Do you only have a couple of days to visit Iceland? Is spending just a weekend in Iceland a good idea? Enjoy even the shortest of journeys with our suggested itinerary for an unforgettable Icelandic weekend trip.
Iceland is the land of many wonders, where you could easily spend several weeks without doing the same thing twice. However, even if you're short on time and can only spend a handful of days here, it can still make for an unforgettable trip if you plan well.
Our suggested itinerary for weekend trips to Iceland focuses on the Southwest. This allows you to stay close to Reykjavik, minimize driving time, and take full advantage of guided day trips and tours departing from the capital.
Of course, you should feel free to adapt our recommendations to your preferences and sense of adventure. A short trip to Iceland is merely a taste and will surely entice you to come back for a longer vacation!
Tips for a Weekend Trip in Iceland
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Schedule your flight to arrive early on Saturday and depart early on Monday to ensure two full nights of rest.
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Pack light and leave heavy luggage at home.
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Consider self-drive itineraries to make the most out of the two days for a more structured adventure, like this 2-day road trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
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If you want to avoid driving, take advantage of guided tours that pick you up and drop you off in Reykjavik, like this 2-day small-group Golden Circle and South Coast tour.
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Book car rentals, accommodations, and tour reservations well in advance to ensure availability and best prices, as weekends are especially popular.
- Discover the Top 11 Travel Tips in Iceland
Before You Start
To enjoy your Icelandic weekend to the fullest, be realistic about your expectations of how much you will be able to see and do in two days. Iceland is amazing and vast, and it's simply not possible to cover it all, even briefly, in a day or two.
Focus on the regions close to Reykjavik. Exploring the marvels of the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula will help you get the most out of your weekend in Iceland.
Weekend in Iceland Itinerary Day 1
Your flight lands in Keflavik International Airport on a Saturday morning. You're returning home early on Monday, so the time to savor your weekend getaway is short. To save time and money, you've decided to take advantage of car rentals in Keflavik, and so you head straight to the parking lot where your rental car is already waiting.
If dark clouds loom over the North, you're well prepared for the island's changeable weather and have followed expert advice on how to pack for travel in Iceland. Your carry-on luggage is light yet packed tight with warm and waterproof layers on top of sturdy hiking boots.
Rain or shine, you're ready to explore. With your route planned, you're focused and prepared for the drive ahead.
- See also: The Ultimate Guide To Driving in Iceland
Morning: Blue Lagoon Towards Reykjavik
Your first stop of the day is the famous Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa. It's only 14 miles (23 kilometers) from the airport and along the way to Reykjavik.
Visiting in the morning allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy the jewel of Iceland's geothermal landscape, surrounded by the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Relaxing in hot water recharges your battery after the red-eye flight, getting you ready for a day of exploring. Then it's time to visit the capital.
Having covered the 31 miles (50 kilometers) separating the Blue Lagoon from the capital along the Reykjanesbraut Main Road, you arrive in the city center, where one of Reykjavik's accommodations awaits. After checking in, you head out and choose from the best restaurants in Reykjavik as a lunch treat.
Afternoon: The Golden Circle
After checking out your lodgings and enjoying a delicious lunch, you hop back into your rental car and leave Reykjavik. Iceland has so much to offer and so much for you to see and do that you have to be very picky during this short weekend trip.
You decided that less is more: this time, you're only going to explore the greater Southwest region of the island. If you weren't renting a car, an afternoon Golden Circle tour would be an excellent option for your first day in Iceland.
You drive through the geothermal area of Nesjavellir, marveling at pillars of steam rising from the looming mountains. The winding road takes you to the Kerid Crater, where red-rock walls embrace an opaque aquamarine lake at the bottom.
After taking in the scenery, you continue towards the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, where the geysers Strokkur and Geysir capture your attention.
A short distance away, the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland's single most popular attraction, awaits. You follow a footpath to the river's edge to find a scenic spot to look down into the gorge and appreciate the waterfall's power.
Your last stop of this long day is the Thingvellir National Park. You can't miss an opportunity to walk along the rift valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and explore the historic area where the Icelandic parliament, Althingi, was founded in 930.
For another option, you can visit Thingvellir National Park earlier in the day to experience the one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim between tectonic plates in the Silfra Fissure. You can book one of the many snorkeling tours for a guided adventure.
You have now completed Iceland's most popular tourist route, the Golden Circle. You are ready to head back to central Reykjavik, where you can perhaps stop for a pint at one of Reykjavik's many bars. Just make sure to get some much-needed sleep before another full day of exploring tomorrow.
- See also: Nightlife in Reykjavik
Weekend in Iceland Itinerary Day 2
For breakfast, you're craving something tasty, filling, and unique, so the choice is obvious — Icelandic pastries from one of Reykjavik's famous bakeries. You head straight to BakaBaka to grab a freshly baked snudur. This Icelandic take on a cinnamon roll fills you right up, preparing you for the day's adventures.
Morning to Afternoon: Reykjadalur
Mountains with numerous accessible hiking routes ending with great city views surround Reykjavik. Mount Esja is a top choice for a Sunday morning hike close to the capital — "The Mountain of Reykjavik” has been delighting outdoor enthusiasts for decades.
You plan to visit the geothermal area of Reykjadalur (Valley of Steam), perched in the mountains above the small town of Hveragerdi, 28 miles (46 kilometers) east of the capital. Reykjadalur is the perfect spot to bathe and relax in steaming hot water that flows down the mountains, forming a river to which locals and visitors flock daily.
Not wasting a minute of your time in Iceland, you have booked a guided hiking tour from Hveragerdi. This will take you farther into the mountains to explore and appreciate the hot springs, lava fields, and scenic vistas of Reykjadalur.
Evening: The Capital City
You return to Reykjavik late in the afternoon and head to the harbor district of Grandi. Once an industrial area, it has evolved into a hip, artistic neighborhood full of workshops and galleries in recent years.
Close by is Old Reykjavik Harbor, from where you're departing on the best value whale watching trip. Out in Faxafloi Bay, you spend the early evening hours marveling at minke and humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and other extraordinary marine animals.
After returning to land and enjoying a late dinner at one of Grandi's many bistros and restaurants, you continue your walk along the coastline. Your destination is the Grotta Nature Reserve, a birdwatcher's dream come true, where numerous species of birds have built their nests under the protection of the fierce Arctic tern.
On your way back, you spot Kvika, a wonderful little man-made thermal footbath in the middle of the rocky beach. You dip your feet and take in the evening view of Faxafloi Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the Snaefellsjokull Glacier in the distance.
This is the perfect place to watch the midnight sun linger on the horizon during summer or to catch the northern lights in Reykjavik in winter. It's a fitting farewell to the land of ice and fire in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
- See also Top 15 Things To Do in Reykjavik
Iceland Weekend Itinerary FAQs
Our weekend itinerary is one of many ways to enjoy Iceland in a tight timeframe. The questions and answers below will help you prepare to get the most out of your weekend trip, no matter how you decide to spend it.
What's the best time of year to visit Iceland for a weekend trip?
Summer offers long daylight hours and accessible highland areas, while winter provides opportunities to see the northern lights and enjoy winter activities. Each season has its unique attractions, so choose based on your interests.
How far in advance should I plan my trip?
It's advisable to plan at least 4-6 months in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak summer months (June to August). Popular tours and accommodations, especially around Reykjavik, sell out months in advance.
How can I manage expenses during my trip?
Iceland is expensive, but you can manage costs by self-catering to save on dining expenses, avoiding bottled water, and utilizing happy hours that many bars offer. You can also get discounts and offers through the VIP Club when booking with Guide to Iceland.
Is Icelandic tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Icelandic tap water is safe and among the purest in the world. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill during your travels.
Can I see the northern lights during a weekend trip?
The northern lights are visible from late September to early April. Checking out the aurora forecast and the weather forecast, you can search for the northern lights on your own with a rental car.
Guided northern lights tours are also a convenient option. While sightings are never guaranteed, their expert guides know the best viewing spots and monitor weather conditions to drastically improve your chances of spotting the aurora borealis.
What are the road conditions like for drivers?
Main roads, like Route 1 (the Ring Road), are mostly paved. However, other roads are narrow, steep, and unpaved. If you're unfamiliar with such conditions, especially during winter, exercise caution and consider renting 4x4 vehicles.
Are there any cultural experiences to enjoy in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik boasts a vibrant arts scene, exceptional dining options, and landmarks like the Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. Exploring museums such as the National Museum and the Reykjavik Art Museum can enrich your understanding of Icelandic culture.
Are there any safety considerations I should be aware of?
Always check weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if driving. Iceland's weather can change rapidly, impacting travel plans. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for the conditions, and inform someone of your itinerary if venturing into remote areas.
A Weekend To Remember
One magical weekend in Iceland might be over, but so many more await. The only question now is when to come back and how many days you’ll need to uncover even more of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Are you ready for a weekend in Iceland? Or have you already taken your trip? Either way, let us know in the comments below.
