The Ring Road Express: 6 Day Self-drive tour around Iceland

Start your journey in Iceland by picking up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport or in Reykjavík city. From there, head to your accommodation in Reykjavík for the night. Depending on your time of arrival, you could explore some of Reykjavík’s many museums, galleries, and outdoor sculptures. Alternatively, take a dip in one of the city’s many geothermal pools, such as Laugardalslaug or Vesturbæjarlaug. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants, before heading back to your accommodation for a good night’s sleep.

In the morning, drive north from Reykjavík towards the town of Akureyri. On the way, you’ll pass by the unique rock formations of Hvítserkur and Kolugljúfur canyon. You’ll also pass by the historic Glaumbær farm, where you can learn about traditional Icelandic turf houses. Continue driving to Akureyri, where you can explore the town’s many shops and restaurants. In the evening, head to your accommodation for the night, which will be in the Akureyri area.

Today, drive east from Akureyri towards the town of Egilsstaðir. On the way, you’ll pass by the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, as well as the stunningly beautiful Stuðlagil canyon. You’ll also pass by the Hengifoss and Lagarfoss waterfalls. After reaching Egilsstaðir, you can explore the town’s shops and restaurants. In the evening, head to your accommodation for the night, which will be in the Fáskrúðsfjörður area.

Today, drive south from Egilsstaðir towards the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. On the way, you’ll pass by the Vestrahorn mountain, as well as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. You’ll also pass by the Skaftafell geopark, which is part of the Vatnajökull national park. After reaching Kirkjubæjarklaustur, you can explore the town’s shops and restaurants. In the evening, head to your accommodation for the night, which will be in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

Today, drive south along the coast from Kirkjubæjarklaustur towards the town of Selfoss. On the way, you’ll pass by the town of Vík, as well as the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Dyrhólaey promontory. You’ll also pass by the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. After reaching Selfoss, you can explore the town’s shops and restaurants. In the evening, head to your accommodation for the night, which will be in the Selfoss area.

Depending on your flight schedule, a part of this day can be used to explore Reykjanes peninsula. Reykjanes is home to the Blue Lagoon, as well as the Reykjanesviti lighthouse. There are also many hiking trails in the area. When you’re ready to depart, return your rental car to Keflavík International Airport or Reykjavík city.