Iceland’s Ring Road Travel Guide
Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) is the main highway that circles the entire island, covering over 1,300 km (800 miles) of breathtaking landscapes. This iconic route takes you through glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, volcanic fields, and charming fishing towns. Whether you're planning a week-long adventure or a longer Iceland road trip, the Ring Road offers a perfect blend of popular attractions and hidden gems.
What You Need to Know about the Ring Road
From South Coast waterfalls to the rugged beauty of North Iceland, traveling the Ring Road is the ultimate way to explore the country's top highlights at your own pace.
How Long Does it Take to Drive Around the Ring Road
Technically, you can drive the entire Ring Road in 16-18 hours without stopping, but that would miss the point entirely.
To truly experience the natural beauty and iconic stops along the route, plan on spending at least 5–10 days. This allows time for sightseeing, hiking, and flexibility for weather changes or spontaneous detours.
The Road Conditions
The Ring Road is mostly paved and accessible year-round. However, some sections, especially in the East and North, can be narrow or winding which can be a little tricky to drive in inclement weather. During winter, be prepared for snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Always check the road conditions before you drive.
Summer vs Winter Considerations
In summer, you’ll enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight, milder weather, and full access to most roads and trails. Winter, on the other hand, offers a magical landscape covered in snow, fewer tourists, and a chance to see the Northern Lights, but you'll need to be cautious of icy roads and limited daylight (as little as 4–6 hours).
Why the Ring Road Is the Ideal Introduction to Iceland
The Ring Road is the ultimate travel route for first-time visitors in Iceland . It brings you to nearly all of the Island's must-see landmarks, including glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and coastal villages. Compared to the Golden Circle, the Ring Road offers a deeper and more complete look at Iceland’s raw, untamed nature.
Whether you’re visiting for a short adventure or a longer exploration, the Ring Road delivers a once-in-a-lifetime Icelandic experience.
How Many Days Should Your Ring Road Trip Be?
Realistically, a 5-day trip is the absolute minimum, and even then, you’ll be moving fast. A 7-day itinerary strikes a balance between activity and relaxation, while 10 days or more gives you time to explore, hike, and discover lesser-known places without feeling rushed.
How to Prioritize Attractions & Activities (Limited Time)
Planning an Iceland Ring Road itinerary means making some tough choices, especially if your trip is short. To help you maximize your time, focus on the top Ring Road stops and choose experiences that align with your interests. What do you want to see and experience? Whether it’s chasing waterfalls, hiking through lava fields, or relaxing in geothermal hot springs, is up to you.
Many areas, especially around Skaftafell and the South Coast, allow you to combine multiple activities in a single day. Plan your route carefully, leave time for weather delays, and bring layers for changing weather conditions.
The Best Must-See Attractions Along the Ring Road
Planning the ultimate ring road adventure in Iceland? Here is a list of the top 11 must-see attractions you should absolutely add to your traveler’s list.
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Step behind this iconic waterfall for a unique perspective.
- Skógafoss Waterfall: A singular, powerful 60-meter drop and a favorite for photographers.
- Reynisfjara (Vík Black Sand Beach): Dramatic basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves make this a surreal stop.
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: A winding, green canyon that looks straight out of a fantasy film.
- Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park): A perfect hub for glacier hikes and nature walks at the foot of Iceland’s largest ice cap.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Watch floating icebergs drift toward the sea in this stunning glacial lake.
- The Diamond Beach: See glacier fragments glistening like diamonds on the black sand shore.
- Dettifoss Waterfall: Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Prepare to be soaked and awed.
- Mývatn Geothermal Area & Lake Mývatn: Explore steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, volcanic craters and tranquil lake. There will be flies.
- Goðafoss Waterfall: Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” this site combines history and beauty.
- Akureyri: "The Capital of North Iceland", a lively town with great food, culture, and nearby whale-watching.
Iceland’s Ring Road Sample Itineraries
Not sure how to structure your Iceland road trip? Here are sample itineraries to fit different travel lengths and styles:
5-Day Ring Road Trip Itinerary: The "Packed" One
Short on time but want to see as much as possible? This high-energy plan is for you.
Day 1: Reykjavík to South Coast - Drive south and east out of Reykjavik making sure to check out Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
Day 2: Vik to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Visit the charming village of Vík, the Black Sand Beach and the icebergs of the Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach.
Day 3: Eastfjords to Egilsstaðir - Enjoy coastal views, small fishing villages, and maybe even spot reindeer before settling in Egilsstaðir for the night.
Day 4: Mývatn to Akureyri - Enter the geothermal wonderland of the Mývatn region and visit Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, before heading to Akureyri, the charming capital of North Iceland.
Day 5: Back to Reykjavík via West Iceland - Wrap up your Ring Road adventure by heading back to Reykjavík through the west. Consider quick stops at Hraunfossar or the Borgarfjörður area to break up the drive and soak in your final views of Iceland’s diverse landscape.
7-Day Ring Road Trip Itinerary: The "Balanced" One
A more relaxed pace, with time for detours and soaking in the scenery.
Day 1: Reykjavík to Vik - Start your journey with epic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and end your day in the quaint coastal town of Vík. Explore Reynisfjara’s black sands or hike near Dyrhólaey.
Day 2: Vik to Höfn (via Jökulsárlón) - Drive through mossy lava fields to Skaftafell for short hikes, then visit the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach before reaching Höfn.
Day 3: Höfn to Egilsstaðir (Eastfjords) - Enjoy the peace and drama of the Eastfjords. Stop at small fishing villages, admire coastal cliffs, and watch for wildlife, especially reindeer, in this lesser-traveled region.
Day 4: Egilsstaðir to Mývatn - Head inland to North Iceland’s geothermal gem. On the way, stop by Dettifoss and explore volcanic craters, hot springs, and lava fields around Lake Mývatn.
Day 5: Explore Mývatn to Akureyri - Spend the morning soaking in Mývatn’s unique landscapes before driving to Akureyri. Take time to explore Iceland’s second-largest city and its nearby natural wonders.
Day 6: Akureyri to West Iceland - Travel through scenic valleys and small towns, making optional stops at Hraunfossar or Deildartunguhver hot spring en route to the west.
Day 7: Return to Reykjavík - Complete the loop back to the capital, with optional detours through the Hvalfjörður fjord or a relaxing stop at Krauma or the Hvammsvík hot springs.
10-Day Ring Road Trip Itinerary: The "Optimal" One
Perfect for travelers who want the full Iceland experience without rushing.
Day 1: Reykjavík to South Coast - Ease into the trip with visits to waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, plus the dramatic coastline near Vík.
Day 2: Vik to Skaftafell - Spend the day hiking in Skaftafell Nature Reserve, with views of glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls like Svartifoss.
Day 3: Skaftafell to Jökulsárlón to Höfn - Marvel at the floating icebergs of Jökulsárlón and wander Diamond Beach before enjoying fresh seafood in Höfn.
Day 4: Höfn to Eastfjords - Explore winding coastal roads, quiet villages, and maybe take a detour to hike in the rugged, colorful fjords.
Day 5: Eastfjords to Mývatn - Head north into geothermal territory. Stop by Dettifoss and discover the bubbling mud pots and alien landscapes around Lake Mývatn.
Day 6: Explore Mývatn & Dettifoss - Spend a full day in the region, exploring lava formations, soaking in the Mývatn Nature Baths, and discovering unique volcanic features of the landscape.
Day 7: Mývatn to Akureyri - A shorter drive lets you relax and explore Goðafoss and the cultural highlights of Akureyri.
Day 8: Akureyri to Hraunfossar to Borgarnes - Journey through West Iceland, stopping at Hraunfossar waterfalls and historic Reykholt before resting in Borgarnes.
Day 9: Snæfellsnes Peninsula (optional detour) - Take a full day to explore Snæfellsnes, a peninsula often called "Iceland in Miniature", with glaciers, lava fields, and sea cliffs.
Day 10: Return to Reykjavík - Wrap up your adventure with an easy return to the capital. Optional stop: a relaxing soak in the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon.
Planning Tips for First-Time Visitors in Iceland
- Download offline maps before your trip
- Always check weather and road conditions
- Dress in layers and prepare for fast weather changes
- Respect nature—stay on marked trails and never off-road drive
Read our Beginner’s Guide to Iceland Travel for more details.
Plan Accommodation & Logistics
Knowing where you are staying for the night, where you want to eat and stop for fuel are great anchors around which to plan your trip.
The Best Stops & Stays Along the Way
- Vík – great for South Coast sightseeing
- Höfn – seafood town near glacier lagoons
- Egilsstaðir – gateway to the Eastfjords
- Mývatn – geothermal hub in the North
- Akureyri – shops, restaurants, and whale tours
- Borgarnes – perfect last stop before Reykjavík
You’ll find a mix of hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and campsites at all of these stops. It is best to book early, especially in summer, to get the kind of accommodation you prefer.
Plan Your Food & Fuel Stops Ahead
Restaurants are sparse in remote areas. Stock up on snacks, and never pass up a gas station when you're below half a tank, especially in the East and North.
Rent the Right Vehicle for Your Trip
- Summer: 2WD is usually fine for Ring Road
- Winter or Highland Detours: 4WD is highly recommended in winter and mandatory in the highlands.
- Insurance is essential, especially gravel protection
Plan According to the Season & Weather Conditions
Summer: Midnight sun, full trail access, busy season
Winter: Short daylight, snow, but ideal for Northern Lights
Shoulder Seasons (May/Sept): Great weather plus fewer crowds
Ring Road Hidden Gems
Don’t miss quiet spots like the Eastfjords, Húsavík for whale watching, or Borgarfjörður Eystri for hiking and puffin spotting. Visual maps or GPS tags can help you uncover these lesser-known treasures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about driving in Iceland:
How many days do I need to drive the Ring Road?
Ideally 7–10 days to enjoy it without feeling rushed.
Can I Do the Ring Road with Kids?
Yes! Just plan shorter daily drives and stay somewhere with kid-friendly amenities.
Are All Roads Accessible in Winter?
Not all roads in Iceland are accessible during the winter months. While the main Ring Road (Route 1) is usually kept open and well-maintained, weather conditions can change rapidly, bringing snow, ice, and strong winds. Mountain passes and roads in remote areas, especially in the Eastfjords and North, may close temporarily or require 4WD and studded tires. F-roads (mountain interior routes) are closed entirely during winter and only open in summer.
Always check umferdin.is and safetravel.is for real-time road and weather updates before setting out each day.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Perfect Ring Road Adventure
Driving Iceland’s Ring Road is more than just a scenic drive, it's an unforgettable journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Whether you have 5 days or 2 weeks, planning ahead will help you make the most of every stop, every detour, and every magical moment.
Take your time, prepare for the unexpected, and let Iceland’s natural wonders surprise you along the way. Plan ahead by booking your car rental and accommodation early. With the right itinerary, vehicle, and travel mindset, your Iceland Ring Road trip could easily become the adventure of a lifetime.
