Is 6 Days in Iceland Enough? Let’s Be Honest

Only got 6 days in Iceland? That's more than enough to see glaciers, black sand beaches, geysers, and a few things the guidebooks skip. You won't do the whole Ring Road, but you'll cover the best parts without rushing.

The trick is knowing what to skip and what's actually worth the drive. This isn't one of those vague overviews. We've mapped out a clear, practical route that hits all the highlights and keeps you moving. 

Perfect if you're renting a car and want full freedom without wasting time. Let's break down exactly how to make 6 days in Iceland count.

6 Days in Iceland Itinerary That Actually Works

Let's break it down day by day. This 6-day itinerary in Iceland is built around smart routing, so you're not wasting hours backtracking. Each day sticks to one region and includes the key highlights up front, followed by a quick breakdown of what you'll see.

How much can you actually fit into one day without turning it into a blur? We've done the math. If you're driving a rental car, this route gives you the freedom to explore without rushing or missing the good stuff, without detours you'll regret. Just the best of Iceland lined up right.

Day 1: Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon – Soft Landing & Soak

• Highlights: Reykjavik City, Hallgrímskirkja Church, Sun Voyager, Harpa Concert Hall, Blue Lagoon 
• Total driving distance: ~103 km/64 mi | approx 1.5h

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Landed? Cool. Grab your rental car from our Keflavík Airport depot and head straight for Reykjavík on the first day of your 6-day Iceland itinerary. It's barely 50 kilometers or around 31 miles, so you'll be in town before the radio even plays a second ad. Once you're in the city, slow down. Wander the streets. Grab a coffee. 

Then, walk up to Hallgrímskirkja. It stands 74.5 meters tall, that's 244 feet if you still think in inches. You'll see it from pretty much anywhere. Take the elevator to the top, stare out over the city, and take it in. You'll see why people make a fuss about it.

Sun Voyager

You'll find the Sun Voyager right on Reykjavík's waterfront, and it's shaped like a Viking ship. Some say it looks futuristic; others just nod and take the photo. Either way, it stands out, and it is one of those things you need to see in your self-drive itinerary of 6 days. You'll spot it near the edge of the bay, just a short walk from Hallgrímskirkja. Best viewed at sunset, but it still hits during the day. Snap a pic, stare at the ocean, then grab a hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu. Trust us, it belongs in your stomach.

Harpa Concert Hall

Harpa's that big glass building by the harbor. You'll probably walk past it anyway, so step inside. It's Iceland's main concert hall, but it's also just a nice place to wander if you've got a few minutes. The 714 glass panels change with the light, which looks pretty cool in person. No tickets are needed. It's warm, there's a café, and nobody cares if you just come in to look around.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is about 50 kilometers or 31 miles from Reykjavík, and yeah, it's touristy and overpriced. But also? Kind of amazing. The water's bright blue, warm year-round, and loaded with minerals. People float around like they've got nowhere else to be. It's one of Iceland's top spots for a reason. Skip it if you want, but don't be surprised when people ask why you didn't go. Book ahead. It fills up quickly.

Return To Reykjavik

After your soak at the Blue Lagoon, head back to Reykjavík. If you're back before 5 PM, we recommend jumping on the Reykjavík Food Lovers Tour. You get to try classic Icelandic dishes without stressing over what to order. Miss the tour? No big deal. Walk the streets, find something that smells good, and call it a win.

Day 2: Golden Circle – Geysers, Waterfalls & Parliament

• Highlights: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall
• Total driving distance: ~294 km/183 | approx. 4.2h

Reykjavik to Þingvellir National Park

For those who wonder what to see in Iceland in 6 days, well start your Golden Circle loop at Thingvellir National Park. It is one of the most important stops on any Iceland itinerary for 6 days. It's where Iceland's first parliament met over 1,000 years ago, out in the open, surrounded by cliffs and volcanic rock. The ground is literally splitting apart here because two tectonic plates are drifting in opposite directions. You can even snorkel between the tectonic plates in the Silfra fissure if you dare. Cold? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

Þingvellir to Geysir Geothermal Area

Leaving Þingvellir, the drive to the Geysir Geothermal Area takes you through wide open farmland and pockets of steaming ground that hint at what's coming. As you get closer, the smell hits first. You'll notice steam rising before you even park. The ground bubbles and hisses like it's alive. 

Strokkur is the one people crowd around. It shoots boiling water up to 20 meters high, around 65 feet, every 5 to 10 minutes. No countdown, no warning. Just a sudden blast that gets everyone scrambling for the perfect shot or backing up if they get too close.

Geysir to Gullfoss Waterfall

It's a quick drive from Geysir to Gullfoss waterfall, but the views still make you slow down. Open land stretches out on both sides, with hills and mountains slipping into view. And Gullfoss? This one actually lives up to the hype. 

It crashes down in two stages into a canyon that looks like it splits the Earth. The drop is over 30 meters, about 98 feet, and you can walk right up to the edge. Mist fills the air, and if the sun's out, there's usually a rainbow.

Gullfoss to Vik

After Gullfoss, drive toward Vík. This stretch is where things start to feel wild. You'll pass endless mossy lava fields, wide plains, and cliffs that seem to show up out of nowhere. Keep an eye out for Icelandic horses along the fence lines. Vík is small, but it's got everything you need for the night, plus views that feel straight out of another world.

Day 3: South Coast – Iconic Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

• Highlights: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Dyrhólaey
• Total driving distance: ~144 km/90 mi | approx. 2.1h

Vik to Seljalandsfoss

Start day three of your 6-day Iceland itinerary with the drive from Vík to Seljalandsfoss. It's a scenic route through rolling hills, mossy lava fields, and the occasional sheep doing their own thing. Seljalandsfoss is one of the few waterfalls you can actually walk behind; just prepare to get wet. The drop is about 60 meters or 197 feet. Early morning is best if you want fewer people in your photos.

Seljalandsfoss to Skógafoss

Seljalandsfoss to Skógafoss is a short drive, but both stops easily earn their spot on your 6 days in Iceland. Skógafoss drops from a cliff about 60 meters high, or 197 feet, and the spray is no joke. On sunny days, rainbows are almost guaranteed. You can climb the staircase to the top for a different view or just stand below and get soaked in the best way.

Skógafoss to Reynisfjara

From Skógafoss, you'll keep heading east toward Reynisfjara. It's not far, but the landscape shifts fast, open fields, cliffs, and the ocean creeping closer. Reynisfjara is that black sand beach everyone talks about. The basalt columns look unreal, and those sea stacks offshore? Even locals have weird stories about them. The waves here are brutal. People get pulled in, so don't test them. Just watch, take it in, and stay back.

Reynisfjara to Dyrhólaey

After leaving Reynisfjara, it's just a quick drive to Dyrhólaey. Climb to the top, and you'll see a huge arch cut straight into the cliffside, towering nearly 120 meters (390 ft) above the sea. The waves crash below, and puffins nest along the grassy edges in summer. You can get surprisingly close to them without scaring them off. Between the views, the birds, and the sea air, this spot leaves a mark.

Dyrhólaey to Vik

After taking in the cliffs and puffins at Dyrhólaey, head back to Vík and call it a day. Today was your rest window, so take it slow and enjoy the quiet. Tomorrow's going to be long. If you're hungry, grab dinner at The Soup Company. Their langoustine soup is next-level. Warm, rich, and exactly what you need before the road picks up again.

Day 4: Eastbound (Vík to Jökulsárlón) – Canyons, Glaciers & Diamond Beach

• Distance: ~200 km /125 mi | approx. 2.9h
• Highlights: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Skaftafell, Svartifoss, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

So here's the deal with Fjaðrárgljúfur. It's about 2 kilometers long, maybe 1.2 miles and the cliffs drop nearly 100 meters. That's over 300 feet straight down. You won't need a guide. Just follow the path along the top. It curves with the canyon, and the views keep changing. Some spots feel totally silent. You stop. Look down. And for a second, it's just you and the canyon.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Skaftafell is part of Vatnajökull National Park, where forest trails, waterfalls, and glacier views all come together in one place. You'll find hikes for every level, and if you've got time, you can join a 3.5-hour Blue Ice Tour on one of the glacier tongues. Vatnajökull itself covers over 8,000 square kilometers (3,100 square miles). Bring good shoes. The trails look easy until you're halfway in.

Svartifoss

Svartifoss sits tucked inside Skaftafell and takes a short hike to reach it, just over 1.5 kilometers each way. That's a bit under 2 miles round trip. The path climbs a bit, but nothing crazy. What makes it stand out? The waterfall drops about 20 meters, or 65 feet, over a wall of dark basalt columns that look like a church organ. They formed from lava cooling really slowly, which sounds boring until you're standing in front of it. Bring water, take your time, and maybe don't wear flip-flops.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is where icebergs break off a glacier and drift through a lagoon out to sea. Some are the size of trucks, others are small enough to bump into each other like ice cubes. You can take a 35-minute amphibious boat tour that gets you up close to the action.

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is right across the road from Jökulsárlón, and yeah, the name fits. Chunks of ice wash up on the black sand and just sit there, shining like glass. Some are the size of your hand, others as big as a backpack. It's all meltwater from the glacier. If you're building an Iceland itinerary for 6 days, this stop easily earns a spot.

Day 5: Jökulsárlón to Hveragerði – Moss Fields, Lava Trails & Hidden Hot Springs

• Distance: ~408 km/253 mi | approx. 5.8h
• Highlights: Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Eldhraun lava field, local farm café or lunch stop, optional detour to Sólheimajökull again, or a geothermal bath in Hveragerði

Kirkjubæjarklaustur

An Iceland 6-day itinerary isn't complete without a quick stop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur on day 5. It's a small village with a laid-back vibe and a couple of underrated sights nearby. Check out Systrafoss, a twin waterfall right above town, and Kirkjugólf, where basalt columns form a flat stone 'floor.' It's not a long stop, but it's a nice reset to fill up with some gas before the road stretches out again.

Eldhraun Lava Field

Eldhraun is massive. Like, ridiculously massive. This lava field came from an eruption in the 1700s that went on for eight months straight. The moss covering it now? It took decades to grow, and it looks like green sponge cake spread over the rocks. It stretches for over 565 square kilometers or around 220 square miles.

Secret Lagoon or Reykjadalur (time-dependent)

If there's time left in the day, you've got two solid options. The Secret Lagoon is old school. No flash, just hot water in a natural pool that's been around since the 1800s. The water is usually around 38 to 40°C, which is about 100 to 104°F. Easy in, easy out. 

Reykjadalur hot spring is more work. A one-hour hike gets you to a steaming river in a green valley. No fences, no lockers, just steam, rocks, and silence. Pick based on your legs. And maybe your mood.

Hveragerði Overnight

Hveragerði's a strange little town. Quiet, but there's steam rising out of random patches of ground. Even the sidewalks sometimes hiss. People live right on top of geothermal activity like it's no big deal. It's a good place to crash for the night. Grab some food, and maybe hit a hot spring. You're about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Reykjavík now. So, rest up.

Day 6: Reykjanes Peninsula (Hveragerði to Keflavík) – Lava Pools, Cliffs & Goodbye Iceland

• Distance: ~120 km / 75 mi | approx. 1.7h
• Highlights: Krýsuvík geothermal area, Seltún, coastal cliffs, Brimketill lava pool, Bridge Between Continents, Keflavík town or airport drop-off

Krýsuvík / Seltún Geothermal Area

On day six of your Iceland itinerary for 6 days, swing by the Krýsuvík and Seltún geothermal area before heading to the airport. It's strange and colorful in the best way. The ground bubbles. 

Mud boils. Sulfur hangs in the air like someone overcooked eggs. Wooden boardwalks take you past steaming vents and bright mineral deposits. It feels like walking across a planet that's still forming. Just don't wear white shoes unless you want them stained yellow. You've been warned.

Brimketill Lava Rock Pool

Brimketill is a lava rock pool right on the edge of the Atlantic. It looks calm, but don't be fooled. Waves slam into the cliffs hard, sometimes soaking the viewing platform. The pool itself formed naturally in the lava, shaped by centuries of ocean abuse. It's just off Route 425, about 20 minutes from Grindavík. Bring a jacket. That sea spray comes in sideways.

Bridge Between Continents

The Bridge Between Continents is a short walk but a fun one. It spans a small rift where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart. You can literally walk from one continent to the other in a few seconds.

Keflavík Farewell Walk or Lunch

If you've got time before your flight, grab lunch at Kaffi Duus by the harbor or just take a quiet walk along the coast. The town's small but peaceful, and the sea views aren't bad either. It's only a few kilometers from the airport, so no stress. This is your wind-down moment before heading home.

Bonus Day: Vestman Islands (Reykjavík to Heimaey) – Volcanic Wilderness & Wildlife Escape

• Distance: ~130 km / 80 mi (Reykjavík to Landeyjahöfn) + 30-minute ferry each way | approx. 2.5h
• Highlights: Vestman Islands, Eldfell Volcano, Puffin Colonies, Eldheimar Museum

Reykjavík to Landeyjahöfn & Ferry to Heimaey

Start your bonus day with a scenic 2-hour drive (about 130 km/80 miles) from Reykjavík to Landeyjahöfn, the ferry port to the Vestman Islands. The ferry crossing to Heimaey, the main island, is short and sweet, and just 30 minutes each way. It’s a comfortable ride with stunning views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline, setting the tone for your island adventure.

Eldfell Volcano Hike

Once you arrive, prepare to be amazed by the raw volcanic landscapes. A must-do is hiking up Eldfell volcano, which erupted suddenly in 1973 and dramatically reshaped the island. The hike is rewarding, offering sweeping panoramic views of the island, ocean, and even mainland Iceland on a clear day.

Eldheimar Museum

After your hike, visit the Eldheimar Museum to dive into the fascinating story of the 1973 eruption. The museum is built around a house that was buried in lava and ash, with multimedia exhibits that bring the eruption and the resilience of the island’s community vividly to life.

Puffin Spotting & Harbor Walk

If you're visiting in summer, don’t miss the chance to spot puffins nesting on the cliffs, those little guys are the island’s real celebrities. Wander the charming harbor area, where colorful boats bob gently and local life carries on with a relaxed pace.

Local Seafood & Black Sand Beaches

Take a break at one of the local cafés or restaurants and enjoy fresh seafood, a true island treat. Before heading back, spend some quiet moments on the black sand beaches. The contrast of dark volcanic sand and crashing waves makes for a peaceful and photogenic spot.

Return Ferry & Drive Back to Reykjavík

Catch an afternoon ferry back to Landeyjahöfn, then drive the 2 hours back to Reykjavík. This bonus day packs nature, history, and wildlife into one unforgettable adventure, perfect if you want to escape the usual tourist trail and add a little extra to your trip.

Quick Overview: Distances, Times & Key Info for Your 6-Day Iceland Itinerary

To help you plan better, here’s a handy summary table with the main distances, driving times, highlights, and typical entrance fees for each day of your trip, including the bonus day to the Vestman Islands. Keep in mind that driving times don’t include stops or sightseeing breaks, and prices can vary depending on the season and availability, so booking ahead is always a good idea.

Day	Area	Distance (km / mi)	Approx. Driving Time	Highlights	Entry Fees
Day 1	Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon	~103 km / 64 mi	~1.5h	Reykjavík city sights, Hallgrímskirkja, Sun Voyager, Blue Lagoon	Blue Lagoon: €50-€100 (book ahead)
Day 2	Golden Circle	~294 km / 183 mi	~4.2h	Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall	Free
Day 3	South Coast	~144 km / 90 mi	~2.1h	Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Dyrhólaey puffins	Free
Day 4	Eastbound (Vík → Jökulsárlón)	~200 km / 125 mi	~2.9h	Canyon, glaciers, Svartifoss waterfall, glacier lagoon, Diamond Beach	Glacier lagoon boat tour: ~€40-€60
Day 5	Jökulsárlón → Hveragerði	~408 km / 253 mi	~5.8h	Moss fields, lava trails, hidden hot springs	Secret Lagoon: ~€25 Reykjadalur hike: free
Day 6	Reykjanes Peninsula (Hveragerði → Keflavík)	~120 km / 75 mi	~1.7h	Geothermal areas, lava pools, tectonic plates bridge, coastal cliffs	Free
Bonus Day	Vestman Islands (Reykjavík → Heimaey)	~130 km / 80 mi + ferry	~2.5h (drive + ferry)	Eldfell volcano hike, Eldheimar Museum, puffin colonies, black sand beaches	Eldheimar Museum: ~€20 Ferry round trip: ~€35

What to Drive for a 6-Day Iceland Road Trip

You don't need a monster truck to do this route, but you do need a car that can handle variable weather, long stretches of open road, and the occasional gravel patch without flinching. Here are three great options for different budgets, all from our fleet, all with free insurance included (CDW, SCDW, TP, GP).

Budget Pick – Kia Rio (Auto, 4 Seats, FWD)

Simple, reliable, and surprisingly fuel efficient. Great if you're traveling light, sticking to paved roads, and don't mind skipping the F-roads. It's automatic, so no stress if you're not into manual shifting. Ideal for solo travelers or couples who want to keep it affordable without sacrificing comfort.

• Best for: Summer trips, paved routes, low fuel costs
• Seats: 4
• Transmission: Automatic
• Drive: FWD

Mid-Range Choice – Dacia Duster (Auto, 5 Seats, FWD)

Comfortable, roomy, and built with Iceland's unpredictable road conditions in mind. It gives you more space for luggage and a better view of the landscape. While this version isn't 4WD, it still handles wet roads and gravel like a champ. A great choice if you want something tougher without going full SUV.

• Best for: All-season travel, couples, or small groups
• Seats: 5
• Transmission: Automatic
• Drive: FWD

Premium Option – Toyota Land Cruiser 150 (Auto, 7 Seats, 4WD)

If you want to crush every type of terrain Iceland throws at you, this is the one. It's big, powerful, and made for serious comfort over long drives. With 4WD and high clearance, it can handle rough weather, deeper gravel, and even F-roads if you decide to detour. Extra seats, extra space, zero regrets.

• Best for: Families, winter travel, total freedom
• Seats: 7
• Transmission: Automatic
• Drive: 4WD

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 6 days in Iceland enough?

Six days is plenty to see Iceland’s top sights like waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and black sand beaches without rushing. You won’t do the full Ring Road, but this itinerary covers the highlights with enough time to enjoy each stop.

Is the Ice Cave Tour worth it?

If you’re fascinated by glaciers and unique experiences, yes. Ice cave tours run mainly in winter, offering incredible views inside blue ice caves. Though they can be pricey, many consider it a highlight worth the cost.

How much driving is realistic per day in Iceland?

Most travelers find it comfortable to drive under 6 hours a day. This itinerary balances driving and sightseeing to keep days enjoyable, not exhausting.

Can you see puffins outside of summer?

Puffins mainly nest from May to August. Outside these months, puffin sightings on the cliffs are rare, so plan your visit accordingly if puffin watching is a priority.

Are ferry and museum tickets for Vestman Islands easy to book?

These are popular attractions, especially in summer. Booking ferry and Eldheimar Museum tickets ahead of time is strongly recommended to secure your spot and avoid sold-out days.

6-Day Iceland Wrap-Up: What to Do Before You Leave

Your 6 days in Iceland are done and dusted. You've seen waterfalls and glaciers and probably eaten one too many hot dogs. If you haven't rented a car in Iceland yet, now's now's the time. Still need help picking one? Reach out. We've got wheels, answers, and locals who actually know the roads.