Here we have put together a selection of some of the very best road trips you can do across Iceland, so if you’re in need of your 2021 Iceland road trip itinerary then you’ve come to the right place.
As the world begins to reopen and travelling starts to return to some of its former glory, because let's face it - being stuck at home for the last year has only made the travel bug nip away that little bit more.
Here we have put together a selection of some of the very best road trips you can do across Iceland, so if you’re in need of your 2021 Iceland road trip itinerary then you’ve come to the right place.
The Golden Circle and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
If you’re only anticipating being in Iceland for a few days and are going to be spending your time in the west of Iceland this road trip could be perfect for you. In a short trip you’ll still be able to see some of Iceland’s very best and most popular attractions, allowing you to get the very most out of your short stay.
Here you will get to see:
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Reykjavik
- Snæfellsjökull Glacier
- Blue Lagoon
- Deildartunguhver
- Geysir
- Gullfoss Waterfall
Best Car? Due to the fact that the Golden Circle if frequently driven the roads are not as treacherous, albeit some gravelly roads. Therefore a smaller car would probably be suffice, however as you’ll likely be heading to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula as well, this may change your requirements slightly meaning a 4x4 could be a safer option however you may decide to park up and walk along the peninsula so it depends how far you intend to go.
The Golden Circle, Southern Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This road trip is an extension of what's mentioned above, however instead of looping back and heading back towards Reykjavik, instead you’ll complete the Golden Circle sights and continue heading south to explore the natural wonders of the Southern Atlantic Coast.
Once you hit the South Coast you’ll be able to explore sights such as:
- Reynisfjara Beach
- Vik
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skogafoss
- Sólheimasandur
- Vatnajökull Glacier
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Best Car? As stated above usually these roads are frequently driven meaning the roads are kept in a more ‘drivable’ state. We’d say a smaller car would probably be alright for this trip, however the Snæfellsnes Peninsula can be tricky, particularly in the raker and colder months - meaning 4x4 could be an option.
Entire Ring Road
This road trip is going to entail a lot of driving, because you are going to be doing a route around the entire country. Don’t worry, we understand that the amount of time behind the wheel may be a little off putting, but we promise the scenes, attractions and various picturesque views will make this trip completely worth it. Don’t believe us? Come and see for yourself.
You can also choose to tackle the Ring Road in stages. Check out our blog with tips and things to do on the road between Reykjavik and Akureyri.
By taking on the Iceland ring road trip you have the luxury of exploring some of Iceland’s biggest attractions and many hidden gems. For example:
- Golden Circle (and everything that comes with it)
- East Fjords
- Vestrahorn Mountain
- Hallormsstaðarskógur
- Hengifoss
- Litlanesfoss Waterfalls
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Northeast Highlands
- Dettifoss
- Lake Mývatn
- Akureyri
Best Car? As you’ll be covering a lot of distance and a lot of different terrain we’d suggest hiring a 4x4 for this trip. As it gives you a durable option to help you handle anything Iceland throws at you - which in terms of weather could be literally anything!