Embark on the last word highway journey journey with our complete 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s well-known Ring Street. Expertise the rugged mountains and distinctive geological options that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit vacation spot. From the enduring waterfalls and black sand seashores of South Iceland to the geothermal wonders of the North, our information will make sure you don’t miss a factor in your journey round Iceland’s spectacular Ring Street. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable highway journey by way of the land of fireplace and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Street is an incredible journey that means that you can discover off-the-beaten-path locations whereas having the luxurious of following a straightforward route. We suggest renting a 4X4 in your journey as this round highway takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the highest of North Iceland the place circumstances can change right away. Evaluate Automobile rental costs right here. If you’re not choosing up your rental automobile on the airport – ebook this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
That can assist you with our funds you might need to learn: How A lot Does a Journey to Iceland Value
About The Ring Street Iceland
The Ring Street is Iceland’s nationwide highway Route 1. It circles almost the complete nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring highway in 7 days and you may even see a number of the most well-liked ring highway sights in just some days. However we suggest at the very least 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll most likely need just a few extra days, however it is a 10-day Iceland ring highway itinerary that can take you thru a number of the nation’s most lovely landscapes and high sights.
Our itinerary drives across the ring highway clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a number of the nation’s most lovely paces.
Necessary Web sites
While you drive Iceland’s Ring Street, it is extremely vital to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra info to have with you for security. Necessary web sites to comply with for Iceland Street circumstances are climate forecast, highway circumstances, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
If you happen to don’t have a knowledge plan, we recommend getting an e-sim. After we journey we use Airalo and have by no means had an issue. There are many e-sims to select from, however you must also make sure that to get a GPS along with your automobile as you might not have protection in every single place in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring highway is paved and it has two-lane site visitors, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and slim passes, and climate can change shortly. We typically had very restricted visibility. So hire a 4WD.
I keep in mind one snow squall developing throughout a four-wheel drive tour in northern Iceland the place we hit some unhealthy climate. Our driver continued driving utilizing his GPS. (we requested him to cease) Nonetheless, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are nicely maintained when it snows, so it’s potential to discover it through the winter months as nicely.
The Full Ring Street Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You will have arrived in Iceland! It’s time to choose up your rental automobile and make your strategy to the Northernmost capital of the World. Positioned within the southwest of Iceland, this metropolis is to not be missed on an Iceland itinerary.
Reykjavik is about 45 minutes from the airport with the Blue Lagoon situated in between. Individuals usually go to these well-known springs on their means into town heart, or on the final day of their journey. There may be extra about them on the finish of this publish.
Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik
When you get to Reykjavik there are such a lot of issues to see and do. With a Viking historical past and a shocking Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a contemporary metropolis the place you’ll be able to loosen up and plan for the times forward.
Reykjavik Sights
- Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is likely one of the tallest buildings in Iceland and gives an unbelievable view of town from its tower.
- Harpa Live performance Corridor: This gorgeous piece of contemporary structure is dwelling to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You’ll be able to take a guided tour or take pleasure in a live performance.
- Solar Voyager: This lovely sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Take a look at the High 5 Pure Wonders of Reykjavik
- Laugavegur: That is the primary procuring avenue in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes.
- Outdated Harbour: This space has been remodeled right into a energetic district with eating places, cafes, and museums.
- Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is dwelling to an enormous assortment of contemporary and up to date Icelandic artwork.
- Learn our full Reykjavik Information
Dinner
You’ll be able to go whale watching instantly from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale-watching tour out of the way in which earlier than you hit the ring highway, ebook this tour on a luxurious yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Strive the well-known Icelandic scorching canine at this well-liked stand.
- Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is thought for its seafood, and this restaurant is a superb place to strive some native dishes.
- Learn our Icelandic Meals information that will help you know what to order.
In a single day in Reykjavik
There are many lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious inns to cozy guesthouses. We now have stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Lodge Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice decisions.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Profit from your day by getting up early in your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is situated in west Iceland and is thought for its dramatic landscapes, together with mountains, lava fields, and exquisite shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Discover Snæfellsjökull Nationwide Park which is dwelling to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is claimed to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of climbing trails and exquisite viewpoints within the park.
Go to Kirkjufell This mountain is likely one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall close by, Kirkjufellsfoss, which can be price trying out.
Discover Djúpalónssandur This lovely black sand seashore is thought for its dramatic landscapes and is a superb spot for images.
Night
If you happen to go to through the winter months, you will have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a superb place to view them as a result of it has much less mild air pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, sometimes late September to early April). Equally, Snæfellsnes Peninsula gives a fantastic alternative for stargazing because of its distant location and low mild air pollution.
Take pleasure in Icelandic delicacies at a neighborhood restaurant or café. Some locations may additionally have stay music or different occasions within the night. After an extended day of sightseeing, you may additionally need to loosen up at your lodging, whether or not that be having fun with a great ebook or soaking in a scorching tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
One of the best city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely is dependent upon your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is likely one of the hottest choices. It’s the largest city on the peninsula and gives quite a lot of lodging choices, eating places, and companies. It’s additionally recognized for its lovely outdated homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which gives nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Different choices for lodging embody Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of those cities provide a spread of lodging choices, from inns to guesthouses. Simply make sure that to ebook forward, particularly throughout peak season.
The place to remain in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Lodge Fransiskus
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri
Morning
On Day 3 of your Icelandic highway journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your strategy to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space.
Akureyri is also known as “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take roughly 5 hours, however the altering surroundings from the peninsula to the northern areas of Iceland will preserve you captivated.
Afternoon
When you arrive in Akureyri, examine into your lodging and take a while to discover this vibrant city.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a shocking Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the city. Designed by the well-known Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic constructing is a logo of Akureyri. The city heart can be price exploring, with its quaint outlets and comfy cafes.
Think about visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts quite a lot of plant species from each Iceland and across the globe. Another choice is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that may be a hit with each locals and vacationers. There are water slides
The encircling space additionally gives a lot to discover, such because the gorgeous Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space through the winter months. and
Night
For dinner, bask in some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant. Choices abound, from conventional dishes like lamb and fish soup to extra fashionable fare.
- Bryggjan: It is a well-liked spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices.
- Rub 23: A classy restaurant recognized for its sushi and steaks. They provide quite a lot of sushi choices, in addition to dishes made with Icelandic lamb and different native substances.
- Akureyri Fish and Chips: A fantastic spot for an informal meal, this restaurant serves scrumptious fish and chips made with contemporary, native fish.
Afterward, you’ll be able to relaxation up for the following day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious lodge or a captivating guesthouse. Learn extra: Finest Icelandic meals
The place to Keep
Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast in Akureyri earlier than embarking on the roughly 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding space recognized for its distinctive geological options and wealthy birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is round 90 kilometers and takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way in which to Mývatn make sure that. to cease on the Goðafoss waterfall. One more lovely waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take a while to discover the world’s high sights. Go to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon the place you’ll be able to loosen up within the heat waters whereas having fun with the gorgeous environment. One other must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava area recognized for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. If you happen to’re interested by wildlife, you should definitely try the varied birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Non-obligatory Day Journey
When you’ve got further time, think about visiting the close by city of Húsavík, recognized for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you’re going to go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it needs to be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its fame because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the gorgeous, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins, and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained a number of reputation because of the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Hearth and Ice Saga.” obtainable on Netflix. Its lovely music was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, think about attempting some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
- Daddi’s Pizza: When you’ve got had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this well-liked spot is thought for its scrumptious pizzas
- Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is situated on a working farm and gives a spread of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native substances, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has a fantastic view of the cowshed, so you’ll be able to watch the cows when you eat.
- Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This lodge restaurant gives quite a lot of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on contemporary, native substances. Additionally they have a fantastic view of the lake.
Then, head to your lodging for the evening. There are a number of choices in and round Mývatn, starting from inns and guesthouses to tenting websites. Urged lodge in Mývatn: Fosshotel Myvatn
Approximate driving time: 1 hour
Day 5 – Mývatn to Egilsstaðir
Morning
Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Mývatn earlier than setting out on the roughly 2-hour drive to Egilsstaðir, situated within the Eastfjords of jap Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru quite a lot of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.
En route make sure that to cease at Europe’s strongest waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (with out the inns, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters excessive (144 toes) and 100 meters extensive (300 toes). Right here you can too discover Jökulsárgljúfur Nationwide Park. Its spectacular horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon homes another spectacular waterfalls as nicely, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you wish to chase waterfalls, you might find yourself spending the entire day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the world’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its high sights. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, a captivating village recognized for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Ensure to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Street.
Don’t miss out on the gorgeous Hengifoss, one of many tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and vibrant purple clay. One other lovely waterfall within the space is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.
If time permits, think about taking a scenic drive alongside the Eastfjords, the place you’ll be able to admire the dramatic shoreline and probably spot some seals or different wildlife. Moreover, the world round Egilsstaðir is dwelling to a number of climbing trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the gorgeous landscapes on foot.
Night
Savor the native flavors at one of many eating places in Egilsstaðir or the encircling space.
- Valaskjálf Restaurant: Positioned within the cultural heart of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant gives quite a lot of dishes together with Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian choices.
- Klausturkaffi: Located within the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage web site, Klausturkaffi is thought for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade desserts.
- Lake Lodge Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This lodge restaurant gives a spread of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a give attention to native substances, together with reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.
Then head to your lodging for the evening. There’s a vary of choices to select from, together with inns, guesthouses, and tenting websites. Urged lodge: Lodge Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Gasoline up with a hearty breakfast in Egilsstaðir, then embark on the roughly 3-hour drive persevering with down east Iceland to Höfn, a picturesque fishing city within the southeast of Iceland. This roughly 260-kilometer journey takes you alongside the coast of the Eastfjords earlier than heading inland by way of the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for gorgeous images.
Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse your self within the space’s wealthy maritime historical past by exploring the city and its harbor. One of many must-visit sights is the Höfn Glacier Museum, the place you’ll be able to find out about glaciers, their impression on the panorama, and the consequences of local weather change.
Afternoon
There are many issues to do round this space of east Iceland. Go to Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to rise up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is probably the most well-known and you’ll most likely spend a number of time right here.
You can too go to the close by Diamond Seaside, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a shocking distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, dwelling to Europe’s largest glacier.
When you’ve got further time, think about reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which offer an unforgettable expertise of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Night
Take pleasure in some scrumptious native seafood for dinner; Höfn is especially well-known for its lobster. Kaffi Hornið and Pakkhús are two wonderful choices for sampling this delicacy.
Day 7: Höfn to Skaftafell
Morning
Get up early in Höfn and begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of many native eateries or your lodging. After breakfast, embark on the roughly 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, situated in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru a few of Iceland’s most gorgeous landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse your self within the pure great thing about the world. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to numerous sights. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, a gorgeous waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other well-liked hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the prospect to go to the customer heart, which gives exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices could be restricted inside the nationwide park, however yow will discover some good decisions in close by cities comparable to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that provides a spread of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to extra substantial meals.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Skaftafell earlier than setting out in your journey to Vik in South Iceland. This charming village is situated proper on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, protecting a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go by way of gorgeous landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Learn extra: South Coast of Iceland – High Issues to See and Do
Morning
When you arrive in Vik, take a while to discover the native sights. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a well-known black sand seashore recognized for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands within the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is dwelling to the black sand seashore with big black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be one in every of Iceland’s most recognizable sights and also you don’t need to miss it.
Legend has it that this group of stone spires are literally trolls turned to stone by the solar. As they tried to tug their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the solar got here up. Based on folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other well-liked spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you’ll be able to admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. If you happen to’re interested by historical past, think about visiting the Skógar Folks Museum, which gives a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
When you’ve got further time, think about taking a guided tour to discover the close by Katla Geopark, which encompasses a number of pure wonders, together with the Katla Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Another choice is to go to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a shocking gorge situated only a quick drive from Vik. For these interested by hen watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are dwelling to numerous seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to one in every of Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked alternative, providing quite a lot of dishes, together with their well-known lobster soup.
Day 9 Vik to Selfoss
Morning
Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Vik earlier than embarking on the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Selfoss. The journey covers round 110 kilometers and takes you previous picturesque landscapes, together with rolling hills, farmlands, and rivers.
Afternoon
Upon reaching Selfoss, discover the world’s high sights. One of many must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you’ll be able to stroll behind the cascading water for a novel perspective. One other well-liked attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, one in every of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the prospect to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Customer Middle, the place you’ll be able to be taught concerning the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Proceed on to Skaftafell Nationwide Park, the place you’ll be able to go climbing or mountaineering on Vatnajökull glacier
Insider Tip – As you drive south alongside Route 1 cease for espresso in Hella. This city has colourful homes lining the river financial institution and it’s a good place to get provides or to replenish your automobile at a fuel station.
Night
When you’ve got further time, think about taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool situated within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket upfront. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to one in every of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that provides a spread of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.
Iceland Scorching Canine – One factor you’ll discover each time anybody talks about touring to Iceland is a point out of scorching canine. They appear to be probably the most reasonably priced and well-liked meals on the Ring Street loop at fuel stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked scorching canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you’re going to strive a scorching canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate a number of scorching canine at fuel stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most reasonably priced strategy to journey.
Day 10: Selfoss to Reykjavik
After having fun with a leisurely breakfast in Selfoss, embark on the roughly 1-hour drive to Reykjavik, protecting a distance of round 50 kilometers. This quick journey takes you thru some lovely landscapes, together with volcanic fields and mountains.
Another choice is to discover the Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these interested by horse driving, a number of farms within the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
A fantastic right now is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these interested by artwork, the Reykjavik Artwork Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum provide a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir Nationwide Park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that’s situated in a rift valley the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. That is additionally the positioning of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Guests can discover the park’s trails, take pleasure in its lakes and waterfalls, and find out about Iceland’s wealthy historical past.
The Geysir Geothermal Space is dwelling to a number of geysers, together with Strokkur, which erupts roughly each 5-10 minutes, sending water and steam as much as 30 meters into the air. The realm can be recognized for its scorching springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
Lastly, the Gullfoss waterfall is a wide ranging two-tiered waterfall that drops a complete of 32 meters right into a rugged canyon. The waterfall will be seen from a number of totally different vantage factors, every providing a novel perspective. This huge waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 toes) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good cause. You’ll be able to stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your strategy to Reykjavik. It is a nice time to take the chance to discover any sights you will have missed in your first day within the metropolis. Choices embody the Solar Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a shocking church that is likely one of the tallest buildings in Iceland. You might also need to go to the Harpa Live performance Corridor, an iconic constructing recognized for its distinctive glass facade.
Night
For dinner, Reykjavik gives a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Firm is a well-liked alternative, recognized for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with contemporary, native substances. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has numerous choices to select from, together with inns, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, examine into your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has quite a lot of choices to select from, together with inns, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Closing Morning Day Journey and Fly House
Your driving on the Ring Street vacation has come to an finish. Chances are high you may be returning your automobile rental on the airport, so earlier than you allow, it is a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is usually visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. That is the right alternative to assuage these aching muscle groups within the well-known scorching springs. It could be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you have to expertise it at the very least as soon as whenever you go to Iceland. Learn extra: How one can Go to The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Price It?
If you wish to actually benefit from the Blue Lagoon you’ll be able to keep right here. Luxurious inns embody:
- The Blue Lagoon Retreat is a five-star luxurious escape that overlooks the lagoon and stands excessive sufficient to see the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
- The Silica Lodge. Only a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the many lava fields this award-winning lodge is a wonderful choice when staying in a single day on the Blue Lagoon.
How one can Plan For the Ring Street in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Journey they usually put collectively an unbelievable Iceland highway journey itinerary for us. We liked having an itinerary arrange upfront with inns pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a well-liked journey vacation spot and inns alongside the Ring Street route can ebook up shortly, so having a tour firm plan made a number of sense all we had. to do was focus on driving the Ring Street and having fun with our time. Go to Iceland Journey to assist with planning your journey.
Driving The Ring Street Independently
You’ll be able to ebook a rental automobile and do the ring highway independently. You’ll be able to examine automobile rental costs at CarRental.com. We suggest getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Street in late September and drove by way of multiple snowstorm. We had a automobile go proper off the highway in entrance of us in north Iceland. They weren’t in a four-wheel drive so we had it a lot simpler between our winter driving expertise and the snow tires on our SUV.
Ring Street Excursions
If you happen to aren’t snug driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring highway. You’ll be able to sit again, loosen up, and let the professionals take you to the favored vacationer sights.
This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Go away Reykjavik to see lots of the highlights talked about on this ring highway journey information. From waterfalls to lava fields, within the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers all of it. Test it out right here: You’ll be able to cancel as much as 24 hours upfront to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Street is a versatile choice the place you’ll be able to select from 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. It takes you to the South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and waterfalls and non-compulsory excursions of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and non-compulsory tour of the Golden Circle. Plus far more. Particulars right here.
The place to Keep on the Ring Street
There are campgrounds alongside the route with loads of availability. That is by far probably the most economical strategy to drive round Iceland’s Ring Street. However be sure to arrive on the campgrounds early. They’re first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland isn’t allowed. So you’ll want to be within the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bogs and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other good way to save cash on an Iceland Street Journey.
We stayed at principally Iceland Air Lodges which might be all alongside the complete ring highway route alongside the primary highway. Our stays included an incredible breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They have been giant and scrumptious so we may make it by way of the day with simply snacks as an alternative of a big lunch.
Finest Time to Drive the Ring Street
The excessive season in Iceland is summer season and that is probably the most troublesome time to seek out lodging. So make sure that to plan upfront in case you are reserving from June to August. We traveled to Iceland from Mid to Late September and it was much less crowded. The climate was fairly unpredictable with all the pieces from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as nicely.
Bear in mind, in case you are driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. If you happen to wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you’ve a greater likelihood to see them because the solar units earlier. And there will certainly be fewer crowds throughout shoulder season.
Are you able to Drive the Ring Street in Iceland in Winter?
You’ll be able to drive the Ring Street in Winter, however it’s best to have winter driving expertise. The Ring Street operates yr spherical. It’s a two-lane highway a lot of the means and there may be winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, If you happen to go to in winter, there may be extra of a threat of roads being closed for a day or two, so permit further time. Iceland does have good winter highway upkeep although, so in case you are used to winter driving, go for it! However be warned, once we have been there in September, most individuals we met have been terrified on the roads and mentioned it was scary for them to drive by way of snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had highway closures too).
Being from Canada, we’re used to snow squalls, however we additionally had a four-by-four SUV which helped rather a lot. So, make sure that to hire an SUV with 4-wheel drive capabilities.
Suggestions for Driving the Ring Street
Embarking on a highway journey round Iceland’s Ring Street is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Right here’s what you have to think about when it comes to gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate circumstances.
- Waterproof and cozy strolling or climbing footwear.
- Sun shades and sunscreen.
- Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months.
- Backpack for day hikes and excursions.
- Digicam or smartphone for capturing gorgeous landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
- A dependable automobile appropriate for the season you’re touring in (think about a 4×4 in case you plan to discover the highlands).
- A GPS, Google Maps, and a paper map for navigation.
- Familiarize your self with Iceland’s highway guidelines and circumstances earlier than your journey.
- Examine the climate and highway circumstances usually all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
- E book your lodging upfront, particularly through the peak summer season months.
- Pack snacks and water for the highway, as there will be lengthy distances between cities and companies.
- Think about bringing a cooler for perishable objects in case you plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
- Deliver a primary assist equipment, flashlight, and any obligatory private drugs.
- Guarantee you’ve a charged telephone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies.
- Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Further Suggestions:
- Respect the native surroundings and cling to any indicators or laws in place to guard Iceland’s distinctive landscapes.
- Be ready for altering climate circumstances and pack accordingly.
- Comply with the velocity limits
- While you come to fuel stations, replenish. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full.
- Take your time and benefit from the journey, because the Ring Street gives numerous alternatives to discover Iceland’s pure magnificence.
Iceland Ring Street Itinerary: FAQ’s
How lengthy does it take to drive the Iceland Ring Street?
For an unforgettable journey across the Ring Street, we suggest anyplace from 7 to 10 days. It is going to allow you to not solely absorb the most effective of the ring highway but additionally allow you to get off the crushed observe in North Iceland and in Southeast Iceland.
Are you able to do the Iceland Ring Street in 7 days?
You are able to do the Iceland Ring Street in 7 days however we’d say that’s the minimal time wanted. You need to use this itinerary and eradicate just a few issues in case you solely have a short while in Iceland.
What’s the finest path to tackle the Ring Street in Iceland?
You’ll be able to journey the Ring Street in Iceland in both path, clockwise or counter-clockwise, because it’s a round route. We propose going counter-clockwise, ranging from Reykjavik and heading alongside the South Coast first. It is because a number of the hottest sights, just like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, are situated within the southern a part of the island.
These are the highest websites to see on the Ring Street in Iceland. It’s really one of many best highway journeys on the earth. This 10-day Iceland Ring Street itinerary offers you the highlights however you probably have 2 weeks, you’ll actually be capable of see all of it.
So take your time to plan the right Iceland Street journey and ensure it contains all of those stops!
Planning Assets for Your Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
The Ring Rod – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Street Tri
