Iceland in 10 Days: The Ultimate Ring Road Itinerary

# Iceland in 10 Days: The Ultimate Ring Road Itinerary

Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1) circumnavigates the entire island, connecting jaw-dropping natural wonders and charming towns. Here's how to maximize 10 days.

## Day 1-2: Reykjavik & Golden Circle

**Day 1:**
- Arrive in Reykjavik
- Explore city center: Hallgrimskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall
- Dinner at Dill or Grillmarkadurinn

**Day 2:**
- Golden Circle route: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall
- Afternoon: Secret Lagoon hot springs
- Sleep in Selfoss area

## Day 3-4: South Coast

**Day 3:**
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall (walk behind it!)
- Skogafoss waterfall
- Black sand beach at Reynisfjara
- Sleep in Vik

**Day 4:**
- Fjadrargljufur Canyon
- Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon at sunset
- Sleep near glacier lagoon

## Day 5-6: East Fjords

**Day 5:**
- Diamond Beach
- Drive scenic East Fjords
- Stop in Djupivogur fishing village
- Sleep in Egilsstadir

**Day 6:**
- Explore Seydisfjordur (rainbow street!)
- Hengifoss waterfall
- Continue to Dettifoss (Europe's most powerful waterfall)

## Day 7-8: North Iceland

**Day 7:**
- Myvatn area: Lava formations, hot springs, mud pools
- Myvatn Nature Baths
- Sleep in Akureyri

**Day 8:**
- Explore Akureyri (Iceland's second city)
- Afternoon whale watching
- Godafoss waterfall
- Continue west to Hvammstangi

## Day 9-10: West Iceland & Return

**Day 9:**
- Seal watching at Hvammstangi
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Kirkjufell mountain, coastal cliffs
- Sleep in Borgarnes

**Day 10:**
- Deildartunguhver hot spring
- Blue Lagoon (book in advance!)
- Return to Reykjavik for evening flight

## Essential Tips

**Vehicle:**
- Rent 4WD from November-April
- GPS is essential
- Buy extra insurance

**Packing:**
- Layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy boots
- Swimsuit for hot springs
- Camera with wide-angle lens

**Budget:**
- €250-400/day for accommodation and food
- Fuel costs significant-fill up when possible
- Book accommodation months ahead for summer

**Best Time:**
- June-August: Midnight sun, accessible roads, peak prices
- September-April: Northern lights, cheaper, some road closures

The Ring Road delivers Iceland's greatest hits plus hidden gems. Allow flexibility for weather and extra time at favorite spots-you'll want to linger.