Four days in Iceland in the winter isn’t long enough to see everything, but it’s enough to choose one focus and follow it through to the end. Depending on your preferences, you can explore the major highlights of the Golden Circle and the South Coast one after another, or head west to discover the Silver Circle and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Here are three itineraries designed for this length of time, with or without a car, each including a day-by-day breakdown of the places to visit.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
4 Days in Iceland in Winter: What You Need to Know Before You Go
The length of the day sets the pace
In December and January, the days are only 4 to 5 hours long, which completely changes the way you plan your day. We recommend setting out while it’s still dark so you’ll arrive at your first stop at sunrise, even if that means having breakfast in the car. In February and March, the days get noticeably longer, giving you several more hours to explore. In any case, don’t overload your schedule: it’s better to enjoy 3 stops than to rush through 6 in a row.
To drive or to be driven?
Routes 1 and 2 involve driving on roads that may be snowy or icy at times. If you’ve never driven in these conditions, this short trip isn’t the right time to try it for the first time. Check out our article on driving in Iceland in the winter before you book, as well as our tips for renting a car. If you’re worried about driving in winter, Itinerary 3—which is entirely based in Reykjavik and includes guided tours—is still the most stress-free option.
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
Where to sleep?
For road trips, we list accommodations for each night in the itinerary details below. If you’re staying in Reykjavik, all the tours depart from the capital, which makes planning easier. For more options, check out our selection of the best places to stay in Iceland during the winter.
Itinerary 1: The Golden Circle and the South Coast to Jökulsárlón
This first itinerary follows the country’s busiest route, the one with the most iconic sites within a reasonable distance. Over the course of four days, you’ll explore the Golden Circle, then head south to the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, before returning north to Reykjavik. This is our recommendation for a first winter trip to Iceland.
Day 1 – Golden Circle
The Golden Circle can be visited in a day from Reykjavik and is the perfect way to kick off this short trip. Below, we’ve listed the three main stops and an option for unwinding at the end of the day.
Stop 1 – Thingvellir National Park
The first stop of the day, Thingvellir National Park stands out as much for its geology as for its history. It was here that the world’s oldest parliament was founded in the 10th century; it met at this site until the end of the 18th century. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be explored via a signposted trail lined with informational signs.
We enjoy hiking along the main fissure, between two tectonic plates, before reaching the lookout point that overlooks the entire valley. If you have more time, the nearby Silfra fissure offers diving or snorkeling in glacial water between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates: check availability.
Stop 2 – Haukadalur Geothermal Area
The second stop is the Haukadalur geothermal area, home to Geysir—which is currently dormant—and its neighbor Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes and can shoot water up to 15m to 40m high. The contrast between the bubbling mud pools, the fumaroles, and the surrounding snow cover creates a landscape unlike any other in the country.
We recommend that you get close enough to feel the steam, but do not go beyond the marked areas. Learn more about Haukadalur in winter.
Stop 3 – Gullfoss Waterfall
Fed by the Langjökull glacier, the Gullfoss waterfall cascades in two successive drops into the Hvítá River, with a total height of 32 meters. The cold doesn’t stop it: it remains powerful all year round, but takes on a different look in winter with the surrounding rocks covered in snow. We rank it among the most beautiful waterfalls to see in Iceland in winter. See our full article on Gullfoss in winter.
Stop 4 – Relax at Secret Lagoon
To wrap up this first day, the Secret Lagoon in Fludir offers a geothermal bath that’s less crowded than the Blue Lagoon. It’s a great way to relax your legs before hitting the road again the next day. Reserve your ticket.
Overnight in Fludir.
The Hill Hotel at Fludir
Modern comfort and a warm atmosphere, close to the attractions of the Golden Circle
See photos and availability
Day 2 – South Coast, from Seljalandsfoss to Vik
Let’s head to the South Coast, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches line Route 1. This day covers the western part of the region, which has the most stops.
Stop 1 – Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is known for its path that goes behind the waterfall, but this path is closed in winter for safety reasons. So you can admire the 60-meter waterfall from the front—an already remarkable sight, with ice stalactites forming along the edges where the flow is weaker.
A path then runs along the ancient cliffs to Gljufrabui, another waterfall hidden in a rocky crevice. We recommend this detour, which is often overlooked by visitors in a hurry. Learn more about Seljalandsfoss in winter.
Stop 2 – Skogafoss
Just a few minutes’ drive away, Skogafoss forms a curtain of water 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. Its flow is so strong that it never freezes, even in extreme cold, making it one of our team’s favorite waterfalls in the winter.
More than 350 steps lead to an elevated viewing platform that offers a different view of the waterfall and the surrounding plain; the climb is not recommended for people who are afraid of heights. See our article on Skogafoss in winter.
Stop 3 – Reynisfjara Beach
The black sand of Reynisfjara, framed by basalt cliffs and the Reynisdrangar rock formations, takes on a dark, mineral-like appearance under the snow. The waves of the North Atlantic crash onto the shore with incredible force: some surge suddenly far up the beach, so never get too close to the water’s edge. Learn more about Reynisfjara in winter.
Stop 4 – Vik
The village of Vik i Myrdal marks the end of the day. Small but centrally located on the coast, it’s worth the climb up to its church, perched on the hilltop, for a view of the town, the beach, and the cliffs. The Lava Show also offers visitors the chance to see lava flowing indoors: book your tickets. Learn more about Vik.
A Night in Vik (Part 1 of 2)
- Hotel Vik i Myrdal
In the town of Vik, elegant and quiet
See photos and availability - Hotel Katla
Surrounded by nature, just a 5-minute drive away
See photos and availability
Day 3 – Jökulsárlón and the ice cave
It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car from Vik to reach the Jokulsarlon area. It’s a long day, but it takes in some of the country’s most spectacular winter scenery.
Stop 1 – Diamond Beach
On this stretch of black volcanic sand, chunks of ice that have broken off from the nearby lagoon wash ashore after drifting toward the shore. Some of the boulders are inconspicuous, while others are massive, and their bluish hues stand out sharply against the dark sand. The amount of ice visible depends on the weather in the preceding days and the tides, which makes every visit different. Learn more about Diamond Beach in winter.
Stop 2 – Jökulsárlón Lagoon
Right next to it, the Jokulsarlon lagoon collects ice blocks that have broken off from the Vatnajökull glacier, which is visible in the background on clear days. The landscape is constantly changing with the seasons and the currents, which explains why this site is so popular with photographers. See our article on Jökulsárlón in winter.
Stop 3 – Excursion to an ice cave
Formed by the freezing of glacial meltwater, natural ice caves are accessible only from mid-November to early March, before they disappear as the weather warms. Every winter, new ones form, with shapes and colors that vary depending on the glacial tongues of Vatnajökull or Kötlujökull. Learn more about ice caves.
Access is by 4WD over rough trails, which is not recommended for people with back problems, and advance reservations are essential because spots fill up quickly.
Check the availability of the various tour options.
A Night in Vik (2/2). Head back the other way at the end of the day to shorten the next day’s trip.
Day 4 – Return to Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon
This last day is mostly spent on the road: allow about 2 hours and 30 minutes to get to Reykjavik from Vik, and an additional 50 minutes if you take a detour to the Blue Lagoon, located near Keflavík Airport. This outdoor geothermal spa, powered by a nearby power plant, allows you to relax your muscles in 40°C water while forgetting about the cold outside. Please note: Between the drive and the tour, the day can quickly become long, so be sure to plan your flight schedule carefully before adding this to your itinerary. Reserve your admission to the Blue Lagoon.
If your flight is too early for this detour, replace it with one last stroll through downtown Reykjavik: the cathedral, the downtown street art, and a café with outdoor seating are all you need to end your stay on a peaceful note. See Reykjavik in winter.
Itinerary 2: Golden Circle, Silver Circle, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Less well-known than the South Coast, this second route heads west and northwest from Reykjavik. This is a good option if you’ve already visited the South Coast on a previous trip, or if you prefer less crowded spots in the winter. The schedule is still packed, but the distances between stops are shorter.
Day 1 – Golden Circle
As in the previous itinerary, the first day is set aside for the Golden Circle. We won’t go into detail here: you can find the full itinerary for Thingvellir, Haukadalur, and Gullfoss a little further up in this article. The difference lies in what you do in the evening: rather than staying in Fludir, head north this time toward Borgarnes to prepare for the rest of the itinerary.
A Night in Borgarnes (Part 1 of 2)
- Hamar Hotel
Modern, minimalist rooms, private patios, and views of the Borgarfjördur fjord. Outdoor sauna and hot tubs
See photos and availability - Hotel Stafholt
Outside the city, surrounded by nature
See photos and availability
Day 2 – Silver Circle
Less crowded than the Golden Circle, the Silver Circle includes geothermal and volcanic sites that can be visited in half a day, leaving enough time to continue on to Snaefellsnes in the late afternoon.
Stop 1 – Deildartunguhver
Deildartunguhver claims to be Europe’s most powerful geothermal spring: it discharges 180 liters of water per second at a temperature of 97°C. A specially designed walkway allows visitors to get close to the area where the water gushes out, without crossing the safety barriers. The cloud of steam rising from it remains visible even in cold weather, giving a good idea of the geothermal power that supplies much of Iceland’s heating.
Stop 2 – Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Unlike traditional waterfalls, Hraunfossar consists of thousands of small streams that gush directly from between the lava rocks over a distance of several hundred meters. In winter, the color palette narrows down to three shades: the black of the lava, the white of the snow, and the deep blue of the glacial river. A few minutes further along the same trail, the nearby Barnafoss waterfall rounds out the tour. Learn more about these waterfalls.
Stop 3 – Vidgelmir Lava Cave
This lava tube is one of our team’s favorite caves in Iceland. Geologists estimate that the eruption that formed it occurred around 900 A.D. and lasted between 1 and 4 years. The guided tour follows a well-maintained trail that reveals the lava formations in all their forms; in winter, ice stalagmites also appear, created by water droplets that freeze as they enter the cave. See dates, times, and availability.
At the end of the day, continue on to Grundarfjordur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula so you’ll be in a good spot the next morning.
A Night in Borgarnes (2/2)
Day 3 – Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Nicknamed “Miniature Iceland,” the Snaefellsnes Peninsula features volcanoes, lava fields, and cliffs all within a small area, allowing you to visit several sites in a row without spending the whole day on the road.
Stop 1 – Kirkjufell and its waterfall
Start with Kirkjufellsfoss, a twin waterfall about 16 meters high that cascades down in front of Kirkjufell, one of the country’s most recognizable peaks. In winter, the waterfalls become partially covered in ice, and the river takes on pastel blue hues. Learn more about Kirkjufell in winter.
Stop 2 – Londrangar Cliffs
These two basalt rock formations, 75 meters and 61 meters high, are the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater that has been eroded by the waves over the course of millennia. Beneath the snow, the black lava field surrounding them creates a striking contrast with the white cliff tops. Learn more about Londrangar.
Stop 3 – Arnarstapi
An easy trail runs along the shore at Arnarstapi, offering views of the basalt formations, including the famous Gatklettur Arch. As you look inland, the Arnarstapi mountain completes the panorama. The lava blocks in the foreground remain clearly visible even when the peaks in the background are covered with snow. Learn more about Arnarstapi.
Stop 4 – Budakirkja Black Church
At the country’s most photographed church outside of Reykjavik Cathedral, Budakirkja’s black wooden exterior stands in stark contrast to the white snow all around it. A quick stop is all it takes to snap a photo and appreciate the simplicity of its architecture. Learn more about Budakirkja.
If time permits, take a detour to the small port of Stykkisholmur and its colorful houses before heading back to Reykjavik at the end of the day or the next morning, depending on your flight schedule.
Overnight stay in Grundarfjordur.
- The Old Post Office Guesthouse
Great location, convenient, and clean
See prices, pictures and availability - Hellnafell
Apartment with large windows and a direct view of Kirkjufell
See prices, pictures and availability - For more accommodation ideas, check out our article on where to stay on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Day 4 – Return Trip and Reykjavik
It takes about 2 hours by car from Grundarfjordur to Reykjavik. This final day is yours to explore the capital at your own pace: the cathedral, the street art in the city center, or one of the city’s museums. Check out our full article on the best attractions in Reykjavik. Depending on your flight time, a final cup of coffee on the terrace or a stroll along the waterfront is a great way to wrap up your stay without rushing.
It’s time to book!
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Itinerary 3: 4 Days Without a Car, Based in Reykjavik
If you don’t want to drive on snow or ice, it’s still entirely possible to explore Iceland in 4 days while staying in Reykjavik. All of the tours listed below depart from the capital and let you enjoy the scenery without having to worry about driving.
Day 1 – Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle remains the easiest tour for beginners, with a guide who takes care of the entire trip from Reykjavik. The tour includes Thingvellir National Park and its giant fissures, the Haukadalur geothermal area with the Strokkur geyser, and the Gullfoss waterfall. Some tours include a visit to the Kerid Crater at the end of the day. We recommend booking a full day rather than a half-day to fully enjoy the site without feeling rushed. See prices, photos and availability.
If you’re interested in diving or snorkeling, one option combines a tour of the Golden Circle with a dive in the Silfra Fissure, located between two tectonic plates: view the itinerary and book.
Day 2 – Tour of the South Coast
This second day is devoted to the South Coast and its waterfalls, one of the regions with the most diverse landscapes accessible from the capital. The tour typically stops at Seljalandsfoss, then at Skogafoss—whose powerful flow prevents it from freezing even in the middle of winter—before continuing on to the black sand beach at Reynisfjara and the village of Vik. See prices, photos and availability.
If you have a slightly larger budget, a more comprehensive version of the tour includes the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, but it takes 2 days: learn more.
Day 3 – Reykjavik and whale watching
Spend the morning exploring Reykjavik: Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral, the waterfront, and the street art in downtown Reykjavik are enough to give you a feel for the world’s northernmost capital.
In the afternoon, set out on a boat trip to spot whales, rorquals, dolphins, and sometimes sperm whales that frequent the waters off the coast of the city. The crew provides wetsuits to keep you warm on board, and some tours offer a free ticket for another trip if no cetaceans are spotted. Book your boat tour.
Day 4 – Blue Lagoon or horseback ride
For this final day, you have two options to choose from, depending on what you’d like to do. The first option is to enjoy the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, an outdoor geothermal spa located about a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik and 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport, making it a great stop before a late-afternoon flight. View the itinerary and book.
The second option is a horseback ride through the lava fields to discover Icelandic horses, direct descendants of the horses brought by the Vikings when they colonized the island. We find this activity particularly well-suited for winter, when snow covers the surrounding lava fields. See prices, photos and availability.
To add in the evening: a hunt for the Northern Lights
No matter which evening you choose from these four days, if possible, plan a nighttime outing to see the Northern Lights between September and April. In downtown Reykjavik, streetlights make it difficult to see the aurora, but a guided tour takes you outside the city, into the darkness needed to make out these trails of colored light. An English-speaking guide will explain the phenomenon and help you find the best angles for your photos. Book your Northern Lights tour.
Frequently asked questions
Are 4 days enough to explore Iceland in the winter?
Four days aren’t enough to tour the entire island, but they’re more than enough to explore a region in depth—whether it’s the Golden Circle and the South Coast, the western part of the country, or the area around Reykjavik on day trips.
Should I rent a car for 4 days in the winter?
It depends on your experience driving on snow and ice. If you’re comfortable doing so, renting a car is still the best way to plan your own itinerary. Otherwise, guided tours departing from Reykjavik cover most of the must-see sites without having to drive.
Which itinerary should you choose for your first trip?
For a first-time visit, we recommend Itinerary 1, which takes in the country’s most iconic sites from the Golden Circle and the South Coast all the way to Jökulsárlón. Itinerary 2 is better suited for a second visit or for travelers looking for less crowded places.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO iceland IN WINTER
- Best of
Iceland’s winter landscapes
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
The most beautiful waterfalls
Ice caves
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
How to rent a car in Iceland
Winter driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland in winter
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
