Reykjavik Iceland 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and take the Flybus shuttle or drive to Reykjavik ( approx. 45 minutes).
  • Check-in at Hotel Reykjavik, a central hotel with easy access to attractions.
  • Visit Hallgrimskirkja, a 73-meter-tall Lutheran church offering panoramic views of the city from its tower. The church itself is also an iconic landmark and worth exploring.

Day 2: Golden Circle

  • Start your day early with breakfast at Gló, serving a wide variety of healthy dishes.
  • Head to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Icelandic parliament, Althing, was established in 930. The park is also known for its unique geology and historical significance.
  • Continue to Geysir and witness the original geyser that all others are named after. Geysir itself doesn’t erupt as frequently as Strokkur but it’s a must-see.
  • End your day with a visit to Gullfoss, a breathtaking waterfall that drops 32 meters into a deep canyon.

Day 3: South Coast

  • Have breakfast at Café Loki, known for its creative and delicious dishes.
  • Stop by the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre, which provides insight into the volcano’s eruption in 2010. The eruption caused widespread disruption to air travel globally, including cancellations of flights from Iceland to Europe.
  • Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls for stunning views and photo opportunities.

Day 4: Snaefellsnes

  • Head west towards the beautiful Snæfellsnes peninsula. It’s known as ‘Iceland in miniature’ due to its diverse landscapes.
  • Start your day with breakfast at Hotel Ranga, a unique hotel offering a variety of Icelandic specialties.
  • Visit Strokkur, the most active geyser, and watch it erupt. This spot is also known for its thermal area and hot springs.
  • Explore Arnarstapi and Ytri-Árnäs, both are scenic spots with unique rock formations.

Day 5: Reykjavik

  • Have breakfast at Café Amour, a cozy spot serving pastries, sandwiches, and light meals.
  • Visit Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning example of modern Icelandic architecture. Its glass façade is particularly impressive during the day or night when it’s illuminated.
  • Explore the Reykjavik Harbour area, which has seen significant development in recent years. It now offers a variety of restaurants and shops.

Day 6: Departure

  • Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at Laugavegur, the main shopping street in Reykjavik.
  • If you have time, visit the Reykjavik Botanical Garden, a peaceful spot with a variety of plants and trees. It’s also home to a few small cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee.

Places to Eat

  • Gló: A popular restaurant serving healthy dishes.
  • Café Loki: Known for its creative and delicious dishes.
  • Hotel Ranga: Offers a variety of Icelandic specialties.

Accommodation

Transportation

  • Flybus shuttle: Available from the airport to Reykjavik city centre.
  • Car rental: Recommended for exploring the South Coast and Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Tips and Things to Know

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions, including rain and wind.
  • Dress warmly: Even in summer, it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings. Bring layers.
  • Respect nature: Iceland is known for its unique landscapes and wildlife. Be mindful of your impact on these natural wonders.

Additional Tips

  • Try to avoid driving at night, especially if you’re not familiar with Icelandic roads.
  • Don’t drink tap water; it’s not potable.
  • Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June to August).
  • Respect local customs and traditions. Iceland has a unique cultural heritage.

Other Things to Do

  • Visit the Reykjavik Museum of Art, which features contemporary Icelandic art.
  • Explore the Reykjavik Harbour, which offers a variety of restaurants and shops.
  • Take a stroll through the Reykjavik Botanical Garden, a peaceful spot with a variety of plants and trees.

This itinerary provides a mix of city exploration, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of Reykjavik and its surroundings. Enjoy your trip!