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Unforgettable 12 Day Self Drive Tour: The Complete Ring Road for History Buffs and free spirits
12-day self-drive itinerary · all-year
Take a self-drive tour of Iceland's incredible Ring Road and see historical landmarks that are simply unforgettable. This 12 day tour is perfect for history buffs who want to explore Iceland’s rich history.*
Start your journey in the capital city of Reykjavik before making your way around the world-famous Ring Road. This route will take you through some of Iceland's most stunning landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and explore at your own pace. If you're a history buff, you'll love learning about Iceland's Viking past at some of the many museums and archaeological sites along the route. And for those who crave adventure, there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities to be had. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, this self-drive tour has something for everyone.
Day 1: Day 1
After arriving at Keflavík International Airport or Reykjavík city, you'll start your Iceland adventure by exploring all that Reykjavík has to offer. From the vibrant nightlife and delicious restaurants, to the museums and exhibitions, you'll be spoilt for choice. Accommodation for the night is in Reykjavík.
Day 2: Day 2
Today is a day for the history buffs. There are a number of museums and exhibitions to visit in Reykjavík city, detailing the rich history of Iceland. In the evening, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that Reykjavík is famous for. Accommodation is again in Reykjavík city.
Day 3: Day 3
The third day of your tour takes you to the Golden Circle of Iceland. This includes the Þingvellir national park and historic site, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Geysir. You'll be amazed by the natural beauty of Iceland. Accommodation for the night is in the Hella area.
Day 4: Day 4
On the fourth day, you'll explore the south coast of Iceland. This includes the town of Vík, the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, the Skaftáreldahraun lava field, the Skaftafell geopark, the Vatnajökull national park, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the Diamond beach. You'll be mesmerised by the natural wonders of Iceland. Accommodation for the night is in the Höfn area.
Day 5: Day 5
The fifth day takes you to the Eastfjords of Iceland. This is a beautiful area of the country, with stunning fjords and picturesque villages. You'll have the opportunity to explore the town of Egilsstaðir, the Stuðlagil canyon, the Dettifoss waterfall, and the Ásbyrgi canyon. Accommodation for the night is in the Húsavík area.
Day 6: Day 6
On the sixth day, you'll explore the Mývatn lake area. This includes the Hverir mud pools, the Dimmuborgir, the Skútustaðagígar, the Goðafoss waterfall, and the Akureyri town. You'll be amazed by the natural beauty of the area. Accommodation for the night is in the Akureyri area.
Day 7: Day 7
The seventh day is spent exploring the town of Akureyri, the Tröllaskagi peninsula, the Siglufjörður town, and the Herring museum. This is a day for the history buffs, as you'll learn about the important role that herring has played in Iceland's economy. Accommodation for the night is in the Siglufjörður area.
Day 8: Day 8
On the eighth day, you'll explore the Hofsós village, the Glaumbær farm, and the Hvítserkur rock. You'll be amazed by the beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Accommodation for the night is in the Hvammstangi area.
Day 9: Day 9
The ninth day takes you to the Borgarfjörður area. This includes the Grábrók volcano, the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and the Hraunfossar waterfalls. You'll be amazed by the natural wonders of Iceland. Accommodation for the night is in the Borgarfjörður area.
Day 10: Day 10
On the tenth day, you'll return to Reykjavík city. This gives you the opportunity to explore the town of Akranes, the Hvalfjörður fjord, and the Reykjavík city. Accommodation for the night is in Reykjavík city.
Day 11: Day 11
The eleventh day is spent exploring Reykjanes peninsula. This includes the famous Blue Lagoon, the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, and the Gunnuhver hot springs. You'll be amazed by the natural beauty of Iceland. Accommodation for the night is in Reykjavík city.
Day 12: Day 12
The final day of your tour is spent at your leisure, depending on your flight schedule. You can either explore Reykjavík city or Reykjanes peninsula. Your Iceland adventure comes to an end as you return your rental car at Keflavík International Airport.
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