Icelandic Solo Adventure: Golden Circle, South Coast & Blue Lagoon

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Reykjavik, Iceland

   13 activities

   • 10:00 - 11:30Travel

     Arrival at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) & Car Rental Pick-up

     Arrive at KEF, clear customs, and pick up your pre-booked rental car. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring Iceland's diverse terrain, essential for your solo adventure.

     Keflavík International Airport (KEF), 235 Keflavík, Iceland~$0.00
     ArrivalCar RentalLogistics
   • 11:30 - 12:30Travel

     Check-in at Center Hotels Laugavegur

     Head to your hotel in Reykjavik, check-in, and settle into your room. Take some time to freshen up and prepare for your first day of Icelandic exploration in the capital.

     Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$0.00
     AccommodationReykjavikHotel
   • 12:30 - 13:30Eating

     Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

     Experience Iceland's famous hot dog stand, a beloved local institution. Grab a delicious hot dog with 'the works' – a must-try for any visitor to Reykjavik for an authentic, quick bite.

     Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$10.00
     Local CuisineCasual DiningReykjavik
   • 13:30 - 15:00Sightseeing

     Explore Hallgrímskirkja

     Visit Reykjavik's iconic church, an impressive architectural marvel. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city, mountains, and the surrounding ocean, a perfect photo opportunity.

     Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$10.00
     LandmarkArchitectureViewpoint
   • 15:00 - 16:30Sightseeing

     Discover Harpa Concert Hall

     Admire the stunning glass facade of Harpa, Reykjavik's award-winning concert hall and conference center. Explore its unique architecture and enjoy the views of the harbor and mountains from its various levels.

     Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$0.00
     ArchitectureCultureModern Art
   • 16:30 - 17:30Sightseeing

     Visit the Sun Voyager Sculpture

     Enjoy the iconic Sun Voyager, a dream boat sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason. It's a symbolic ode to the sun, a promise of undiscovered territory, and a dream of hope, progress and freedom by the sea.

     Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$0.00
     ArtSculptureHarbor
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner at Fiskmarkaðurinn (The Fish Market)

     Indulge in a fine dining experience at Fiskmarkaðurinn, known for its contemporary Icelandic cuisine with Asian influences, focusing on fresh seafood. A perfect treat after a day of exploration.

     Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$80.00
     Fine DiningSeafoodReykjavik
2. 2

   Day 2 — Reykjavik, Iceland

   13 activities

   • 08:30 - 09:30Eating

     Breakfast at the hotel

     Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a full day of exploring the Golden Circle. Most hotels offer a good spread of continental and local options.

     Center Hotels Laugavegur, Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$25.00
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 09:30 - 11:30Exploration

     Explore Þingvellir National Park

     Walk through the historic rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This UNESCO World Heritage site is significant for its geological features and as the site of Iceland's ancient parliament.

     Þingvellir National Park, 801 Selfoss, Iceland~$8.00
     National ParkHistoryGeologyGolden Circle
   • 12:20 - 13:30Sightseeing

     Witness Geysir Geothermal Area

     Marvel at the Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water high into the air. Explore the surrounding geothermal field with its bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.

     Geysir, 801 Selfoss, Iceland~$0.00
     GeothermalNatural WonderGolden Circle
   • 13:30 - 14:30Eating

     Lunch at Geysir Glima Restaurant

     Enjoy a casual lunch at Geysir Glima Restaurant, conveniently located near the geysers. They offer a range of Icelandic dishes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal amidst the geothermal wonders.

     Geysir, 801 Selfoss, Iceland~$30.00
     Casual DiningIcelandic CuisineGolden Circle
   • 14:40 - 16:00Sightseeing

     Admire Gullfoss Waterfall

     Witness the majestic Gullfoss, or 'Golden Waterfall', one of Iceland's most powerful and beautiful waterfalls. Feel the spray on your face as you view the immense cascades plunging into a rugged canyon.

     Gullfoss Parking, 801 Selfoss, Iceland~$0.00
     WaterfallNatural WonderGolden Circle
   • 16:30 - 18:00Exploration

     Relax at Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

     Unwind in Iceland's oldest natural swimming pool, a hidden gem offering a more authentic and less crowded hot spring experience than the Blue Lagoon. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and bubbling hot springs.

     Hverahólmi, 845 Flúðir, Iceland~$30.00
     Hot SpringRelaxationGolden Circle
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner at Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron)

     Enjoy a casual yet delicious dinner at Sægreifinn, famous for its lobster soup and fresh fish skewers. Located by the old harbor, it offers an authentic Icelandic culinary experience in a cozy setting.

     Geirsgata 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$50.00
     SeafoodCasual DiningReykjavik
3. 3

   Day 3 — Reykjavik, Iceland

   15 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast and Check-out from Hotel

     Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel, then check out. Pack your bags and get ready for a scenic drive along the South Coast, heading towards Vík í Mýrdal.

     Center Hotels Laugavegur, Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$25.00
     BreakfastHotel DiningCheck-out
   • 10:45 - 12:00Sightseeing

     Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

     Experience the unique opportunity to walk behind Seljalandsfoss, a majestic waterfall plunging over a former coastline. Be prepared for some spray and incredible photo opportunities from behind the cascade.

     Seljalandsfoss, 861 Hvolsvöllur, Iceland~$7.00
     WaterfallSouth CoastNature
   • 12:30 - 13:45Sightseeing

     Explore Skógafoss Waterfall

     Admire the powerful Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest and most beautiful waterfalls. You can walk right up to its base or climb the stairs to the top for a different perspective and views of the coastline.

     Skógafoss, 861 Skógar, Iceland~$0.00
     WaterfallSouth CoastNature
   • 13:45 - 14:45Eating

     Lunch at Mia's Country Van

     Enjoy a delicious and casual lunch from Mia's Country Van, a popular food truck near Skógafoss, known for its fresh fish and chips. A perfect quick stop before continuing your South Coast journey.

     Skógafoss Parking, 861 Skógar, Iceland~$20.00
     Food TruckCasual DiningSouth Coast
   • 15:15 - 16:45Exploration

     Experience Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

     Walk along the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara, famous for its basalt columns, powerful Atlantic waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Exercise caution due to sneaker waves for a safe exploration.

     Reynisfjara Beach, 871 Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland~$0.00
     BeachGeologySouth Coast
   • 17:00 - 18:00Sightseeing

     View Dyrhólaey Arch

     Visit Dyrhólaey, a massive natural arch and a beautiful promontory offering panoramic views of the black sand beaches, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and a lighthouse. It's a great spot for birdwatching in summer.

     Dyrhólaey, 871 Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland~$0.00
     Coastal ViewNatureSouth Coast
   • 18:20 - 19:00Travel

     Check-in at Hotel Kría

     Check into Hotel Kría in Vík í Mýrdal. This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodation, perfect for resting after a day of exploring the stunning South Coast.

     Austurvegur 18, 870 Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland~$0.00
     AccommodationHotelVik
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner at Smidjan Brugghús

     Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Smidjan Brugghús, a popular brewery and restaurant in Vik. They offer delicious burgers, pizzas, and local craft beers, perfect for winding down your day.

     Smiðjuvegur 1, 870 Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland~$45.00
     BreweryCasual DiningVik
4. 4

   Day 4 — Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland

   11 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast and Check-out from Hotel Kría

     Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Hotel Kría. After your meal, check out from the hotel and prepare for another day of South Coast adventures, heading further east.

     Hotel Kría, Austurvegur 18, 870 Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland~$25.00
     BreakfastHotel DiningCheck-out
   • 11:15 - 13:15Exploration

     Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

     Witness the breathtaking beauty of Jökulsárlón, a large glacial lagoon filled with icebergs calved from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Take an amphibian boat tour for an up-close experience with the ice.

     Jökulsárlón, 781 Höfn, Iceland~$70.00
     Glacier LagoonNatureBoat Tour
   • 13:15 - 14:15Sightseeing

     Visit Diamond Beach

     Stroll along Diamond Beach, where glistening icebergs from Jökulsárlón wash ashore, contrasting beautifully with the black volcanic sand. It's a photographer's paradise and a truly unique sight.

     Diamond Beach, 781 Höfn, Iceland~$0.00
     BeachIcebergsPhotography
   • 14:15 - 15:15Eating

     Lunch at Jökulsárlón Café

     Grab a quick and casual lunch at the Jökulsárlón Café, offering soups, sandwiches, and hot drinks with stunning views of the lagoon. A convenient stop before starting the drive back.

     Jökulsárlón, 781 Höfn, Iceland~$25.00
     Casual DiningCafeGlacier Lagoon
   • 19:45 - 20:30Travel

     Check-in back at Center Hotels Laugavegur

     Return to Reykjavik and check back into your hotel. Settle in and relax after a long day of driving and exploring the far reaches of the South Coast.

     Center Hotels Laugavegur, Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$0.00
     AccommodationReykjavikHotel
   • 20:30 - 22:00Eating

     Dinner at Restó

     Enjoy a delightful dinner at Restó, a highly-rated restaurant in Reykjavik known for its fresh ingredients and creative Icelandic-European fusion cuisine. A perfect way to end a long day.

     Laugavegur 120, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$65.00
     Fine DiningIcelandic CuisineReykjavik
5. 5

   Day 5 — Reykjavik, Iceland

   11 activities

   • 09:00 - 10:00Eating

     Breakfast at the hotel

     Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a day of exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula and relaxing at the Blue Lagoon.

     Center Hotels Laugavegur, Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$25.00
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 10:50 - 11:50Exploration

     Walk across the Bridge Between Continents

     Visit the Bridge Between Continents, a symbolic footbridge spanning the fissure between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. It's a unique geological site and a fun photo opportunity.

     Bridge Between Continents, 241 Sandgerði, Iceland~$0.00
     GeologyTectonic PlatesReykjanes
   • 12:05 - 13:05Sightseeing

     Witness Gunnuhver Hot Springs

     Explore the powerful and highly active Gunnuhver geothermal area, characterized by its vibrant mud pools and steam vents. The ground here is boiling hot, so stick to the marked pathways and viewing platforms.

     Gunnuhver Hot Springs, 240 Grindavík, Iceland~$0.00
     GeothermalHot SpringsReykjanes
   • 13:25 - 14:25Eating

     Lunch near Blue Lagoon

     Have lunch at Lava Restaurant, located within the Blue Lagoon complex, or another nearby eatery. Enjoy a meal before or after your relaxing soak to fully recharge.

     Blue Lagoon, Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland~$50.00
     Fine DiningSpaBlue Lagoon
   • 14:30 - 17:00Exploration

     Relax at the Blue Lagoon

     Indulge in a world-renowned geothermal spa experience at the Blue Lagoon. Bathe in the mineral-rich milky-blue waters, apply a silica mud mask, and simply relax amidst the stunning volcanic landscape. Pre-booking is essential.

     Blue Lagoon, Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland~$100.00
     Hot SpringSpaRelaxationWellness
   • 18:00 - 19:30Eating

     Dinner at Matarkjallarinn – Foodcellar

     Enjoy a unique dining experience at Matarkjallarinn, located in a historic cellar. They offer modern Icelandic cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and live music in the evenings.

     Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$75.00
     Fine DiningIcelandic CuisineLive Music
6. 6

   Day 6 — Reykjavik, Iceland

   6 activities

   • 09:00 - 10:00Eating

     Breakfast at the hotel

     Enjoy your last Icelandic breakfast at the hotel. Take your time to savor the meal and reflect on your adventure before preparing for departure.

     Center Hotels Laugavegur, Laugavegur 95-99, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$25.00
     BreakfastHotel Dining
   • 10:00 - 11:30Exploration

     Last-minute souvenir shopping on Laugavegur

     Take some time to browse the shops along Laugavegur, Reykjavik's main shopping street, for any last-minute souvenirs or gifts to remember your Icelandic adventure.

     Laugavegur, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland~$50.00
     ShoppingSouvenirsReykjavik
   • 12:30 - 14:00Travel

     Return Rental Car & Check-in at KEF

     Drive to Keflavík International Airport, return your rental car, and proceed with check-in for your departure flight. Allow ample time for these procedures to ensure a smooth departure.

     Keflavík International Airport (KEF), 235 Keflavík, Iceland~$0.00
     DepartureCar RentalAirport
   • 14:00 - 15:00Travel

     Departure from Iceland

     Board your flight from Keflavík International Airport, concluding your unforgettable solo adventure trip to Iceland. Depart with lasting memories of its incredible landscapes and unique experiences.

     Keflavík International Airport (KEF), 235 Keflavík, Iceland~$0.00
     DepartureFlight

Where to Stay

• Reykjavik, Iceland

  Center Hotels Laugavegur

  $250.0 / night4 nights4.2
  Central location for city explorationModern amenitiesGood value for solo travelers
• Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland

  Hotel Kría

  $280.0 / night1 nights4.3
  Modern and comfortableExcellent location for South Coast explorationGood dining options
• Reykjavik, Iceland

  Center Hotels Laugavegur

  $250.0 / night4 nights4.2
  Central location for city explorationModern amenitiesGood value for solo travelers