Reykjavik, located in the southern part of the island, is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Despite the fact that the Icelanders are known for observing traffic rules, you'll come across a number of daredevils who quickly lose their cool here. The city centre is ideally adjusted for driving a vehicle. Therefore, you won't face any problems in getting to such tourist attractions as Hallgrimskirkja, the National Museum of Iceland, or the famous Sólfar monument.

Selfoss is another pearl of South Iceland well-known for its harsh climate and interesting geological forms. It will be an ideal starting point for the adventure around Landmannalaugar, or the Rainbow Mountains, which are a paradise for the fans of trekking and hiking. 

Vík is another interesting town in the southern part of the island. You can find there a breathtaking glacier, Mýrdalsjökull, which is home to a large population of puffins. Other magnificent geological forms include Eyjafjallajökull, an active volcano luring hundreds of tourists on an annual basis.

The lovers of natural landscapes and tranquility should direct their steps to Skaftafell situated in an area characterised by high volcanic activity. Here, you'll find multiple examples of geysers and glacier foreland. Fjallsárlón, a glacier lagoon, will offer holidaymakers interesting boat trips to the nearby glaciers, whereas in Hornafjordur, you'll have the opportunity to try various types of fish and local treats.

In the eastern part of the island, you'll find, among other things, Eglisstadir, a scenic town located on the shore of Lagarfljót. In the region, it's also worth visiting the Asbyrgi Canyon or the Dettifoss Waterfall, which are located only 30 km apart. 

Akureyri is an ideal option to admire the Eyjafjörður Fiord. Well-known for fishery, the small town of Husavik entices tourists with its peaceful atmosphere and small-town architecture - from here, there's only a short trip to the colourful Mývatn Lake that is 35 thousand years old.

Those who came to Iceland in search of geysers should travel to Laugar, which is famous for geothermal waters. On your way to Stykkisholmur, which dates back to the 16th century, it's also worth paying a visit in Flokalundur, which will guarantee you an excellent view on the eastern fiords.

Another place that is a proof of the diversity of Icelandic landscapes is Snaefellsjoekull, a one-of-a-kind stratovolcano. An observant beholder will spot a gigantic glacier on its summit.

While travelling around Iceland, you can't miss Borgarnes – an industrial and commercial centre located on a green promontory. The greatest highlights of the city include the Borgarfjörður Museum and the Skallagrimsgarður Park.

However, before you start your journey around the spectaculat natural wonders of Iceland, it's worth familiarising yourself with the most important traffic rules previaling on the island. 

Suggested Road Trips in Iceland

• The Golden Circle: This is one of the most popular road trips in Iceland, and for good reason. The Golden Circle is a 300-kilometer loop that takes you from Reykjavik to some of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders, including the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Hot Springs, and the Gullfoss waterfall. This road trip is perfect for those who are looking to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and get a taste of its rich history.

• The South Coast: This road trip takes you along the southern coast of Iceland, from Reykjavik to the town of Vik. The drive is approximately 250 kilometers and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the iconic glacier lagoon, Jokulsarlon, and the Skogafoss waterfall. This road trip is perfect for those who are looking to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and unique landscapes.

• The Ring Road: This is Iceland’s main highway and is a 1,332-kilometer drive around the entire country. This road trip offers a comprehensive experience of Iceland’s natural beauty, including glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and black sand beaches. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit some of Iceland’s most iconic destinations, including the Vatnajokull National Park, the Myvatn Nature Baths, and the Dettifoss waterfall. This road trip is perfect for those who are looking for an adventure and want to experience Iceland’s beauty in its entirety.

What do you need to remember and what to avoid while driving around Icelandic roads? Will you reach all tourist attractions of this icy country by car equally easy? On which side of the road do the Icelander drive? - you can find the answers to these questions and many more below.

In Iceland, there are almost no toll roads. The only place where you have to incur costs is the Hvalfjudor Tunnel, where you will pay ISK 1,000 for a six-metre-long vehicle.

Most of the Icelandic roads are characterised by unpaved roads which are often covered with gravel. The harshness of the climate forces motorists to stay extra cautious while sightseeing regardless of the season, and many roads running in the mountain areas are available only in the summer. 

For your own safety, you should check the state of the roads on the website of the Icelandic Road Authorities before a longer venture along the mountain trails. It's best to stay on the main route as off-road trips are heavily penalised in Iceland.

The Icelanders drive on the right side of the street, owing to which most of the tourists won't have any problems with changing their driving habits. While driving along the Icelandic roads with your rental car, you should remember about two most important road signs, namely malbik endar, which means the end of a paved road and the beginning of a gravel road, and einbreið brú, which means a one-lane bridge.

In Iceland, you need to keep your dipped headlights on in all seasons. There is also a special integrated emergency system, owing to which it's enough to dial 112 to reach police department, fire department, or emergency medical services. When it comes to speed limits, you can drive at a speed of 50 km/h in built-up areas as well as 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on bituminous roads in rural areas. You should also remember about wearing seatbelts which are obligatory both for the driver and the passengers. Failing to observe this regulation may cost you a lot...

Drinking and driving is considered a crime and is penalised with high penalty payments, driving bans, and even prison. The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.05%. 

While driving around Iceland, you need to make sure that your rental car is properly equipped. The obligatory equipment includes a warning triangle, whereas a reflective vest, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a set of spare bulbs are optional. Nevertheless, it’s practical to have these elements with you as you never know when they are going to come in handy.

When taking a road trip in Iceland, it is important to be aware of the following:

• Weather conditions: The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and can change quickly, particularly in the winter months. Make sure to check the weather forecast before setting out on your road trip and be prepared for extreme weather conditions such as snow, rain, and strong winds.

• Road conditions: Iceland’s roads can be challenging, particularly in the winter months when they can become slippery and icy. Make sure to drive carefully, especially on the more remote roads, and be prepared for road closures due to snow and ice.

• Gas prices: Gas prices in Iceland can be high, so make sure to budget accordingly. Consider filling up your tank in the larger towns and cities, as prices are often lower than in the more remote areas.

• Accommodation: Accommodation in Iceland can be expensive, so it’s important to plan ahead and book your accommodations in advance. Consider camping or staying in guesthouses, which are often more affordable than hotels.

• Food: Food in Iceland can also be expensive, so consider bringing some non-perishable food items with you on your road trip. You can also take advantage of the local supermarkets, which often have a good selection of food items at reasonable prices.

• Mobile coverage: Mobile coverage can be patchy in Iceland, particularly in the more remote areas. Make sure to have a map and a GPS device with you, and consider downloading offline maps in case you lose signal.

• Respect the environment: Iceland’s natural beauty is one of its biggest attractions, so it’s important to be mindful of your impact on the environment. Stick to designated hiking trails, do not leave any litter, and be careful not to disturb the wildlife.

• Be prepared: Iceland is a remote and rugged country, so it’s important to be prepared for any eventualities. Make sure to carry a spare tire, a first-aid kit, and warm clothing and blankets in case of an emergency.

The best time of year for a road trip in Iceland depends on what you are looking for. Each season has its own unique characteristics, so here is a breakdown of what you can expect during each time of year:

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to experience the country’s long days and mild weather. During this time, the roads are generally clear, the days are long, and the weather is warm. This makes it an ideal time for exploring the country's natural beauty, including its glaciers, waterfalls, and hot springs.

• Spring (April to May): Spring is another good time to visit Iceland, as the weather begins to warm up and the days start to get longer. This is an ideal time to see the country’s wildlife, as the birds begin to return and the lambing season starts. However, it’s important to be aware that some roads may still be closed due to snow, so be prepared for some unexpected detours.

• Autumn (September to October): Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Iceland, as the leaves start to change color and the days become shorter. This is a good time to see the Northern Lights, as the skies are clearer and the nights are longer. However, it’s important to be aware that the weather can become more unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, wind, and snow.

• Winter (November to March): Winter is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to experience the country’s snow-covered landscapes and the Northern Lights. However, it’s important to be aware that the roads can become slippery and icy, and the days are short, with only a few hours of daylight. This is not the best time for a road trip if you are not comfortable driving in winter conditions.

Overall, the best time to visit Iceland for a road trip depends on your personal preferences and what you are looking to experience. If you are looking for long days and mild weather, summer is the best time to visit. If you are looking for a winter wonderland, then winter is the best time.

The cost of a road trip in Iceland can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to spend:

Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels can cost between 50-100 EUR per night per person, while mid-range hotels can cost 100-200 EUR per night per person. If you opt for more luxurious accommodations, expect to pay upwards of 250-500 EUR per night per person.

Food: Iceland has a high cost of living, and the cost of food can be relatively high. Street food and local eateries are the most affordable options, with meals starting at 10-15 EUR per person. Mid-range restaurants can cost 30-50 EUR per meal per person, while higher-end restaurants can cost 70-100 EUR per meal per person.

Transportation: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Iceland, and can cost between 60-120 EUR per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental period. Gasoline costs about 1.7 EUR per liter. Taxis and public transportation are more affordable options, with fares ranging from 3-5 EUR per ride.

Activities: Iceland offers a range of activities, including hiking, glacier trekking, and hot springs. Admission fees to national parks and attractions can range from 5-20 EUR per person. Tours and activities can cost 50-100 EUR per person, depending on the type and duration of the activity.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around 70-100 EUR per day per person, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend 150-250 EUR per day per person. For a week-long trip, this translates to a total cost of 490-1750 EUR per person, while a month-long trip can cost 2100-7500 EUR per person. These estimates do not include airfare or travel insurance.

Remember that these are rough estimates, and your actual expenses will depend on your travel style, itinerary, and individual preferences. Additionally, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance to save money and ensure availability.

If you're planning a road trip in Iceland, it's important to pack the right gear and clothing for the country's unpredictable weather and rugged terrain. Here are some essential items to bring:

• Warm clothing: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack warm layers, including a waterproof and windproof jacket, warm pants, gloves, and a hat.

• Hiking boots: Iceland's terrain can be rough and rocky, so it's essential to have sturdy and comfortable hiking boots.

• Swimsuit and towel: Iceland is famous for its hot springs, so don't forget to pack a swimsuit and towel to take a dip in one of the country's many geothermal pools.

• Portable charger: Charging outlets can be scarce on the road, so bring a portable charger to keep your devices charged.

• Camera: Iceland's landscapes are stunning, so don't forget to pack a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

• Road map: While GPS is widely available, it's always a good idea to have a physical road map as a backup.

• First aid kit: Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and painkillers.

• Water bottle: It's essential to stay hydrated, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout your trip.

• Snacks: Food can be expensive in Iceland, so bring some snacks to keep you fueled up on the road.

• Binoculars: Iceland has a diverse range of wildlife, including birds and marine mammals, so bring binoculars to get a closer look.

Remember to pack efficiently and consider the size of your rental car when choosing your luggage. It's also a good idea to research the specific areas you'll be visiting and consider any additional items you may need based on your itinerary.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Iceland:

• The Rough Guide to Iceland: This guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of Iceland's top attractions, practical information, and cultural insights. It includes recommendations for restaurants, accommodation, and activities, as well as detailed maps.

• Insight Guides Iceland: This guidebook offers in-depth coverage of Iceland's history, culture, and natural beauty. It includes recommendations for top sights, travel tips, and detailed maps.

• Lonely Planet Iceland's Ring Road: This guidebook focuses specifically on Iceland's Ring Road, which circles the country and is a popular route for road trippers. It includes detailed information on attractions along the way, as well as practical information and maps.

• Iceland Road Atlas: This is a comprehensive road map of Iceland that includes detailed information on roads, topography, and landmarks. It's available for purchase at many bookstores in Iceland and online.

• Michelin Iceland Map: This map provides detailed coverage of Iceland's roads, natural landmarks, and points of interest. It's available for purchase online and at many bookstores.

When choosing a guidebook or map, look for updated editions to ensure that the information is current. Additionally, be aware that road conditions in Iceland can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to ask locals for the most up-to-date information on road conditions and safety.