The Best Road Trips from Reykjavik 2022/2023

It may come as no surprise, but we’re of the opinion that seeing Iceland by car is the best way to experience this unforgettable North Atlantic island. Our cars have everything you need for enjoying the ultimate road trip so that you can take in all things Iceland at your own pace, making sure to skip the sights that you’re not keen on, and prioritising those that are most important to you. It doesn’t matter if you want to cover every inch of the highlands by venturing onto the F-Roads, or stick close to Reykjavik - we have the perfect car for your adventure. 

But with a country with so many miles of open road and plenty to discover, which road trip should you undertake? Here, we’re sharing the best road trips from Reykjavik. 

The Golden Circle

One of the most convenient (and therefore most popular) road trips starting from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle. This short road trip is just 150 miles/255 km, meaning you can cram it all in one day if you’re short on time, or you can take a leisurely pace, check out some extra sights and stretch it to a few days. 

The Golden Circle is a fantastic introduction to Icelandic road-tripping, thanks to its length and proximity to Reykjavik (the loop has you begin and end in the capital). But it’s also ideal because it encompasses some of Iceland’s best attractions, including:

• Thingvellir National Park
• Geysir Geothermal Field
• Gullfoss Waterfall

Those are the most popular sights along the Golden Circle, but there is plenty more to see if you want to, including the beautiful Silfra Fissure, if diving is on your list of keen hobbies. You could also make a few extra stops and take in the likes of Þingvellir church, the Secret Lagoon, and Kerid Crater. 

The Ring Road

If you’re looking for a long road trip in Iceland that gives you a broader experience of Icelandic scenery and culture, the Ring Road is a fantastic option. At 830 miles or 1335 km, this circular route covers most of Iceland, looping around the coastline and giving you the chance to cover a lot of miles. 

To be honest, you could easily spend a month or more exploring the sights and attractions along the Ring Road. For most, two weeks is plenty to enjoy a wide variety of attractions (big and hidden gems alike). Some of our top recommended sights to see on the Ring Road include:

• Vik Black Sand Beach
• Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon & Diamond Beach
• Dettifoss
• Godafoss
• Lake Myvatn
• Akureyri
• Hraunfossar

The Diamond Circle

While the Diamond Circle isn’t strictly accessible right out of Reykjavik, it’s the perfect mini road trip to add onto the Ring Road route. Located in the far northeast of Iceland, this route takes you further than just Myvatn, Detifoss and the capital of the north, Akureyri. Experience the charming fishing village of Husavik and the unforgettable Ásbyrgi canyon.

Westfjords 

Another excellent road trip to tag onto your Ring Road adventure or just one to head straight out of Reykjavik for is the Westfjords. Located in the northwest of Iceland, this region is the country’s least populated and most breathtaking area. Frolic along the cliffs at Látrabjarg and try your hand at Puffin spotting, take in the heartstopping views of Rauðisandur’s pink, red and gold sand beach, and glimpse arctic foxes at the Arctic Fox Center.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Another great road trip that could be completed in a day, or spread out, is the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, located north of Reykjavik. The area is known for its rugged and beautiful coastlines, as well as some of the best scenery in Iceland. While you’re in the area, don’t miss out on seeing:

• Kirkjufell mountain
• Gerðuberg Cliffs
• Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
• Snæfellsjökull Glacier

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