty valleys while majestic waterfalls cascade from every hill.
Welcome to Iceland.
It’s a destination unlike any other in Europe. Its unique landscapes and natural wonders perfectly complement the modern capital of Reykjavik with its café culture and boozy, rambunctious nightlife.
Iceland is known as both the Land of Elves and the Land of Fire and Ice. It’s a country where you’ll find smoldering active volcanoes and vivid blue glaciers side by side. Horses and sheep dot the countryside, colorful puffins flock along the cliffs, and whales breach the choppy Atlantic waters that envelop this tiny island.
It’s easy to see why Iceland has become such a popular destination in recent years (all those cheap stopover flights have helped greatly too).
And, while it’s not the most budget-friendly country in the world, there are still ways to see the sights without breaking the bank!
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or want to drive the entirety of the island, this list of Iceland itineraries will ensure that you see the best the country has to offer!
Table of Contents
One Weekend in Reykjavik
Four Days in the South
Four Days in the North
One Week: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
One Month: Everything!
What to See and Do in Iceland: One Weekend in Reykjavik
Day 1
Take a tour of the city I always like to start my trips with a free walking tour. They’re a fantastic way to see a destination, learn about its history and culture, and get all your questions answered by someone who knows what they’re talking about. City Walk and Free Walking Tour Reykjavik both offer great free tours of the city. They’ll help you get a sense of Reykjavik so you can decide what you want to revisit later. The tours are donation based, so just make sure to tip your guide!
Explore Laugavegur When you’re in need of a coffee or snack, go for a stroll down Laugavegur, a shop- and café-lined street in the center of the city. This is the oldest (and coolest) street in Iceland, and you’ll find everything from expensive couture to dollar stores here. Be sure to stop in a bakery for a pastry or a coffee. My personal favorite is Mokka Kaffi.
Visit a museum After that, make your way to the National Museum of Iceland, where you will learn everything you need to know about this tiny Nordic nation. The most famous piece in the collection is the Valþjófsstaður door, a piece carved in the Middle Ages that illustrates the saga of the lion and the knight. The museum does a fantastic job of giving you a robust history of the country without being boring.
If you’d rather visit a more unconventional museum, consider a visit to the Icelandic Phallological Museum instead. Colloquially known as the Penis Museum, this small institution is home to the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-themed art. Yes, you read that right! There are almost 300 items in the museum, including whale penises and (allegedly) troll penises! It’s a small museum, but it’s actually incredibly informative — if you’re not too shy!
National Museum: Suðurgata 41, +354 530-2200, thjodminjasafn.is. Open daily 10am-5pm (closed on Mondays in the winter). Admission is 2,000 ISK (1,000 ISK for students/seniors).
Icelandic Phallological Museum: Laugavegur 116, +354 561-6663, phallus.is/en. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,700 ISK per person.
Go for a swim Once you’ve gotten tired of walking, go for a refreshing swim in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Swimming and saunas are how locals relax and unwind after work. It’s basically a national pastime. This pool is Iceland’s largest and was built in 1968. It’s actually a whole complex with hot tubs, a thermal steam bath, a waterslide, and even mini golf! If you have extra time, check out the nearby garden and zoo too.
Sundlaugavegur 105, +354 411-5100, reykjavik.is/stadir/laugardalslaug. Open weekdays 6:30am-10pm and weekends 8am-10pm. Admission is 625 ISK, though if you have the Reykjavik City Card, it’s free!
Take in the nightlife End your day enjoying the city’s famous nightlife back around Laugavegur. This is one of the best party cities in the world, so there’s something for everyone. Just make sure to go during happy hour so you don’t blow your budget (alcohol in Iceland is not cheap!). Here are a couple of my favorite hotspots in Reykjavik:
Kaffibarinn – This café transforms into a dance club on the weekend, and it’s a great place to party. The space is divided into three different sections (bar, dance floor, and lounge), so you can find a section for however you want to spend your night out. It’s small, so seats can fill up quickly. Bergstaðastræti 1, +354 551-1588, kaffibarinn.is.
Lebowski Bar – Yes, this is a Big Lebowski–themed bar. The inside looks like a vintage American diner and bowling alley. And, since The Dude drinks a lot of White Russians, its menu includes a wide variety of different ones. Its signature Lebowski cheeseburger is pretty good too. Spin the prize wheel to win up to 10 free beers! Aim for happy hour, which is held daily 4pm–7pm, as drinks are cheaper then. Laugavegur 20b, +354 552-2300, lebowskibar.is.
Slippbarinn — This is the first proper cocktail bar in the city and boasts live music and DJs several nights a week. Happy hour is daily 3pm-6pm. Myragata 2, +354 560 8080, slippbarinn.is.
Where to stay in Reykjavik: Hlemmur Square – If you’re looking to splash out, this is both a cozy hotel and an upscale hostel, so you have options for your type of stay. There’s a great bar here, plus traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week.
For a more standard hostel, stay at Kex Hostel. It has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio.
Day 2
Explore the Golden Circle The Golden Circle — comprising the Gullfoss waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park — is the biggest tourist draw in Iceland, so you’ll want to start your second day early and head out of town in a rental car (or on a tourist bus). As tourism booms in Iceland, these sites can get a little crowded, so make sure you get there early (especially in the summer and on weekends).
The round-trip journey is around 250km, so plan accordingly when it comes to food and fuel (if you’re driving). If you’re driving, you’ll also be able to stop regularly to see the many Icelandic horses that you’ll pass by.
Experience the famous Blue Lagoon This is one of the most iconic destinations in Iceland. The pools are quite large, and the whole area is steamy, with the water a stunning milky-blue color that is rather photogenic (which is why the lagoon is so popular on social media). It’s a beautiful and luxurious way to end the day, and a great place to relax right before you depart.
Personally, I think the place is a bit overhyped, as there are tons of free, secluded hot springs all around the country. Of course, if you’re short on time and don’t plan on leaving the city, then it’s the perfect way to end your trip!
Fun fact: The Blue Lagoon is simply runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. Icelanders just found a way to monetize it for tourists! Thank you, Instagram? Ha!
Norðurljósavegur 9, +354 420-8800, bluelagoon.com. Open daily, but hours vary, so check the website for an up-to-date schedule. Admission starts at 9,990 ISK per person, but it can be cheaper if you go during certain hours.
READ MORE: How to save money in Reykjavik
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the South
In addition to the itinerary above, here are some activities you’ll want to add if you plan on getting further outside of Reykjavik to explore the southern region of Iceland.
Day 3
Experience nature Head southeast on the Ring Road from Reykjavík to scout out some waterfalls. Be prepared and bring swimsuits, towels, a waterproof camera, and a jacket.
Reykjadalur – Stop in the town of Hveragerði to visit the Reykjadalur hot spring (or hot pot, as they are known locally). It offers a gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills and mountains, and it’s free to enjoy. You’ll need to hike a bit to get there (30-40 minutes), but it’s worth it! Keep in mind that there’s not a private changing area here, so you may want to wear your swimsuit under your clothes.
Seljalandsfoss – Continuing on the Ring Road, you’ll come to the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It has a drop of 60m and is another highly photographed spot in Iceland, so try to get there early before the tourist buses. You have to pay for parking, but otherwise it’s free. If you’re hungry, there’s a food vendor that sells delicious lamb stew (among other things).
Skógafoss – Another epic waterfall is Skógafoss. Legend says that you can find a treasure chest behind this massive waterfall. This is also the starting point for a long, multi-day hike, but you can also just climb to the top and walk for as long as you’d like before returning. There’s a small museum nearby as well if you want to learn more about the history of the waterfall.
Seljavallalaug – This hot pot is located a short walk off the Ring Road. It’s not super hot, and the change room has seen better days, but it’s secluded and it’s worth it just for the scenery, as its located at the bottom of a deep valley.
Make Your way to Vík Head to the charming little town of Vík and spend the night there. Vík is a seaside village with a glacier that covers the Katla volcano. It’s also home to some amazing black sand beaches and a DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur (located on the coast between Skógafoss and Vík).
Where to stay in Vík: Vík HI Hostel – This charming hostel has a café/bar, a female-only dorm, rooms for families, and a kitchen so you can cook your own food if you’re on a budget.
Day 4
Chill at the beach Wake up in Vík and go for a stroll on the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach. There are some offshore rock formations you can see from the shore and from the cliffs above if you feel like a hike. If you’re here from May through August, you may even get to see some puffins!
Take in the view If there’s time, head up the hill to see the small Vík i Myrdal Church. It overlooks the town and gives a complete view of Vík and the ocean. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the scenic vista.
Head for home Head back to Reykjavik. See more sights, chill in more cafés. Do whatever you want before you head home! (sad)
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the North
If you want to get away from the crowds, go north. Northern Iceland is one of the least-visited regions of the country and has a lot to offer the intrepid adventurer, including majestic hikes, more varied landscapes, whale watching, fewer people, and a better chance to see the Northern Lights!
Day 1
Travel north to Akureyri Start your adventure off by flying north to Akureyri from Reykjavik. If you don’t want to fly, it’s a 5-6-hour drive from Reykjavik up the west coast, which can easily be done in a day. You’ll just want to factor in a few stops along the way to sightsee!
Explore Akureyri Take a self-guided tour of the town, visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, get an espresso from the picturesque Laut Café, hop in the local swimming pool, or just explore the relatively small town and sip on some kaffi (coffee) and “happy marriage cake” (rhubarb jam–filled pastry with a buttery oat crust) from Kristjánsbakarí. Soak up local life as much as you can before you go!
Where to stay in Akureyri: Akureyri Backpackers – This is a laid-back hostel with a cool bar, great staff, and really hot showers!
Day 2
Visit the Waterfall of the Gods Make your way to Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. It’s a majestic semicircular waterfall that’s close to Akureyri on the Ring Road. The waterfall is over 12m tall and 30m wide, and (not surprisingly) is highly photogenic! Enjoy the view before heading onward to Mývatn.
Head to Mývatn Spend the day in Mývatn, starting off with a hike around Lake Mývatn. There is an easy trail you can follow that lets you stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. You can easily hike the lake in a few hours if you go at a leisurely place. Then head to the Mývatn Nature Baths geothermal pool, which is much quieter (and cheaper) than the Blue Lagoon.
There’s not much else to do here. It’s a quiet town for relaxing, but the lack of lights makes it a wonderful place to see the northern lights!
Spend the night in Mývatn at one of the many Airbnbs, guesthouses, or farm stays in the region.
Day 3
Pretend you’re on Mars Next, you’ll want to head toward the coastal town of Húsavík. On your way there, stop at Hverir and Krafla, two geothermal areas with Martian-like craters and lakes. Steaming sulfur fills the air, giving this whole area an otherworldly ambience. You can just stop to take photos or go for another hike.
Visit Dettifoss Next, head to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. There are two roads leading here from the Ring Road: 862 and 864. The latter is ridden with potholes, but in my opinion offers the better view. Just drive slowly and keep an eye on your tires! Enjoy a snack by the waterfall and take in the scene. When you’re ready, drive to Húsavík (you can take the 864 north from Dettifoss).
Visit the Whale Museum Whaling has been a part of Icelandic culture for centuries. And while there is a global moratorium on hunting whales, it’s still worth learning about these massive creatures, their habitat, and their impact on the country. They also have a full blue whale skeleton!
Hafnarstétt 1, +354 414-2800, hvalasafn.is/en. Open daily with hours varying depending on the season. Admission is 2,000 ISK per person, with discounts available for seniors, families, and kids. If you go whale-watching with Gentle Giants, you’ll get 20% off your museum ticket.
Where to stay: Spend the night in sleepy Húsavík at a local guesthouse or Airbnb. If it’s northern lights season, stay at Arbot HI Hostel. The hostel is in a relatively secluded spot outside of town so you’ll have a great view of the dancing lights without having to worry about light pollution.
Day 4
Watch the whales and explore the coast Wake up early, head to the coast, and go whale-watching. There are a few different companies you can book tours with here, including Gentle Giants, who have a partnership with the Whale Museum (see above). Whale-watching tours usually last around 3 hours. Expect to pay around 10,400 ISK for adults and 4,400 ISK for children.
When you’re done, explore the hiking trails around Húsavík. You can find a list of the trails on the Visit Húsavík website. Pop into some of the local shops and cafés to get a sense of small-town life here in Northern Iceland.
See some unique architecture Travel to nearby Laufás, which is located west of Húsavík. Here you’ll get to see the old turf houses, traditional Icelandic homes that are timber framed and covered in grass. The furnishings are from around 1900, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. While in Laufás, take a small detour and check out the church. Inside is a decorative pulpit from 1698!
Have an Icelandic feast Go back to Akureyri to explore the city and dine on fresh fish and chips from Akureyri Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to sample the country’s famous ice cream from Brynja too!
Note: I know it sounds like a lot, but if you have a car, this itinerary is very doable.
What to Do In One Week in Iceland: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Day 1-2
Head East Fly into Keflavík International Airport and rent a car (SAD Cars and Car Rental Iceland are the companies I recommend). Head east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road to start your adventure!
Soak in the hot springs and search for puffins Head east for a soak in the Reykjadalur hot springs in Hveragerði. Camp or stay at the hostel nearby so you can get another soak in before heading onward.
To get a bit off the beaten trail, take the ferry to the Westman Islands for the afternoon or an overnight stay (you’ll find plenty of puffins here during the summer season!). There are very few tourists here, so it’s a nice way to escape the crowds and relax.
Chase some waterfalls Venturing onward along the Ring Road, head to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. At Skógafoss, the 29km Fimmvörðuháls Trail begins. If you want to hike the entire trail, you can stay at the Volcano Huts at the end of the route and then take a bus back to Skógafoss in the morning. If you’re fit, you can do this hike in a day. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring tents and camp halfway. If an epic hike isn’t in the cards, stroll around the area before continuing east toward Vík.
Tour a crash site Before you get to Vík, you’ll want to check out the DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur. It’s about a 45-minute walk from the Ring Road, but it’s worth it to see the crash up close (you can no longer drive directly to the site). Dress appropriately, as it can get windy near the coastline.
Spot puffins Continue on to Vík and stop to see the black sand beaches. There are also two short hikes nearby that take you up the cliffs. They offer incredible views of the areas, and if it’s the right season, you can go puffin spotting!
Where to stay: For your first night, stay at the Hot Springs Hostel in Hveragerði (right near the hot spring). That way you can wake up early and go for another soak before you leave. If you’re on the Westman Islands, stay at Aska Hostel (or book one of the many private guesthouses for a cozy local experience). When you get to Vik, stay at Vík HI Hostel.
Days 3-4
Hike Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon This 2km-long canyon dates back to the Ice Age. It’s over 100m deep and makes for a great place to hike or have a picnic and enjoy the view. The road to get there is full of potholes, so drive carefully.
Explore Vatnajökull National Park Hike in the Skaftafell wilderness area to see the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. There are plenty of hikes here, both long and short, for outdoorsy types. For a shorter hike, head to Svartifoss, another photogenic waterfall surrounded by long columns of black basalt (the waterfall’s name literally translates to “the black waterfall”).
Klapparstígur 25-27, +354 575-8400, vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is. The park itself is open 24/7 however the Skaftafell visitors center has limited hours (usually 9am-7pm in the summer and 10am-6pm in the winter). See the website for more details, including camping information and weather updates. Parking is 750 ISK per vehicle per day.
Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon borders the national park, and you don’t want to miss it. The waters are blue, and there are huge icebergs from the nearby glacier floating in the water. The lagoon flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and you’ll see lots of seals in the winter. You can follow the stream out to sea and watch the glaciers as they meet the ocean. Best of all, this is right on the Ring Road and it’s all completely free (though if you want to take a boat out into the lagoon, you’ll have to pay — I don’t think it’s worth doing, though!)
Tour the coast Continue on the Ring Road to Höfn or Djúpivogur, two tiny coastal towns. Get a taste of what life is like in small-town Iceland while exploring the winding coastline. There’s a hidden hot spring outside of Djúpivogur to reward you for making it so far up the coast too!
Where to stay: If you’re ending your day in Höfn, stay at Höfn Hostel. You can see the Vatnajökull Glacier from the town, and everything is within walking distance. If you’re heading on to Djúpivogur, Airbnb will be your best choice.
Days 5-7
Return to Reykjavík Hop in the car and head back to the capital city. Stroll the cozy streets, take a free walking tour, and enjoy some of the city’s plentiful happy hours.
See the Golden Circle Wake up early and drive out to see the three main sites of the Golden Circle. The sooner you start, the better, as you’ll be able to beat the tourist buses there and get some photos without the crowds. You’ll also have time to hike in Þingvellir National Park if you want to stretch your legs. Stock up on snacks for the day in Reykjavik to save some money (the cheapest supermarket is Bonus, so shop there!).
Relax at the Blue Lagoon If you’re craving another dip in a hot pot, head to the Blue Lagoon before your flight home. You’ll be able to end the trip on a very relaxing note!
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
With two weeks, you will be able to drive the entire Ring Road without rushing too much. You’ll have time to enjoy the rugged east coast and places like Seydisfjordur, explore the second-largest city Akureyri, hike around the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and maybe even dip into the Westfjords.
Start in Rekyavik, head east, see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, explore Vík, visit the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, detour over to Seyðisfjörður, then head over to Dettifoss, Mývatn, Goðafoss, and Akureyri.
After exploring Akureyri, continue west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for some hiking. Make sure you stop off to see the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Iceland (plus, it’s where they filmed some Game of Thrones scenes, too). Snæfellsnes National Park is home to Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old volcano capped by glaciers. You can book a glacier hike here or just explore the rest of the park on your own. It’s right along the coast too, so you’ll be met with some gorgeous views. Stay at The Freezer hostel (it has great live music.)
If you have time and want to get off the beaten trail, detour into the Westfjords in the northwest, or visit the Westman Islands off the south coast.
If you want to be more focused on your trip, you can split Iceland up into smaller geographic areas. One fun route to take is to head west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then up into the Westfjords for some hiking and relaxing before flying back to the capital. This will be the most remote part of the country, so you’ll have a lot more space and privacy to enjoy your trip.
One Month: Exploring All of Iceland
With one month, you can see the entire island of Iceland. I’ve met quite a few people who have decided to spend this amount of time in the summer months. They’ll rent a car or camper van, pack a bunch of camping gear, and drive the Ring Road at a leisurely pace. But even if you aren’t renting a van or car, you can get around by bus, air, or hitchhike!
Take multi-day hikes, visit to the less-explored Westfjords, an area many tourists skip due to a lack of time (and paved roads); visit Hrísey and/or Grímsey, the very remote islands in the north with fewer than 100 inhabitants each; or the Westman Islands, or explore more parks in the interior of the country (it’s very remote, very unvisited, and very, very awesome).
If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget and planning to camp and hitchhike in Iceland, you’ll need this longer travel time to make sure you aren’t rushed, as sometimes you’ll be waiting awhile for a lift.
But with a month here, there’s very little you can’t explore!
***
Iceland really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire month exploring this rugged landscape, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience.
While it’s not cheap, there are tons of ways to save money in Iceland to make these itineraries doable for even the most frugal budget traveler. But don’t take my word for it. Get out there and explore the Land of Fire and Ice for yourself!
WANTMORE? GET ALL MY TIPS AND ADVICE WITH MY GUIDEBOOK TO ICELAND!
Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like yourself!
It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.
My favorite things to see and do
Money-saving tips
Budget advice
Transportation advice
My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars
And much more!
Click here to download the Iceland guide now!
Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use these all the time. My favorite places to stay in Iceland are:
Hlemmur Square (Reykjavik) – A posh hotel with a great bar and traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week
Kex Hostel (Reykjavik) – Has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio
Akureyri Backpackers (Akureyri) – A laid-back hostel with hot showers, a cool bar, and helpful staff!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!
Looking for more information on visiting Iceland? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Iceland with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!
Photo credits: 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12
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Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice
Posted: 1/24/2019 | January 24th, 2018
Windswept volcanoes. Black sand beaches nuzzled against rugged coastlines. Secret hot springs hidden in misty valleys while majestic waterfalls cascade from every hill.
Welcome to Iceland.
It’s a destination unlike any other in Europe. Its unique landscapes and natural wonders perfectly complement the modern capital of Reykjavik with its café culture and boozy, rambunctious nightlife.
Iceland is known as both the Land of Elves and the Land of Fire and Ice. It’s a country where you’ll find smoldering active volcanoes and vivid blue glaciers side by side. Horses and sheep dot the countryside, colorful puffins flock along the cliffs, and whales breach the choppy Atlantic waters that envelop this tiny island.
It’s easy to see why Iceland has become such a popular destination in recent years (all those cheap stopover flights have helped greatly too).
And, while it’s not the most budget-friendly country in the world, there are still ways to see the sights without breaking the bank!
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or want to drive the entirety of the island, this list of Iceland itineraries will ensure that you see the best the country has to offer!
Table of Contents
One Weekend in Reykjavik
Four Days in the South
Four Days in the North
One Week: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
One Month: Everything!
What to See and Do in Iceland: One Weekend in Reykjavik
Day 1
Take a tour of the city I always like to start my trips with a free walking tour. They’re a fantastic way to see a destination, learn about its history and culture, and get all your questions answered by someone who knows what they’re talking about. City Walk and Free Walking Tour Reykjavik both offer great free tours of the city. They’ll help you get a sense of Reykjavik so you can decide what you want to revisit later. The tours are donation based, so just make sure to tip your guide!
Explore Laugavegur When you’re in need of a coffee or snack, go for a stroll down Laugavegur, a shop- and café-lined street in the center of the city. This is the oldest (and coolest) street in Iceland, and you’ll find everything from expensive couture to dollar stores here. Be sure to stop in a bakery for a pastry or a coffee. My personal favorite is Mokka Kaffi.
Visit a museum After that, make your way to the National Museum of Iceland, where you will learn everything you need to know about this tiny Nordic nation. The most famous piece in the collection is the Valþjófsstaður door, a piece carved in the Middle Ages that illustrates the saga of the lion and the knight. The museum does a fantastic job of giving you a robust history of the country without being boring.
If you’d rather visit a more unconventional museum, consider a visit to the Icelandic Phallological Museum instead. Colloquially known as the Penis Museum, this small institution is home to the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-themed art. Yes, you read that right! There are almost 300 items in the museum, including whale penises and (allegedly) troll penises! It’s a small museum, but it’s actually incredibly informative — if you’re not too shy!
National Museum: Suðurgata 41, +354 530-2200, thjodminjasafn.is. Open daily 10am-5pm (closed on Mondays in the winter). Admission is 2,000 ISK (1,000 ISK for students/seniors).
Icelandic Phallological Museum: Laugavegur 116, +354 561-6663, phallus.is/en. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,700 ISK per person.
Go for a swim Once you’ve gotten tired of walking, go for a refreshing swim in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Swimming and saunas are how locals relax and unwind after work. It’s basically a national pastime. This pool is Iceland’s largest and was built in 1968. It’s actually a whole complex with hot tubs, a thermal steam bath, a waterslide, and even mini golf! If you have extra time, check out the nearby garden and zoo too.
Sundlaugavegur 105, +354 411-5100, reykjavik.is/stadir/laugardalslaug. Open weekdays 6:30am-10pm and weekends 8am-10pm. Admission is 625 ISK, though if you have the Reykjavik City Card, it’s free!
Take in the nightlife End your day enjoying the city’s famous nightlife back around Laugavegur. This is one of the best party cities in the world, so there’s something for everyone. Just make sure to go during happy hour so you don’t blow your budget (alcohol in Iceland is not cheap!). Here are a couple of my favorite hotspots in Reykjavik:
Kaffibarinn – This café transforms into a dance club on the weekend, and it’s a great place to party. The space is divided into three different sections (bar, dance floor, and lounge), so you can find a section for however you want to spend your night out. It’s small, so seats can fill up quickly. Bergstaðastræti 1, +354 551-1588, kaffibarinn.is.
Lebowski Bar – Yes, this is a Big Lebowski–themed bar. The inside looks like a vintage American diner and bowling alley. And, since The Dude drinks a lot of White Russians, its menu includes a wide variety of different ones. Its signature Lebowski cheeseburger is pretty good too. Spin the prize wheel to win up to 10 free beers! Aim for happy hour, which is held daily 4pm–7pm, as drinks are cheaper then. Laugavegur 20b, +354 552-2300, lebowskibar.is.
Slippbarinn — This is the first proper cocktail bar in the city and boasts live music and DJs several nights a week. Happy hour is daily 3pm-6pm. Myragata 2, +354 560 8080, slippbarinn.is.
Where to stay in Reykjavik: Hlemmur Square – If you’re looking to splash out, this is both a cozy hotel and an upscale hostel, so you have options for your type of stay. There’s a great bar here, plus traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week.
For a more standard hostel, stay at Kex Hostel. It has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio.
Day 2
Explore the Golden Circle The Golden Circle — comprising the Gullfoss waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park — is the biggest tourist draw in Iceland, so you’ll want to start your second day early and head out of town in a rental car (or on a tourist bus). As tourism booms in Iceland, these sites can get a little crowded, so make sure you get there early (especially in the summer and on weekends).
The round-trip journey is around 250km, so plan accordingly when it comes to food and fuel (if you’re driving). If you’re driving, you’ll also be able to stop regularly to see the many Icelandic horses that you’ll pass by.
Experience the famous Blue Lagoon This is one of the most iconic destinations in Iceland. The pools are quite large, and the whole area is steamy, with the water a stunning milky-blue color that is rather photogenic (which is why the lagoon is so popular on social media). It’s a beautiful and luxurious way to end the day, and a great place to relax right before you depart.
Personally, I think the place is a bit overhyped, as there are tons of free, secluded hot springs all around the country. Of course, if you’re short on time and don’t plan on leaving the city, then it’s the perfect way to end your trip!
Fun fact: The Blue Lagoon is simply runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. Icelanders just found a way to monetize it for tourists! Thank you, Instagram? Ha!
Norðurljósavegur 9, +354 420-8800, bluelagoon.com. Open daily, but hours vary, so check the website for an up-to-date schedule. Admission starts at 9,990 ISK per person, but it can be cheaper if you go during certain hours.
READ MORE: How to save money in Reykjavik
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the South
In addition to the itinerary above, here are some activities you’ll want to add if you plan on getting further outside of Reykjavik to explore the southern region of Iceland.
Day 3
Experience nature Head southeast on the Ring Road from Reykjavík to scout out some waterfalls. Be prepared and bring swimsuits, towels, a waterproof camera, and a jacket.
Reykjadalur – Stop in the town of Hveragerði to visit the Reykjadalur hot spring (or hot pot, as they are known locally). It offers a gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills and mountains, and it’s free to enjoy. You’ll need to hike a bit to get there (30-40 minutes), but it’s worth it! Keep in mind that there’s not a private changing area here, so you may want to wear your swimsuit under your clothes.
Seljalandsfoss – Continuing on the Ring Road, you’ll come to the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It has a drop of 60m and is another highly photographed spot in Iceland, so try to get there early before the tourist buses. You have to pay for parking, but otherwise it’s free. If you’re hungry, there’s a food vendor that sells delicious lamb stew (among other things).
Skógafoss – Another epic waterfall is Skógafoss. Legend says that you can find a treasure chest behind this massive waterfall. This is also the starting point for a long, multi-day hike, but you can also just climb to the top and walk for as long as you’d like before returning. There’s a small museum nearby as well if you want to learn more about the history of the waterfall.
Seljavallalaug – This hot pot is located a short walk off the Ring Road. It’s not super hot, and the change room has seen better days, but it’s secluded and it’s worth it just for the scenery, as its located at the bottom of a deep valley.
Make Your way to Vík Head to the charming little town of Vík and spend the night there. Vík is a seaside village with a glacier that covers the Katla volcano. It’s also home to some amazing black sand beaches and a DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur (located on the coast between Skógafoss and Vík).
Where to stay in Vík: Vík HI Hostel – This charming hostel has a café/bar, a female-only dorm, rooms for families, and a kitchen so you can cook your own food if you’re on a budget.
Day 4
Chill at the beach Wake up in Vík and go for a stroll on the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach. There are some offshore rock formations you can see from the shore and from the cliffs above if you feel like a hike. If you’re here from May through August, you may even get to see some puffins!
Take in the view If there’s time, head up the hill to see the small Vík i Myrdal Church. It overlooks the town and gives a complete view of Vík and the ocean. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the scenic vista.
Head for home Head back to Reykjavik. See more sights, chill in more cafés. Do whatever you want before you head home! (sad)
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the North
If you want to get away from the crowds, go north. Northern Iceland is one of the least-visited regions of the country and has a lot to offer the intrepid adventurer, including majestic hikes, more varied landscapes, whale watching, fewer people, and a better chance to see the Northern Lights!
Day 1
Travel north to Akureyri Start your adventure off by flying north to Akureyri from Reykjavik. If you don’t want to fly, it’s a 5-6-hour drive from Reykjavik up the west coast, which can easily be done in a day. You’ll just want to factor in a few stops along the way to sightsee!
Explore Akureyri Take a self-guided tour of the town, visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, get an espresso from the picturesque Laut Café, hop in the local swimming pool, or just explore the relatively small town and sip on some kaffi (coffee) and “happy marriage cake” (rhubarb jam–filled pastry with a buttery oat crust) from Kristjánsbakarí. Soak up local life as much as you can before you go!
Where to stay in Akureyri: Akureyri Backpackers – This is a laid-back hostel with a cool bar, great staff, and really hot showers!
Day 2
Visit the Waterfall of the Gods Make your way to Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. It’s a majestic semicircular waterfall that’s close to Akureyri on the Ring Road. The waterfall is over 12m tall and 30m wide, and (not surprisingly) is highly photogenic! Enjoy the view before heading onward to Mývatn.
Head to Mývatn Spend the day in Mývatn, starting off with a hike around Lake Mývatn. There is an easy trail you can follow that lets you stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. You can easily hike the lake in a few hours if you go at a leisurely place. Then head to the Mývatn Nature Baths geothermal pool, which is much quieter (and cheaper) than the Blue Lagoon.
There’s not much else to do here. It’s a quiet town for relaxing, but the lack of lights makes it a wonderful place to see the northern lights!
Spend the night in Mývatn at one of the many Airbnbs, guesthouses, or farm stays in the region.
Day 3
Pretend you’re on Mars Next, you’ll want to head toward the coastal town of Húsavík. On your way there, stop at Hverir and Krafla, two geothermal areas with Martian-like craters and lakes. Steaming sulfur fills the air, giving this whole area an otherworldly ambience. You can just stop to take photos or go for another hike.
Visit Dettifoss Next, head to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. There are two roads leading here from the Ring Road: 862 and 864. The latter is ridden with potholes, but in my opinion offers the better view. Just drive slowly and keep an eye on your tires! Enjoy a snack by the waterfall and take in the scene. When you’re ready, drive to Húsavík (you can take the 864 north from Dettifoss).
Visit the Whale Museum Whaling has been a part of Icelandic culture for centuries. And while there is a global moratorium on hunting whales, it’s still worth learning about these massive creatures, their habitat, and their impact on the country. They also have a full blue whale skeleton!
Hafnarstétt 1, +354 414-2800, hvalasafn.is/en. Open daily with hours varying depending on the season. Admission is 2,000 ISK per person, with discounts available for seniors, families, and kids. If you go whale-watching with Gentle Giants, you’ll get 20% off your museum ticket.
Where to stay: Spend the night in sleepy Húsavík at a local guesthouse or Airbnb. If it’s northern lights season, stay at Arbot HI Hostel. The hostel is in a relatively secluded spot outside of town so you’ll have a great view of the dancing lights without having to worry about light pollution.
Day 4
Watch the whales and explore the coast Wake up early, head to the coast, and go whale-watching. There are a few different companies you can book tours with here, including Gentle Giants, who have a partnership with the Whale Museum (see above). Whale-watching tours usually last around 3 hours. Expect to pay around 10,400 ISK for adults and 4,400 ISK for children.
When you’re done, explore the hiking trails around Húsavík. You can find a list of the trails on the Visit Húsavík website. Pop into some of the local shops and cafés to get a sense of small-town life here in Northern Iceland.
See some unique architecture Travel to nearby Laufás, which is located west of Húsavík. Here you’ll get to see the old turf houses, traditional Icelandic homes that are timber framed and covered in grass. The furnishings are from around 1900, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. While in Laufás, take a small detour and check out the church. Inside is a decorative pulpit from 1698!
Have an Icelandic feast Go back to Akureyri to explore the city and dine on fresh fish and chips from Akureyri Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to sample the country’s famous ice cream from Brynja too!
Note: I know it sounds like a lot, but if you have a car, this itinerary is very doable.
What to Do In One Week in Iceland: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Day 1-2
Head East Fly into Keflavík International Airport and rent a car (SAD Cars and Car Rental Iceland are the companies I recommend). Head east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road to start your adventure!
Soak in the hot springs and search for puffins Head east for a soak in the Reykjadalur hot springs in Hveragerði. Camp or stay at the hostel nearby so you can get another soak in before heading onward.
To get a bit off the beaten trail, take the ferry to the Westman Islands for the afternoon or an overnight stay (you’ll find plenty of puffins here during the summer season!). There are very few tourists here, so it’s a nice way to escape the crowds and relax.
Chase some waterfalls Venturing onward along the Ring Road, head to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. At Skógafoss, the 29km Fimmvörðuháls Trail begins. If you want to hike the entire trail, you can stay at the Volcano Huts at the end of the route and then take a bus back to Skógafoss in the morning. If you’re fit, you can do this hike in a day. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring tents and camp halfway. If an epic hike isn’t in the cards, stroll around the area before continuing east toward Vík.
Tour a crash site Before you get to Vík, you’ll want to check out the DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur. It’s about a 45-minute walk from the Ring Road, but it’s worth it to see the crash up close (you can no longer drive directly to the site). Dress appropriately, as it can get windy near the coastline.
Spot puffins Continue on to Vík and stop to see the black sand beaches. There are also two short hikes nearby that take you up the cliffs. They offer incredible views of the areas, and if it’s the right season, you can go puffin spotting!
Where to stay: For your first night, stay at the Hot Springs Hostel in Hveragerði (right near the hot spring). That way you can wake up early and go for another soak before you leave. If you’re on the Westman Islands, stay at Aska Hostel (or book one of the many private guesthouses for a cozy local experience). When you get to Vik, stay at Vík HI Hostel.
Days 3-4
Hike Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon This 2km-long canyon dates back to the Ice Age. It’s over 100m deep and makes for a great place to hike or have a picnic and enjoy the view. The road to get there is full of potholes, so drive carefully.
Explore Vatnajökull National Park Hike in the Skaftafell wilderness area to see the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. There are plenty of hikes here, both long and short, for outdoorsy types. For a shorter hike, head to Svartifoss, another photogenic waterfall surrounded by long columns of black basalt (the waterfall’s name literally translates to “the black waterfall”).
Klapparstígur 25-27, +354 575-8400, vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is. The park itself is open 24/7 however the Skaftafell visitors center has limited hours (usually 9am-7pm in the summer and 10am-6pm in the winter). See the website for more details, including camping information and weather updates. Parking is 750 ISK per vehicle per day.
Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon borders the national park, and you don’t want to miss it. The waters are blue, and there are huge icebergs from the nearby glacier floating in the water. The lagoon flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and you’ll see lots of seals in the winter. You can follow the stream out to sea and watch the glaciers as they meet the ocean. Best of all, this is right on the Ring Road and it’s all completely free (though if you want to take a boat out into the lagoon, you’ll have to pay — I don’t think it’s worth doing, though!)
Tour the coast Continue on the Ring Road to Höfn or Djúpivogur, two tiny coastal towns. Get a taste of what life is like in small-town Iceland while exploring the winding coastline. There’s a hidden hot spring outside of Djúpivogur to reward you for making it so far up the coast too!
Where to stay: If you’re ending your day in Höfn, stay at Höfn Hostel. You can see the Vatnajökull Glacier from the town, and everything is within walking distance. If you’re heading on to Djúpivogur, Airbnb will be your best choice.
Days 5-7
Return to Reykjavík Hop in the car and head back to the capital city. Stroll the cozy streets, take a free walking tour, and enjoy some of the city’s plentiful happy hours.
See the Golden Circle Wake up early and drive out to see the three main sites of the Golden Circle. The sooner you start, the better, as you’ll be able to beat the tourist buses there and get some photos without the crowds. You’ll also have time to hike in Þingvellir National Park if you want to stretch your legs. Stock up on snacks for the day in Reykjavik to save some money (the cheapest supermarket is Bonus, so shop there!).
Relax at the Blue Lagoon If you’re craving another dip in a hot pot, head to the Blue Lagoon before your flight home. You’ll be able to end the trip on a very relaxing note!
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
With two weeks, you will be able to drive the entire Ring Road without rushing too much. You’ll have time to enjoy the rugged east coast and places like Seydisfjordur, explore the second-largest city Akureyri, hike around the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and maybe even dip into the Westfjords.
Start in Rekyavik, head east, see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, explore Vík, visit the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, detour over to Seyðisfjörður, then head over to Dettifoss, Mývatn, Goðafoss, and Akureyri.
After exploring Akureyri, continue west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for some hiking. Make sure you stop off to see the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Iceland (plus, it’s where they filmed some Game of Thrones scenes, too). Snæfellsnes National Park is home to Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old volcano capped by glaciers. You can book a glacier hike here or just explore the rest of the park on your own. It’s right along the coast too, so you’ll be met with some gorgeous views. Stay at The Freezer hostel (it has great live music.)
If you have time and want to get off the beaten trail, detour into the Westfjords in the northwest, or visit the Westman Islands off the south coast.
If you want to be more focused on your trip, you can split Iceland up into smaller geographic areas. One fun route to take is to head west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then up into the Westfjords for some hiking and relaxing before flying back to the capital. This will be the most remote part of the country, so you’ll have a lot more space and privacy to enjoy your trip.
One Month: Exploring All of Iceland
With one month, you can see the entire island of Iceland. I’ve met quite a few people who have decided to spend this amount of time in the summer months. They’ll rent a car or camper van, pack a bunch of camping gear, and drive the Ring Road at a leisurely pace. But even if you aren’t renting a van or car, you can get around by bus, air, or hitchhike!
Take multi-day hikes, visit to the less-explored Westfjords, an area many tourists skip due to a lack of time (and paved roads); visit Hrísey and/or Grímsey, the very remote islands in the north with fewer than 100 inhabitants each; or the Westman Islands, or explore more parks in the interior of the country (it’s very remote, very unvisited, and very, very awesome).
If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget and planning to camp and hitchhike in Iceland, you’ll need this longer travel time to make sure you aren’t rushed, as sometimes you’ll be waiting awhile for a lift.
But with a month here, there’s very little you can’t explore!
***
Iceland really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire month exploring this rugged landscape, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience.
While it’s not cheap, there are tons of ways to save money in Iceland to make these itineraries doable for even the most frugal budget traveler. But don’t take my word for it. Get out there and explore the Land of Fire and Ice for yourself!
WANTMORE? GET ALL MY TIPS AND ADVICE WITH MY GUIDEBOOK TO ICELAND!
Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like yourself!
It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.
My favorite things to see and do
Money-saving tips
Budget advice
Transportation advice
My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars
And much more!
Click here to download the Iceland guide now!
Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use these all the time. My favorite places to stay in Iceland are:
Hlemmur Square (Reykjavik) – A posh hotel with a great bar and traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week
Kex Hostel (Reykjavik) – Has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio
Akureyri Backpackers (Akureyri) – A laid-back hostel with hot showers, a cool bar, and helpful staff!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!
Looking for more information on visiting Iceland? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Iceland with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!
Photo credits: 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12
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Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice
Posted: 1/24/2019 | January 24th, 2018
Windswept volcanoes. Black sand beaches nuzzled against rugged coastlines. Secret hot springs hidden in misty valleys while majestic waterfalls cascade from every hill.
Welcome to Iceland.
It’s a destination unlike any other in Europe. Its unique landscapes and natural wonders perfectly complement the modern capital of Reykjavik with its café culture and boozy, rambunctious nightlife.
Iceland is known as both the Land of Elves and the Land of Fire and Ice. It’s a country where you’ll find smoldering active volcanoes and vivid blue glaciers side by side. Horses and sheep dot the countryside, colorful puffins flock along the cliffs, and whales breach the choppy Atlantic waters that envelop this tiny island.
It’s easy to see why Iceland has become such a popular destination in recent years (all those cheap stopover flights have helped greatly too).
And, while it’s not the most budget-friendly country in the world, there are still ways to see the sights without breaking the bank!
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or want to drive the entirety of the island, this list of Iceland itineraries will ensure that you see the best the country has to offer!
Table of Contents
One Weekend in Reykjavik
Four Days in the South
Four Days in the North
One Week: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
One Month: Everything!
What to See and Do in Iceland: One Weekend in Reykjavik
Day 1
Take a tour of the city I always like to start my trips with a free walking tour. They’re a fantastic way to see a destination, learn about its history and culture, and get all your questions answered by someone who knows what they’re talking about. City Walk and Free Walking Tour Reykjavik both offer great free tours of the city. They’ll help you get a sense of Reykjavik so you can decide what you want to revisit later. The tours are donation based, so just make sure to tip your guide!
Explore Laugavegur When you’re in need of a coffee or snack, go for a stroll down Laugavegur, a shop- and café-lined street in the center of the city. This is the oldest (and coolest) street in Iceland, and you’ll find everything from expensive couture to dollar stores here. Be sure to stop in a bakery for a pastry or a coffee. My personal favorite is Mokka Kaffi.
Visit a museum After that, make your way to the National Museum of Iceland, where you will learn everything you need to know about this tiny Nordic nation. The most famous piece in the collection is the Valþjófsstaður door, a piece carved in the Middle Ages that illustrates the saga of the lion and the knight. The museum does a fantastic job of giving you a robust history of the country without being boring.
If you’d rather visit a more unconventional museum, consider a visit to the Icelandic Phallological Museum instead. Colloquially known as the Penis Museum, this small institution is home to the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-themed art. Yes, you read that right! There are almost 300 items in the museum, including whale penises and (allegedly) troll penises! It’s a small museum, but it’s actually incredibly informative — if you’re not too shy!
National Museum: Suðurgata 41, +354 530-2200, thjodminjasafn.is. Open daily 10am-5pm (closed on Mondays in the winter). Admission is 2,000 ISK (1,000 ISK for students/seniors).
Icelandic Phallological Museum: Laugavegur 116, +354 561-6663, phallus.is/en. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,700 ISK per person.
Go for a swim Once you’ve gotten tired of walking, go for a refreshing swim in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Swimming and saunas are how locals relax and unwind after work. It’s basically a national pastime. This pool is Iceland’s largest and was built in 1968. It’s actually a whole complex with hot tubs, a thermal steam bath, a waterslide, and even mini golf! If you have extra time, check out the nearby garden and zoo too.
Sundlaugavegur 105, +354 411-5100, reykjavik.is/stadir/laugardalslaug. Open weekdays 6:30am-10pm and weekends 8am-10pm. Admission is 625 ISK, though if you have the Reykjavik City Card, it’s free!
Take in the nightlife End your day enjoying the city’s famous nightlife back around Laugavegur. This is one of the best party cities in the world, so there’s something for everyone. Just make sure to go during happy hour so you don’t blow your budget (alcohol in Iceland is not cheap!). Here are a couple of my favorite hotspots in Reykjavik:
Kaffibarinn – This café transforms into a dance club on the weekend, and it’s a great place to party. The space is divided into three different sections (bar, dance floor, and lounge), so you can find a section for however you want to spend your night out. It’s small, so seats can fill up quickly. Bergstaðastræti 1, +354 551-1588, kaffibarinn.is.
Lebowski Bar – Yes, this is a Big Lebowski–themed bar. The inside looks like a vintage American diner and bowling alley. And, since The Dude drinks a lot of White Russians, its menu includes a wide variety of different ones. Its signature Lebowski cheeseburger is pretty good too. Spin the prize wheel to win up to 10 free beers! Aim for happy hour, which is held daily 4pm–7pm, as drinks are cheaper then. Laugavegur 20b, +354 552-2300, lebowskibar.is.
Slippbarinn — This is the first proper cocktail bar in the city and boasts live music and DJs several nights a week. Happy hour is daily 3pm-6pm. Myragata 2, +354 560 8080, slippbarinn.is.
Where to stay in Reykjavik: Hlemmur Square – If you’re looking to splash out, this is both a cozy hotel and an upscale hostel, so you have options for your type of stay. There’s a great bar here, plus traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week.
For a more standard hostel, stay at Kex Hostel. It has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio.
Day 2
Explore the Golden Circle The Golden Circle — comprising the Gullfoss waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park — is the biggest tourist draw in Iceland, so you’ll want to start your second day early and head out of town in a rental car (or on a tourist bus). As tourism booms in Iceland, these sites can get a little crowded, so make sure you get there early (especially in the summer and on weekends).
The round-trip journey is around 250km, so plan accordingly when it comes to food and fuel (if you’re driving). If you’re driving, you’ll also be able to stop regularly to see the many Icelandic horses that you’ll pass by.
Experience the famous Blue Lagoon This is one of the most iconic destinations in Iceland. The pools are quite large, and the whole area is steamy, with the water a stunning milky-blue color that is rather photogenic (which is why the lagoon is so popular on social media). It’s a beautiful and luxurious way to end the day, and a great place to relax right before you depart.
Personally, I think the place is a bit overhyped, as there are tons of free, secluded hot springs all around the country. Of course, if you’re short on time and don’t plan on leaving the city, then it’s the perfect way to end your trip!
Fun fact: The Blue Lagoon is simply runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. Icelanders just found a way to monetize it for tourists! Thank you, Instagram? Ha!
Norðurljósavegur 9, +354 420-8800, bluelagoon.com. Open daily, but hours vary, so check the website for an up-to-date schedule. Admission starts at 9,990 ISK per person, but it can be cheaper if you go during certain hours.
READ MORE: How to save money in Reykjavik
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the South
In addition to the itinerary above, here are some activities you’ll want to add if you plan on getting further outside of Reykjavik to explore the southern region of Iceland.
Day 3
Experience nature Head southeast on the Ring Road from Reykjavík to scout out some waterfalls. Be prepared and bring swimsuits, towels, a waterproof camera, and a jacket.
Reykjadalur – Stop in the town of Hveragerði to visit the Reykjadalur hot spring (or hot pot, as they are known locally). It offers a gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills and mountains, and it’s free to enjoy. You’ll need to hike a bit to get there (30-40 minutes), but it’s worth it! Keep in mind that there’s not a private changing area here, so you may want to wear your swimsuit under your clothes.
Seljalandsfoss – Continuing on the Ring Road, you’ll come to the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It has a drop of 60m and is another highly photographed spot in Iceland, so try to get there early before the tourist buses. You have to pay for parking, but otherwise it’s free. If you’re hungry, there’s a food vendor that sells delicious lamb stew (among other things).
Skógafoss – Another epic waterfall is Skógafoss. Legend says that you can find a treasure chest behind this massive waterfall. This is also the starting point for a long, multi-day hike, but you can also just climb to the top and walk for as long as you’d like before returning. There’s a small museum nearby as well if you want to learn more about the history of the waterfall.
Seljavallalaug – This hot pot is located a short walk off the Ring Road. It’s not super hot, and the change room has seen better days, but it’s secluded and it’s worth it just for the scenery, as its located at the bottom of a deep valley.
Make Your way to Vík Head to the charming little town of Vík and spend the night there. Vík is a seaside village with a glacier that covers the Katla volcano. It’s also home to some amazing black sand beaches and a DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur (located on the coast between Skógafoss and Vík).
Where to stay in Vík: Vík HI Hostel – This charming hostel has a café/bar, a female-only dorm, rooms for families, and a kitchen so you can cook your own food if you’re on a budget.
Day 4
Chill at the beach Wake up in Vík and go for a stroll on the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach. There are some offshore rock formations you can see from the shore and from the cliffs above if you feel like a hike. If you’re here from May through August, you may even get to see some puffins!
Take in the view If there’s time, head up the hill to see the small Vík i Myrdal Church. It overlooks the town and gives a complete view of Vík and the ocean. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the scenic vista.
Head for home Head back to Reykjavik. See more sights, chill in more cafés. Do whatever you want before you head home! (sad)
What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the North
If you want to get away from the crowds, go north. Northern Iceland is one of the least-visited regions of the country and has a lot to offer the intrepid adventurer, including majestic hikes, more varied landscapes, whale watching, fewer people, and a better chance to see the Northern Lights!
Day 1
Travel north to Akureyri Start your adventure off by flying north to Akureyri from Reykjavik. If you don’t want to fly, it’s a 5-6-hour drive from Reykjavik up the west coast, which can easily be done in a day. You’ll just want to factor in a few stops along the way to sightsee!
Explore Akureyri Take a self-guided tour of the town, visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, get an espresso from the picturesque Laut Café, hop in the local swimming pool, or just explore the relatively small town and sip on some kaffi (coffee) and “happy marriage cake” (rhubarb jam–filled pastry with a buttery oat crust) from Kristjánsbakarí. Soak up local life as much as you can before you go!
Where to stay in Akureyri: Akureyri Backpackers – This is a laid-back hostel with a cool bar, great staff, and really hot showers!
Day 2
Visit the Waterfall of the Gods Make your way to Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. It’s a majestic semicircular waterfall that’s close to Akureyri on the Ring Road. The waterfall is over 12m tall and 30m wide, and (not surprisingly) is highly photogenic! Enjoy the view before heading onward to Mývatn.
Head to Mývatn Spend the day in Mývatn, starting off with a hike around Lake Mývatn. There is an easy trail you can follow that lets you stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. You can easily hike the lake in a few hours if you go at a leisurely place. Then head to the Mývatn Nature Baths geothermal pool, which is much quieter (and cheaper) than the Blue Lagoon.
There’s not much else to do here. It’s a quiet town for relaxing, but the lack of lights makes it a wonderful place to see the northern lights!
Spend the night in Mývatn at one of the many Airbnbs, guesthouses, or farm stays in the region.
Day 3
Pretend you’re on Mars Next, you’ll want to head toward the coastal town of Húsavík. On your way there, stop at Hverir and Krafla, two geothermal areas with Martian-like craters and lakes. Steaming sulfur fills the air, giving this whole area an otherworldly ambience. You can just stop to take photos or go for another hike.
Visit Dettifoss Next, head to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. There are two roads leading here from the Ring Road: 862 and 864. The latter is ridden with potholes, but in my opinion offers the better view. Just drive slowly and keep an eye on your tires! Enjoy a snack by the waterfall and take in the scene. When you’re ready, drive to Húsavík (you can take the 864 north from Dettifoss).
Visit the Whale Museum Whaling has been a part of Icelandic culture for centuries. And while there is a global moratorium on hunting whales, it’s still worth learning about these massive creatures, their habitat, and their impact on the country. They also have a full blue whale skeleton!
Hafnarstétt 1, +354 414-2800, hvalasafn.is/en. Open daily with hours varying depending on the season. Admission is 2,000 ISK per person, with discounts available for seniors, families, and kids. If you go whale-watching with Gentle Giants, you’ll get 20% off your museum ticket.
Where to stay: Spend the night in sleepy Húsavík at a local guesthouse or Airbnb. If it’s northern lights season, stay at Arbot HI Hostel. The hostel is in a relatively secluded spot outside of town so you’ll have a great view of the dancing lights without having to worry about light pollution.
Day 4
Watch the whales and explore the coast Wake up early, head to the coast, and go whale-watching. There are a few different companies you can book tours with here, including Gentle Giants, who have a partnership with the Whale Museum (see above). Whale-watching tours usually last around 3 hours. Expect to pay around 10,400 ISK for adults and 4,400 ISK for children.
When you’re done, explore the hiking trails around Húsavík. You can find a list of the trails on the Visit Húsavík website. Pop into some of the local shops and cafés to get a sense of small-town life here in Northern Iceland.
See some unique architecture Travel to nearby Laufás, which is located west of Húsavík. Here you’ll get to see the old turf houses, traditional Icelandic homes that are timber framed and covered in grass. The furnishings are from around 1900, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. While in Laufás, take a small detour and check out the church. Inside is a decorative pulpit from 1698!
Have an Icelandic feast Go back to Akureyri to explore the city and dine on fresh fish and chips from Akureyri Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to sample the country’s famous ice cream from Brynja too!
Note: I know it sounds like a lot, but if you have a car, this itinerary is very doable.
What to Do In One Week in Iceland: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland
Day 1-2
Head East Fly into Keflavík International Airport and rent a car (SAD Cars and Car Rental Iceland are the companies I recommend). Head east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road to start your adventure!
Soak in the hot springs and search for puffins Head east for a soak in the Reykjadalur hot springs in Hveragerði. Camp or stay at the hostel nearby so you can get another soak in before heading onward.
To get a bit off the beaten trail, take the ferry to the Westman Islands for the afternoon or an overnight stay (you’ll find plenty of puffins here during the summer season!). There are very few tourists here, so it’s a nice way to escape the crowds and relax.
Chase some waterfalls Venturing onward along the Ring Road, head to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. At Skógafoss, the 29km Fimmvörðuháls Trail begins. If you want to hike the entire trail, you can stay at the Volcano Huts at the end of the route and then take a bus back to Skógafoss in the morning. If you’re fit, you can do this hike in a day. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring tents and camp halfway. If an epic hike isn’t in the cards, stroll around the area before continuing east toward Vík.
Tour a crash site Before you get to Vík, you’ll want to check out the DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur. It’s about a 45-minute walk from the Ring Road, but it’s worth it to see the crash up close (you can no longer drive directly to the site). Dress appropriately, as it can get windy near the coastline.
Spot puffins Continue on to Vík and stop to see the black sand beaches. There are also two short hikes nearby that take you up the cliffs. They offer incredible views of the areas, and if it’s the right season, you can go puffin spotting!
Where to stay: For your first night, stay at the Hot Springs Hostel in Hveragerði (right near the hot spring). That way you can wake up early and go for another soak before you leave. If you’re on the Westman Islands, stay at Aska Hostel (or book one of the many private guesthouses for a cozy local experience). When you get to Vik, stay at Vík HI Hostel.
Days 3-4
Hike Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon This 2km-long canyon dates back to the Ice Age. It’s over 100m deep and makes for a great place to hike or have a picnic and enjoy the view. The road to get there is full of potholes, so drive carefully.
Explore Vatnajökull National Park Hike in the Skaftafell wilderness area to see the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. There are plenty of hikes here, both long and short, for outdoorsy types. For a shorter hike, head to Svartifoss, another photogenic waterfall surrounded by long columns of black basalt (the waterfall’s name literally translates to “the black waterfall”).
Klapparstígur 25-27, +354 575-8400, vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is. The park itself is open 24/7 however the Skaftafell visitors center has limited hours (usually 9am-7pm in the summer and 10am-6pm in the winter). See the website for more details, including camping information and weather updates. Parking is 750 ISK per vehicle per day.
Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon borders the national park, and you don’t want to miss it. The waters are blue, and there are huge icebergs from the nearby glacier floating in the water. The lagoon flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and you’ll see lots of seals in the winter. You can follow the stream out to sea and watch the glaciers as they meet the ocean. Best of all, this is right on the Ring Road and it’s all completely free (though if you want to take a boat out into the lagoon, you’ll have to pay — I don’t think it’s worth doing, though!)
Tour the coast Continue on the Ring Road to Höfn or Djúpivogur, two tiny coastal towns. Get a taste of what life is like in small-town Iceland while exploring the winding coastline. There’s a hidden hot spring outside of Djúpivogur to reward you for making it so far up the coast too!
Where to stay: If you’re ending your day in Höfn, stay at Höfn Hostel. You can see the Vatnajökull Glacier from the town, and everything is within walking distance. If you’re heading on to Djúpivogur, Airbnb will be your best choice.
Days 5-7
Return to Reykjavík Hop in the car and head back to the capital city. Stroll the cozy streets, take a free walking tour, and enjoy some of the city’s plentiful happy hours.
See the Golden Circle Wake up early and drive out to see the three main sites of the Golden Circle. The sooner you start, the better, as you’ll be able to beat the tourist buses there and get some photos without the crowds. You’ll also have time to hike in Þingvellir National Park if you want to stretch your legs. Stock up on snacks for the day in Reykjavik to save some money (the cheapest supermarket is Bonus, so shop there!).
Relax at the Blue Lagoon If you’re craving another dip in a hot pot, head to the Blue Lagoon before your flight home. You’ll be able to end the trip on a very relaxing note!
Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road
With two weeks, you will be able to drive the entire Ring Road without rushing too much. You’ll have time to enjoy the rugged east coast and places like Seydisfjordur, explore the second-largest city Akureyri, hike around the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and maybe even dip into the Westfjords.
Start in Rekyavik, head east, see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, explore Vík, visit the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, detour over to Seyðisfjörður, then head over to Dettifoss, Mývatn, Goðafoss, and Akureyri.
After exploring Akureyri, continue west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for some hiking. Make sure you stop off to see the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Iceland (plus, it’s where they filmed some Game of Thrones scenes, too). Snæfellsnes National Park is home to Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old volcano capped by glaciers. You can book a glacier hike here or just explore the rest of the park on your own. It’s right along the coast too, so you’ll be met with some gorgeous views. Stay at The Freezer hostel (it has great live music.)
If you have time and want to get off the beaten trail, detour into the Westfjords in the northwest, or visit the Westman Islands off the south coast.
If you want to be more focused on your trip, you can split Iceland up into smaller geographic areas. One fun route to take is to head west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then up into the Westfjords for some hiking and relaxing before flying back to the capital. This will be the most remote part of the country, so you’ll have a lot more space and privacy to enjoy your trip.
One Month: Exploring All of Iceland
With one month, you can see the entire island of Iceland. I’ve met quite a few people who have decided to spend this amount of time in the summer months. They’ll rent a car or camper van, pack a bunch of camping gear, and drive the Ring Road at a leisurely pace. But even if you aren’t renting a van or car, you can get around by bus, air, or hitchhike!
Take multi-day hikes, visit to the less-explored Westfjords, an area many tourists skip due to a lack of time (and paved roads); visit Hrísey and/or Grímsey, the very remote islands in the north with fewer than 100 inhabitants each; or the Westman Islands, or explore more parks in the interior of the country (it’s very remote, very unvisited, and very, very awesome).
If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget and planning to camp and hitchhike in Iceland, you’ll need this longer travel time to make sure you aren’t rushed, as sometimes you’ll be waiting awhile for a lift.
But with a month here, there’s very little you can’t explore!
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Iceland really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire month exploring this rugged landscape, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience.
While it’s not cheap, there are tons of ways to save money in Iceland to make these itineraries doable for even the most frugal budget traveler. But don’t take my word for it. Get out there and explore the Land of Fire and Ice for yourself!
WANTMORE? GET ALL MY TIPS AND ADVICE WITH MY GUIDEBOOK TO ICELAND!
Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like yourself!
It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.
My favorite things to see and do
Money-saving tips
Budget advice
Transportation advice
My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars
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Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use these all the time. My favorite places to stay in Iceland are:
Hlemmur Square (Reykjavik) – A posh hotel with a great bar and traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week
Kex Hostel (Reykjavik) – Has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio
Akureyri Backpackers (Akureyri) – A laid-back hostel with hot showers, a cool bar, and helpful staff!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!
Looking for more information on visiting Iceland? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Iceland with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!
Photo credits: 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12
The post Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.
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