What to Do in Iceland: 4-Day Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Iceland? Whether it’s your first visit or a return adventure, this 4-day guide will help you balance adventure and relaxation, plus give you a clear itinerary of what we did!
Fun fact: If you’re visiting in winter, you might also catch the Northern Lights!
Iceland Basics
Iceland is called the Land of Fire and Ice thanks to its stunning glaciers and active volcanoes. History buffs will love its Viking heritage, and fun tidbit: Iceland has a dating database to make sure you’re not dating someone closely related! In summer, you can experience nearly 24/7 sunlight, aka the midnight sun, which is an incredible experience for early risers… or night owls!
Adventurous vs Chill Spots
🔥 Adventure Spots: Explore Ring Road & Golden Circle
- Plane wreck on Sólheimasandur black sand beach – a long hike but worth it for the photos.
- Geldingadalir Volcano & Lava Fields – a once-in-a-lifetime lava-viewing experience.
- Glaciers – touch them, walk on them, or join a guided tour.
- Black Sand Beach & Basalt Columns – unique volcanic formations.
- Kerid Crater – breathtaking volcanic crater, easy to access.
- Geysers – watch them erupt every few minutes.
- Hot Springs – from Blue Lagoon (luxurious) to Secret Lagoon (less touristy) or Sturlungalaug (natural & free).
- Waterfalls – highlights: Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss (walk behind it!), Skógafoss.
❄️ Chill Spots: Reykjavik City
- Colorful houses & rainbow streets
- Sun Voyager statue – perfect for photos at sunrise or sunset
- Viking Museum – fun and educational
- Botanical Gardens
- Local cuisine – hot dogs, ice cream, seafood
- Shopping – Icelandic wool, souvenirs, and local boutiques
4-Day Iceland Itinerary
Friday – Volcano & Golden Circle
- Pick up rental car at airport (automatic recommended).
- Geldingadalir Volcano & Lava – even if lava isn’t flowing, it’s still incredible.
- Kerid Crater – small fee, stunning view.
- Geysers – watch for unpredictable eruptions.
- Gullfoss Waterfall – hike down to get up close; feel like you’re in Game of Thrones.
Saturday – Reykjavik City
- Botanical Gardens & local cafe
- Cathedral & Symphony Hall – fun elevators!
- Colorful houses & Sun Voyager
- Saga Viking Museum – learn Viking history in 20–30 minutes.
- Local eats – hot dogs with all the toppings!
- Evening: live music at Dillon’s bar, shopping, and midnight sun photoshoots in nearby fields.
Sunday – Southern Coast / Ring Road
- Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss (walk behind!) & Skógafoss
- Glacier touch – unforgettable!
- Plane Wreck hike – 1–1.5 hours each way on sand and rocks; totally worth it for photos.
- Black Sand Beach & Basalt Columns – legend says trolls turned to stone here!
Monday – Hot Springs & Chill
- Sturlungalaug – natural, free hot spring (bring directions & snacks).
- Optional: Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon for a more touristy/spa experience.
- Reykjavik: chill day, shop, and eat ice cream!
Tuesday – Departure
- Head back to the airport in the morning.
This trip was incredible for reconnecting with nature and feeling completely rejuvenated. Iceland truly has it all – adventure, stunning landscapes, and the perfect mix of relaxation!
