Discover Iceland in 7 days: Is a week long enough for the ultimate adventure?

Are you planning to visit Iceland but not sure if a week is long enough to explore this Nordic island nation? Well, you have come to the right place. As a travel guide, I have explored Iceland extensively and can give you an honest opinion.

The answer is, it depends

Iceland is a land of extremes, and it offers a plethora of natural wonders and magnificent landscapes. It is hard to pick a few favorites as it depends entirely on your interest, but if you are visiting Iceland for the first time, then a week-long trip can indeed be enough to explore the main highlights.

Day 1-2: Reykjavik

A week in Iceland should ideally start in Reykjavik, the nation’s capital. Begin your journey by exploring the city’s many museums, art galleries, and historic sites. The National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Museum of Photography are must-visits. Take a stroll through the Harpa concert hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture before heading to the famous Hallgrimskirkja church for a breathtaking view of the city.

Day 3-4: Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the country’s most popular tourist route and can be done in a day, but it’s worth spending at least two days to explore the area fully. You will see the famous Geysir, which shoots water and steam up to 80 feet in the air, and witness the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Do not miss the Thingvellir National Park, where you can explore the intersection between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Day 5-6: South Coast

The south coast of Iceland is famous for its natural beauty, including the stunning black sand beaches of Vik, towering glaciers, and breathtaking waterfalls. Visit the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and hike on the Solheimajokull glacier.

Day 7: Reykjanes Peninsula

End your trip by driving to the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Keflavik airport is located. The famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is a must-see attraction in the region and is the perfect place to relax before heading home. Don’t forget to explore the steaming geothermal areas of Krýsuvík and Gunnuhver and visit the Bridge between Continents, a bridge that connects the Eurasian and North American continents.

Final Thoughts

While a week-long trip to Iceland can give you a taste of the country’s beauty, there is always more to see. If you have extra time, explore remote areas like the Westfjords and the Eastfjords, which offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Also, keep in mind that Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and you might want to plan some extra days in case of extreme weather conditions.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the land of ice and fire on your dream trip to Iceland!