There is so much to see and do in Iceland that you should decide your trip duration according to how many days or weeks you have to spare.
For a short break in Iceland, your best bet is to explore Reykjavík and the surroundings. Within 4 days you could visit the capital’s many museums, shops, galleries and restaurants. There are thermal pools to swim in and festive markets at Christmastime.
You could also see top sights like Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and the Geysir geothermal area, which includes the hot spring Strokkur. These are all part of the Golden Circle driving route in the south. You can experience the Golden Circle on a day trip from the capital, or over the course of a few days.
Or extend your itinerary and see more of South Iceland. In 7 days you’d get to visit black sand beaches, glaciers, and other breathtaking natural attractions that Iceland’s south coast is known for. Don’t miss the chance to bathe in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, an inviting geothermal pool.
Another great option is to visit West Iceland. Enjoy a northern lights adventure in the remote Westfjords, or head to the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Called “Iceland in miniature”, the Snæfellsnes peninsula is just 90 kilometres (56 miles) long and has a bit of everything. Discover volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls, hot springs and fishing villages here.
If you have between 10 days and 2 weeks to spare, then you’ll get to see the many beautiful corners of Iceland. As well as the southern and western regions, you can explore East Iceland and visit North Iceland too by travelling the country’s Ring Road.
Venture east to admire fjords and gaze upon the mighty Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where icebergs float on the blue waters. Continue north to Akureyri and the Lake Mývatn area to marvel at the Krafla volcano, mud pools and craters. You can warm up with a dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths.
Essentially, the more days you have to spend in Iceland then the more you will get to experience. In winter you’ll also increase your chances of spotting the northern lights!
Check out our blog for inspiration on how many days to spend in Iceland.