Dylan and Maddy
- May 20, 2025
- 10:08 pm
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The Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 8-Day Road Trip Adventure
Ready to experience glaciers, black sand beaches, lava fields, and waterfalls that make you feel like you are on another planet? Iceland is such a beautiful country, and if I had to imagine what Mars looked like, this would be it! This 8-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary was the most unique experience of our lives and will take you on the adventure of a lifetime!
Quick Trip Facts:
- Duration: 8 Days
- Route: Full circle around Iceland (Ring Road / Route 1). A map of all our stops is below!
- Best Time to Go: We went in Mid to Late April to see the northern lights, but the best time would be May–September (for the best weather + road conditions).
- Rental Car: Absolutely. 4×4 in our opinion is a must, especially between October and April.
- Total Distance Driven: ~800 miles (1,287 km)
- Estimated Drive Time: ~23 hours total (not counting stops or detours)
Table of Contents
Driving in Iceland: What to Know Before You Go
Driving around Iceland is truly part of the adventure. The scenery is unreal the entire time—volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and oceans all in one view. But it’s not without its quirks:
- Scenic—but sometimes sketchy: The roads wind through cliffs and mountains, and the weather can change fast. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re in a foggy hailstorm with zero visibility. Be cautious and check weather conditions daily.
- One-lane bridges: These are super common. The first car to reach it has the right of way—be polite and patient.
- Speed limits & parking: Stick to posted limits (90 km/h on highways) and always pay for parking. Rental companies will charge you for violations when you return the car.
- Road signs: Signs are in Icelandic but easy to understand—watch for animal crossing signs and gravel road warnings.
- F-roads: These are mountain roads only accessible by 4×4 vehicles and are often closed in winter. Don’t take your rental there unless it’s allowed and you’re comfortable driving in a crazy terrain.
- Gas stations: Fuel stops can be few and far between in certain areas, so don’t push your luck—fill up whenever you get the chance. Many gas stations are self-service, so make sure you have a working credit card. Also, heads up: gas in Iceland is crazy expensive. Once we did the math, it came out to around $7–8.50 per gallon, depending on the location. When you’re at the pump, make sure you grab the right nozzle! Most stations offer both petrol and diesel. In Iceland, the green nozzle is usually petrol (what most rental cars use), and black is for diesel, which also usually has a little aluminum flap you need to lift before grabbing the nozzle.
- Maps: We have embedded a Google Map that includes all of the stops in this itinerary, and we highly recommend using Google Maps instead of Apple Maps. Apple Maps led us in the wrong direction a few times.
Day 1: Arrival + Reykjavik Exploration & Sky Lagoon
After landing at Keflavik International Airport, pick up your rental car and head straight to Reykjavik, Iceland’s charming capital. It’s about a 45 minute drive and it’s relatively easy to navigate. Drop off your bags and start exploring:
Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur)
A colorful pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes, leading straight to Hallgrimskirkja. We love taking photos on this street as it’s so cute and asthetic!
Hallgrimskirkja Church
This is Iceland’s tallest church with a unique design inspired by basalt lava flows. Hallgrimskirkja church really is the symbol of Reykjavik and is impossible to miss during your stay. It’s open to visitors, and you can go in and take a look at the giant organ and take the elevator up for panoramic views of the city! The 360° views of the colorful rooftops, surrounding mountains, and ocean horizon are absolutely worth it.
Sun Voyager
This steel sculpture by the water looks like a Viking ship and makes for a great photo stop. It’s meant to represent exploration and the open road (or sea), which fits the vibe of an Iceland road trip. You’ll find it right along the walking path by the harbor, and it’s especially nice around sunset.
Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa is Reykjavik’s modern concert and event space, and even if you’re not seeing a show, it’s worth stepping inside to check out the architecture. The glass panels reflect the light in cool ways, and the views from inside looking out over the water are really nice. Even the view of it from the outside is stunning! It’s so unique in so many ways and is one of the best things to see in Reykjavik!
Tjornin Lake
This small lake is right in the middle of the city and makes for a peaceful walk. You’ll probably see ducks, swans, and a few locals hanging out or going for a jog. It’s surrounded by cute buildings and makes for a good spot to sit and relax if you’ve got some extra time in your day.
Sky Lagoon
If you’re feeling a bit jet-lagged or just want to unwind, Sky Lagoon is a perfect way to end your day. It’s a modern geothermal spa that uses natural hot springs and geothermal energy to heat the water in its pools. With ocean views and not as touristy as the Blue Lagoon, it feels more chill and authentic. The 7-step spa ritual is super relaxing, and the infinity pool overlooking the water is a beautiful touch. We bought the Ser pass for two, which included Sky Lagoon’s signature Skjól ritual, access to private changing facilities, and a platter at their restaurant. It was the perfect date night, and we can’t imagine a better way to wrap up our day in Reykjavik.
Day 2: Blue Lagoon + Golden Circle
We’re now hitting the road and beginning our trip around Iceland! Day 2 will be highlighted by the legendary Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle!
Blue Lagoon
Wow, we’re really getting spoiled here with ending the night with the Sky Lagoon and beginning day 2 with the Blue Lagoon! Even if some feel it’s too touristy, we would never skip this stop. The Blue Lagoon is iconic and a great experience. The water is warm, mineral-rich, and has that signature milky blue color. There’s a swim-up bar, silica face masks, and a relaxing atmosphere. Just make sure to book in advance—it fills up fast.
Thingvellir National Park
This national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds both geological and historical significance. It’s where you can literally walk between two tectonic plates (the North American and Eurasian plates). The views are beautiful, and there are well-marked trails if you want to stretch your legs a bit. The park is really cool, but we wouldn’t consider this a must-stop.
Kerið Crater
Kerið is a volcanic crater filled with a bright blue lake and surrounded by reddish rock. It’s a quick stop right off the road with a small entrance fee, and you can walk around the rim or down to the water. It doesn’t take long, but it’s visually striking and makes for good photos.
Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse
Unfortunately, we were not able to come here because we didn’t book our seats in advance, but from the videos we’ve seen, Friðheimar looks like a cool and unique lunch stop. Friðheimar is a working greenhouse where they grow tomatoes year-round using geothermal energy. You can eat in the greenhouse itself, and the menu is mostly tomato-based—soups, pasta, and more. Don’t be like us and make sure to reserve your spot days in advance!
Brúarfoss
Brúarfoss won’t be on every itinerary, but it should be on yours! The waterfall is so blue and magnificent! There’s a little bridge where you can look at it head-on on and it’s a great view. Brúarfoss is a bit off the main Golden Circle loop, but not overly crowded, and a peaceful place to visit. The drive to get there is pretty rocky as it’s a gravel road, and there are a lot of holes, but we wouldn’t think twice about going back!
Strokkur Geyser
This geothermal area is famous for Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes. It’s fun to watch, especially if you’ve never seen one in person. The surrounding area has bubbling mud pools and steam vents, and the walking paths are easy to follow. They also have a gift shop and food to buy if you’re hungry after a long day of driving!
Gullfoss Falls
Gullfoss is one of our favorite waterfalls in Iceland and is one of the most well-known. Gullfoss in English means “Golden Falls” and is where the Golden Circle gets its name. It’s big, powerful, and easy to access from the parking lot. There are upper and lower viewing areas, and you can get pretty close to the falls. This stop is a must on your visit to Iceland, so go and enjoy the beautiful scenery!
After Gullfoss, head to your accommodation! We recommend Hótel Hvolsvöllur, or an Airbnb nearby, which will put you close to your first stop of Day 3!
Day 3: South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches
Today’s drive is all about epic waterfalls, wild beaches, and some of the most photographed spots in Iceland. This was one of our favorite days in Iceland, and it’s a busy one, so pack snacks and start early if you can.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of our favorite waterfalls in Iceland and definitely one of the most iconic. You can actually spot it right from the Ring Road, and there’s an easy parking lot nearby, so it’s a super convenient stop.
What makes Seljalandsfoss special is that you can walk behind it, which sounds amazing in theory, but we’ve actually never had the chance to do it! The first time we visited, it was winter, and the path was closed for safety. And during this Ring Road trip, it was way too icy. We tried to go behind it but wiped out hard on the ice, so… yeah, we tapped out pretty quickly.
If you’re visiting in the summer, though, definitely give it a shot. The trail loops around the back of the waterfall, and when the sunlight hits the mist just right, it’s extra photogenic. Even if you can’t get behind it, Seljalandsfoss is tall, beautiful, and 100% worth the stop.
Gljúfrabúi
Just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi waterfall is partially tucked behind a cliff. You’ll need to walk through a little stream to get inside (waterproof shoes are handy here), but stepping into the canyon and seeing the waterfall inside feels like a secret spot. If you go all the way up to it, you will surely get wet, but it’s such a cool experience!
Landeyjahöfn Beach
This is a lesser-known black sand beach near the ferry port to the Westman Islands—and honestly, we can’t believe it’s still under the radar. Landeyjahöfn Beach ended up being our favorite black sand beach in all of Iceland!
We love Reynisfjara, of course, but this one felt totally different. It’s peaceful, wide open, and most of the time, you’ll have it all to yourself. The sand is soft, the vibe is calm, and the views of the Westman Islands off in the distance are unreal. We actually did a full-on professional photo shoot here (more on that later), and it made for such a cool backdrop.
If you’re chasing that dramatic Icelandic coastline without the crowds and chaos of big tour stops, this is the move.
Írafoss
A quieter waterfall that’s easy to miss but great if you want a peaceful moment with nature. It’s not as flashy as some of the others, but there’s usually no one else around, which makes it feel like your own private waterfall.
Skógafoss
Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls—and it’s our favorite for a very special reason: it’s where we got engaged!
This spot holds such a meaningful place in our hearts, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine a more dramatic and beautiful backdrop for a moment like that. You can walk right up to the base of the waterfall and feel its power up close (prepare to get misted!). If the sun’s out, there’s almost always a rainbow in the spray, which just adds to the magic.
There’s also a staircase you can climb if you want to see the falls from above—it’s a bit of a leg workout, but totally worth it for the view.
As mentioned, this is where we got engaged, and we had a professional photo shoot here that turned out absolutely stunning. Afterward, we headed to Landeyjahöfn Beach to finish the shoot, and it was the perfect combo. Huge shout-out to our photographer, Leszek, who made us feel so comfortable and captured everything beautifully. You can check out his work here.
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
A US Navy plane crashed on the black sand beach at Sólheimasandur in 1973, and the wreckage is still sitting there today.
Thankfully, everyone on board survived. The crash happened because the pilot accidentally switched to the wrong fuel tank, causing the engine to fail. Now, what’s left is a haunting (but super photogenic) skeleton of the plane in the middle of a black sand desert.
It’s about a 45-minute walk each way from the parking lot. There is a shuttle if you’re short on time, but we decided to walk after seeing the shuttle cost—$35 per person! Kinda felt like a money grab.
The walk wasn’t too bad, and the plane itself is definitely cool to see, especially if you’re into photography or aviation history. That said, we wouldn’t call this a must-do stop in Iceland, but it’s a unique detour if you’ve got the time and curiosity.
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
A quick detour that gives you sweeping views of the coast and a natural sea arch is Dyrhólaey Viewpoint. We really enjoyed this spot and thought the views were stunning! In summer, it’s also a popular puffin-spotting area.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
When you’re in Iceland, visiting Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is basically a requirement!
This beach is famous for its dramatic basalt columns, roaring waves, and towering sea stacks that look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. It’s stunning, no doubt—but also dangerous. The sneaker waves here are seriously powerful, and unfortunately, people have lost their lives by getting too close. Definitely admire the beach, but keep your distance from the shoreline and respect the warning signs.
The views are incredible, and there’s a reason it’s on nearly every Iceland itinerary. Our only gripe? It’s super popular, which means crowds and tour buses are pretty much guaranteed, especially in the summer months. Still, it’s 100% worth a stop (just be ready to share the view).
Vík Church
End the day in Vík, a cozy little town with a red-roofed church perched on a hill.
It overlooks the town and coastline and is especially pretty during sunset—a calm, scenic moment after a full day of exploring.
In Vík, we ate at Black Crust Pizzeria, and it was so good! The crust is actually black because it incorporates activated charcoal into the pizza dough! With having celiac, finding food options can be tough sometimes, but they made it easy—any of their pizzas can be made gluten-free, which was such a win.
We stayed at Hotel Vík í Mýrdal and highly recommend it! It’s super conveniently located, affordable, and honestly just really cute and comfortable. Perfect spot to recharge for the next leg of the trip.
Day 4: Southeast Iceland – Lava Fields & Glacial Lagoons
Day 4 is also another of our favorite days while we were here, and below you’ll see why! Today is an extensive amount of driving, but plan on about 3 hours total.
Eldhraun Lava Field
Driving through the Eldhraun Lava Field seriously feels like you’ve landed on another planet. This massive stretch of moss-covered lava was formed by one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, dating back to the 1700s. It’s not exactly a “stop,” but more of a scenic drive-through that you’ll encounter along the Ring Road—and it goes on for miles.
That said, there are a few pull-offs along the way, and we highly recommend taking a minute to hop out and take it all in. The moss here is thick and looks like a giant green blanket draped across a lava rock landscape. It’s quiet, surreal, and gives off major otherworldly vibes.
FYI: Please don’t walk on the moss—it’s super delicate and takes decades to grow back!
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Okay, first of all—yes, this is the canyon where the music video “I’ll Show you” by Justin Bieber was filmed! But fame aside, it’s genuinely breathtaking. The canyon is about 2 km long, carved by glacial meltwater over thousands of years, and it’s insanely photogenic. There’s a short trail along the top of the canyon that gives you panoramic views of the winding river below, and it was the perfect area to film with our drone! Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon was not a very long stop, but definitely a memorable one!
Hofskirkja Turf Church
This stop is a very short one along your drive, but it’s definitely worth it! Hofskirkja is one of the last remaining turf churches in Iceland. The little church is built into the ground with grass growing over the roof, and it gives you a glimpse into traditional Icelandic architecture and history.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This place blew our minds! Imagine a serene glacial lake filled with floating icebergs that have broken off from a massive glacier. The ice chunks come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re this cool shade of blue. If you’re lucky, you might spot seals swimming around or lounging on the ice! Thankfully, while we were there, it was pretty nice outside, so we just sat down and enjoyed the scenery!
Diamond Beach
Right across the road from Jökulsárlón is Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacier ice wash up on the black sand beach and glisten like… well, diamonds! It was really nice just hanging out on the beach and taking fun photos! The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are some of the best places to visit on your trip to Iceland and the most important stops in Southeast Iceland.
Iceland Viking Village Film Set
We planned on coming here, but the detour ended up being longer than we thought, so we decided to skip this. We at least wanted to add it here, so you can research it yourself to see if it’d interest you!
Höfn
End your day in Höfn and treat yourself to a nice dinner! Pakkhús Restaurant is known for its lobster, but it was a little too expensive for our taste—about $70 USD per person. We ended up going to Hafnarbúðin instead, and we’re so happy we did! They had great burgers and sandwiches with gluten-free bread!
If you’re gluten-free, you know how hard it is to find decent bread, and theirs was actually amazing. Not only was the food delicious, but it was also the most reasonably priced meal we’ve had in Iceland—just $20 each!
After dinner, take a little time to enjoy this cute fishing village and its coastal views. Then we headed to our accommodation just outside of town: Lilja Guesthouse. We thought it was a great stay, especially for the price and we even got to see the Northern Lights!!
Day 5: The Eastfjords
Today, there aren’t many landmark stops, but the drive is beautiful! We drove about 3 hours total, and with the little amount of stops, we were able to have a chill night in!
Naustin í Papafirði
We started our morning at this quiet little stop off the Ring Road, and honestly, it was the perfect way to ease into the day. Naustin í Papafirði is a peaceful viewpoint with calm waters and beautiful mountain views. It’s not a big tourist destination, but it’s super scenic and worth a quick pull-over.
Hvalnes Lighthouse
Next up: an orange lighthouse with beautiful views! Hvalnes Lighthouse sits on a wild stretch of coast with dramatic cliffs. It’s a super easy stop with parking right by it, and the views are unreal. Definitely a spot to stretch your legs and grab a few quick photos.
Krossanesfjall Ridge
This isn’t a stop on the ring road, but we wanted to acknowledge that this is a really cool part of the drive! Krossanesfjall Ridge offers some of the most dramatic road views in the Eastfjords, with the ocean on one side and mountains on the other.
Lækjavík Beach
Here’s another pretty black sand beach we quickly stopped at! It’s right off the Ring Road, so make sure to pay it a visit.
Meleyri Beach
Meleyri Beach is a chill, black sand beach near Breiddalsvik that’s usually pretty empty. It’s not flashy, but it’s beautiful in that quiet Icelandic way.
Seydisfjordur
This was quite the terrifying drive to get to! In the summer, I’m sure it’s no problem, but it had snowed the day before we went, so the roads were really slippery. It was definitely a little nerve-wracking—we had to be super careful not to slide off the road! That said, we don’t regret the drive at all. Seyðisfjörður is a town in eastern Iceland tucked into the fjord of the same name, and it’s seriously one of the most scenic places we visited. Our favorite part? Seyðisfjarðarkirkja—a charming blue church with a rainbow street leading up to it! It’s just as adorable in real life and super photogenic, especially with the surrounding mountains. Take a few photos, wander around the area, and enjoy how peaceful it is—this whole town is basically a postcard.
Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland, and this is where we ended our day. We ate at Askur Pizzeria because they had gluten-free pizza there. It wasn’t our favorite, but we still enjoyed it. We then stayed at Hotel Eyvindará for the night and would recommend it to anyone visiting!
Day 6: North Iceland & Powerfall Waterfalls
Welcome to the north! This part of Iceland is full of geothermal spots, volcanic craters, and some of the most powerful waterfalls you’ll ever lay eyes on. It’s a full itinerary, so get ready to be wowed by Iceland’s northern region.
Dettifoss
We were so upset by this, but we weren’t able to go to Dettifoss due to road closures. Dettifoss is a waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park in Northern Iceland, and is known to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe! Assuming the roads are open, please go visit!
Selfoss
Another waterfall we were unable to see because it’s close to Dettifoss is Selfoss! It is a beautiful waterfall in north Iceland and is often visited on Diamond Circle tours. Selfoss is a smaller but more elegant waterfall located upriver, so you have to pair it with Dettifoss.
Hverir Geothermal Area
This was our first stop of the day! Hverir is a bubbling, steaming, sulfur-smelling geothermal field right off the ring road. We didn’t really get out and walk around, but it was easy to get out of the car and enjoy the scenery. The sulfur doesn’t smell the greatest, but it is what it is!
Goðafoss
Also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is one of our absolute favorites in all of Iceland. It’s wide, powerful, and insanely photogenic. You can check it out from both sides, and it’s one of those spots that makes you feel tiny in the coolest way. The crescent shape of the falls actually reminded us a lot of Niagara Falls! Bonus: it’s super easy to access, sitting right off the Ring Road. Hands down, our favorite stop of the day.
Akuryeri
Next, head to Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland. It’s often called the “Capital of the North,” and while it’s technically a small town, it definitely feels more city-like—especially after how remote the past few days have felt. Akureyri has cute cafés, colorful buildings, and a chill vibe that makes it a great place to grab a bite or just stroll around. One of the quirky little things we loved? The red heart-shaped traffic lights—yes, seriously. Be sure to check out Akureyri Church and snap a pic with the #LoveAkureyri sign while you’re there! For dinner, we went to Bautinn Restaurant and had chicken and beef nachos. They didn’t have many gluten free options, but the nachos were HUGE and so tasty. We highly recommend Bautinn while you’re in Akuryeri.
Forest Lagoon
End your day with the ultimate chill at the Forest Lagoon in Akureyri. At this point in the trip, we were starting to get a little sore and tired, so this was so much needed! It’s a newer geothermal spa tucked into the trees, and it feels like a hidden oasis. There are infinity pools, a swim-up bar, and great views. We found it to be the perfect blend of nature and luxury and the best way to end our North Iceland road trip day.
Day 7: Northwest Iceland – A Chill Drive Day + Kirkjufell
We’ll be real with you—Day 7 was a looong driving day, and we had to make some choices. There are a few cool stops in the northwest that we didn’t hit, but are worth mentioning if you’ve got the time (and the endurance).
Hvitserkur is a funky, dragon-looking sea stack rising out of the water—a favorite among photographers. Then there’s Skarðsviti Lighthouse, which adds some moody Icelandic coastal vibes to your feed. We were very tempted to add these to our route, but they would’ve tacked on two extra hours to an already long day. So, we passed to avoid 7+ hours of driving. If you’ve got the energy, go for it. Otherwise, we’ve got some great stops coming up anyway!
Alftafjordur
One of the prettiest fjords we drove through on this entire trip! It’s super peaceful, and the drive along the water with mountains rising in the distance is so serene. Definitely a “soak-it-in” kind of moment—not necessarily a big stop, but a beautiful stretch to cruise through.
Selvallafoss (a.k.a. the Sheep’s Waterfall)
This hidden gem is located just off the road and is a super underrated stop. Its name means the Sheep’s Waterfall, as sheep used to graze and hang around here. We didn’t see any here, but this was a really fun stop for us!
You can walk behind the waterfall, which was super cool and it’s usually way less crowded than other waterfalls around Iceland. I think there were only 2 other people there, which make it feel so exclusive. Selvallafoss is also tucked into a really lush green valley that makes it feel extra magical. We also flew our drone here, which was the perfect place because the landscape views were epic!
Kirkjufell + Kirkjufellsfoss
This was one of the places we looked forward to seeing the most in Iceland! This is the iconic Iceland view—Kirkjufell, the mountain that looks like it belongs on a postcard (or in Game of Thrones), with Kirkjufellsfoss, a gorgeous little waterfall in the foreground. It’s basically the most photographed mountain in Iceland, and for good reason.
We ended our day here with the golden light hitting the mountain just right and it truly was one of those “wow, we’re really in Iceland” moments!
After Kirkjufell, we went back to our Airbnb on a horse farm nearby, with a view of Kirkjufell. That night, we were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, and not just a quick flash. We watched them dance across the sky for almost an hour! Typically, the other times we’ve seen the Northern Lights, it’s very brief and less than 10 minutes. It was epic and we really got to enjoy it with Kirkjufell in the distance. This was one of the most special nights of our trip and we would love to just go back to that moment.
Day 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Return to Reykjavík
Our final full day in Iceland was spent exploring the epic Snæfellsnes Peninsula—aka “Iceland in Miniature” because it gives you a little taste of everything: volcanos, beaches, dramatic coastlines, charming towns, and even seal hangouts.
Skarðsvík Beach
First up: Skarðsvík Beach, a rare golden-sand beach in a country full of black sand! This stop was such a fun change of pace—it felt almost tropical… until you dip your feet in the water LOL. The bright blue water, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful vibes made it one of our favorite unexpected stops. We spent about an hour here just relaxing, wave watching, and soaking up the scenery.
Saxhóll Crater
Just down the road is Saxhóll, a volcanic crater you can actually walk up! There’s a metal staircase that makes the climb pretty manageable, and the view from the top is really cool! The wind was intense when we went, so the walk up and down the stairs was a little crazy! Truthfully, Saxhóll looks so much cooler from a distance when you’re driving up to it rather than climbing up and looking inside of it. It is rock and that’s about it, but the walk is still fun to see everything else in the area from a higher perspective!
Djupalonssandur Beach
Next, we headed over to Djúpalónssandur Beach, and this turned out to be an unexpected favorite on Day 8! This black pebble beach is rugged and dramatic, with a few unique features that make it stand out. Scattered along the shore are big, rusty metal pieces from a shipwreck—the remains of the English trawler Epine GY-7, which ran aground off the coast in 1948. Don’t touch the remains, but definitely take a moment to appreciate the eerie, fascinating history they carry. You’ll also find a set of “lifting stones” once used to test the strength of fishermen. While we were there, the weather was actually pretty nice, so we laid back on the beach and just soaked it all in. There was something so peaceful and beautiful about this spot that we started dozing off right there on the pebbles.
Malarrif Lighthouse
A short stop, but a scenic one! Malarrif Lighthouse stands tall compared to the other lighthouse’s we’ve seen on this trip. It’s one of those quick “get out, snap a photo, admire the view” kind of spots—and was worth every second. There is also a visitor center here if you want to go inside and read a little about the history!
Arnarstapi
Next, we stopped in Arnarstapi, another cute fishing village along the coast. We didn’t stay too long, but we did make sure to check out the Bárður Snæfellsás statue! Bárður is a legendary figure in Icelandic folklore—a half-man, half-troll said to be the guardian spirit of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The stone statue is pretty unique, and the village itself was absolutely beautiful!
Búðakirkja (Black Church of Búðir)
Now onto the iconic Búðakirkja! This is Iceland’s famous black church, set in a serene and scenic spot that makes it insanely photogenic. We were so excited to finally see it in person, and it definitely lived up to the hype. We didn’t stay long, but it was a quick and memorable stop on our trip on Iceland’s Ring Road.
Ytri Tunga Seal Beach
And finally, a relaxing end to the day: watching seals lounge on the rocks at Ytri Tunga. It’s one of the best places in Iceland to see them, and we were lucky to spot a few! The beach is calm and it felt like a peaceful little send-off before heading back to Reykjavík.
Back in Reykjavík
Sadly, this marks the end of our trip around Iceland’s Ring Road. For your final night in Reykjavík, we highly recommend visiting Hallgrímskirkja after dark. The way it’s lit up at night is absolutely stunning and gave us the perfect, memorable send-off to an unforgettable adventure.
Tips for Saving Money in Iceland
Iceland is absolutely stunning—but let’s be real, it can wreck your wallet if you’re not careful. That said, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down and still have the trip of your dreams. Here’s how we made it work:
Grocery Stores = Lifesavers
Eating out in Iceland is no joke—dinner for two can easily cost $60–$100. Instead, stock up at local grocery stores like Bónus or Krónan. You’ll find snacks, water, and even ready-made meals that’ll save you big time on dining costs.
Book Airbnbs With Kitchens
If your accommodation has a kitchen, take full advantage. Cooking even a few meals can save you hundreds. Think pasta nights, sandwich lunches, or simple breakfasts before hitting the road.
Book Major Attractions Early
Hot spots like the Blue Lagoon book out fast and get more expensive the closer you get. Lock in your time slots early—and always check online for deals.
Plan Your Route to Save on Gas
Gas is expensive in Iceland, so map out your stops efficiently to avoid backtracking. Apps like Google Maps are super helpful for planning smart routes.
Skip the Tours (Your Car Is the Tour Guide)
One of the best parts about Iceland? So many iconic sights are totally DIY-friendly. With a rental car, you can visit waterfalls, beaches, and volcanoes at your own pace—no pricey guided tour necessary.
Heads up: Most sites charge a small parking fee (usually around $7-$10), which adds up. Still way cheaper than paying for a tour bus though.
Travel in Shoulder Season
Visit in April–May or September–October for lower prices, smaller crowds, and semi-decent weather. Summer is gorgeous, but it’s also when prices peak and availability drops.
Final Thoughts: Your Epic 8 Day Ring Road Adventure Awaits
Driving the Ring Road is hands down one of the most unforgettable adventures we’ve ever had—not just in Iceland, but anywhere in the world. From thundering waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to sleepy coastal towns and natural hot springs, every turn feels like stepping onto another planet.
This 8-day itinerary packs in the best of the best—without ever feeling rushed—so you can soak in the beauty, chase some waterfalls, spot a puffin or two, and maybe even catch the Northern Lights dancing above you. Whether you’re traveling solo, road tripping with your besties, or doing the couple’s adventure thing, this journey will leave you speechless.
For us, this trip will always hold a special place in our hearts—it’s where we got engaged. We love Iceland with everything we’ve got, and we think you will too.
Thanks so much for supporting our blog. Now go chase that Icelandic magic—and safe travels!
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