📍 Iceland

NORTHERN ICELAND: ARCTIC VALLEYS AND WATERFALL MAJESTY

Geysers erupting in boiling plumes, waterfalls thundering through deep canyons. Northern Iceland, volcanic drama and unspoiled beauty.

≈ 13
Days
1862
Km
10
Stops
📖 6 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Feel the pulse of Reykjavik between culture and Nordic energy, then head north to Akureyri, the warm gateway to the north. Cross the geological landscapes of Thingvellir, observe the bubbling pools of Myvatn and explore Borgarnes before relaxing near the steams of the Blue Lagoon. Egilsstadir opens the way to wild and powerful horizons.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Reykjavik

capital spreads geothermal city warmth

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8 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of downtown Reykjavik: Hallgrímskirkja, Lake Tjörnin, the Sun Voyager statue and the harbor.
2
Visit to the National Museum of Iceland to better understand Icelandic culture.
🎯

Activities

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Swimming in the geothermal waters of Nauthólsvik beach.
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Watching the sunset from the port of Reykjavik.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 47 km
Travel time: 45min
2
Day

Thingvellir

tectonic plates reveal earth secrets

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10 photos
Day 2
🔍

Discover

1
Exploration of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2
Walk along the fault between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
🎯

Activities

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Picnic near Öxarárfoss waterfalls in a spectacular natural setting.
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Photo session at Game of Thrones filming locations.
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Next stop
Distance: 120 km
Travel time: 1h40
3
Day

Borgarnes

historic town guards settlement heritage

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10 photos
Day 3
🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of the Settlement Center tracing the Viking colonization of the island.
2
Walk on the port of Borgarnes with views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
🎯

Activities

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Snowmobile excursion or glacier hiking near Borgarfjörður.
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Next stop
Distance: 310 km
Travel time: 4h30
4
Day

Akureyri

northern gem pulses arctic charm

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9 photos
Day 4
🔍

Discover

1
Walk in the botanical gardens of Akureyri, among the most northern in the world.
2
Visit to Akureyrarkirkja church, nicknamed the ice cathedral.
🎯

Activities

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Relaxing in a local café while observing the surrounding mountains.
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Walk on the quays of Akureyri discovering the colorful houses.
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Next stop
Distance: 175 km
Travel time: 2h10
5
Day

Myvatn

thermal lake glows otherworldly emerald

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10 photos
Day 5
🔍

Discover

1
Stop at Godafoss waterfall, one of the most impressive in Iceland.
2
Exploration of Lake Mývatn and observation of migratory birds.
🎯

Activities

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Relaxing swim at Mývatn Nature Baths, blue waters at 39°C.
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Walk around the volcanic formations of Dimmuborgir.
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Next stop
Distance: 175 km
Travel time: 2h10
6
Day

Egilsstadir

eastern town stands mountain gateway

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6 photos
Day 6
🔍

Discover

1
30-minute hike to Fardagafoss waterfall, overlooking the valley.
2
Visit to the East Icelandic heritage museum tracing life since the Viking era.
🎯

Activities

→
Walk along Lake Lagarfljót, renowned for its legend of the giant serpent.
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Next stop
Distance: 260 km
Travel time: 3h20
7
Day

Hofn

glacier port commands southeastern coast

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10 photos
Day 7
🔍

Discover

1
Scenic route along the Eastern fjords to Höfn.
2
Visit to the port of Höfn with view of Vatnajökull glacier.
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Activities

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Discovery of the Vatnajökull interpretation center.
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Next stop
Distance: 270 km
Travel time: 3h40
8
Day

Vik

black sand cliffs pierce sky

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9 photos
Day 8
🔍

Discover

1
Stop at Skaftafell glaciers and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.
2
Observation of icebergs at Diamond Beach.
🎯

Activities

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Walk on the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.
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Next stop
Distance: 275 km
Travel time: 3h50
9
Day

Blue Lagoon

geothermal spa steams milky blue

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10 photos
Day 9
🔍

Discover

1
Route to the Reykjanes peninsula and exploration of the Gunnuhver geothermal field.
🎯

Activities

→
Relaxation in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, famous Icelandic geothermal spring.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 230 km
Travel time: 3h20
10
Day

Keflavik

airport town welcomes arctic arrivals

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5 photos
Day 10
🔍

Discover

1
Last stroll in the coastal town of Keflavík before the return flight.
🎯

Activities

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Shopping for local Icelandic products before departure.

🗺️ Itinerary map

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🛡️ Travel advice - Iceland

Check official recommendations

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Summer (June-August): Midnight sun, warmest weather, lupine flowers, highland access, peak tourist season, highest prices, advance booking essential.

Winter (December-February): Northern Lights season, ice caves, winter activities, darker days, lowest prices, fewer crowds, magical atmosphere.

Shoulder Season (April-May & September-November): Aurora viewing possible, fewer crowds, moderate prices, transitional weather, excellent value, variable conditions.

Spring (March-May): Lengthening days, awakening nature, moderate temperatures, bird nesting, good weather, fewer tourists, excellent photography.

Fall (September-November): Aurora season begins, autumn colors, comfortable weather, harvest season, good value, stunning landscapes.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 10 and 16 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Iceland?

Nordic island with dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and unique culture. Experience Northern Lights, pristine nature, and authentic Icelandic lifestyle. The country offers natural phenomena with cultural authenticity and progressive values. Iceland provides life-changing natural experiences with cultural depth and environmental leadership.