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Iceland's road

Iceland Road Trip

Keflavík - Selfoss - Vik - Hof - Höfn - Egilsstadir - Ásbyrgi - Akureyri - Laugarbakki - Dalabyggd - Stykkishólmur - Borgarnes - Reykjavik

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Road conditions Road conditions
Culture Culture
Comfort Comfort
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Iceland Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages13 km1,571 h/stage1.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Iceland Road Trip in Iceland?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,008EUR drive & more 213EUR sleep & more 1,848EUR eat & more 1,344EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,405EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,413EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,134EUR drive & more 288EUR sleep & more 2,772EUR eat & more 2,016EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,076EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,210EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,536EUR drive & more 388EUR sleep & more 3,696EUR eat & more 2,688EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 6,772EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 11,308EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 425EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 1,344EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,539EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,689EUR
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Iceland Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland on this 14-day Iceland Road Trip. Starting in Keflavík, the route takes you through Selfoss, Vik, Hof, Egilsstadir, Akureyri, Laugarbakki, Dalabyggd and Borgarnes, covering a distance of approximately 1571km. The best time of year to drive is between June and September, when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Along the way you'll see breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains and glaciers to dramatic coastlines and volcanic craters. The roads are in good condition, so you can drive confidently and safely. This road trip offers a high-level experience and is sure to create lasting memories. It's suitable for all drivers, but be warned - it comes with an extremely high budget!
number of days 14 number of days
route length 1,571 km route length
budget extreme budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Keflavík

Distance 1,571 km Driving time 21.0 h Pace: fast 471.2 kWh Airports KEF
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Keflavík is an ideal starting point for the "Iceland Road Trip". Located on the Reykjanes peninsula, Keflavík is a charming coastal town that is home to many historical and cultural attractions. The nearby Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the busiest airport in Iceland, making it the ideal place to begin your journey. Car rental is available at KEF, allowing you to explore Iceland in comfort and style. Start your road trip by exploring Keflavík's diverse attractions. Visiting the Viking World Museum is a must, as it offers insight into the history and culture of the local area. The historic church of St. Peter is also worth a visit, as it dates back to the late 17th century. The Hafnir Nature Reserve is a great spot for nature-lovers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For a unique experience, head to the Duushús Art Gallery, located in the old Duushús fish-packing plant. Here, you can explore the local art scene and view the works of Icelandic artists. Finally, make sure to take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the North Atlantic. Whether you are a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Keflavík offers something for everyone. Begin your "Iceland Road Trip" in Keflavík and explore the wonders of Iceland.

1 Keflavík - Selfoss

Distance 105 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 31.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a 105km journey from Keflavík to Selfoss and be mesmerized by the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes along the way! This journey will take you less than 2 hours, so you have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places. Start your journey in Keflavík and take a stroll along the harbor of the old fishing village. To get a glimpse of the past, visit the Reykjanes Maritime Museum, located in the old harbor. From there, you can admire the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. Continue your journey and drive along the scenic road to the small town of Grindavík. Here, you can visit the famous Blue Lagoon spa and take a dip in the hot, mineral-rich waters. As you continue your journey, you can take a break at the stunningly beautiful Kleifarvatn lake. Finally, you will reach your destination, the vibrant town of Selfoss. Here, you can explore the old church, the local museum, and the nearby waterfalls. After exploring the town, you can find a cozy place to stay and enjoy the local cuisine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

2 Selfoss - Vik

Distance 128 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 38.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Welcome to the beautiful road trip stage between Selfoss and Vik in Iceland. This 128km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, so make sure you take the time to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. Start your journey in Selfoss, a small town known for its rich cultural history and the nearby Gjáin Valley, a picturesque gorge with a waterfall, a cave, and a few small ponds. From there, drive along the South Coast, taking in the breathtaking views of the glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. As you make your way to Vik, you will come across many historical sites, such as the Skógar Museum, the Skógarfoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Beach. Take a break and explore the area, where you can find some of the most stunning landscapes in Iceland. When in Vik, make sure to visit the Reyniskirkja Church, the Black Sand Beach, and the nearby Dyrhólaey Arch. All of these places offer spectacular views and are definitely worth your time. We hope you enjoy this stage of your road trip! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.

3 Vik - Hof

Distance 155 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 46.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Start your journey in Vik, Iceland and drive to Hof, a distance of 155 km that should take you no more than 2 hours. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of the Icelandic landscape. Make sure to take some pictures of the majestic mountains, snow-capped peaks, and the beautiful coastline. Your first stop should be the Reynisfjara beach, with its black sand and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Then, drive to the Skogafoss waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. You can also visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and is the perfect spot for a picnic. Continue your journey to Hof and make sure to visit the Skaftafell National Park, where you can go for a hike and admire the incredible glaciers and mountains. Finally, you will reach Hof, where you can explore the nearby Vatnajokull National Park. Make sure to take your time to explore the wonders of Iceland and take plenty of pictures along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

4 Hof - Höfn

Distance 112 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: fast 33.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available
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Embark on a road trip from Hof, Iceland to Höfn and explore the beauty of the country! This 112km route will take you less than two hours to complete, and you will get to witness some of the most stunning sights along the way. As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for the historical sites that are dotted along the route. You will be able to spot the ruins of a Viking farm, an old church, and a reconstructed turf house. Enjoy the scenic road as you drive past the majestic mountains and the rolling hills. Make sure to take a break in the small town of Hofsós and explore the harbor area. Here, you can take a stroll along the picturesque coastline or take a dip in the hot spring pool. You can also explore the nearby area of Hvammstangi and visit its interesting museums. Here, you can learn more about the country's culture, history, and its people. Finally, you will reach the fishing town of Höfn, where you can sample some of the freshest seafood dishes. Take a walk along the harbor and admire the colorful fishing boats. For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Hof, Iceland to Höfn!

5 Höfn - Egilsstadir

Distance 184 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 55.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Höfn to Egilsstadir? This 184 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Icelandic countryside. Start your trip in Höfn, a fishing village known for its delicious lobster. While you're here, take some time to explore the Hofskirkja Church, the oldest in the region, and the Hofn Glacier Lagoon, a beautiful glacier lake. As you continue your journey, be sure to keep an eye out for the historical sites, such as the ruins of Stöng, a farmstead destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 12th century. You'll also want to take a break to admire the stunning views of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. Finally, you'll arrive in Egilsstadir, home to the East Iceland Heritage Museum. Here, you can explore the area's rich history and culture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a memorable road trip from Höfn to Egilsstadir!

6 Egilsstadir - Ásbyrgi

Distance 188 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 56.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Then join us on a journey from Egilsstadir to Ásbyrgi, a route of 188 km that will take you less than 3 hours to complete. This is one of the most scenic routes in Iceland and you will be surrounded by stunning views of the rugged Icelandic countryside. At Egilsstadir, make sure to visit the fascinating Lagarfljót lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the breathtaking views. Then, make your way to the Hallormsstaður forest, the largest forest in Iceland and home to a variety of wildlife. Continue your journey to Ásbyrgi, where you can explore the breathtakingly beautiful canyon and its surrounding area. Here, you can take a stroll along the trails and marvel at the majestic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures along the way! For more information and tips about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

7 Ásbyrgi - Akureyri

Distance 140 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 41.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available
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An exciting road trip awaits you! Start your journey in Ásbyrgi, Iceland, a horseshoe-shaped canyon formed by a massive flood. Here you can explore the breathtaking cliffs, lush greenery, and tranquil waterfalls. From Ásbyrgi, take a drive of 140 km, less than two hours, to Akureyri, the largest town in northern Iceland. Along the way, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. Make sure to stop and take pictures of the picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and scenic roads. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, but you'll be sure to find plenty of interesting attractions and activities in both Ásbyrgi and Akureyri. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

8 Akureyri - Laugarbakki

Distance 200 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 60.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options camper parking available
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Akureyri to Laugarbakki! This 200 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will leave you with a lifetime of memories. The route is full of stunning scenery, so make sure to take your time and admire the views. Start your journey in Akureyri, the capital of the North. This charming town is known for its vibrant culture and stunning views of the Eyjafjörður fjord. Make sure to explore the old town and take in the unique architecture of the buildings. Continue your drive to Laugarbakki, a small fishing village located on the southern coast of the peninsula. Here you can explore the local harbor, take a walk along the beach or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Dalvík and Ólafsfjörður, both of which offer plenty of attractions and activities. Your journey will end in Laugarbakki, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

9 Laugarbakki - Dalabyggd

Distance 73 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 21.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Ready for an exciting road trip? Start your journey in Laugarbakki, a small town in the south of Iceland! From there, you'll drive 73 km (in less than an hour) to reach Dalabyggd. Along the way, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning Icelandic scenery and take in the breathtaking views. Make sure to keep an eye out for some of the most beautiful attractions, including the majestic waterfalls, lush valleys, and picturesque mountains. In Laugarbakki, make sure to check out the historic church and the old farmhouse, as well as the local museum. When you reach Dalabyggd, you can explore the charming old town and visit the nearby lighthouses. For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

10 Dalabyggd - Stykkishólmur

Distance 78 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: modest 20.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site
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Embark on an unforgettable 78 km journey from Dalabyggd to Stykkishólmur, a driving time of fewer than two hours. On this route, you will experience some of the most beautiful and unique sites in Iceland. Start off by exploring the historical sites in Dalabyggd. Afterwards, drive along the scenic road and admire the stunning views of the magnificent mountains and the blue waters of the fjords. As you get closer to Stykkishólmur, you will be able to see the picturesque fishing villages and the breathtaking views of the islands. In Stykkishólmur, you can visit the old harbor, the lighthouse and the museum. Don't forget to stop at the local restaurants and cafes to savor the local cuisine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

11 Stykkishólmur - Borgarnes

Distance 86 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: fast 25.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a mesmerizing road trip from Stykkishólmur to Borgarnes! This 86km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete and is one of the most interesting stages of a longer tour. Start your trip by visiting the picturesque harbor of Stykkishólmur and its impressive mountain views. Then, take a stroll around the old church before heading to the nearby lighthouse. Don’t forget to take some pictures of the breathtaking landscapes! As you continue your journey, take the time to admire the stunning views of the fjords and the mountains. Be sure to keep an eye out for any historical sites you may find along the way. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Finally, you’ll arrive in Borgarnes. Here, you can explore the impressive Settlement Centre and its interesting exhibits. Take a walk around the old town and marvel at the beautiful views of the harbor. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip and have a safe journey!

12 Borgarnes - Reykjavik

Distance 76 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: fast 22.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome to the Borgarnes to Reykjavik stage of your Icelandic road trip! This route will take you from the quaint town of Borgarnes, located in the west of Iceland, to the vibrant capital of Reykjavik, a mere 76 km away. The drive should take no more than two hours, so you can take your time and enjoy the sights along the way. The route is full of historical sites, scenic roads, and picturesque views of Iceland’s landscape. Be sure to make a stop in Reykholt, where you can take a tour of the ruins of Snorri Sturluson’s home. Snorri was a famous Icelandic poet and historian, and his home is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also take a detour to Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls that run through a lava field. The waterfalls are especially beautiful during the summer months, when the sun reflects off the surface of the water. As you make your way towards Reykjavik, you’ll pass through the town of Mosfellsbær, which is known for its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Once you’ve reached Reykjavik, be sure to take a stroll through the city’s colorful streets and visit some of the many museums and galleries. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

13 Reykjavik - Keflavík

Distance 47 km Driving time 0.7 h Pace: fast 14.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Reykjavik to Keflavík! This 47 km drive takes less than an hour, but there are plenty of interesting places to explore along the way. Start in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and take in the stunning views of the city’s colorful buildings and the surrounding mountains. From there, drive through the countryside, admiring the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and the North Atlantic Ocean. As you pass through small towns, be sure to look out for historical sites and monuments. When you reach Keflavík, you’ll be able to explore the town’s vibrant harbor, where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Viking World Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Iceland. No matter what type of traveler you are, this road trip from Reykjavik to Keflavík has something for everyone. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage.

  Keflavík

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Keflavík is the perfect ending point to your Iceland Road Trip. Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Keflavík is a small fishing village with a unique atmosphere. This charming town has plenty of attractions to offer, from the nearby Blue Lagoon, to the iconic Reykjanes Lighthouse. The Blue Lagoon is a must-see for any visitor to Keflavík. This geothermal spa is a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere and incredible views of the surrounding area. If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, take a boat trip out to the Reykjanes Lighthouse, where you can get a close-up view of the region's stunning scenery. Keflavík is also home to the Valahnúkur Nature Reserve, where you can explore the rugged landscape and take in the breathtaking views. For the history buffs, the Keflavík Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the town's maritime heritage. If you're looking to get to Keflavík, the closest international airport is Keflavík International Airport (KEF). From there, you can rent a car and drive the rest of the way to the town. Keflavík is the perfect ending point to your Iceland Road Trip. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and unique atmosphere, it's the perfect place to cap off an unforgettable journey.

Iceland Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on a 14-day expedition through Iceland's dramatic landscapes, covering 1571km from Keflavík International Airport to a host of remarkable destinations. This adventure offers a window into Iceland's diverse terrain, from geysers and waterfalls to glaciers and black sand beaches, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Selfoss: A gateway to the Golden Circle, which features the spouting Geysir, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
  • Vik: Renowned for its striking Reynisfjara black sand beach, stunning basalt columns, and the mythical Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise from the ocean, embodying Iceland's rich folklore.
  • Hof: Situated close to the Vatnajökull glacier, Europe's largest ice cap, where you can delve into the mesmerizing blue ice caves or hike on the glacier's surface.
  • Egilsstaðir: Nestled near the serpentine East Fjords and the enigmatic Lagarfljót lake, which, according to legend, is home to a worm monster akin to the Loch Ness Monster.
  • Akureyri: Known as the `Capital of North Iceland,` this cultural hub is a stone's throw away from the horseshoe-shaped Godafoss waterfall, often referred to as the `Waterfall of the Gods,` and the geothermal wonderland around Lake Mývatn.
  • Laugarbakki, Dalabyggð, and Borgarnes: These smaller towns offer a glimpse into Iceland's rich history and culture, set amidst captivating landscapes that are often less frequented by tourists.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal period for this Road Trip spans from June to September when you can take advantage of warmer weather, longer days, and easier access to highland routes that remain closed during winter.

Potential Risks:

While primary Roads are well-maintained, travelers should be vigilant about quickly changing weather conditions, which can lead to hazardous driving situations. A 4x4 vehicle may be necessary for rough terrain and F-Roads, especially in the highlands.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Iceland's Ring Road, or Route 1, which circles the entire country, facilitates access to many of the island's natural treasures.
  • The country uses geothermal energy to heat many of its Roads, reducing ice and snow accumulation.
  • Drivers should be aware of unique Icelandic traffic signs, such as those indicating single-lane bridges or sheep crossings.
  • Respect the environment by staying on marked paths and Roads, as Iceland's delicate ecosystems can be easily damaged.

A good choice for:

This Road Trip is a high-budget endeavor that promises extraordinary encounters with Iceland's untamed natural beauty, offering the thrill of discovery with every mile. Be prepared for a journey that not only showcases Iceland's physical splendor but also immerses you in its cultural heritage and sagas.

Facts for safer driving in Iceland

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.4
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 90 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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