5-Day Iceland Itinerary: Golden Circle & South Coast
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day adventure through Iceland, where dramatic landscapes and natural wonders await at every turn. This itinerary focuses on the iconic Golden Circle and the captivating South Coast, offering a perfect blend of waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and geothermal marvels.
Why a 5-Day Itinerary?
Five days is an ideal duration to experience the highlights of Southwest Iceland without feeling rushed. This itinerary is designed for those seeking a comprehensive yet manageable journey, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of each location. You'll cover significant ground, witnessing some of the country's most famous natural attractions.
Getting Around Iceland
For this itinerary, renting a car is highly recommended. It offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach remote locations. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for Icelandic conditions, especially if traveling during winter months when a 4x4 might be beneficial. Most major attractions on this route are accessible via paved roads.
Accommodation Tips
Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as options can be limited outside of Reykjavík City Center. Consider a mix of hotels, guesthouses, or even charming farm stays along the South Coast for an authentic experience. Overnight stops are strategically placed to minimize driving time each day.
Packing Essentials
Iceland's weather is notoriously unpredictable, so layering is key. Pack waterproof and windproof outerwear, warm base layers, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Don't forget a swimsuit for geothermal pools, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Your 5-Day Iceland Adventure: Golden Circle & South Coast
Day 1: Arrival & Reykjavík Exploration
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), pick up your rental car. Your first stop can be the world-renowned Blue Lagoon for a relaxing geothermal soak, a perfect way to unwind after your flight. Afterward, drive to Reykjavík City Center, check into your accommodation, and spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant capital. Stroll along Laugavegur street, visit Hallgrímskirkja church, and enjoy a delicious Icelandic dinner.
Tip:Pre-booking your Blue Lagoon entry is essential as spots fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or late to avoid peak crowds.
Day 2: The Golden Circle Wonders
Today, you'll embark on the classic Golden Circle route, a trio of Iceland's most famous natural attractions. Start your day by heading to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Walk between the continents and learn about Iceland's parliamentary history.
Next, continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the active Strokkur Geysir, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, sending a column of hot water up to 20 meters into the air. Finally, marvel at the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, where the Hvítá river plunges into a deep canyon in two stages. Conclude your day by driving east and staying overnight in a town like Selfoss or Hella, preparing for the South Coast journey.
Day 3: South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sands
Your South Coast exploration begins with two magnificent waterfalls. First, visit Seljalandsfoss, famous for the path that allows you to walk behind its cascading curtain of water (weather permitting). A short walk away is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem tucked inside a canyon.
Next, continue to Skógafoss, another powerful waterfall with a dramatic 60-meter drop. Climb the steps beside it for panoramic views of the coast. Afterward, head to the stunning black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, Dyrhólaey, and the basalt columns reminiscent of a mythical troll legend. Exercise caution here, as sneaker waves can be dangerous. Your overnight stop could be in Vík í Mýrdal or further east in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Day 4: Glaciers, Lagoons & Ice Caves
Today is dedicated to Iceland's icy wonders. Start with a visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a spectacular serpentine gorge (check accessibility before visiting). Then, drive towards Vatnajökull National Park. Depending on the season, consider booking a tour to explore a Skaftafell Ice Cave(typically available from October to March) or hike to Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue.
The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the otherworldly Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift towards the sea. Across the road, Diamond Beach offers a unique spectacle as ice chunks sparkle like diamonds on the black sand. Spend the night near Jökulsárlón or backtrack slightly to Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Fun Fact:The icebergs in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon can be thousands of years old, having slowly moved down from the glacier.
Day 5: Return to Reykjavík & Departure
Enjoy a final Icelandic breakfast and begin your scenic drive back towards Keflavík Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you can make additional stops along the way. Perhaps revisit a favorite spot, or explore areas you bypassed on the way east. Possibilities include a hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River near Hveragerði for a natural hot bath, or a quick detour to the Reykjanes Peninsula to see the Bridge Between Continents and bubbling mud pots. Allow ample time for the drive and airport check-in. Depart from Keflavík International Airport.
Beyond the South Coast
While this itinerary covers incredible ground, Iceland has so much more to offer. For future trips, consider exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," or venturing into the remote and stunning Westfjords. The colorful rhyolite mountains of the Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve offer unparalleled hiking, while the powerful Dettifoss waterfall and the volcanic Askja Caldera await in the north.
Conclusion
This 5-day Iceland itinerary provides an exhilarating journey through the country's most iconic natural attractions. From the geological wonders of the Golden Circle to the dramatic beauty of the South Coast's waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons, you'll create memories to last a lifetime. Prepare for an adventure that showcases the raw, untamed splendor of the Land of Fire and Ice.