If you’ve got a week to explore Iceland in winter, you’re in for a treat! Partly frozen waterfalls, snow-covered fjords, ice caves…
We’ll take you to the island’s best sights and experiences with our ideal 7-day winter road trip itineraries.
We’ve also included alternatives if you don’t want to drive.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Visit Iceland in winter in 7 days: what you need to know
1. Pay attention to day length
If you’re traveling at the end of December or the end of February, the conditions are completely different. You’ll need to adapt your itinerary, and those below. In December and January, the days are 4 or 5 hours long, so we advise you to start your journey when it’s still dark, so you can get to the first place at sunrise and really enjoy your day.
Don’t overload your itinerary!
2. Careful driving
If you’ve never ridden on snow and ice, this is not the place to start. See our article on driving in Iceland in winter with photos and video.
If you think you can drive safely, take a look at our tips for renting a car.
Find the best deals on our preferred car rental platform: DiscoverCars
3. Where to stay?
If you don’t rent a car, you’ll need to stay in Reykjavik, where all the excursions start. Otherwise, in the itineraries below, for road trips, we suggest where to sleep each night.
But if you want more ideas, check out our article on where to stay in Iceland in winter.
7-day itinerary in Iceland in winter: map
Here’s a map showing the areas to be explored each day in our ideal itinerary, to help you find your way around:
Here are the driving times for the day, including detours for sightseeing:
- Day 1: 2h30 to 3h depending on conditions
- Day 2: 2h to 2h30 depending on conditions
- Day 3: 3h30 to 4h depending on conditions
- Day 4: 3h20 to 4h (but few long stops)
- Day 5: 3h to 3h30 depending on conditions
- Day 6: 4:45 to 5:30 (mostly pretty road)
- Day 7: 0 or the road to the airport
The days are full. It’s more comfortable to have 8 or 9 days to tour Route 1.
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 6 maps that make planning easier
- + 75 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 115 photos to help you choose
Day 1 – Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s best-known regions. See our guide with all the winter attractions, but depending on how much time you have, the 3 main stops are as follows.
Stop 1 – Thingvellir National Park
Stop off at Thingvellir National Park, famous for its geology and historical symbolism. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Did you know that Iceland’s parliament, the oldest in the world, was founded here in the 10th century? Parliamentarians met here until the end of the 18th century. The tour route is signposted with numerous explanatory panels.
The main path is well maintained and you can easily walk through the fissure and admire the view over the area.
See our article on Thingvellir in winter.
If you have time, one of the park’s best-known activities is swimming in the Silfra fissure: see details and availability.
Stop 2 – Haukadalur and its geyser
For us, the Haukadalur geothermal zone is one of the highlights of the Golden Circle. It is home to the famous Geysir, which is dormant, and the Strokkur geyser, which we contemplated as it erupted several times between 15m and 40m high! It was quite impressive!
With bubbling mud pools, colorful zones and gushes of water every few minutes, if you’ve never seen a geothermal field, you’re bound to be surprised.
See our article on Haukadalur in winter.
Stop 3 – Gullfoss
An intriguingly shaped waterfall surrounded by unspoilt nature, the Gullfoss waterfall is quite original to observe with its 2-stage structure on the Hvítá river. Even in bad weather, you’ll find that this 32m-high waterfall is still impressive, especially with this soft blanket of white snow covering the landscape. Iceland’s iconic waterfall, it is located on the river fed by the Langjökull glacier, the 2nd largest in the country! In fact, it’s one of the best waterfalls to visit in Iceland in winter!
See our article on Gullfoss in winter.
Stop 4 – Secret Lagoon
To relax, you can end the day at the Secret Lagoon, close to your hotel in Fludir. Book your entry.
Overnight in Fludir
- The Hill Hotel at Fludir
at Fludir, modern comfort and a warm atmosphere close to attractions
See photos and availability
Day 2 – Waterfalls and beaches on the south coast
The south coast abounds in jewels that are also accessible in winter. A minimum of two days is required, but with 3 you could add other activities, such as a glacier hike(See availability and book).
Stop 1 – Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s best-known waterfalls because you can walk behind it.
Unfortunately (but fortunately for our safety) this path is closed in winter.
You can only admire the 60m-high waterfall from the front. It’s already very pretty, with stalactites forming on the parts where the start is less powerful.
In addition, the path along the ancient cliffs is landscaped and takes you to another waterfall hidden in the rock: Gljufrabui. It’s a must-see in winter.
Read more in our article on Seljalandsfoss in winter
Stop 2 – Skofagoss
Skogafoss is one of our favorite winter waterfalls.
The cascade is powerful, a curtain of water 60m high and 25m wide.
Because of its power and water volume, it won’t freeze in winter.
We love the different perspectives you can get, and also the contrasts between black rock and white snow.
More than 350 steps up to the high platform. Please note that we do not recommend it for people who suffer from vertigo.
Find out more in our article on Skogafoss in winter
Stop 3 – Reynisfjara
In winter, Reynisfjara’s black sandy beach takes on a mystical and bewitching atmosphere. Black sand, towering basalt cliffs and the famous Reynisdrangar rock peaks contrast with the white of the snow.
The crashing waves of the North Atlantic Ocean offer an experience for all the senses.
Beware, some waves suddenly rise very high on the beach and its dangerous, do not approach the water’s edge!
Find out more in our article on Reynisfjara in winter
Stop 4 – Vik
In winter, the small village of Vik i Myrdal takes on a spellbinding charm. It’s not very big, but it’s very central on the coast.
Don’t miss the chance to climb up to its emblematic church perched on the heights. The view of the town, the beach and the cliffs is well worth the detour.
There’s also the Lava show, where you can watch lava flowing in front of you! Book your tickets now.
You can also admire the black sandy beach from this side of the cliff, with a different perspective on the sea rocks.
Overnight in Vik
- Hotel Vik i Myrdal
In the town of Vik, elegant and quiet
See photos and availability - Hotel Kria
On the edge of town with large bay windows
See photos and availability - Hotel Katla
Surrounded by nature, only 5min drive away (we like the rooms which have been redecorated)
See photos and availability
Day 3 – South Coast Glacier
Stop 1 – Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach, located directly opposite the famous glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón, is a natural wonder. This expanse of black volcanic sand is adorned with glistening icebergs that have washed ashore after drifting from the lagoon, creating a surreal landscape.
Icebergs, sculpted by nature into intricate shapes and blue hues, appear like sparkling diamonds scattered across the dark sand. Some icebergs are small and delicate, while others are massive and imposing.
We can’t guarantee how many icebergs you’ll see, as it depends on the weather the days before and the tides, but give it a try!
Find out more in our article on Diamond Beach in winter.
Stop 2 – Jokulsarlon Lagoon
The Jokulsarlon lagoon is the main attraction next to Diamond Beach.
This vast lagoon, filled with icebergs that have broken off from the nearby Vatnajökull glacier, offers a surreal, ever-changing landscape.
The view is captivating, with the glacier in the background, which is clearly visible on a clear day.
Find out more in our article on Jokulsarlon in winter.
Stop 3 – Excursion to the Ice Caves
One of the highlights of a winter trip to Iceland is a visit to a natural ice cave. These ephemeral cavities, formed by the freezing of glacial meltwater, are only accessible between mid-November and early March, before melting in the heat.
Every year, new and unique caves are created, offering shapes, tunnels and sculptures created by nature. The most famous are on the Vatnajökull and Kötlujökull glacier tongues. Some cellars are blue, others black.
Find out more in our article on ice caves.
Please note that you’ll be setting off in a 4xX on bumpy roads. Not recommended for people with back problems.
And, for an unforgettable experience, it’s essential to book an expertly guided tour in advance. They are filling up, as this is the most popular activity in Iceland!
See availability for different tour options.
Extra stop (if longer day): Fjallsarlon
If you visit during the longer days, before going to Jukulsarlon, be sure to visit the Fjallsárlón glacial lagoon. Unlike Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón freezes during this season, leaving no floating icebergs to be seen but revealing breathtaking views of the nearby ice tongue. Despite the absence of icebergs, this is still a fantastic stop, allowing you to admire the sculptural forms of the surrounding mountains reflected on the frozen surface. The calm reigns, far from the tourist crowds of Jökulsárlón, offering a serene atmosphere in which to contemplate the raw power of Icelandic nature. Although the path to the shore can be slippery, the winter beauty of Fjallsárlón is well worth the detour for visitors prepared for harsh conditions.
Read more in our article on Fjallsarlon in winter
Overnight in Höfn
- Höfn Berjaya Iceland Hotel
Ideally located with sea views on both sides.
See photos and availability - Guesthouse Dyngja, also close to the port.
Near the port, Studio, apartment and rooms with shared bathroom.
See photos and availability
Day 4 – Eastern Fjords
Today it’s mostly road. You’ll enjoy beautiful scenery all along the Eastern Fjords route. Here are some of the main stops:
Stop 1 – Hvalnes lighthouse
The lighthouse is a bright orange concrete structure rising to a height of 11.5 metres. Located on a rocky promontory, you can’t miss it!
Even if it’s surprising in shape and color, we recommend a stop here, especially to admire the black sand beach, the lagoon, the breathtaking peaks and the waves crashing on the rocks below.
Stop 2 – Fauskasandur
Fauskasandur is a black sand beach with a dark monolith standing on the shore. The surrounding mountains and small cliffs add to the dramatic scenery, especially when covered in snow. There’s even a small waterfall that runs over the beach and freezes in winter (although it can disappear if there’s little snow).
The combination of elements makes for a captivating spectacle: monolith, mountains, black sand, snow… This is one of our favorite spots in the Eastern Fjords.
Note: this photo was taken at the end of February, the other fjords around were completely white but not this part of the road!
300m detour from Route 1.
Stop 3 – Djupivogur and its eggs
Djúpivogur is a quiet village in the east. Don’t miss the opportunity to stop off and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Find out more:
- the village church, a charming wooden structure in shades of gray and black.
- the port
- its “Eggin í Gledivík” sculpture by Sigurdur Gudmundsson, featuring 34 large granite eggs representing local bird species.
Stop 4 – Stodvarfjordur and its blue church
At the end, you’ll make a complete tour of a fjord: Stodvarfjordur. We found the mountains at the end of the fjord particularly beautiful, all white with little black lines. We were also spoilt for choice with the beautiful lights on the way to the bottom of the fjord.
Stop Extra (longer day) – Seydisfjordur
If you’re there on the longer days (and conditions are good), you can add a return trip to the village of Seydisfjordur. But we have to cross a mountain pass.
In our opinion, this is the most beautiful fjord in Iceland, with its village at the end (you’ve seen it in the film Walter Mitty).
The valley is long and narrow. Just enjoy the road leading down to the town, overlooking the narrow fjord.
Once down, you can explore the town with its colorful wooden houses, sky-blue church… It’s a picture-postcard scene!
Overnight in Egilsstadir
- Gistihusid – Lake Hotel Egilsstadir
Warm and modern, on the lakefront
See photos and availability - Hérad – Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Simple and practical. In front of a field to see the northern lights when the hotel warns you of activity
See photos and availability
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 6 maps that make planning easier
- + 75 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 115 photos to help you choose
Day 5 – Myvatn and the north
The Myvatn area in the north is fascinating, with fewer tourists and even whiter environments with just black lava rocks in contrast. Here are some of our favorites.
On the other hand, with a week to spare, we advise you not to sleep there and to continue on your way. You will have to drive at night if you travel in December and January.
Stop 1 – Hverir geothermal zone
Hverir is a geothermal zone that remains easily accessible in winter. It offers a unique, otherworldly landscape, even in cold weather. You’ll be amazed by the contrast between the bubbling mud pools, steam vents and sulfur deposits and the perfect white of the snow.
Find out more in our article on Hverir in winter.
Stop 2 – Dimmuborgir
At Dimmuborgir, the snow-covered lava formations create a magical landscape, especially if the sky is white too! Although some of the trails are difficult, the main area remains accessible.
Scientists believe that around 2,300 years ago, a lava tube formed above a lake. It trapped the water in a reservoir around 10 m deep.
As the lava began to cool, the reservoir was released, leaving only the shapes created by the steam.
We loved the black-and-white landscape, where you can let your imagination run wild.
Find out more in our article on Dimmuborgir in winter.
Stop 3 – Skutustadir’s pseudo-craters
Skutustadir is an area of Lake Myvatn with several pseudo-craters. Only part of the trail is accessible in winter, but the calm, frozen landscapes seem quite surreal.
Make no mistake, these are not real volcanic craters!
The theory is that these pseudo-craters were formed around 2,300 years ago, by steam explosions as hot lava flows over wet sediments or frozen ground. It’s a fairly rare phenomenon, and experts believe it also occurs on Mars.
In any case, we enjoyed climbing up one of them to admire the scenery.
Find out more in our article on Skutustadir in winter.
Stop 4 – Godafoss
In winter, the Godafoss waterfall is one of the most enchanting, in our opinion.
As the river continues to flow, parts of the waterfall are frozen solid, forming stalactites in white and blue.
The surrounding area is covered in snow, creating a striking contrast with the rushing glacial waters.
Find out more in our article on Godafoss in winter.
Overnight in Akureyri
- Akureyri Berjaya
Very modern with a nice bar and a great location
See photos and availability - Saga Apartments Akureyri
Convenient apartments in a central location
See photos and availability
Day 6 – Roads and detours
Back along Route 1
If you want to tour Route 1 in a week, there’s bound to be one day with a lot of road and few stops.
Follow Route 1 south, and admire the magnificent scenery.
Detour 1 – Hraunfossar
If your days aren’t too short, and you’re brave enough to drive, you can take a detour to see the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.
This adds up to a 1-hour drive.
Hraunfossar is one of our favorite waterfalls, whether in summer or winter. That’s because it’s so different from all the others in Iceland. Here, thousands of streams flow between the lava rocks.
In winter, the view becomes tricolored: the black of lava, the white of snow and streams, and the intense blue of the glacial river. It’s a magical winter landscape!
And a little further along the path, there’s another Barnafoss waterfall!
Find out more in our article on these waterfalls.
Detour 2 – Blue Lagoon
In the same way, you can make the drive in the morning. Pick up your accommodation, then head off to enjoy the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, a giant open-air spa. But it’s 50 minutes each way. It can make for a very big day.
Book your ticket.
Overnight in Reykjavik
- Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
A 5-star hotel with smart, self-contained apartments in the city center.
See photos and availability - Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel
With a beautifully decorated interior. Not too modern, comfortable but refined.
See photos and availability - Rey Apartments
Spacious apartment with kitchen equipment in the city center, I had a great time at the Rey apartments.
See photos and availability
Day 7 – Reykjavik
For this day in Reykjavik, depending on your interests, you can opt for:
- City tour with cathedral and street art
- A whale-watching boat tour
- Discover Akureyri’s museums
- …
Read our full article on Reykjavik’s top attractions.
Alternative: 7-day itinerary in South Iceland
Route overview
Here are the journey times:
- Day 1: 3h30 to 4h depending on conditions
- Day 2: 3h to 3h30
- Day 3: 2h30 to 3h
- Day 4: 2h to 2h30 depending on conditions
- Day 5: 3h10 to 3h40h depending on conditions
- Day 6: 3h30 to 4h
- Day 7: 0
Day 1 – Snaefellsnes
Start by exploring the charming region of Snaefellsnes. There are plenty of places to see, which you can find in our full article, but here are the must-see stops:
Stop 1 – Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi is the other famous place to visit in Snaefellsnes. A pathway allows you to observe the iconic basalt cliffs and rock formations that line the shoreline, including the famous Gatklettur Arch. What’s more, as you look inland, you’ll have a magnificent view of Arnarstapi mountain.
In winter, the landscape is even more enchanting. The mountains in the background are covered in snow, but all the lava formations in the foreground remain clearly visible.
Find out more in our article on Arnarstapi in winter.
Stop 1 – Londrangar
At Londrangar, the lava cliffs are dominated by two imposing basalt rock formations, one 75 metres high and the other 61 metres. These are the remains of an ancient volcanic crater carved out by the relentless waves of the Atlantic over thousands of years.
In winter, the black lava field (normally partly green due to moss) is covered with white snow, creating a striking contrast.
According to local folklore, this region is home to elves and supernatural beings. We want to believe it!
Read more in our article on Lodrangar in winter
Stop 3 – Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufellsfoss isn’t the most impressive of waterfalls, but it’s one of the most magical places with the Kirkjufell mountain behind it. It’s a series of two waterfalls over a height of around 16m.
In winter, the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall takes on a fairytale appearance. The falls are partially frozen, creating formations of ice and stalactites clinging to the rock face. The river is also partially frozen and snow-covered, with its pastel or intense blues.
Find out more in our article on Kirkjufel in winter
Overnight in Grundarfjordur
- Guesthouse 43
rooms with sea and mountain views, shared bathroom.
See prices, pictures and availability - Guesthouse The Old Post Office
Excellent location, convenient and clean. We had an excellent night here. Please note that some rooms have private bathrooms and others have shared bathrooms.
See prices, pictures and availability
Day 2 – Silver Circle
Today, we recommend exploring the lesser-known Silver Circle area. It offers a variety of experiences that you can read about in our full article (coming soon), but here are the must-see stops:
Stop 1 – Deildartunguhver
The Deildartunguhver hot spring is Europe’s most powerful geothermal source.
It delivers 180 l per second of hot water (47.5 gallons per second) and the water is at 97°C (200°F) at the outlet.
You can walk around the area where the water gushes out. Impressive! There are barriers to prevent you from getting too close and getting burned.
Stop 2 – Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Hraunfossar is one of our favorite waterfalls, whether in summer or winter. That’s because it’s so different from all the others in Iceland. Here, thousands of streams flow between the lava rocks.
In winter, the view becomes tricolored: the black of lava, the white of snow and streams, and the intense blue of the glacial river. It’s a magical winter landscape!
And a little further along the path, there’s another Barnafoss waterfall!
Find out more in our article on these waterfalls.
Stop 2 – Vidgelmir
Vidgelmir is one of our favorite places to visit in Iceland. This lava tube is well preserved. On a guided tour along a well-maintained path, you’ll discover the incredible lava formations. Geologists are unsure of the eruption that created it, but it is estimated to have occurred around 900 AD and lasted from 1 to 4 years.
And, in winter, you can see stalagmites of ice created by drops of water that enter the cave and freeze.
View tour dates, times and availability and make a reservation
Overnight in Borgarnes
- Hotel Hamar (before Icelandair)
A peaceful setting with modern, minimalist rooms, private patios and breathtaking views of the Borgarfjördur fjord. Outdoor saunas and jacuzzis (summer and winter).
See photos and availability - Hotel Stafholt
Away from the city, surrounded by Iceland’s magnificent nature
See photos and availability
Day 3 – Golden Circle
Identical program to day 1 of the round-trip itinerary.
Overnight in Fludir.
Day 4 – Waterfalls and beach on the south coast
Identical program to day 2 of the round-trip itinerary.
Overnight in Vik.
Day 5- Jokulsarlon Lagoon and ice caves
Identical program to day 3 of the round-trip itinerary.
But hotels around Jokulsarlon or in Vik.
Day 6 – Return journey
- Return journey to Reykjavik
- Overnight in Hella
In Hella, you’ll find accommodations that are made for watching the northern lights (if conditions are right). But even if you don’t see any, you’ll enjoy the views of the great outdoors.
- Hotel Ranga
With an astronomical observatory
See photos and availability - Aurora Igloo
For a unique experience in transparent domes.
See photos and availability
Day 7 – Reykjavik
For this day in Reykjavik, depending on your interests, you can opt for:
- City tour with cathedral and street art
- A whale-watching boat tour
- Discover Akureyri’s museums
- …
Read our full article on Reykjavik’s top attractions.
Or Blue Lagoon and drive to the airport.
7 days in Iceland in winter without a car
If you don’t want to spend 7 days in a row with the same group, you can base yourself in Reykjavik and take day trips.
Here’s a possible program
Day 1 car-free
- Visit Reykjavik
- Evening tour, to see the Northern Lights (book your first night, so you can do it again if necessary) – see options
Day 2 without car
- Golden Circle tour with waterfall, fissures and geyser
- See program and availability
Day 3 car-free
- Visit Reyjavik
- Whale watching boat tour – Reserve
Day 4 without car
- Iceland’s south coast: waterfalls, glaciers and lagoons
- See program and availability
Day 5 car-free
- Visit Reykjavik
- Second night of Northern Lights hunting
Day 6 car-free
- The Snaefellsnes peninsula with fjords, waterfalls and lava cliffs
- See program and availability
Day 7 car-free
- Reykjavik
- Relax in the Blue Lagoon, with transfer – book now
And find all our favorite excursions from Reykjavik.
Frequently asked questions and tips
Is one week enough in Iceland in winter?
We could stay there for several months, so no, it’s not enough to see everything. But with 7 days you can easily discover all kinds of landscapes: fjords, black sand beaches, lava fields, waterfalls, lagoons, glaciers…
And you have 7 chances to see the Northern Lights!
What’s the best month to spend 7 days in Iceland in winter?
We prefer late February and early March, when the days are longer and the caves still accessible.
What to bring for a week in Iceland in winter?
- layers of clothing for cold weather
- layers of clothing to cut the wind
- layers of rain gear
- sunglasses (the white of the snow is intense)
- hat
- glove
- crampons / spikes to add to shoes and hang on snow or ice
- …
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
Getting around (coming soon)
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 (to come)
- The must-dos
Reykjavik in winter
Golden Circle in winter
South coast in winter
Snaefellsnes in winter
Silver Circle in winter (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn in winter
Eastern Fjords in winter
Seljalandsfoss in winter
Jokulsarlon in winter
