Exploring Iceland’s Winter Wonders: A Week-Long Itinerary

Your Icelandic adventure begins as soon as you land in Reykjavik! My first piece of advice? Rent a 4WD vehicle with snow tires. You’ll be so glad you did as you drive along those icy, rugged roads (and make sure to grab extra insurance for peace of mind).

I recommend starting with Gunnuhver Geothermal Hot Springs. The steam rising from the earth and that signature sulfuric smell will transport you right into Iceland's otherworldly vibe. Just be cautious on the boardwalks — they can get slippery. Pro tip: wear sturdy Gore-Tex boots or ice cleats, and you’ll be all set!

From there, take a short drive to Reykjanes Lighthouse, which offers gorgeous coastal views. If you're into quirky spots, you’ll love the Eurovision piano keyboards from the movie for a fun photo op.

Then, head over to the Bridge Between Continents, where you can literally walk between two tectonic plates. It’s a fascinating, once-in-a-lifetime kind of place!

Once you’re ready for a bite, Grandi Mathöll is an awesome food hall. There’s a noodle spot that will warm you right up, plus the cold beers make it a great stop after all that exploration.

For some relaxation, don’t miss the Gvammsvik Hot Springs — the panoramic views from the glass atrium are stunning, and the mix of warm pools and cold plunges is so invigorating! You’ll feel completely recharged.

Your first night is best spent at Apotek Hotel in Reykjavik. It's a cozy boutique hotel that feels like a little slice of Paris. And be sure to pack your plug adapters!

Dinner? Head to Matur og Drykkur, a Michelin-recommended gem where the modern Icelandic dishes are to die for. The fish stew with herb-infused olive oil is an absolute must-try. Reservations are highly recommended, though — places like Dill and Ox fill up fast! After dinner, you can either soak up Reykjavik’s nightlife or head back for a good night’s rest.

Get your day started with a cozy coffee and buttery croissant from Brauo & Co. It’s the perfect fuel before a day of adventure!

The first stop of the day is Gullfoss Waterfall, where the roaring waters are absolutely awe-inspiring. You’ll want to take a few minutes to really soak it all in.

Next, head to the Geysir Hot Springs area — watching the Strokkur Geyser erupt every few minutes is pure magic. It’s a great reminder of Iceland’s powerful geothermal energy.

For a hidden gem, make a detour to Bruarfoss, a stunning waterfall that’s tucked away. It’s much easier to access now, so don’t miss it!

At lunchtime, make your way to Friðheimar Tomato Farm. Trust me, the greenhouse dining experience is unforgettable. Their tomato soup bar is a favorite, and pairing it with a Bloody Mary made from their own tomatoes? Heaven!

Afterward, unwind at Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa with cedar saunas by the water. The vibe is more commercial than some others, but it’s still so peaceful and soothing. For a truly unique experience, Laugarvatn Fontana also offers a geothermal bakery experience where you can participate in baking traditional rye bread in the ground. The bread is slow-baked using the natural heat from the hot springs, creating a deliciously moist and slightly sweet loaf. It’s a fun and memorable way to connect with Icelandic culture.

End the day at Blue View Cabins — each cabin comes with its own private hot tub, where you can soak under the stars and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Start your day with a visit to Kerid Crater. Walking across the frozen surface surrounded by dramatic volcanic walls is a surreal experience, like stepping into a winter wonderland.

Next, head to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Even though you can't walk behind it in the winter, the view from the front is just as stunning. A short walk from there will lead you to Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem tucked away in a mossy canyon. Just a heads up, waterproof boots are a must, especially if you want to wade through shallow water to get there.

The day continues with stops at Nauthúsafoss and Írafoss — two lesser-known waterfalls that’ll leave you in awe. They’re peaceful, picturesque and perfect for soaking in some quiet beauty.

By lunchtime, stop at Smiðjan Brugghús in Vík for juicy burgers and craft beer—refuel and relax before the next leg of your journey!

After lunch, swing by Gluggafoss, a beautiful yet lesser-visited waterfall. The "windows" in the rock are mesmerizing, especially when winter frost has its say, creating intricate patterns.

End the day at Hótel Vík for a cozy stay, and make sure to let them know you'd like a Northern Lights wake-up call. Trust me, stepping outside to see the auroras dancing across the night sky is something you'll never forget.

Get ready for more natural beauty and jaw-dropping landscapes today. Your first stop is Foss á Síðu, a charming, lesser-known waterfall cascading down rugged cliffs. From here, you’re just a short drive away from Stjórnarfoss, a peaceful, picturesque spot perfect for enjoying Iceland’s quieter moments.

Next, take a scenic drive to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, an awe-inspiring wonder with snow-dusted cliffs that look like something out of a fairytale. Walking along the marked paths, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the river that snakes through the canyon. Trust me, you’ll want to capture some photos here — it’s postcard-worthy.

From there, head to the Eldhraun Lava Field, one of the largest lava fields in the world. The moss-covered lava rocks stretch out in every direction, creating a surreal and peaceful landscape. Take a meditative walk among the ancient rocks, and enjoy the quiet solitude that this unique area offers.

Make sure to visit Skógafoss next, one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland. You won’t believe how majestic it looks with the backdrop of snowy hills. If you're up for it, take the stairs to the top of the waterfall for some of the best panoramic views in the country.

Your next stop is Dyrhólaey, a stunning promontory with incredible views of black sand beaches, towering cliffs and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike down to the beach for a closer look at the striking volcanic rocks, but be careful — sneaker waves can appear unexpectedly.

For lunch, stop by Black Crust Pizza in Vík, where you can indulge in delicious, Instagram-worthy pizzas topped with local ingredients. Perfect fuel for the rest of your adventures!

End the day with the Lava Show in Vík. This interactive, educational experience will give you an up-close look at molten lava and teach you about the volcanic activity that shapes Iceland’s landscape. It's a thrilling and informative way to wrap up your volcanic explorations.

Today’s the day for glacier adventures, and it’s going to be unforgettable. Start with a glacier hike at Skaftafell Base Camp in Vatnajökull National Park. The tour lasts about four hours, and you’ll explore stunning ice caves, walk between towering crevasses and be surrounded by breathtaking blue glaciers. It's an adventure for the soul and your camera! Your guide will share fascinating insights into the glaciers' history and geology — trust me, it's both thrilling and educational.

After the hike, head to Diamond Beach near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll be wowed by glistening icebergs scattered across the black sand beach. It’s a surreal experience and one of Iceland’s most beautiful spots. While at the lagoon, keep your eyes peeled for seals swimming gracefully in the crystal-clear water. Seeing them up close is an unforgettable treat!

For lunch, Pakkhús Restaurant in Höfn is a great choice. Here, you can savor some of the freshest seafood Iceland has to offer, especially their signature langoustine dishes. The harbor views are just the icing on the cake.

Continue your journey to Mjóeyri Travel Holiday Homes, where you can relax in cozy red cabins overlooking a tranquil lake. This place is the perfect winter escape. Feeling adventurous? Try their quirky red speedboat-turned-hot-tub for a unique and relaxing experience as you soak in the stunning snowy surroundings.

On your final day, head to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town that feels like something straight out of a fairytale. The winding road leading into the town is as scenic as it gets, with snow-covered peaks towering above and peaceful views of the fjord.

While you're there, don't forget to stop by Seyðisfjarðarkirkja, the iconic blue church that makes for a perfect photo op. The town is also home to Skaftfell Bistro, where local art adorns the walls, and the food is mouthwatering. When we visited, they had art inspired by Salvador Dalí — such a cool, quirky touch! Be sure to try their delicious burger paired with a stout beer — it’s the perfect winter meal.

Next, treat yourself to a relaxing soak at Vök Baths, a unique geothermal spa where you can walk straight from the locker room into the warm, tranquil pools. The cold air and the warm water create such a soothing atmosphere. If you’re like me, you’ll want to sip a fizzy drink while you relax — trust me, it’s a delightful treat. And here’s a pro tip: bring earmuffs to keep your ears warm while you unwind.

As your time in Iceland comes to a close, head to Egilsstaðir Airport for your flight. Returning your rental car is surprisingly simple — just park it, leave the keys in the glove box and you're all set. And here's the best part: the airport experience is incredibly relaxed. You can drop your bag with an attendant, and security is almost nonexistent. In fact, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before your flight. After that, it’s just a short walk across the tarmac to your plane. Talk about stress-free! The laid-back vibe of Iceland truly extends all the way through your departure.

Before you head home, a quick heads-up: Reykjavik has two airports — one for domestic flights and one for international. If you're flying out of the international airport, double-check your domestic flight includes a transfer to ensure everything goes smoothly for your journey home.

And with that, your Icelandic adventure comes to a close! This week has been full of nature, adventure and a bit of magic. Iceland’s charm is truly unforgettable, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.