Planning 5 days in Iceland? This detailed self-drive itinerary covers the best highlights along the South Coast and Golden Circle, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and Reykjavík.
With a cheap rental car in Iceland, you can explore at your own pace, avoid crowded tour buses, and reach some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes on your schedule.
This guide includes:
- A complete 5-day Iceland itinerary
- Driving times and route tips
- Blue Lagoon planning advice
- Car rental recommendations
If you are planning an Iceland road trip, this route is ideal for first-time visitors.
Iceland 5 Day Itinerary Route Overview
This 5-day Iceland itinerary focuses on:
- Reykjavík
- The Golden Circle
- Iceland’s South Coast
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
- Vatnajökull National Park
All locations are accessible year-round via the Ring Road (Route 1), weather and road conditions permitting.
Iceland 5 Day Itinerary route Map
Day 1: Arrival in Iceland + Blue Lagoon + Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland.
After landing at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), your first step is picking up your rental car in Iceland directly at the airport. Collecting your car at KEF means no shuttle transfers and no wasted time.
The Blue Lagoon is located just 20 minutes from KEF Airport and 45 minutes from Reykjavík.
It’s one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas, known for:
- Milky blue geothermal water
- Lava field surroundings
- Silica mud masks
- Year-round bathing temperatures
If you prefer something smaller and cheaper, consider Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. (Note: it is not inside Reykjavík.)
Spend the evening in Reykjavík. Explore:
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Sun Voyager
- Harpa Concert Hall
Overnight in Reykjavík.
Day 2 : Golden Circle Route
Distance: Approx. 230 km round trip
Driving time: 3-4 hours without stops
The Golden Circle is one of the best short road trips in Iceland.
Stop 1: Þingvellir National Park
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet
- Historic site of Iceland’s first parliament
Parking fees apply.
Stop 2: Geysir Geothermal Area
Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes.
Stop 3: Gullfoss
One of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, spectacular in both summer and winter.
Return to Reykjavík or stay near Selfoss or Hvolvsvöllur for a head start on Day 3
Day 3: South Coast Waterfalls + Black Sand Beach + Vik
Distance: Approx. 180 km.
Seljalandsfoss
- Walk behind the waterfall
- Parking fee applies
Skógafoss
- Wide, powerful cascade
- Climb the staircase for panoramic views
Dyrhólaey
A dramatic coastal arch with puffin sightings in summer.
Reynisfjara
- Iconic black sand beach
- Basalt columns
- Powerful sneaker waves
Stay overnight in Vik í Mýrdal.
Optional: Book a glacier hiking tour in Sólheimajökull.
Seljalandsfoss
Skógafoss
Day 4: Skaftafell + Jökulsárlón + Diamond Beach + Return
Distance: Approx. 350-400 km round trip
Driving time 5+ hours
Skaftafell
Part of Vatnajökull National Park
- Short hike to Svartifoss
- Glacier views
- Winter ice caves (seasonal)
Jökulsárlón
Floating icebergs drift toward the sea.
Diamond Beach
Ice fragments wash ashore on black sand.
Drive back toward Reykjavík. In winter, consider staying near Vík to avoid long night driving.
Day 5: Departure Day
Use the morning to explore Reykjavík further or revisit the Blue Lagoon.
Return your rental car at KEF Airport and depart.
Winter Travel Tip: Northern Lights
If visiting between September and April, Days 3 and 4 offer the best opportunity to see the aurora borealis due to lower light pollution along the South Coast.
Always check:
- Aurora forecast
- Cloud cover
- Road conditions at road.is
Choosing the Right Rental Car in Iceland
For this 5-day Iceland road trip:
Summer:
- Compact or economy car is sufficient for Ring Road driving
Winter:
- 4×4 rental car in Iceland is strongly recommended
- Studded winter tires are essential
Firefly Iceland offers:
- Affordable rental cars
- Pick-up directly at Keflavík Airport
- Budget options ideal for self-drive trips
Booking early secures the best price, especially from June to August.
FAQ: 5 Days in Iceland
- Is 5 days enough in Iceland?
Yes. Five days is enough to explore Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and Iceland’s South Coast to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
- Can you drive Iceland in 5 days?
You cannot comfortably complete the full Ring Road in 5 days, but you can see the country’s most famous highlights.
- Do I need a 4×4 for this itinerary?
For this specific 5-day itinerary along the Ring Road and South Coast, you do not need a 4×4 in summer, as all roads are paved and easily accessible. However, during winter, a 4×4 rental in Iceland is strongly recommended for a safer and more comfortable self-drive trip.
- Is the Blue Lagoon worth it?
If you enjoy geothermal spas and unique landscapes, yes. Book in advance.
- When is the best time to visit Iceland?
- summer (June-August): Midnight sun, easier driving conditions
- Winter (September-April): Northern lights, ice caves
- How much driving is involved?
Expect 2-5 hours of driving per day, depending on stops and weather conditions.
Book Your 5-Day Iceland Road Trip
From waterfalls and glacier lagoons to black sand beaches and geothermal spas, this 5-day Iceland itinerary covers the country’s most unforgettable sights.
For a flexible and affordable self-drive trip, book your rental car in Iceland with Firefly. Pick up directly at Keflavík Airport and start your adventure the moment you land.
