Embark on the last word street journey journey with our complete 10-day itinerary for driving Iceland’s well-known Ring Street. Expertise the rugged mountains and distinctive geological options that make this Nordic island nation a must-visit vacation spot. From the long-lasting waterfalls and black sand seashores of South Iceland to the geothermal wonders of the North, our information will make sure you don’t miss a factor in your journey round Iceland’s spectacular Ring Street. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable street journey by means of the land of fireplace and ice.”
10-Day Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
Driving Iceland’s Ring Street is a tremendous journey that lets you discover off the crushed path locations whereas having the posh of following a simple route. We suggest renting a 4X4 in your journey as this round street takes you thru the rugged landscapes of the nation to the highest of North Iceland the place situations can change straight away. Examine Automobile rental costs right here. In case you are not choosing up your rental automotive on the airport – ebook this airport shuttle to Reykjavik.
That can assist you with our price range you could need to learn: How A lot Does a Journey to Iceland Value
About The Ring Street Iceland
The Ring Street is Iceland’s nationwide street Route 1. It circles practically your complete nation spanning 1,322 kilometers (821 mi). Most individuals drive the ring street in 7 days and you’ll even see a number of the preferred ring street points of interest in only a few days. However we suggest no less than 10 days to see Iceland. Even then you’ll most likely need just a few extra days, however this can be a 10-day Iceland ring street itinerary that may take you thru a few of the nation’s most stunning landscapes and high points of interest.
Our itinerary drives across the ring street clockwise from Reykjavik the place you’ll drive north a few of the nation’s most stunning paces.
Essential Web sites
If you drive Iceland’s Ring Street, it is rather essential to remain updated on the climate forecast, right here is a few extra info to have with you for security. Essential web sites to comply with for Iceland Street situations are climate forecast, street situations, and from ICE -SAR for journey alerts.
In the event you don’t have an information plan, we advise getting an e-sim. After we journey we use Airalo and have by no means had an issue. There are many e-sims to select from, however you must also be certain to get a GPS together with your automotive as you could not have protection everywhere in Iceland.
Most of Iceland’s ring street is paved and it has two-lane visitors, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t rugged. There are some single-lane bridges and slender passes, and climate can change shortly. We generally had very restricted visibility. So lease a 4WD.
I bear in mind one snow squall developing throughout a four-wheel drive tour in northern Iceland the place we hit some unhealthy climate. Our driver continued driving utilizing his GPS. (we requested him to cease) Nonetheless, like Canada, Iceland’s roads are properly maintained when it snows, so it’s potential to discover it through the winter months as properly.
The Full Ring Street Itinerary
Welcome to Reykjavik Worldwide Airport! You’ve gotten arrived in Iceland! It’s time to decide up your rental automotive and make your technique to the Northernmost capital of the World. Situated within the southwest of Iceland, this metropolis is to not be missed on an Iceland itinerary.
Reykjavik is about 45 minutes from the airport with the Blue Lagoon positioned in between. Individuals usually go to these well-known springs on their means into town heart, or on the final day of their journey. There may be extra about them on the finish of this submit.
Day 1 – Airport to Reykjavik
When you get to Reykjavik there are such a lot of issues to see and do. With a Viking historical past and a shocking Nordic setting, Reykjavik is a contemporary metropolis the place you’ll be able to calm down and plan for the times forward.
Reykjavik Sights
Hallgrímskirkja: The Church of Hallgrímur is Iceland’s nationwide church. This iconic church is without doubt one of the tallest buildings in Iceland and affords an unimaginable view of town from its tower. Harpa Live performance Corridor: This beautiful piece of recent structure is residence to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. You may take a guided tour or take pleasure in a live performance. Solar Voyager: This stunning sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a must-see. It represents a dreamboat and an ode to the solar. Take a look at the Prime 5 Pure Wonders of Reykjavik Laugavegur: That is the principle buying avenue in Reykjavik, crammed with boutiques, eating places, and cafes. Previous Harbour: This space has been reworked right into a energetic district with eating places, cafes, and museums. Reykjavik Artwork Museum: This museum is residence to an enormous assortment of recent and modern Icelandic artwork. Learn our full Reykjavik Information
Dinner
You may go whale watching instantly from Reykjavik. If you wish to get the compulsory whale watching tour out of the way in which earlier than you hit the ring street, ebook this tour on a luxurious yacht from downtown Reykjavik.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Strive the well-known Icelandic sizzling canine at this common stand. Seafood Grill: Reykjavik is understood for its seafood, and this restaurant is a superb place to attempt some native dishes. Learn our Icelandic Meals information that can assist you know what to order.
In a single day in Reykjavik
There are many lodging choices in Reykjavik, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. We’ve got stayed at each the Hilton Reykjavik or Resort Marina Reykjavik and they’re nice decisions.
Approximate driving time: 50 km / 31 miles
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Benefit from your day by getting up early in your drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive from Reykjavik to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula takes about 2 hours. The peninsula is positioned in west Iceland and is understood for its dramatic landscapes, together with mountains, lava fields, and exquisite shoreline.
Late Morning to Afternoon
Discover Snæfellsjökull Nationwide Park which is residence to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which is claimed to have mystical powers. There are additionally a number of mountain climbing trails and exquisite viewpoints within the park.
Go to Kirkjufell This mountain is without doubt one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland and is a must-see within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There’s a waterfall close by, Kirkjufellsfoss, which can also be price trying out.
Discover Djúpalónssandur This stunning black sand seaside is understood for its dramatic landscapes and is a superb spot for images.
Night
In the event you go to through the winter months, you might have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a superb place to view them as a result of it has much less gentle air pollution than Reykjavik. (Seasonal, usually late September to early April). Equally, Snæfellsnes Peninsula affords an awesome alternative for stargazing as a consequence of its distant location and low gentle air pollution.
Take pleasure in Icelandic delicacies at an area restaurant or café. Some locations might also have dwell music or different occasions within the night. After a protracted day of sightseeing, you may additionally need to calm down at your lodging, whether or not that be having fun with an excellent ebook or soaking in a sizzling tub in case your lodging has one.
In a single day
The most effective city to remain within the Snæfellsnes Peninsula largely is dependent upon your preferences, however Stykkishólmur is without doubt one of the hottest choices. It’s the largest city on the peninsula and affords a wide range of lodging choices, eating places, and providers. It’s additionally recognized for its stunning outdated homes and the Stykkishólmur Church, which affords nice views of the city and surrounding space.
Different choices for lodging embrace Grundarfjörður (close to Kirkjufell Mountain) and Hellnar or Arnarstapi. All of those cities provide a variety of lodging choices, from resorts to guesthouses. Simply be certain to ebook forward, particularly throughout peak season.
The place to remain in Stykkishólmur West Iceland: Resort Fransiskus
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 3 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Akureyri
Morning
On Day 3 of your Icelandic street journey, you’ll depart from the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and make your technique to north Iceland to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city space. Akureyri is also known as “the Capital of North Iceland. This drive will take roughly 5 hours, however the altering surroundings from the peninsula to the northern areas of Iceland will maintain you captivated.
Afternoon
When you arrive in Akureyri, test into your lodging and take a while to discover this vibrant city.
A must-visit is the Akureyri Church, a shocking Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the city. Designed by the well-known Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this iconic constructing is an emblem of Akureyri. The city heart can also be price exploring, with its quaint retailers and comfortable cafes.
Contemplate visiting the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, which boasts a wide range of plant species from each Iceland and across the globe. Another choice is the Akureyri Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool that may be a hit with each locals and vacationers. There are water slides
The encircling space additionally affords loads to discover, such because the beautiful Eyjafjörður fjord and the Hlíðarfjall ski space through the winter months. and
Night
For dinner, bask in some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant. Choices abound, from conventional dishes like lamb and fish soup to extra fashionable fare.
Bryggjan: It is a common spot for seafood, with a menu that options domestically sourced fish and different seafood choices. Rub 23: A stylish restaurant recognized for its sushi and steaks. They provide a wide range of sushi choices, in addition to dishes made with Icelandic lamb and different native components. Akureyri Fish and Chips: An awesome spot for an informal meal, this restaurant serves scrumptious fish and chips made with contemporary, native fish.
Afterward, you’ll be able to relaxation up for the following day’s adventures at your chosen lodging, be it a luxurious resort or an enthralling guesthouse. Learn extra: Finest Icelandic meals
The place to Keep
Day 4: Akureyri to Mývatn
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast in Akureyri earlier than embarking on the roughly 1-hour drive to Mývatn, a volcanic lake and surrounding space recognized for its distinctive geological options and wealthy birdlife. The drive from Akureyri to Mývatn is round 90 kilometers and takes you thru some stunning landscapes, together with lush valleys and volcanic terrain. On the way in which to Mývatn be certain. to cease on the Goðafoss waterfall. Yet one more stunning waterfall in Iceland.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Mývatn, take a while to discover the world’s high points of interest. Go to the Mývatn Nature Baths, a geothermal lagoon the place you’ll be able to calm down within the heat waters whereas having fun with the beautiful environment. One other must-see is Dimmuborgir, a lava discipline recognized for its dramatic volcanic rock formations. In the event you’re eager about wildlife, make sure to try the varied birdwatching alternatives across the lake.
Non-compulsory Day Journey
In case you have extra time, take into account visiting the close by city of Húsavík, recognized for its wonderful whale-watching alternatives.
Should do: If you’re going to go whale watching in a single place in Iceland, it must be Husavik. This extremely rated Whale watching from Húsavík lives as much as its repute because the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Discover the gorgeous, Skjálfandi Bay whereas observing whales, dolphins and sea birds of their pure habitat.
Should Watch: Husavik has gained a number of recognition because of the Will Farrell Film “EuroVision The Fireplace and Ice Saga.” accessible on Netflix. Its stunning tune was even nominated for an Oscar.
Night
For dinner, take into account making an attempt some native Icelandic delicacies at a close-by restaurant.
Daddi’s Pizza: In case you have had sufficient of Icelandic meals, this common spot is understood for its scrumptious pizzas Vogafjós Cowshed Café and Restaurant: This distinctive restaurant is positioned on a working farm and affords a variety of conventional Icelandic dishes made with native components, together with their very own selfmade cheese and cured meats. The café additionally has an awesome view of the cowshed, so you’ll be able to watch the cows whilst you eat. Hótel Laxá Restaurant: This resort restaurant affords a wide range of Icelandic and worldwide dishes, with an emphasis on contemporary, native components. In addition they have an awesome view of the lake.
Then, head to your lodging for the evening. There are a number of choices in and round Mývatn, starting from resorts and guesthouses to tenting websites. Prompt resort in Mývatn: Fosshotel Myvatn
Approximate driving time: 1 hour
Day 5 – Mývatn to Egilsstaðir
Morning
Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Mývatn earlier than setting out on the roughly 2-hour drive to Egilsstaðir, positioned within the Eastfjords of japanese Iceland. This roughly 180-kilometer journey will take you thru a wide range of landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush farmlands and rugged fjords.
En route be certain to cease at Europe’s strongest waterfall. Dettifoss is the Niagara Falls of Iceland. (with out the resorts, bars, and casinos) At 45 meters excessive (144 ft) and 100 meters huge (300 ft). Right here you can too discover Jökulsárgljúfur Nationwide Park. Its spectacular horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon homes another spectacular waterfalls as properly, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss, and Réttarfoss. If you wish to chase waterfalls, you could find yourself spending the entire day right here!
Afternoon
Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, delve into the world’s pure magnificence and discover a few of its high points of interest. A must-visit is Seydisfjordur, an enthralling village recognized for its colourful homes and vibrant arts scene. Be sure to take a stroll alongside Rainbow Street.
Don’t miss out on the beautiful Hengifoss, one of many tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with its spectacular basalt columns and vivid crimson clay. One other stunning waterfall within the space is Litlanesfoss, surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.
If time permits, take into account taking a scenic drive alongside the Eastfjords, the place you’ll be able to admire the dramatic shoreline and probably spot some seals or different wildlife. Moreover, the world round Egilsstaðir is residence to a number of mountain climbing trails, offering ample alternatives to discover the beautiful landscapes on foot.
Night
Savor the native flavors at one of many eating places in Egilsstaðir or the encircling space.
Valaskjálf Restaurant: Situated within the cultural heart of Egilsstaðir, this restaurant affords a wide range of dishes together with Icelandic lamb, fish, and vegetarian choices. Klausturkaffi: Located within the Skriðuklaustur cultural heritage web site, Klausturkaffi is understood for its conventional Icelandic pancakes and selfmade desserts. Lake Resort Egilsstaðir Restaurant: This resort restaurant affords a variety of Icelandic and worldwide dishes with a deal with native components, together with reindeer, Arctic char, and lamb.
Then head to your lodging for the evening. There’s a vary of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and tenting websites. Prompt resort: Resort Eyvindara
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 6: Egilsstaðir to Höfn
Morning
Gas up with a hearty breakfast in Egilsstaðir, then embark on the roughly 3-hour drive persevering with down east Iceland to Höfn, a picturesque fishing city within the southeast of Iceland. This roughly 260-kilometer journey takes you alongside the coast of the Eastfjords earlier than heading inland by means of the mountains, offering loads of alternatives for beautiful images.
Upon arriving in Höfn, immerse your self within the space’s wealthy maritime historical past by exploring the city and its harbor. One of many must-visit points of interest is the Höfn Glacier Museum, the place you’ll be able to find out about glaciers, their influence on the panorama, and the consequences of local weather change.
Afternoon
There are many issues to do round this space of east Iceland. Go to Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons to stand up shut and private with the icebergs. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is probably the most well-known and you’ll most likely spend a number of time right here.
You too can go to the close by Diamond Seashore, the place icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, creating a shocking distinction. Another choice is exploring the Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, residence to Europe’s largest glacier.
In case you have additional time, take into account reserving a guided glacier hike or an ice cave tour, each of which give an unforgettable expertise of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Night
Take pleasure in some scrumptious native seafood for dinner; Höfn is especially well-known for its lobster. Kaffi Hornið and Pakkhús are two wonderful choices for sampling this delicacy.
Day 7: Höfn to Skaftafell
Morning
Get up early in Höfn and begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of many native eateries or your lodging. After breakfast, embark on the roughly 2-hour drive to Skaftafell, positioned in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park. The drive covers a distance of about 140 kilometers and takes you thru a few of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and black sand plains filling your view.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Skaftafell, immerse your self within the pure fantastic thing about the world. Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise, with quite a few trails main to varied points of interest. One of many must-see spots is Svartifoss, a stupendous waterfall surrounded by black basalt columns. One other common hike takes you to Skaftafellsjökull, a glacier tongue that extends from the Vatnajökull glacier. Don’t miss the prospect to go to the customer heart, which affords exhibitions and details about the park’s pure and cultural historical past.
Night
For dinner, your choices could be restricted throughout the nationwide park, however you’ll find some good decisions in close by cities resembling Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Kaffi Munkar is a well-liked spot within the space that gives a variety of dishes, from soups and sandwiches to extra substantial meals.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Day 8 Skaftafell to Vik
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Skaftafell earlier than setting out in your journey to Vik in South Iceland. This charming village is positioned proper on the tip of Iceland’s south coast. The drive from Skaftafell to Vik is roughly 2 hours, overlaying a distance of round 150 kilometers. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by means of beautiful landscapes, together with huge lava fields, dramatic cliffs, and black sand seashores. Learn extra: South Coast of Iceland – Prime Issues to See and Do
Morning
When you arrive in Vik, take a while to discover the native points of interest. A must-visit is Reynisfjara, a well-known black sand seaside recognized for its towering basalt columns and highly effective waves.
Vik stands within the shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and is residence to the black sand seaside with enormous black basalt stacks standing guard. This well-known cluster of Basalt Rocks could also be considered one of Iceland’s most recognizable sights and also you don’t need to miss it.
Legend has it that this group of stone spires are literally trolls turned to stone by the solar. As they tried to tug their three-masted ship to shore, time ran out and the solar got here up. In response to folklore, as soon as an Icelandic troll is caught within the solar, it turns to stone.
Approximate driving time: 2 hours
Afternoon
One other common spot is the Dyrhólaey Peninsula, the place you’ll be able to admire the dramatic cliffs, distinctive rock formations, and its picturesque lighthouse. In the event you’re eager about historical past, take into account visiting the Skógar Folks Museum, which affords an interesting glimpse into Iceland’s previous.
In case you have additional time, take into account taking a guided tour to discover the close by Katla Geopark, which encompasses a number of pure wonders, together with the Katla Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Another choice is to go to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a shocking gorge positioned only a brief drive from Vik. For these eager about chicken watching, the cliffs round Dyrhólaey are residence to varied seabird species, together with puffins.
Night
For dinner, head to considered one of Vik’s native eating places to pattern some scrumptious Icelandic delicacies. Sudur Vik is a well-liked alternative, providing a wide range of dishes, together with their well-known lobster soup.
Day 9 Vik to Selfoss
Morning
Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast in Vik earlier than embarking on the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Selfoss. The journey covers round 110 kilometers and takes you previous picturesque landscapes, together with rolling hills, farmlands, and rivers.
Afternoon
Upon reaching Selfoss, discover the world’s high points of interest. One of many must-see spots is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the place you’ll be able to stroll behind the cascading water for a novel perspective. One other common attraction is the Skógafoss waterfall, considered one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls.
Don’t miss the prospect to go to the Eyjafjallajökull Customer Heart, the place you’ll be able to be taught concerning the notorious 2010 eruption that disrupted air journey worldwide.
Proceed on to Skaftafell Nationwide Park, the place you’ll be able to go mountain climbing or mountain climbing on Vatnajökull glacier
Insider Tip – As you drive south alongside Route 1 cease for espresso in Hella. This city has colourful homes lining the river financial institution and it’s a good place to get provides or to replenish your automotive at a gasoline station.
Night
In case you have additional time, take into account taking a dip within the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal pool positioned within the close by city of Fludir. Get your secret lagoon admission ticket upfront. Secret Lagoon tickets right here
For dinner, head to considered one of Selfoss’s native eating places to pattern some conventional Icelandic delicacies. Tryum is a well-liked spot that gives a variety of dishes, from fish and chips to lamb burgers.
Iceland Scorching Canine – One factor you’ll discover every time anybody talks about touring to Iceland is a point out of sizzling canine. They appear to be probably the most reasonably priced and common meals on the Ring Street loop at gasoline stations. Pylsuvagninn Selfossi is a well-liked sizzling canine stand on the Ölfusá river bridge. If you’re going to attempt a sizzling canine in Iceland, go for it right here. We ate a number of sizzling canine at gasoline stations whereas driving in Iceland. It’s probably the most reasonably priced technique to journey.
Day 10: Selfoss to Reykjavik
After having fun with a leisurely breakfast in Selfoss, embark on the roughly 1-hour drive to Reykjavik, overlaying a distance of round 50 kilometers. This brief journey takes you thru some stunning landscapes, together with volcanic fields and mountains.
Another choice is to discover the Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these eager about horse using, a number of farms within the space provide excursions on Icelandic horses.
Morning
An awesome at the moment is to go to the close by Golden Circle, a preferred vacationer route that features the Geysir geothermal space, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir Nationwide Park. For these eager about artwork, the Reykjavik Artwork Museum and the Einar Jónsson Museum provide a glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant artwork scene.
Thingvellir Nationwide Park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that’s positioned in a rift valley the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates mee. That is additionally the positioning of the world’s first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Guests can discover the park’s trails, take pleasure in its lakes and waterfalls, and find out about Iceland’s wealthy historical past.
The Geysir Geothermal Space is residence to a number of geysers, together with Strokkur, which erupts roughly each 5-10 minutes, sending water and steam as much as 30 meters into the air. The world can also be recognized for its sizzling springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
Lastly, the Gullfoss waterfall is a panoramic two-tiered waterfall that drops a complete of 32 meters right into a rugged canyon. The waterfall will be seen from a number of completely different vantage factors, every providing a novel perspective. This huge waterfall is a two-stage cascade plummeting 32 meters (105 ft) from the Hvítá River. Gullfoss is probably the most visited waterfall in Iceland and for good motive. You may stroll fairly near the speeding water and actually really feel its energy.
Afternoon
It’s time to make your technique to Reykjavik. It is a nice time to take the chance to discover any points of interest you might have missed in your first day within the metropolis. Choices embrace the Solar Voyager, a metal sculpture formed like a Viking ship, and the Hallgrímskirkja, a shocking church that is without doubt one of the tallest buildings in Iceland. You may additionally need to go to the Harpa Live performance Corridor, an iconic constructing recognized for its distinctive glass facade.
Night
For dinner, Reykjavik affords a variety of choices, from conventional Icelandic delicacies to worldwide dishes. The Fish Firm is a well-liked alternative, recognized for its scrumptious seafood dishes made with contemporary, native components. After dinner, retire to your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has numerous choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
After dinner, test into your lodging for the evening. Reykjavik has a wide range of choices to select from, together with resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb leases.
Remaining Morning Day Journey and Fly Dwelling
Your driving on the Ring Street vacation has come to an finish. Chances are high you can be returning your automotive rental on the airport, so earlier than you permit, this can be a nice time to go to Iceland’s hottest attraction the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is usually visited on day one or the final day of an Iceland journey. That is the proper alternative to assuage these aching muscle tissue within the well-known sizzling springs. It might be probably the most touristy factor to do within the nation, however you could expertise it no less than as soon as while you go to Iceland. Learn extra: The right way to Go to The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Value It?
If you wish to actually benefit from the Blue Lagoon you’ll be able to keep right here. Luxurious resorts embrace:
The Blue Lagoon Retreat is a five-star luxurious escape that overlooks the lagoon and stands excessive sufficient to see the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Silica Resort. Only a 10-minute stroll from the Blue Lagoon, nestled among the many lava fields this award-winning resort is a superb choice when staying over evening on the Blue Lagoon.
The right way to Plan For the Ring Street in Iceland
Our journey to Iceland was with Iceland Journey they usually put collectively an unimaginable Iceland street journey itinerary for us. We cherished having an itinerary arrange upfront with resorts pre-booked and plans made. Iceland is a well-liked journey vacation spot and resorts alongside the Ring Street route can ebook up shortly, so having a tour firm plan made a number of sense all we had. to do was consider driving the Ring Street and having fun with our time. Go to Iceland Journey to assist with planning your journey.
Driving The Ring Street Independently
You may ebook a rental automotive and do the ring street independently. You may test automotive rental costs at CarRental.com. We suggest getting a 4X4 with a GPS. We drove the Ring Street in late September and drove by means of a couple of snowstorm. We had a automotive go proper off the street in entrance of us in north Iceland. They weren’t in a four-wheel drive so we had it a lot simpler between our winter driving expertise and the snow tires on our SUV.
Ring Street Excursions
In the event you aren’t comfy driving in Iceland, there are organized excursions to Iceland that go across the ring street. You may sit again, calm down, and let the professionals take you to the favored vacationer points of interest.
This 8-day small group tour takes you on a circle tour of Iceland. Go away Reykjavik to see lots of the highlights talked about on this ring street journey information. From waterfalls to lava fields, within the south to the East Fjords and northern lights of the North. It covers all of it. Test it out right here: You may cancel as much as 24 hours upfront to obtain a full refund.
This Circle Tour of the Ring Street is a versatile choice the place you’ll be able to select from 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. It takes you to the South Coast, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn and waterfalls and non-obligatory excursions of Borgarfjörður and Lava Caving and non-obligatory tour of the Golden Circle. Plus way more. Particulars right here.
The place to Keep on the Ring Street
There are campgrounds alongside the route with loads of availability. That is by far probably the most economical technique to drive round Iceland’s Ring Street. However be sure to arrive on the campgrounds early. They’re first come first serve and wild tenting in Iceland just isn’t allowed. So it would be best to be within the campground by sundown.
Most campgrounds have bathrooms and showers and a few have kitchens for cooking. Which is one other smart way to save cash on an Iceland Street Journey.
We stayed at largely Iceland Air Motels which are all alongside your complete ring street route alongside the principle street. Our stays included a tremendous breakfast which saved us some huge cash. They had been giant and scrumptious so we may make it by means of the day with simply snacks as an alternative of a big lunch.
Finest Time to Drive the Ring Street
The excessive season in Iceland is summer time and that is probably the most tough time to search out lodging. So be certain to plan upfront if you’re reserving from June to August. We traveled to Iceland from Mid to Late September and it was much less crowded. The climate was fairly unpredictable with all the pieces from hail and rain to snow and heavy winds. We did have sunny days as properly.
Keep in mind, if you’re driving in mid-summer the times are lengthy, and probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights are low. In the event you wait till nearer to autumn or go in late spring you could have a greater likelihood to see them because the solar units earlier. And there will certainly be fewer crowds throughout shoulder season.
Are you able to Drive the Ring Street in Iceland in Winter?
You may drive the Ring Street in Winter, however you must have winter driving expertise. The Ring Street operates 12 months spherical. It’s a two lane street a lot of the means and there may be winter upkeep.
Nonetheless, In the event you go to in winter, there may be extra of a threat of roads being closed for a day or two, so enable additional time. Iceland does have good winter street maintenence although, so if you’re used to winter driving, go for it! However be warned, after we had been there in September, most individuals we met had been terrified on the roads and stated it was scary for them driving by means of snow squalls. (sure, we had them in September and we had street closures too).
Being from Canada, we’re used to snow squalls, however we additionally had a 4 by 4 SUV which helped quite a bit. So, be certain to lease an SUV with 4 wheel drive capabilities.
Suggestions for Driving the Ring Street
Embarking on a street journey round Iceland’s Ring Street is an thrilling journey that requires cautious preparation. Right here’s what you have to take into account when it comes to gear and preparation:
Clothes and Gear:
Waterproof and windproof jacket. Layered clothes to adapt to altering climate situations. Waterproof and cozy strolling or mountain climbing sneakers. Sun shades and sunscreen. Hat and gloves, particularly if touring in colder months. Backpack for day hikes and excursions. Digital camera or smartphone for capturing the beautiful landscapes.
Driving and Navigation:
A dependable automobile appropriate for the season you’re touring in (take into account a 4×4 if you happen to plan to discover the highlands). A GPS, Google Maps and a paper map for navigation. Familiarize your self with Iceland’s street guidelines and situations earlier than your journey. Verify the climate and street situations repeatedly all through your journey.
Lodging and Meals:
E-book your lodging upfront, particularly through the peak summer time months. Pack snacks and water for the street, as there will be lengthy distances between cities and providers. Contemplate bringing a cooler for perishable gadgets if you happen to plan to self-cater.
Security and Emergency:
Deliver a primary help package, flashlight, and any mandatory private medicines. Guarantee you could have a charged cellphone with an Icelandic SIM card or roaming capabilities for emergencies. Familiarize your self with the emergency quantity in Iceland (112).
Further Suggestions:
Respect the native setting and cling to any indicators or laws in place to guard Iceland’s distinctive landscapes. Be ready for altering climate situations and pack accordingly. Observe the pace limits If you come to gasoline stations, replenish. We make it a rule to fill when our tank is half full. Take your time and benefit from the journey, because the Ring Street affords numerous alternatives to discover Iceland’s pure magnificence.
These are the highest websites to see on the Ring Street in Iceland. It’s actually one of many best street journeys on the earth. This 10-day Iceland Ring Street itinerary offers you the highlights however if in case you have 2 weeks, you’ll actually have the ability to see all of it.
So take your time to plan the proper Iceland Street journey and ensure it consists of all of those stops!
Planning Assets for Your Iceland Ring Street Itinerary
The Ring Street – Iconic Stops on an Iceland Street Journey