Iceland is quickly becoming a well travelled country for tourists from all around the globe. The new flights added from wow air and Norwegian air that connect the country to Europe and the United States at exceptionally low prices are a main cause for this as well as the countries stark landscapes and undesirable beauty. Iceland can be explored both during the winter months to see snow and ice and you can have a completely different experience in the winter when despite the countries name you will see green landscapes and warmer temperatures. Days are long in the summer an the sun does not set until the middle of the night making Iceland a natural wonder to visit. 

The perfect spot for a short break to Iceland is staying in the countries capital city Reykjavik. Reykjavik is conveniently located on the coast and is within driving distance of many of the countries key features. We recommend hiring a car, although driving during the winter months is better suited to more advanced drivers. Having the freedom of hiring your own car allows you to really make the most of your time in Iceland.

3 Days in Iceland 

Day 1

Arrive from the airport and collect your hire car. By collecting your hire car from the airport you are also saving money on any transfers or taxi charges you might have had to pay otherwise.

Head to Reykjavik.

Explore this small town with highlights including street art, views of the coast and surrounding mountains. The city also gives a glimpse into local life.

We recommend heading to the top of Hallgrimskirkja for views over the entire city. The church itself is also beautiful be lucky enough to be there for the organ to be played for the real experience. 

On a clear day head to Perlan for lunch int he glass dome, as the sun reflects off of the dome you are in for a real treat.

Take a stroll down Laugavegur for some Icelandic shopping. High quality souvenirs, clothing and home wares can be purchased, be careful though prices in Reykjavik can be extremely high.

Head for a coffee break in Reykjavik roasters. Good prices and snacks can be found.

Take in the views from the old harbour as you witness blue lakes surrounded by snow topped mountains. Head to one of the local bars for the happy hour specials. As the cost of food and alcohol in Reykjavik is so high we recommend getting your drinks during one of the happy hour specials. Chilled out bars offer local drinks and wines and spirits for a reduced price.

For dinner enjoy some local grub as you sample the many fish specialities in the many bistros located in Reykjavik. Our top choices would be: 

1. Matarkjallarinn food cellar for the vest vegan food around

2. Fiskfelagid – Fish company for amazing fish

3. Grillmarkadurinn – For grills and meat

If you have rented a car we recommend checking the aurora borealis forecast also know as the northern lights and heading out on a lights hunt. Many apps will detail your chances of seeing the lights near your current location.For the best chance of seeing the lights you need complete darkness (winter months from October-March) and clear skies. Basically if you can see the stars you have a chance at seeing the lights.The more nights you have the more chance you have of a glimpse. We would definetley recommend going bot nights if you are only there for the weekend. Use the apps to find out if it’s worth your while and where to head.many tours head out, with locals who’s professional skill is locating the lights – so if you don’t fancy hunting yourself why not head out.

Day 2

Head out early for breakfast at Kaffibrennslan for amazing waffles and breakfast specials. Good tea and coffee can also be found. Then hop in your car ready to explore the golden circle and beyond. Make sure you are a confident driver as hundreds of miles await you. We recommend firstly heading to Kerid crater.

Kerid crater

Located 62km from reykjavik the drive takes around 50 minutes and is on it’s way to the main attractions on the golden circle drive. Formed around 6,500 years and formed with a range of other crater’s names Tjarnarholar this crater boasts to be 270m long. when we visited in the winter the whole crater was frozen. Take the trail from he top right to the bottom for the ultimate views.The crater is 300isk to access. 

Geysir

Onwards head 46km (40 minutes) to Geysir. This is our favourite destination in Iceland due to it’s unpredictability and uniqueness. Walk along the path gazing at the various hot springs and watching them bubble until you reach the main geysir known by some as the great geyser and rightly so. This amazing geyser bubbles up and erupts huge sprays of boiling water up to 70 meters high to the patiently waiting on lookers. The cafe and restaurant connected is the perfect spot for a refreshment break and lunchalongside the geyser with views of the mountain.

Gulfoss waterfall

Located only 10 minutes from Geyser is Gullfoss waterfall. This white water falls is nicknamed the golden waterfall. Watch as the water gushes into the canyon. For the best view walk to the top of the rocks and over look. This is defiantly our favourite waterfall int he south!

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

The first of the waterfalls on the ring road, Seljalandsfoss falls impressively off of the cliff top. Walk around the back of the waterfall to take it in from all angles – as long as you don’t mind getting a little wet! Take the trail and visit the smaller falls which are also worth the trek. Be sure to keep an eye out for Gljufrabui waterfall hidden in the canyon.

Skogafoss

Flowing from the Skogar river, Skogafoss waterfall is a natural beauty. Clearly visible from the ring road it would be a shame not to stop! Visit during the right weather conditions to see the rainbow.

Plain wreck

Hike from the road 2.5 miles along the black sand beach and rocky paths to reach Solheimasandur plane wreck site. This United States Navy DC plane wreck is an eerie sight to see. The plane crashed in 1973 and has been relatively untouched ever since. Visiting the sight makes for some awesome photos! Head back to Reykjavik for dinner at Snaps Bistro to eat among the locals.

Day 3

Wake early for breakfast – we recommend Cafe Haiti. Take the 45 minute journey from Reykjavik to Keflavik to visit the Blue Lagoon. Visiting on the last day saves time due to the lagoon’s close proximity to the airport.

Blue Lagoon
Be sure to book the Blue Lagoon before your trip, the lagoon is the number one tourist attraction in Iceland and can be fully booked months in advance.
The Blue Lagoon is a man made geothermal spa turned the famous ‘blue’ colour by the silica and algae that grace it. Explore all that the Lagoon has to offer as you float around in the water. Be sure to save time for the face masks, sauna and steam rooms on offer. 

Then head to the Blue Lagoon’s Lava restaurant for lunch.
As you leave and head to the airport allow enough time to explore the surrounding area of the Blue Lagoon as you witness dazzling blue lakes.