Iceland Ring Road Itinerary 2026: The Ultimate 7-Day Adventure

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Planning a 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary for 2026? This guide shares my exact route with 41 stops, a map you can follow, and the tips I wish I knew. Expect volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, and black sand beaches, all organized day by day, so you can copy it with ease.

7 Days on Iceland’s Ring Road

In this complete Iceland Ring Road itinerary, I share my stops, a detailed map, and travel tips from our 7-day road trip.

How Many Days Do You Need for Iceland’s Ring Road?

Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is the country’s main highway and one of the best road trip routes in the world.

The full loop covers about 828 miles (1,332 kilometers), and while you can rush it, I recommend taking your time to explore each region properly.

Map of 7-day ring road itinerary with 41 Stops
Map of my 7-day ring road itinerary with 41 Stops

Our road trip was bold and not for the faint of heart.

We did it in just 7 days, but I’d recommend using it for a 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary too!

If you want to add more add-ons, like the Snaefellsnes Peninsula or Westfjords, consider making this your 14-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary.

That will give you more time to relax and explore.

Ultimate 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

So let’s get started! Here is everywhere I stopped!

Looking for something specific? Use the drop-down below.

Choose Your Ring Road Stop!
  1. 7 Days on Iceland’s Ring Road

Day 1: Blue Lagoon and Silica Hotel

Stop 1: Silica Hotel & Blue Lagoon

We landed in Keflavík after an overnight flight from Boston — zero sleep and barely functioning.

Most people rush off to start their Ring Road adventure right away, but I knew better.

Beginning a trip that tired can ruin your whole week and even get you sick.

So instead of powering through, we picked up our rental car, grabbed a coffee, and drove straight to the Blue Lagoon for a much-needed reset.

Blue Lagoon on Iceland Ring Road – milky blue geothermal water surrounded by lava rocks
Soaking in the Blue Lagoon at the start of our Iceland Ring Road trip

We booked one night at the Silica Hotel, which gave us access to both the private lagoon and the famous Blue Lagoon just a short walk away.

Staying overnight gave us access to a private lagoon exclusive to hotel guests, plus early entry to the main Blue Lagoon without the crowds.

Staying one night at the Silicia Hotel after an overnight flight from Boston to Keflavik.
Staying one night at the Silicia Hotel after an overnight flight from Boston to Keflavik.

After checking in, we soaked in warm, milky-blue water surrounded by lava rocks, dined at the Lava Restaurant, which had views of the Blue Lagoon.

It’s the perfect first stop for rest, recovery, and easing into Icelandic adventure.

Day 2: Stóra-Grábrók, Akureyri

Stop 2: Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike

Today would be our longest drive of the trip, five hours from Blue Lagoon to Akueryi. But we had a few fun stops planned along the way.

Located Just off the Ring Road near Bifröst is the Stóra-Grábrók Crater.

This short, scenic hike takes you to the rim of a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater with sweeping views of moss-covered lava fields.

Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike on Iceland Ring Road – view from the rim over moss-covered lava fields
Taking on the Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike during our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

The 1.5 km trail is easy, with wooden stairs and a gravel path leading to the top.

It only takes about 30–45 minutes round-trip, making it a perfect leg-stretching stop between longer drives.

Views of the Volcanic Crater in West Iceland
Views of the Volcanic Crater in West Iceland

On a clear day, you can even spot the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the distance. Don’t miss this quick but epic hike!

Optional Add On: Normally, you’d want to include a day exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. We wanted to as well, but we simply didn’t have the time.

Stop 3: Hot Dogs at N1 in Staður

From here, we continued north toward Akureyri.

If you have extra time and are working with a longer itinerary, I’d recommend heading slightly east.

There you can explore Reykholt and the surrounding area — it’s full of history and geothermal spots worth a detour.

Enjoying Hot Dogs at N1 in Staður during our Ring Road adventure
Enjoying Hot Dogs at N1 in Staður during our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

But for us, it was onward. We made a quick stop for gas (and hot dogs, of course) at the N1 in Staður.

There aren’t many services between here and Akureyri, so be sure to fuel up — both your car and your belly.

Stop 4: Ice Cream at Olís in Varmahlíð

We made one more stop an hour and a half later before arriving in Akureyri at Olís in Varmahlíð.

It was mostly a bathroom break, but we couldn’t resist grabbing a soft-serve ice cream.

Trying Iceland's famous soft serve at Olís in Varmahlíð
Trying Iceland’s famous soft serve at Olís in Varmahlíð

Believe it or not, soft serve is a big deal in Iceland — locals love it year-round, even in the middle of winter.

On this warm day, it was the perfect road trip pick-me-up and just what we needed to keep going.

Optional Add-On: We are going straight to Akueryi, but if you have more time, you can add a stop at Hvítserkur, a sea stack resembling a three-legged creature or a rhino.

Stop 5: Akureyri

We finally made it to Akureyri, arriving around 3:00 PM.

Akureyri is often called the “Capital of the North,” and after spending a day here, I get why.

This little city tucked along the Eyjafjörður fjord totally surprised us — it’s walkable, colorful, and packed with fun things to do.

Visiting Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” during our 7-day ring road itinerary iceland
Visiting Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” during our 7-day ring road itinerary iceland

We kicked things off with a downtown walk, spotting street art and that giant troll-witch statue.

Before climbing the steps to Akureyrarkirkja Church for a great view over the town.

Eating volcano hot dogs in Akureyri, Iceland
Eating volcano hot dogs in Akureyri, Iceland

Then we grabbed volcano hot dogs from Pylsuvagninn before soaking in the Forest Lagoon for a couple of hours with wine in hand.

Eating volcano hot dogs in Akureyri, Iceland
Soaking at the fun Forest Lagoon in North Iceland during our Ring Road trip

For dinner, we went all-in with the tasting menu at Rub 23, then wrapped things up with a cocktail at Eyja — which just so happened to be the best drink I had in all of Iceland.

If you’re doing the Ring Road, make time for Akureyri. Whether you’re into hot springs, food, cocktails, or just slowing down, this town checks all the boxes.

Day 3: Goðafoss, Mývatn, Husavik

Stop 6: Goðafoss – The Waterfall of the Gods

Our drive continues east of Akureyri to Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful and photogenic waterfalls.

Visiting Goðafoss – The Waterfall of the Gods during our Ring Road Drive
Next stop is Goðafoss – The Waterfall of the Gods, during our Ring Road Drive

We made a quick stop here on our way into the Diamond Circle add-on portion of our Ring Road Drive.

I was blown away by the views from both sides.

It’s an easy walk from the parking lot and a must-see if you’re heading through North Iceland.

Stop 7: Mývatn Nature Baths

Then it was time to relax at a hot spring! Nicknamed the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” Mývatn Nature Baths was one of our favorite hot spring experiences in Iceland.

The warm, milky blue water overlooks Lake Mývatn and the surrounding lava fields, making it just as beautiful as it is relaxing.

Soaking my morning away at the Mývatn Nature Baths during my Iceland road trip on Ring Road
Soaking my morning away at the Mývatn Nature Baths on my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

We spent about an hour here soaking it all in — literally — and loved how peaceful it felt compared to the more touristy lagoons.

There’s a swim-up bar, steamy views, and fewer crowds.

Definitely book your experience before visiting. I recommend going as soon as they open, before the tour buses arrive in full force.

Stop 8: Hverfjall Crater

Just outside Lake Mývatn, we drove to the Hverfjall Crater for a hike.

You can hike up this massive volcano in about 30 minutes. But we decided to do the entire thing.

The trail is steep, and once you reach the top, the views from the rim are incredible.

Hiking to the top of the Hverfjall Crater while traveling the Ring Road in Iceland
Hiking to the top of the Hverfjall Crater while traveling the Ring Road in Iceland

We walked the entire crater edge and felt like we were on another planet — a quick, rewarding stop you shouldn’t miss.

Stop 9: Dimmuborgir Lava Fields

Only five minutes away from Hverfjall Crater is Dimmuborgir, one of the weirdest and coolest places we saw.

This massive lava field is filled with wild rock formations, caves, and arches that seriously look like crumbling castles.

Hiking the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields during our Diamond Circle add on
Hiking the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields during our Diamond Circle add-on

We walked one of the short loops through the area and couldn’t stop pointing out shapes in the lava.

Stop 10: Cowshed Cafe

At this point, we were hungry, so we stopped at Cowshed Café at the Vogafjós Farm Resort for lunch, and it totally hit the spot.

We had the meat soup and a burger, paired with two local beers, all while dining next to a window that looked right out at the cows.

Getting lunch at the unique Cowshed Cafe in Lake Myvatn
Getting lunch at the unique Cowshed Cafe in Lake Myvatn

But the Geysir Bread Ice Cream for dessert completely stole the show. It was a fun, flavorful break in the middle of the drive.

One of my favorite meals during our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
One of my favorite meals during our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Don’t forget to go say hi to the cows after your meal!

Stop 11: Husavik

From here, we headed north for one hour to Húsavík.

Which is our overnight stop along the Diamond Circle portion of the trip.

We came here to whale watch with North Sailing — after all, Húsavík is known as the whale watching capital of the world.

Húsavík on Iceland Ring Road – whale watching boat tour with mountains in the background
Gearing up for our whale watching tour in Husavik with North Sailing

The experience was absolutely mind-blowing, and there’s no way I can sum it up in a few sentences.

So be sure to check out my full Húsavík whale watching guide for all the details.

Húsavík add-on for our Iceland Road Trip Ring Road
Húsavík add-on for our Iceland Road Trip Ring Road

After the tour, we tried fermented shark at Ja Ja Ding Dong and ended the night with a midnight sun soak at GeoSea!

Trying fermented shark in Iceland at Ja Ja Ding Dong
Trying fermented shark in Iceland at Ja Ja Ding Dong

If you’re staying overnight anywhere along the Diamond Circle, choose Husavik!

For more information on my stops in Husavik, check out my Diamond Circle Itinerary.

Day 4: Diamond Circle to Borgarfjörður Eystri

Stop 12: Öxarfjörður Bird Cliffs

We left Husavik the next morning with a 45-minute drive from Húsavík to the Öxarfjörður Bird Cliffs.

Spending the morning at the Öxarfjörður Bird Cliffs on the Diamond Circle
Spending the morning at the Öxarfjörður Bird Cliffs on the Diamond Circle

This peaceful coastal spot isn’t super well-known, but we loved the quiet views and chance to spot seabirds along the cliffs.

It was a calm, quick break before heading into the more dramatic parts of the Diamond Circle.

Stop 13: Dettifoss

We made our way to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and it definitely lived up to the hype.

Hiking to Dettifoss from the west side, a must-see on the Diamond Circle.
Walking to Dettifoss waterfall along Iceland’s Diamond Circle, part of the Ring Road route

We visited from the west side, where you can get up close and feel the ground rumble beneath your feet. It was wild, loud, and absolutely worth the detour.

We skipped Selfoss to stay on schedule, but Dettifoss alone was unforgettable.

Stop 14: Krafla Crater

Now heading back down to Ring Road, finishing up the Diamond Circle route is the Krafla Crater.

One of the most otherworldly stops on the Diamond Circle, Krafla Crater made us feel like we’d landed on another planet.

Hiking to the top of Krafla is one of my favorite stops on my Iceland Ring Road itinerary
Hiking to the top of Krafla is one of my favorite stops on my Iceland Ring Road itinerary

The short but steep trail loops around the rim, offering nonstop views of the bright blue crater lake and surrounding volcanic soil.

Steam vents in the distance only add to the alien feel — this was my favorite hike in the area.

Stop 15: Hverir

We ended our Diamond Circle loop at Hverir, a wild geothermal area near Lake Mývatn that looks like a sci-fi movie set.

The air smelled like sulfur, and steam rose from the ground in every direction.

Hverir geothermal area — a must-see Iceland Ring Road attraction
Hverir geothermal area — a must-see Iceland Ring Road attraction

Bright orange soil, bubbling mud pots, and hissing vents made it feel like a mini version of Yellowstone.

It was the most dramatic geothermal spot we saw in Iceland — the perfect finale to the north.

Stop 16: Egilsstaðir N1 Hot Dogs & Gas

After the two-hour drive from Hverir, we refueled at the N1 gas station in Egilsstaðir.

Grabbing hot dogs for lunch and filling up the tank. Because our next stop is remote!

Fuel up at Egilsstaðir N1 — gas, snacks, and the best Icelandic hot dogs on the Ring Road.
Fuel up at Egilsstaðir N1 — gas, snacks, and the best Icelandic hot dogs on the Ring Road.

It was the perfect roadside pit stop to recharge before heading back out.

Optional Add-On: If you have time during this drive, consider stopping at the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon. You’ll pass the turnoff along the way, just a short drive down a dirt road. It’s one of my biggest regrets not making it there — but we were on a mission to reach our next add-on!

Stop 17: Borgarfjörður Eystri (Optional Add-On)

We decided to head northeast to visit the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri instead.

It is only an hour away from Egilsstaðir, so the detour wasn’t too time-consuming.

It’s not a common stop on most Ring Road itineraries, but for us, it was an absolute must, and I will tell you why.

Only an hour off Ring Road is the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland
Only an hour off Ring Road is the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland

This tiny coastal town felt like a hidden gem.

We swung on the oceanfront swing, soaked in a beer bath at Blábjörg Resort, and wandered around town.

Borgarfjörður Eystri iwas my favorite town we visited in Iceland
Borgarfjörður Eystri was my favorite town we visited in Iceland

Here is everything we did when visiting Borgarfjörður Eystri Travel Guide: Best Things to Do!

But for us, we came here for one reason — the puffins!

Stop 18: Hafnarhólmi Cliffs (Puffins!)

Just a short drive from Borgarfjörður Eystri sits Hafnarhólmi, one of Iceland’s best (and free!) puffin-watching spots.

Each summer, over 10,000 puffins nest here — and you can get incredibly close thanks to the wooden boardwalk and viewing platforms.

Visiting the Hafnarhólmi Cliffs during our Ring Road Itinerary
Visiting the Hafnarhólmi Cliffs during our Ring Road Itinerary

Watching them waddle, flap, and dive was both adorable and mesmerizing.

The best places to see puffins in Iceland are the Hafnarhólmi Cliffs, a detour off Ring Road
The best places to see puffins in Iceland are the Hafnarhólmi Cliffs, a detour off Ring Road

This was hands down the highlight of our detour and the perfect wildlife grand finale on the eastern leg of our Ring Road trip.

Day 5: Seyðisfjörður, Hengifoss, Stokksnes, Höfn

Stop 19: Seyðisfjörður

From Borgarfjörður Eystri, we made the scenic one-hour 15-minute drive to Seyðisfjörður, which is another add-on.

The drive alone was worth it, but our main reason for coming was to photograph the famous rainbow path leading up to the blue church in town.

A scenic detour to Seyðisfjörður — rainbow path, blue church,  before rejoining the Ring Road.
A scenic detour to Seyðisfjörður — rainbow path, blue church, before rejoining the Ring Road.

It’s a small, artsy village tucked into a fjord, and it gave us a peaceful little break before reconnecting with the Ring Road!

Stop 20: Egilsstaðir (Again)

Next, we took the 30-minute drive back to Egilsstaðir, filled up on gas again, and grabbed another — you guessed it — hot dog!

Classic Icelandic hot dog stop in Egilsstaðir — the ultimate cheap and tasty fuel-up during our Ring Road itinerary.
Classic Icelandic hot dog stop in Egilsstaðir — the ultimate cheap meal during our Ring Road itinerary.

Don’t judge us! We probably ate 20 hot dogs during our Iceland trip. But honestly, they’re cheap, delicious, and the perfect Ring Road snack.

Saving money during the day lets us splurge a little more at night, and truthfully, there’s nothing I’d rather eat on a road trip like this.

Stop 21: Hengifoss Waterfall Hike

Next up was a bucket list hike, and we ventured about 25 minutes off the Ring Road to tackle it! Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland.

The hike took about 1.5–2 hours round-trip with steady uphill climbs, but the views made every step worth it.

Hengifoss Waterfall on Iceland Ring Road – tall waterfall framed by red rock layers
Hiking to Hengifoss Waterfall during our 7-day ring road itinerary

Along the way, we passed another waterfall, Litlanesfoss, known for its wild basalt columns.

Hengifoss itself was massive and dramatic, framed by red rock layers that looked straight out of a painting.

This was easily one of our favorite hikes of the trip.

Stop 22: Djúpivogur

After our hike, we were starving!

So we got back on the Ring Road and headed south for 1 hour and 30 minutes until we reached the small seaside village of Djúpivogur.

Eating lunch at the small seaside village of Djúpivogur
Eating lunch at the small seaside village of Djúpivogur

We came here to eat hot dogs at Matarvagninn á Djúpavogi, a local food truck that totally hit the spot.

Beautiful art in Djúpivogur on Ring Road in East Iceland
Beautiful art in Djúpivogur on Ring Road in East Iceland

The town was adorable too, and I loved admiring the artwork and harbor.

Stop 23: Stokksnes

From Djúpivogur, we continued for one hour and thirty minutes along the Ring Road toward one of the most dramatic beaches in Iceland — Stokksnes.

This black sand beach sits at the base of the towering Vestrahorn mountain, and the views are just unreal.

Black sand dunes at Stokksnes with Vestrahorn mountain in the background, a scenic stop along Iceland’s Ring Road.
Stokksnes black sand beach is a must-visit on my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

The contrast of the jet-black dunes, crashing waves, and sharp peaks feels straight out of a movie.

We paid a small entrance fee at the Viking Café, then wandered the beach, snapped way too many photos, and just took in the surreal landscape.

Stop 24: Höfn

From Stokksnes, it was a quick 23-minute drive to Höfn, a small fishing village known as the lobster capital of Iceland.

We stayed overnight here, which gave us a chance to relax, enjoy the peaceful harbor, and watch a seal swimming right off the dock.

Höfn harbor in East Iceland at sunset, with boats docked and mountains in the distance, a scenic Ring Road stop.
Evening views at the Höfn harbor, a peaceful stop along Iceland’s Ring Road with seals and sea views.

For dinner, we ate at Pakkhús, one of the top restaurants in town, to try their famous “lobster” which, in Iceland, actually means langoustine.

Grilled Icelandic langoustine served at Pakkhús restaurant in Höfn, a top food stop along the Ring Road.
Icelandic langoustine at Pakkhús in Höfn — a must-try seafood dish on your Ring Road itinerary.

Smaller than the lobster you might be used to, but buttery, tender, and absolutely delicious. After days of hot dogs and hiking, this meal felt like a total treat.

Day 6: Diamond Beach, Vík, DC Plane Wreck, Selfoss

Stop 25: Diamond Beach

The next morning, we woke up and drove about an hour to Diamond Beach — one of the most famous stops along the Ring Road.

But to be honest, it wasn’t quite what we expected. There weren’t many “diamonds” (ice chunks) on the black sand when we arrived.

Diamond Beach in Iceland with glacial ice on black sand near Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
Diamond Beach’s black sand and glittering ice chunks make it a must-see Ring Road stop.

What I wish I knew before: The amount of ice totally depends on the weather and tides, so it can be hit or miss.

We did see a few shimmering pieces near the shoreline and were still grateful to catch a glimpse of this surreal beach.

Stop 26: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Just across from Diamond Beach, we visited Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and hopped aboard the Amphibian Boat Tour, a standout on our Ring Road itinerary.

This 30–40 minute ride took us right into the lagoon’s heart, cruising past towering icebergs while our English-speaking guide shared fascinating glacier facts.

Icebergs floating in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Iceland under blue sky
Floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are unreal in person.

We saw 1,000‑year‑old glacier ice and spotted a seal lazing on the rocks.

Stop 27: Skaftárskáli

After the Diamond Beach area, it was time to hit the road towards Vik. After 1 hour and 30 minutes, we were getting pretty hungry.

We stopped at Skaftárskáli in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for — you guessed it — another hot dog. At this point, are you even surprised?

It was the only place open for food at 10 AM, so it worked out perfectly.

Icelandic hot dog at Skaftárskáli roadside stop along the Ring Road
Fueling up with an Icelandic hot dog on Route 1 at Skaftárskáli.

We paired our hot dogs with Egils Appelsín, Iceland’s famous orange soda — sweet, fizzy, and surprisingly refreshing after a long day on Route 1.

Now it was only 45 minutes to Vik!

Stop 28: Vík Black Sand Beach

We made it to Vík and strolled the iconic black sand beach — and somehow, we had it almost entirely to ourselves.

During midnight sun and peak tourist season, that felt overwhelming. The beach was moody, peaceful, and absolutely stunning.

Black sand beach with ocean waves in Vík, Iceland, a scenic stop on the South Coast along Route 1.
Waves crashing along the black sand beach in Vík, a must-stop on Iceland’s Ring Road.

We also got to pet some friendly Icelandic horses nearby and wandered the area with no rush.

Out of all the beaches we visited on the Ring Road, this one was my favorite.

Stop 29: Reynisfjara Beach

Only 12 minutes from Vik Black Sand beach is Reynisfjara. Which is the most famous black sand beach in Iceland.

When we visited, it was packed with tourists and super windy. The basalt columns and crashing waves are beautiful to see, but it can feel a bit overwhelming with the crowds.

Reynisfjara Beach on Iceland Ring Road – basalt columns and black sand with ocean waves.
Basalt columns at Reynisfjara Beach, one of the most iconic stops on Iceland’s Ring Road.

Also, keep an eye out for sneaker waves — they’re no joke here.

If you’re short on time, I’d honestly recommend skipping this one and heading to Vík Black Sand Beach instead.

I think Reynisfjara Beach is a bit overrated. But still beautiful!

Stop 30: Dyrhólaey Cliffs

Our next stop was Dyrhólaey, known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the coast.

But wow — it was so windy when we visited, we could barely stand upright, let alone enjoy a peaceful walk.

View from Dyrhólaey Cliffs overlooking black sand coastline on Iceland’s South Coast Ring Road.
Sweeping ocean views from Dyrhólaey Cliffs, a must-stop along Iceland’s Ring Road.

We had hoped to see puffins here, but there were none in sight that day.

Honestly, we were just grateful we had such an amazing puffin experience earlier in the trip, because this spot was bird-free for us.

Still, the views alone made it worth the windy struggle.

Stop 31: Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Just a 12-minute drive from Dyrhólaey, we stopped at one of the most unique (and eerie) sights in Iceland — the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck.

This was honestly one of my favorite stops on our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary.

Sometimes overlooked, this abandoned U.S. Navy plane crashed here in 1973 after running out of fuel.

Everyone survived, but the wreckage was left behind, creating a surreal scene on the black sand beach.

You can hike there and back — it’s about 4 miles total on a flat gravel road — or take the shuttle, which costs around $25 per person round trip.

Couple standing on Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, a popular photo stop on the Iceland Ring Road near Vik.
Exploring the famous Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck on Iceland’s Route One.

We were totally wiped from hiking on and off all day, so we opted for the shuttle. It was absolutely worth it, especially since it was cold and windy even in late June.

Standing next to the wreck in the middle of nowhere felt like stepping into another world.

Stop 32: Lunch at Mia’s Country Van

For lunch, we pulled over at Mia’s Country Van, and I can honestly say — this was one of the best meals I had during our entire Iceland trip.

It’s a humble little food truck near Skógar, but the fish and chips were unreal — perfectly crispy on the outside, flaky and fresh on the inside.

Crispy fish and chips from Mia’s Country Van.  A must-try lunch stop on your Iceland 7-day ring road itinerary
Crispy fish and chips from Mia’s Country Van. A must-try lunch stop on your Iceland 7-day ring road itinerary

Delicious, affordable, and full of charm — this stop was a total standout.

Oh, and the man who worked there was so friendly and proud. He truly made the whole experience even better.

Stop 33: Skógafoss

Right next to Mia’s Country Van is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and it’s an easy stop right off Route 1.

We parked and walked straight to the base of the falls, where the sheer power and size of the water crashing down made it feel like we were standing in front of something ancient.

Skógafoss is a must-see waterfall on your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
Quick stop at Skógafoss, a must-see waterfall on your Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

We didn’t stay long because of the rainstorm coming through.

But it’s definitely worth the quick detour for a photo and a moment to take it all in.

Stop 34: Seljalandsfoss

We then took the 25-minute drive west from Skógafoss to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall view from the front on the Ring Road in Iceland
Admiring Seljalandsfoss, one of the most famous waterfalls on Route 1 in Iceland

It’s known for the unique path that lets you walk behind the waterfall, offering a completely different perspective.

We attempted the walk, but it was extremely slippery, and the crowds were a bit chaotic. Legit people were shoving people out of the way and hitting shoulders.

So we turned around and admired it from the front.

Even without the full loop, the falls were stunning, cascading down a high cliff with lush greenery all around.

Icelandic donut held up in front of Seljalandsfoss waterfall along Route 1
Donuts and views at Seljalandsfoss waterfall on Iceland’s Ring Road.

And honestly, the real surprise hit came from the snack shack in the parking lot — we grabbed one of the best donuts of our entire trip. A sweet end to a soggy stop!

Stop 35: Selfoss

We drove one more hour to reach our hotel for the night in Selfoss.

It had been a long day filled with driving, hiking, and exploring — but we knew that when we left Höfn earlier that morning.

We still made it to town around dinnertime, just in time to settle in, grab a fresh seafood dinner at Mar Seafood!

Enjoying a seafood dinner at Mar Seafood in Selfoss
Enjoying a seafood dinner at Mar Seafood in Selfoss

It was the perfect place to rest up before the final stretch of our Ring Road adventure.

Day 7: Golden Circle

Stop 36: Kerið Crater

From Selfoss, we officially started the Golden Circle portion of our trip, kicking it off at Kerið Crater. It was only a 15-minute drive from Selfoos too.

This volcanic crater lake is over 3,000 years old, with vibrant red slopes and deep blue water that looks amazing from above.

Stopping at Kerið Crater, our first stop along The Golden Circle
Stopping at Kerið Crater, our first stop along The Golden Circle

You can hike around the rim or down into the crater itself, but with our packed schedule, we stuck to the top trail for a quick visit.

Even without going all the way down, the views were stunning and totally worth the stop.

Stop 37: Gullfoss Waterfall

After a 45-minute drive from Kerið, we arrived at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.

It’s massive, loud, and powerful — truly a sight to see.

We walked to the main viewing platform, which offered a great perspective, but didn’t stay long.

The buggy yet beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland
The buggy yet beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

It was beyond buggy when we visited — like, I couldn’t breathe without eating bugs buggy — so we skipped the lower viewpoints and called it good after a few quick photos.

Still, totally worth seeing, even briefly.

Stop 38: Haukadalur Geothermal Field

Next up on the Golden Circle was the Haukadalur geothermal field — home to the famous geysers Strokkur and Geysir.

Strokkur was the real star here, erupting every few minutes and shooting hot water high into the air.

Watching Strokkur erupt along the Golden Circle in Iceland
Watching Strokkur erupt along the Golden Circle in Iceland

We walked along the main paths, watching steam rise from bubbling pools and colorful, mineral-stained ground. It was wild to see so much geothermal activity up close.

Even though it’s one of the most popular stops in Iceland, it didn’t feel too crowded while we were there, and seeing Strokkur go off multiple times was totally worth it.

Stop 39: Efstidalur Farm Hotel

After exploring the geysers, we stopped at Efstidalur Farm Hotel for lunch, and it was exactly what we needed.

We originally planned to eat at Friðheimar, the famous tomato greenhouse restaurant. But I’m not a fan of bees—and since they use live bees for pollination, we decided to skip it.

I am glad I did because my meal at the farm hotel was beyond good.

Enjoying the all you can eat soup at Efstidalur Farm Hotel on Golden Circle
Enjoying the all-you-can-eat soup at Efstidalur Farm Hotel on Golden Circle

I had their all-you-can-eat soup, served with homemade bread that was still warm, and we sat upstairs where we could literally watch the cows through the windows while we ate.

Before leaving, we grabbed a scoop of their famous farm-made ice cream. Because when in Iceland, ice cream is a year-round thing, even in the cold.

Stop 40: Thingvellir National Park

We wrapped up our Golden Circle loop with a visit to Þingvellir National Park. One of the most historic and geologically unique places in Iceland.

We walked around the paths near the rift valley and stopped to see the Silfra fissure, where people snorkel between two tectonic plates. We had originally planned to do it too… until I found out it’s dry suit only.

Öxarárfoss in Þingvellir National Park on Iceland's Golden Circle
Öxarárfoss in Þingvellir National Park on Iceland’s Golden Circle

The idea of being zipped into a tight suit for an hour? No thanks — I knew I’d feel claustrophobic. So we did the waterfall hike instead!

I hiked to Öxarárfoss in Þingvellir National Park, a powerful waterfall that flows through the Almannagjá rift where two tectonic plates meet. It’s a short, scenic trail that’s worth the stop.

Stop 41: Reykjavík

Our 7-day ring road itinerary officially ends in Reykjavík, where we decided to spend two extra days exploring the capital.

The drive from Þingvellir to Reykjavík only took about 45 minutes, getting us to Reykjavík around 4 PM.

We had a big reason to get there on time: the Midnight Sun Run!

We arrived a few hours before it started, checked into our place, and got ready to race under the glow of the midnight sun.

The colorful rainbow road in Reykjavik during Iceland's midnight sun
The colorful rainbow road in Reykjavik during Iceland’s midnight sun

We didn’t dive too deep into city exploring just yet, but I’ll be putting out separate guides soon with all my Reykjavík favorites.

From the best places to eat and drink to what’s actually worth doing in town.

After all that driving, it was the perfect place to slow down and wrap up the trip.

Iceland Ring Road Map with 41 Stops

Here’s a full map of our 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary, including all 41 stops. You can use it to follow along or plan your own road trip with ease.

41 Stops, Optional Add-Ons

Iceland Ring Road FAQs

Is 7 days enough for the Ring Road?

Yes, it works if you keep a tight route, expect some long drives, and skip deep detours. My 41-stop plan shows how.

Clockwise or counterclockwise?

I went counterclockwise to enjoy quieter north first, then the busier south later.

Do you need a 4×4?

Not for Route 1 in summer, you need a 4×4 only for F-roads and the Highlands.

Best month for a 7-day Ring Road adventure?

June to August for long daylight and open roads, late May and early September also work with fewer crowds.

How much driving per day?

Most days, three to five hours, one day can be closer to six, depending on stops.

Can I add Snæfellsnes in 7 days?

Only if you cut other stops, otherwise make it a 10-day plan.

Parking Tips for Iceland’s Ring Road

Many popular spots along the Ring Road, like waterfalls and viewpoints, require paid parking.

We used Parka.is and the EasyPark apps throughout the trip.

I forgot once at Seljalandsfoss, even though we were only there for 15 minutes, and I got a ticket.

Thankfully, I could pay for it at the rental car counter, but save yourself the stress and always double-check before you leave your car.

Watch My 7 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Here’s my 2-minute video preview of our 7-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary with all 41 stops.

Quick look at my 7 Day Iceland Ring Road itinerary with 41 stops.

Explore More of Iceland

I highlighted so much in this guide of the things I got to do in Iceland.

I personally loved East Iceland the most, with the North coming in second. While the South Coast is undeniably beautiful, it was just too crowded for me.

I preferred the quiet villages and remote roads over the chaos and tour buses.

But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any Iceland itinerary — whether you have one night or one month.

My highlight of the trip was taking a beer bath! Soaking in Beer? Why This East Iceland Spa Is Worth the Detour

Seeing puyffins! Borgarfjörður Eystri: The Best Place to See Puffins in Iceland.

And, visiting Husavik! Husavik Whale Watching: Iceland’s Best Tour with North Sailing.

Don’t forget to read my Diamond Circle Iceland Itinerary: Top Things to See & Do.

And, visit Best Hot Springs in Iceland: Complete Guide With Photos & Map!

You can read all of my Iceland Travel Guides!

17 responses

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  5. […] you’re planning a trip around Iceland’s Ring Road, don’t sleep on Akureyri. Tucked into a stunning fjord in the north, this little city is full of […]

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  7. […] This was our first meal on our Ring Road trip! Read my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 41 Stops, Optional Add-Ons + Map! […]

  8. […] Here is everything you need to know about this must-see stop that is off of Ring Road. […]

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  10. […] Here are all the hot springs I visited during my drive along Ring Road! […]

  11. […] Driving Ring Road? Read my 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 41 Stops, Add-Ons + Map (2025) […]

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  14. […] I had so many amazing hot dogs during my trip to Iceland! Read my 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 41 Stops, Add-Ons + Map (2025). […]

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  16. […] Husavik was one of my favorite stops during my 7 Days on Iceland’s Ring Road! […]

  17. […] but trust me, this one’s got fewer crowds and way more variety. If you’re already driving the Ring Road, this detour is a […]

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