Embark on the final word highway journey journey with our complete 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s well-known Ring Street. Expertise the rugged mountains and distinctive geological options that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit vacation spot. From the long-lasting waterfalls and black sand seashores of South Iceland to the geothermal wonders of the North, our information will make sure you don’t miss a factor in your journey round Iceland’s spectacular Ring Street. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable highway journey by the land of fire and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Street is a tremendous journey that lets you discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the luxurious of following a straightforward route. We advocate renting a 4X4 in your journey as this round highway takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the highest of North Iceland the place circumstances can change instantly. Compare Car rental prices here. If you’re not selecting up your rental automotive on the airport – book this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
That will help you with our funds chances are you’ll wish to learn: How Much Does a Trip to Iceland Cost
About The Ring Street Iceland
The Ring Street is Iceland’s nationwide highway Route 1. It circles almost your complete nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring highway in 7 days and you’ll even see quite a lot of the preferred ring highway points of interest in just some days. However we advocate at the very least 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll in all probability need a couple of extra days, however this can be a 10-day Iceland ring highway itinerary that can take you thru a number of the nation’s most lovely landscapes and prime points of interest.
Our itinerary drives across the ring highway clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a number of the nation’s most lovely paces.
Necessary Web sites
Whenever you drive Iceland’s Ring Street, it is extremely vital to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra data to have with you for security. Necessary web sites to observe for Iceland Street circumstances are weather forecast, road conditions, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
Should you don’t have an information plan, we advise getting an e-sim. Once we journey we use Airalo and have by no means had an issue. There are many e-sims to select from, however you must also be sure that to get a GPS along with your automotive as chances are you’ll not have protection all over the place in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring highway is paved and it has two-lane site visitors, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and slender passes, and climate can change shortly. We typically had very restricted visibility. So rent a 4WD.
I bear in mind one snow squall developing throughout a four-wheel drive tour in northern Iceland the place we hit some unhealthy climate. Our driver continued driving utilizing his GPS. (we requested him to cease) Nonetheless, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are properly maintained when it snows, so it’s doable to discover it through the winter months as properly.
The Full Ring Street Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You’ve got arrived in Iceland! It’s time to decide up your rental automotive and make your technique to the Northernmost capital of the World. Situated within the southwest of Iceland, this metropolis is to not be missed on an Iceland itinerary.
Reykjavik is about 45 minutes from the airport with the Blue Lagoon positioned in between. Folks usually go to these well-known springs on their approach into the town heart, or on the final day of their journey. There may be extra about them on the finish of this put up.
Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik
When you get to Reykjavik there are such a lot of issues to see and do. With a Viking historical past and a shocking Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a contemporary metropolis the place you may chill out and plan for the times forward.
Reykjavik Points of interest
- Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is among the tallest buildings in Iceland and gives an unimaginable view of the town from its tower.
- Harpa Live performance Corridor: This gorgeous piece of recent structure is residence to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You’ll be able to take a guided tour or get pleasure from a live performance.
- Solar Voyager: This lovely sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Take a look at the Top 5 Natural Wonders of Reykjavik
- Laugavegur: That is the principle procuring road in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes.
- Previous Harbour: This space has been reworked right into a vigorous district with eating places, cafes, and museums.
- Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is residence to an enormous assortment of recent and up to date Icelandic artwork.
- Learn our full Reykjavik Guide
Dinner
You’ll be able to go whale watching straight from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the way in which earlier than you hit the ring highway, guide this tour on a luxury yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Strive the well-known Icelandic scorching canine at this standard stand.
- Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is thought for its seafood, and this restaurant is a good place to strive some native dishes.
- Learn our Icelandic Food guide that will help you know what to order.
In a single day in Reykjavik
There are many lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. We now have stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Hotel Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice selections.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Benefit from your day by getting up early in your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is positioned in west Iceland and is thought for its dramatic landscapes, together with mountains, lava fields, and delightful shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Discover Snæfellsjökull Nationwide Park which is residence to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is claimed to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of climbing trails and delightful viewpoints within the park.
Go to Kirkjufell This mountain is among the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall close by, Kirkjufellsfoss, which can be price testing.
Discover Djúpalónssandur This lovely black sand seashore is thought for its dramatic landscapes and is a good spot for images.
Night
Should you go to through the winter months, you could have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a good place to view them as a result of it has much less gentle air pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, usually late September to early April). Equally, Snæfellsnes Peninsula gives an important alternative for stargazing resulting from its distant location and low gentle air pollution.
Take pleasure in Icelandic delicacies at an area restaurant or café. Some locations may have stay music or different occasions within the night. After an extended day of sightseeing, you may additionally wish to chill out at your lodging, whether or not that be having fun with a superb guide or soaking in a scorching tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
One of the best city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely depends upon your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is among the hottest choices. It’s the largest city on the peninsula and gives a wide range of lodging choices, eating places, and companies. It’s additionally identified for its lovely previous homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which gives nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Different choices for lodging embody Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of those cities provide a variety of lodging choices, from resorts to guesthouses. Simply be sure that to guide forward, particularly throughout peak season.
The place to remain in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Hotel Fransiskus
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri
Morning
On Day 3 of your Icelandic highway journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your technique to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space.
Akureyri is also known as “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take roughly 5 hours, however the altering surroundings from the peninsula to the northern areas of Iceland will hold you captivated.
Afternoon
When you arrive in Akureyri, test into your lodging and take a while to discover this vibrant city.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a shocking Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the city. Designed by the well-known Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic constructing is an emblem of Akureyri. The city heart can be price exploring, with its quaint retailers and comfortable cafes.
Take into account visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts a wide range of plant species from each Iceland and across the globe. Another choice is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that may be a hit with each locals and vacationers. There are water slides
The encircling space additionally gives lots to discover, such because the gorgeous Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space through the winter months. and
Night
For dinner, take pleasure in some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant. Choices abound, from conventional dishes like lamb and fish soup to extra fashionable fare.
- Bryggjan: This can be a standard spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices.
- Rub 23: A classy restaurant identified for its sushi and steaks. They provide a wide range of sushi choices, in addition to dishes made with Icelandic lamb and different native elements.
- Akureyri Fish and Chips: An excellent spot for an informal meal, this restaurant serves scrumptious fish and chips made with contemporary, native fish.
Afterward, you may relaxation up for the subsequent day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious lodge or a captivating guesthouse. Learn extra: Best Icelandic food
The place to Keep
Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast in Akureyri earlier than embarking on the roughly 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding space identified for its distinctive geological options and wealthy birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is round 90 kilometers and takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way in which to Mývatn be sure that. to cease on the Goðafoss waterfall. One more lovely waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take a while to discover the world’s prime points of interest. Go to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon the place you may chill out within the heat waters whereas having fun with the gorgeous environment. One other must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava area identified for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. Should you’re fascinated with wildlife, remember to try the varied birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Elective Day Journey
If in case you have further time, think about visiting the close by city of Húsavík, identified for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you will go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it ought to be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its fame because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the gorgeous, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained quite a lot of recognition due to the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Hearth and Ice Saga.” out there on Netflix. Its lovely tune was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, think about making an attempt some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
- Daddi’s Pizza: If in case you have had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this standard spot is thought for its scrumptious pizzas
- Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is positioned on a working farm and gives a variety of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native elements, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has an important view of the cowshed, so you may watch the cows when you eat.
- Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This lodge restaurant gives a wide range of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on contemporary, native elements. In addition they have an important view of the lake.
Then, head to your lodging for the evening. There are a number of choices in and round Mývatn, starting from resorts and guesthouses to tenting websites. Steered lodge in Mývatn: Fosshotel Myvatn
Approximate driving time: 1 hour
Day 5 – Mývatn to Egilsstaðir
Morning
Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Mývatn earlier than setting out on the roughly 2-hour drive to Egilsstaðir, positioned within the Eastfjords of japanese Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru a wide range of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.
En route be sure that to cease at Europe’s strongest waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (with out the resorts, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters excessive (144 toes) and 100 meters extensive (300 toes). Right here you can even discover Jökulsárgljúfur Nationwide Park. Its spectacular horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon homes another spectacular waterfalls as properly, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you wish to chase waterfalls, chances are you’ll find yourself spending the entire day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the world’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its prime points of interest. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a captivating village identified for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Be certain that to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Street.
Don’t miss out on the gorgeous Hengifoss, one of many tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and brilliant pink clay. One other lovely waterfall within the space is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.
If time permits, think about taking a scenic drive alongside the Eastfjords, the place you may admire the dramatic shoreline and presumably spot some seals or different wildlife. Moreover, the world round Egilsstaðir is residence to a number of climbing trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the gorgeous landscapes on foot.
Night
Savor the native flavors at one of many eating places in Egilsstaðir or the encircling space.
- Valaskjálf Restaurant: Situated within the cultural heart of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant gives a wide range of dishes together with Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian choices.
- Klausturkaffi: Located within the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage web site, Klausturkaffi is thought for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade muffins.
- Lake Lodge Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This lodge restaurant gives a variety of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a deal with native elements, together with reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.
Then head to your lodging for the evening. There’s a vary of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and tenting websites. Steered lodge: Hotel Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Gasoline up with a hearty breakfast in Egilsstaðir, then embark on the roughly 3-hour drive persevering with down east Iceland to Höfn, a picturesque fishing city within the southeast of Iceland. This roughly 260-kilometer journey takes you alongside the coast of the Eastfjords earlier than heading inland by the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for gorgeous images.
Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse your self within the space’s wealthy maritime historical past by exploring the city and its harbor. One of many must-visit points of interest is the Höfn Glacier Museum, the place you may study glaciers, their influence on the panorama, and the results of local weather change.
Afternoon
There are many issues to do round this space of east Iceland. Go to Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to stand up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is probably the most well-known and you’ll in all probability spend quite a lot of time right here.
You may also go to the close by Diamond Seashore, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a shocking distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, residence to Europe’s largest glacier.
If in case you have additional time, think about reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which offer an unforgettable expertise of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Night
Bask in some scrumptious native seafood for dinner; Höfn is especially well-known for its lobster. Kaffi Hornið and Pakkhús are two wonderful choices for sampling this delicacy.
Day 7: Höfn to Skaftafell
Morning
Get up early in Höfn and begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of many native eateries or your lodging. After breakfast, embark on the roughly 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, positioned in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru a few of Iceland’s most gorgeous landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse your self within the pure fantastic thing about the world. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to numerous points of interest. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, a lovely waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other standard hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the possibility to go to the customer heart, which gives exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices is likely to be restricted inside the nationwide park, however yow will discover some good selections in close by cities akin to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that provides a variety of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to extra substantial meals.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Skaftafell earlier than setting out in your journey to Vik in South Iceland. This charming village is positioned proper on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, masking a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go by gorgeous landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Learn extra: South Coast of Iceland – Top Things to See and Do
Morning
When you arrive in Vik, take a while to discover the native points of interest. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a well-known black sand seashore identified for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands within the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is residence to the black sand seashore with big black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be considered one of Iceland’s most recognizable sights and also you don’t wish to miss it.
Legend has it that this group of stone spires are literally trolls turned to stone by the solar. As they tried to tug their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the solar got here up. In response to folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other standard spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you may admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. Should you’re fascinated with historical past, think about visiting the Skógar People Museum, which gives an enchanting glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
If in case you have additional time, think about taking a guided tour to discover the close by Katla Geopark, which encompasses a number of pure wonders, together with the Katla Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Another choice is to go to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a shocking gorge positioned only a quick drive from Vik. For these fascinated with chook watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are residence to numerous seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to considered one of Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked alternative, providing a wide range of dishes, together with their well-known lobster soup.
Day 9 Vik to Selfoss
Morning
Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Vik earlier than embarking on the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Selfoss. The journey covers round 110 kilometers and takes you previous picturesque landscapes, together with rolling hills, farmlands, and rivers.
Afternoon
Upon reaching Selfoss, discover the world’s prime points of interest. One of many must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you may stroll behind the cascading water for a singular perspective. One other standard attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, considered one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the possibility to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Customer Heart, the place you may be taught concerning the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Proceed on to Skaftafell Nationwide Park, the place you may go climbing or mountaineering on Vatnajökull glacier
Insider Tip – As you drive south alongside Route 1 cease for espresso in Hella. This city has colourful homes lining the river financial institution and it’s a good place to get provides or to refill your automotive at a gasoline station.
Night
If in case you have additional time, think about taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool positioned within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket prematurely. Secret Lagoon tickets here
For dinner, head to considered one of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that provides a variety of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.
Iceland Scorching Canine – One factor you’ll discover at any time when anybody talks about touring to Iceland is a point out of scorching canines. They appear to be probably the most inexpensive and standard meals on the Ring Street loop at gasoline stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked scorching canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you will strive a scorching canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate quite a lot of scorching canines at gasoline stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most inexpensive technique to journey.
Day 10: Selfoss to Reykjavik
After having fun with a leisurely breakfast in Selfoss, embark on the roughly 1-hour drive to Reykjavik, masking a distance of round 50 kilometers. This quick journey takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with volcanic fields and mountains.
Another choice is to discover the Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these fascinated with horse using, a number of farms within the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
An excellent right this moment is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these fascinated with artwork, the Reykjavik Artwork Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum provide a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir Nationwide Park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that’s positioned in a rift valley the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. That is additionally the location of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Guests can discover the park’s trails, get pleasure from its lakes and waterfalls, and study Iceland’s wealthy historical past.
The Geysir Geothermal Space is residence to a number of geysers, together with Strokkur, which erupts roughly each 5-10 minutes, sending water and steam as much as 30 meters into the air. The world can be identified for its scorching springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
Lastly, the Gullfoss waterfall is a panoramic two-tiered waterfall that drops a complete of 32 meters right into a rugged canyon. The waterfall may be seen from a number of completely different vantage factors, every providing a singular perspective. This large waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 toes) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good purpose. You’ll be able to stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your technique to Reykjavik. This can be a nice time to take the chance to discover any points of interest you could have missed in your first day within the metropolis. Choices embody the Solar Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a shocking church that is among the tallest buildings in Iceland. You might also wish to go to the Harpa Live performance Corridor, an iconic constructing identified for its distinctive glass facade.
Night
For dinner, Reykjavik gives a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Firm is a well-liked alternative, identified for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with contemporary, native elements. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has numerous choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, test into your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has a wide range of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Remaining Morning Day Journey and Fly Residence
Your driving on the Ring Street vacation has come to an finish. Chances are high you may be returning your automotive rental on the airport, so earlier than you allow, this can be a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is commonly visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. That is the proper alternative to appease these aching muscular tissues within the well-known scorching springs. It might be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you need to expertise it at the very least as soon as whenever you go to Iceland. Learn extra: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Worth It?
If you wish to actually benefit from the Blue Lagoon you may keep right here. Luxurious resorts embody:
- The Blue Lagoon Retreat is a five-star luxurious escape that overlooks the lagoon and stands excessive sufficient to see the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
- The Silica Hotel. Only a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the many lava fields this award-winning lodge is a superb possibility when staying in a single day on the Blue Lagoon.
How you can Plan For the Ring Street in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Travel and so they put collectively an unimaginable Iceland highway journey itinerary for us. We beloved having an itinerary arrange prematurely with resorts pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a well-liked journey vacation spot and resorts alongside the Ring Street route can guide up shortly, so having a tour firm plan made quite a lot of sense all we had. to do was focus on driving the Ring Street and having fun with our time. Visit Iceland Travel to assist with planning your journey.
Driving The Ring Street Independently
You’ll be able to guide a rental automotive and do the ring highway independently. You’ll be able to test automotive rental costs at CarRental.com. We advocate getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Street in late September and drove by multiple snowstorm. We had a automotive go proper off the highway in entrance of us in north Iceland. They weren’t in a four-wheel drive so we had it a lot simpler between our winter driving expertise and the snow tires on our SUV.
Ring Street Excursions
Should you aren’t snug driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring highway. You’ll be able to sit again, chill out, and let the professionals take you to the favored vacationer points of interest.
This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Depart Reykjavik to see lots of the highlights talked about on this ring highway journey information. From waterfalls to lava fields, within the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers all of it. Check it out here: You’ll be able to cancel as much as 24 hours prematurely to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Road is a versatile possibility the place you may select from 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. It takes you to the South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and waterfalls and elective excursions of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and elective tour of the Golden Circle. Plus way more. Details here.
The place to Keep on the Ring Street
There are campgrounds alongside the route with loads of availability. That is by far probably the most economical technique to drive round Iceland’s Ring Street. However be sure to arrive on the campgrounds early. They’re first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland isn’t allowed. So you’ll want to be within the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bogs and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other good way to economize on an Iceland Street Journey.
We stayed at largely Iceland Air Hotels which might be all alongside your complete ring highway route alongside the principle highway. Our stays included a tremendous breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They had been giant and scrumptious so we might make it by the day with simply snacks as an alternative of a giant lunch.
Greatest Time to Drive the Ring Street
The excessive season in Iceland is summer time and that is probably the most troublesome time to seek out lodging. So be sure that to plan prematurely in case you are reserving from June to August. We traveled to Iceland from Mid to Late September and it was much less crowded. The climate was fairly unpredictable with every little thing from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as properly.
Bear in mind, in case you are driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and possibilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. Should you wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you will have a greater probability to see them because the solar units earlier. And there will certainly be fewer crowds throughout shoulder season.
Are you able to Drive the Ring Street in Iceland in Winter?
You’ll be able to drive the Ring Street in Winter, however you need to have winter driving expertise. The Ring Street operates yr spherical. It’s a two-lane highway a lot of the approach and there’s winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, Should you go to in winter, there’s extra of a threat of roads being closed for a day or two, so permit additional time. Iceland does have good winter highway upkeep although, so in case you are used to winter driving, go for it! However be warned, once we had been there in September, most individuals we met had been terrified on the roads and mentioned it was scary for them to drive by snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had highway closures too).
Being from Canada, we’re used to snow squalls, however we additionally had a four-by-four SUV which helped rather a lot. So, be sure that to lease an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Ideas for Driving the Ring Street
Embarking on a highway journey round Iceland’s Ring Street is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Right here’s what it’s essential to think about when it comes to gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate circumstances.
- Waterproof and cozy strolling or climbing footwear.
- Sun shades and sunscreen.
- Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months.
- Backpack for day hikes and excursions.
- Digital camera or smartphone for capturing gorgeous landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
- A dependable automobile appropriate for the season you’re touring in (think about a 4×4 if you happen to plan to discover the highlands).
- A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation.
- Familiarize your self with Iceland’s highway guidelines and circumstances earlier than your journey.
- Verify the climate and highway circumstances frequently all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
- E book your lodging prematurely, particularly through the peak summer time months.
- Pack snacks and water for the highway, as there may be lengthy distances between cities and companies.
- Take into account bringing a cooler for perishable objects if you happen to plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
- Carry a primary support equipment, flashlight, and any obligatory private drugs.
- Guarantee you will have a charged cellphone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies.
- Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Extra Ideas:
- Respect the native setting and cling to any indicators or laws in place to guard Iceland’s distinctive landscapes.
- Be ready for altering climate circumstances and pack accordingly.
- Comply with the velocity limits
- Whenever you come to gasoline stations, refill. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full.
- Take your time and benefit from the journey, because the Ring Street gives numerous alternatives to discover Iceland’s pure magnificence.
Iceland Ring Street Itinerary: FAQ’s
How lengthy does it take to drive the Iceland Ring Street?
For an unforgettable journey across the Ring Street, we advocate anyplace from 7 to 10 days. It should allow you to not solely soak up the most effective of the ring highway but additionally allow you to get off the crushed monitor in North Iceland and in Southeast Iceland.
Are you able to do the Iceland Ring Street in 7 days?
You are able to do the Iceland Ring Street in 7 days however we might say that’s the minimal time wanted. You need to use this itinerary and get rid of a couple of issues if you happen to solely have a short while in Iceland.
What’s the greatest path to tackle the Ring Street in Iceland?
You’ll be able to journey the Ring Street in Iceland in both route, clockwise or counter-clockwise, because it’s a round route. We recommend going counter-clockwise, ranging from Reykjavik and heading alongside the South Coast first. It’s because a number of the hottest points of interest, just like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are positioned within the southern a part of the island.
These are the highest websites to see on the Ring Street in Iceland. It’s really one of many best highway journeys on this planet. This 10-day Iceland Ring Street itinerary offers you the highlights however in case you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually be capable of see all of it.
So take your time to plan the proper Iceland Street journey and ensure it contains all of those stops!
Planning Assets for Your Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Street Tri
