10 days Iceland road trip in summer: a comprehensive guide

If you are looking for a perfect itinerary for Iceland road trip in summer, you are in the right place. Iceland has become one of the top travel destinations in recent years. When we planned our trip, we first considered to only drive the Golden Circle, but quickly we decided against the idea. Iceland is too beautiful not to see more of it. And we had time for it, so we decided to plan an awesome adventure: 10 days Iceland road trip in summer.

Once we landed in Iceland, we proceeded to the car rental agency near the airport. The plan was to start the road trip as soon as we arrive and visit the capital at the end. And it was a good plan.

This is the approximate route we did during 10 days road trip in Iceland in summer:

How to have a great Iceland road trip in summer: renting a car and driving top tips

The rental was easy and straightforward. We rented a standard SUV and didn’t need a 4×4 at all. As always, we used Discover Cars as they list international and local providers, which sometimes are cheaper. This time we went for a local rental agency we found out through Discover Cars.

The rental company gave us a leaflet with all the traffic rules, dos and don’ts, which was quite handy. Driving in Iceland during the summer is a rewarding experience, but it comes with certain guidelines to ensure safety and enjoyment. Road conditions are generally good in the summer, as most roads are paved, especially along the Ring Road (the main road around the island). However, always be mindful of the weather, as sudden changes can occur, even in the summer.

One of the top tips is to mind your car doors when opening. Sudden wind gusts are strong and can damage the door.

Traffic rules in Iceland

Iceland road trip in summer is much easier than in winter due to less weather related obstacles. It might be tempting to save some time on an empty road. However, I would recommend to stick to the rules.

Be aware of all the traffic rules and abide by them. I’m serious. The law reinforcement is efficient and strict in Iceland. Even if you are on a straight, empty road with perfect weather and you feel like going 101 km/h (where the limit is 90) is not a big deal…think twice. For this exact over speeding we got fined 400€ on the spot. We didn’t even see the police car in the distance.

Speed limits are usually 50 km/h in towns and cities, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved highways. Always carry a valid driver’s license and be cautious on F-roads (highland roads), which are only suitable for 4×4 vehicles. It’s also important to follow Iceland’s no off-road driving policy to protect the delicate landscape.

If you rent a camper, be aware that wild camping is ilegal in Iceland and you must plan your itinerary based on designated camping spots.

10 days in Iceland road trip in summer: a perfect itinerary

Our 10 days in Iceland were carefully planned for a summer trip to see the highlights but without rushing at the same time. I’ve seen people doing a similar itinerary in 7 days, but I would really advice against it. Iceland is bigger than one might think and you will be making lots of stops; there’s always something beautiful worth admiring or taking pictures of.

Besides, there’s no huge amount of accommodation and the small hotels and guesthouses have limited spaces. This means that sometimes you might adjust your route.

So, this Iceland road trip in summer itinerary consists of amazing landscapes, some villages outside the main routes, the famous Icelandic horses and birds, and mind-blowing views. Of course, some attractions like ice caves hiking are not possible in summer, but this is recompensed by whale watching or beautiful, green landscape. Also, a road trip in Iceland in summer is much easier to plan.

As we had 10 days for our Iceland road trip, we decided to do the Iceland Ring Road, which is Route 1 that encompasses the island for 1,322 kilometers (821 miles). It’s pretty simple to navigate.

Golden Circle

Golden circle is a must on your Iceland road trip in summer. It took us two days out of our 10-day itinerary to see the highlights. We started by discovering the Golden Circle, which, I’m my opinion, is a great itinerary to visit some of the top places in Iceland on a tight schedule.

You could visit these places on a day trip, but better over two days. That’s what we did before continuing to visit the island along the coast (mostly) anticlockwise during this 10-day Iceland road trip. However, if for some reason you are short on time and only have a couple of days in Iceland, visiting the Golden Circle as part of a tour is a great option to see the highlights of Iceland.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most historically and geologically significant sites; it’s a must stop on your 10-day Iceland road trip in summer. As the site of the world’s first parliament, founded in 930 AD, it holds immense cultural value. Beyond its history, Thingvellir is also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, creating a breathtaking landscape of fissures, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.

Summer is the perfect time to explore the park’s many hiking trails, admire the scenic Öxarárfoss waterfall, and take in panoramic views of Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake.

Haukadalur geysers

The Haukadalur geothermal area, home to Iceland’s most famous geysers, is an unmissable stop on the Golden Circle route. The star attraction is Strokkur, a powerful geyser that erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, sending boiling water up to 20 meters into the air. Nearby, you’ll find Geysir, the geyser that gave all others their name, though it is now largely dormant. Walking through the area, you’ll see steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and mineral-rich hot springs, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape. We had to wait a bit, but once it exploded, it was beautiful.

Gullfoss waterfall

One of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls, Gullfoss (meaning “Golden Falls”) is a breathtaking two-tiered cascade that plunges into a rugged canyon along the Hvítá River. In summer, the waterfall is most powerful, fueled by glacial meltwater, creating a dramatic and thunderous display. It is easy to visit following a well-maintained walking path.

Whether you’re exploring the Golden Circle or, like me, doing a 10-day Iceland road trip in summer, Gullfoss is an unforgettable sight that showcases the raw power of Iceland’s natural beauty. It’s especially beautiful on a sunny day with rainbows above, but make sure to pack something waterproof as you’ll get soaked.

Kerið crater lake

Kerið Crater Lake is a striking volcanic caldera filled with vivid blue water, surrounded by red and orange volcanic rock. Believed to be over 3,000 years old, the crater is one of Iceland’s most visually stunning geological formations.

During summer, the contrast between the vibrant blue water, green moss-covered slopes, and rust-colored rocks creates a stunning scene for photography and exploration. A short walking trail around the rim offers panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding countryside, making it an excellent stop on a self-drive Iceland road trip. Visitors can also descend into the crater for a closer look at the tranquil lake, adding to the immersive experience.

Nesjavallaleið geothermal plant

A fascinating detour on your Iceland summer road trip is the Nesjavallaleið geothermal plant, one of the country’s largest geothermal power stations. It is a little bit off the path on the Golden Circle tour. Nestled in a dramatic volcanic landscape near Þingvallavatn, this place is incredible to witness the Earth’s natural heat to produce sustainable energy for Reykjavik and surrounding areas. Driving through the region, you’ll witness steaming vents, rugged lava fields, and hot springs. The scenic road leading to Nesjavallaleið is an adventure in itself, offering stunning mountain views and a glimpse into the country’s innovative approach to geothermal power.

Snorkeling in Silfra

For a truly unforgettable adventure, snorkeling in Silfra is a must-do experience on your Iceland road trip in summer itinerary. Located in Thingvellir National Park, Silfra is a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, filled with some of the clearest water in the world. With visibility exceeding 100 meters, this otherworldly underwater landscape will allow you to have a surreal experience as you float between continents. Despite Iceland’s chilly waters, snorkeling in Silfra is available year-round, with dry suits provided to keep you warm. Summer is the perfect time to take the plunge, as the mild weather and extended daylight hours allow you to fully enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Stay: Solheimar Eco Village guesthouse. It was a nice complex on the way towards the south coast very conveniently located.

Drive along southern coast

After visiting the Golden Circle, drive along the South Coast, a region full of scenic wonders. Start your day by visiting Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall. Continue to Skógafoss, one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, and if you’re up for it, hike to the top for an even more spectacular view. Next, go to the dramatic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach near the town of Vík, famous for its basalt sea stacks and powerful waves.

Stay: Hotel Dyrhólaey – With stunning views of the coast, this hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature. We chose this hotel for convenient location.

Here are the stops we had for the next couple of days:

After a night sleep near the Golden Circle, we had around 150km to the next accommodation and many attractions to stop at on the way.

Gluifrabui and Kvernufoss waterfalls and Solheimasandur plane wreck. I put together all you need to know about visiting the plane wreck in a separate post as there’s so much to know.

Vik

For the night we stopped in Vik to have plenty time the next day to drive to the next sleeping place in Vik while stopping to see all the attractions. Vik was a perfect stop to visit the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Once at the beach, look up the cliffs to spot puffins.

The next stop on your Iceland summer road trip itinerary is the magnificent Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. In winter, you would be able to explore the otherworldly ice caves (but that’s not possible in summer though), hike the glacier trails, or even try an ice-climbing adventure.

Then, drive to the iconic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, you can take a boat tour through the lagoon and between the floating icebergs.

Nearby, there’s one of the most Instagrammable spots: the famous diamond beach. However, in July, we hardly saw any.

Vik might not seem like the most attractive spot at first, but it is quite charming. Have a walk near Vik i Myrdal Church to witness the sea of lupines. It’s quite a sight. If you go a bit uphill, you’ll get a perfect postcard-like view of the flowers and the church in the background.

Stay:

Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – A chic, modern hotel offering fantastic views of the glacier and lagoon.
Volcano Hotel– it’s a small, but comfortable and convenient hotel.

Höfn- the lobster capital of Iceland

To give you a bit more perspective of how big Iceland is and to plan appropriately, the next sleep was in Höfn, 283km from Vik. While the road was easy, remember that the maximum speed in 90 km/h, there are many attractions on the way and the weather on the southern coast wad really capricious and changeable from sunny to stormy within minutes. Once in town, be sure to try the famous Icelandic langoustine (lobster) at a local seafood restaurant, the perfect way to end this epic drive.

Between Vik and Höfn stop by one of the most beautiful canyons in Iceland: Fjaðrárgljúfur. If you are planning Iceland road trip in summer, this is the best time to visit the canyon.

Eyjar and Breiðdalsvík

As we did our Iceland road trip in summer, we managed to move larger distances and make lots of stops within a shorter amount of time. This leg was 160km from Höfn.

This is maybe not the most attractive spot in this 10-day itinerary to Iceland in summer, however it was a very convenient stop to spend a night. Besides, it has this raw beauty of an off the beaten path location. It’s a place to see a tiny coastal village in Iceland and meet nobody but the locals.

The drive between Höfn and Breiðdalsvík, passing through the remote Eastfjords, is a stunning and peaceful stretch of any 10-day Iceland road trip in summer (I am not sure how accessible it would be in winter though, since it’s a bit off the Ring Road). Just outside Höfn, Vestrahorn Mountain and Stokksnes beach offer dramatic black sand dunes and incredible reflections.

Continuing along the Hvalnes Peninsula, stop at Lækjavik Beach for rugged coastal views. The charming fishing village of Djúpivogur is worth a visit for its colorful harbor and unique Eggin í Gleðivík sculpture. Towering over the landscape, Búlandstindur mountain is a mystical, pyramid-shaped peak, and the winding roads of Eyjar Fjord reveal hidden waterfalls and stunning ocean views. Finally, Breiðdalsvík is a tranquil retreat where you can explore Breiðdalur Valley’s striking geological formations and scenic hiking trails. This stretch of the Ring Road offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty, quiet villages, and dramatic fjord landscapes, making it a highlight of the Eastfjords.

Stay: Eyjar Fishing Lodge– a cute B&B surrounded by nature.

Stuðlagil Canyon

Our next stop for the night was in Skjöldólfsstadaskóli (around 150 km from Eyjar), just strategically located to visit Stuðlagil Canyon. On the way, have a stop in Seyðisfjörður- a picturesque little town.

You can’t drive to the canyon with a normal car, but you can leave it at the parking nearby and have a 2,5 km picturesque walk to the canyon. It’s worth it, believe me!

Northern circle:

Lake Mývatn

Around 120 km driving from last stop.

Drive north to Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland’s most geothermal-active areas. You can explore the Hverir hot springs, the Krafla volcano, and the pseudo craters at Skútustaðagígar. Don’t miss a relaxing dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths to unwind after a day of exploration. This is a perfect alternative to the Blue Lagoon, but way cheaper and without crowds.

Stay: Dimmuborgir Guesthouse – A comfortable and scenic hotel near Lake Mývatn, ideal for a relaxing night surrounded by nature.

Husavik

Húsavík, often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland, is a must-visit destination on any 10-day Iceland summer road trip. Located on the scenic shores of Skjálfandi Bay, this charming fishing town offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the world. During the summer months, the nutrient-rich waters attract a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, blue whales, and even orcas.

Several local tour operators offer boat excursions, ranging from traditional oak boats to speedy RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tours, providing an up-close view of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Beyond whale watching, visitors can explore the Húsavík Whale Museum, relax in the geothermal infinity pools at GeoSea, or visit the picturesque Húsavíkurkirkja church. With its stunning coastal scenery, rich marine life, and warm local hospitality, Húsavík is an unforgettable stop on an Icelandic road trip in summer.

Akureyri

We continued our journey to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. Wander around its charming streets, visit the botanical garden, and enjoy a meal at one of its cozy cafes. On the way, stop by the impressive Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” for a photo opportunity.

We booked accommodation on the other side of the bay as it was much more beautiful with lovely walks by the water and visited Akureyri as a day trip. It was also much more convenient for us to visit the colourful Laufas turf houses and explore the area as well as to go whale watching in Husavik.

Stay: North Inn Guesthouse &Cabin – this small accommodation of rooms and shared kitchen is a very comfortable and pretty choice close to scenic walks and Husavik for whale watching.

This was the walk near our accommodation in North Inn:

Reykjavik

We left Reykjavik for last, so we don’t need to rush to the airport.

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant and eclectic city, brimming with unique attractions, rich history, and stunning natural beauty.

The city is not that big, but there’s quite a lot to see in one day. From exploring the city’s quirky neighborhoods, to indulging in local cuisine, to embarking on adventures in the surrounding landscape, Reykjavik offers something for every type of traveler.

The city is a hub for art and culture, with museums like the National Museum of Iceland and the Harpa Concert Hall offering a taste of Iceland’s heritage and modern creativity.

You can also easily visit the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa just a short drive away, or explore nearby hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and glaciers. I, personally, found the Blue Lagoon a bit overrated and liked more similar lagoons in other parts of the island. Although it’s a beautiful lagoon, it’s so crowded that it takes it’s serenity away.

Reykjavik is also known for its trendy restaurants, lively nightlife, and cozy cafes, where you can unwind after a day of exploration.

See also:

Is it worth going for Iceland road trip in summer instead of winter?

I would say: 100% yes! The weather is lovely, driving much easier and the landscapes full of life.

This 10-day itinerary for a perfect Iceland road trip in summer is includes everything, so you can experience the raw beauty of this island, from stunning waterfalls to volcanic landscapes and peaceful coastal villages. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or nature immersion, Iceland offers something for every traveler. Make sure to plan your route in advance, book your accommodations early, and get ready for a truly magical experience on the road through Iceland’s unforgettable landscapes.

What to pack for Iceland road trip in summer

Here’s a comprehensive packing list, so you’re prepared for the unpredictable weather and diverse landscapes. Most days during my Iceland road trip in summer it was sunny and pleasant, but I wouldn’t say it was very warm. I wore a light padded jacket most days and at times even a winter hat.

Apparently, a year before the summer was really warm. Well, I have no other choice but believe it. However, one thing is for sure in Iceland in summer: the weather is unpredictable and changeable within minutes. So be prepared for anything.

What clothes and footwear is worth packing:

Waterproof jacket – Essential for Iceland’s unpredictable rain and wind.
Light insulated jacket or fleece – For chilly mornings and evenings.
Thermal base layers – Helps with temperature regulation during hikes.
Quick-dry T-shirts & long sleeves – Ideal for layering.
Waterproof hiking pants – Useful for outdoor adventures and rainy days.
Comfortable hiking boots (waterproof) – Necessary for rugged terrains.
Sneakers or casual shoes – For city sightseeing.
Wool/warm socks – Keeps your feet warm and dry.
Gloves, hat, and buff/scarf – Even in summer, Iceland can be cold, especially near waterfalls and glaciers.
Swimsuit – For hot springs, geothermal pools, and the Blue Lagoon.
Flip-flops – Useful for hot springs and communal showers.
Sleepwear & underwear – Pack according to your comfort.
Sunglasses – Protects against strong sunlight, especially with long daylight hours.
Sunscreen

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Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
Jack’s Flight Club is a service that can save you hundreds of dollars on flights, it works especially well in Europe.
Trivago where you can search and save on hotels.
Klook for all sorts of bookings- offers discounts.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.