8 Tage
Ring Road - Family Edition
What you'll do
Want to see as much of Iceland as possible and make memories with your loved ones? This itinerary is for self-driving families looking for an adventure in Iceland. I’ve included both hotels and campsites each night. This itinerary is best suited for travel from March - October. For winter trips I recommend adapting this itinerary to include at least two more travel days and fewer stops on each day. Winter trips require a slower pace to account for limited daylight hours and challenging weather.
On this epic road trip you’ll explore the city, visit the best sights around the country, do fun activities, swim in geothermal waters and have an amazing time!
Each day’s plan is built to maximize sightseeing and experiences while also balancing time on the road. You will be staying at a new accommodation or campsite each night and on average, each day will require 3 - 4 hours of driving.
Day 1 of the itinerary is spent in the capital city of Reykjavik. Regardless of when you arrive in Iceland, head straight to Reykjavík and do what you can. You may also give yourself an extra travel day and begin the itinerary the morning after your arrival.
Jet lag is a valid concern, especially when traveling with children. By spending Day 1 in Reykjavík it should be easy to rest if needed. The city is right outside your doorstep when you’re ready.
When traveling in Iceland it’s important to remember that extreme weather occasionally rolls in and it can affect your travel plans. Especially when you’re on the move each day, be sure to always check the weather, safety alerts, and road conditions before heading out in the morning. Conditions can change quickly so I also advise you to also check these things throughout the day.
Daylight hours are also an important consideration. By the end of October and through early February, you may need to skip some sights to avoid driving and sightseeing in the dark. However, about one hour before official sunrise and one hour after sunset (Civil Twilight), there will still be adequate daylight to experience the sights.
Overall this 8-Day Ring Road Family Edition itinerary will absolutely keep you busy and give you an incredible holiday to remember!
Day 1
For Your Consideration: Blue Lagoon is an iconic destination in Iceland and if you choose to go, I recommend making reservations 2 - 2.5 hours after your flight arrives. Keep in mind that Blue Lagoon does not allow children under the age of 2 and does not have water features for playing.
public_transport
Keflavík INTERNATIONAL Airport (KEF)
Almost all INTERNATIONAL flights land here
Keflavík International Airport, also known as Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport, is the largest airport in Iceland and serves as the main hub for international travel. Located about 50 km southwest of Reykjavík, it's a bustling gateway for travelers coming to and from North America and Europe.
There is also a DOMESTIC airport in Reykjavik city centre (RKV) - be careful not to confuse the two.
car_rental
Hertz Car Rental
Best Car Rental
My favourite car rental company is without a doubt Hertz Car Rental!
For 10% discount applied at checkout, click the link below:
https://www.hertz.is/asasteinars-hertz/
Hertz is one of few rental companies that have a counter inside the airport, so you'll be much faster at picking up your vehicle on arrival.
They also have an extensive coverage around Iceland and a very good customer service. Most (If not all) of the cars come with unlimited mileage and zero hidden cost.
The unlimited mileage is a huge plus in Iceland as it can always be so tempting to drive down just one more road!
shop
Krónan
Supermarket
Kronan is the best supermarket in Iceland. This one is perfectly located along the highway. I recommend stopping here to pick up food for at least a 2-3 days if you are traveling by campervan.
spa
Laugardalslaug
Local Pool in Reykjavík with Slides
Laugardalslaug is a great option for families looking for an authentic Icelandic experience. Icelander's go to the local pools instead of the pricier spas. This pool in particular is quite large and has a number of fun things for kids to enjoy.
Don't forget to shower naked before taking a dip—it's just an Icelandic thing for hygiene!
area
Free parking
Free Parking Lot Near the Harbour
This is a free parking lot convenient for whale watching tours, walking around the city centre, and is close to my favourite hotels in the city, Reykjavík Marina Hotel and Exeter Hotel. If this lot is full when you arrive, street parking, for which you pay at the kiosks, is your next best option.
Museum
Whales of Iceland Museum
Majestic whale museum
This is my favorite museum in Reykjavik. You get to see the whales in real size and understand how big they actually are. They have all from Orcas to Humbacks and Blue Whale. Definitely worth a visit.
If you are going on a whale watching tour, Special Tours also offers admission to this museum alongside your tour.
Cafe
Omnom Chocolate Ice Cream Shop
Incredible ice cream and chocolate
Omnom are famous for their chocolate but here in Reykjavik they also have a super good ice-cream shop. Each one is an art piece in it's own
Restaurant
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Iconic Icelandic hot dogs
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is an iconic Icelandic restaurant that has been serving its delicious hot dogs for over 75 years. It is widely known for being the favorite spot for locals and travelers alike. You'll always find a long line here. Their hot dogs are made from Icelandic lamb and topped with a variety of toppings, including crispy onions, sweet mustard, and remoulade.
Besichtigung
Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a beautiful venue in Reykjavík, Iceland that offers innovative design, thrilling performances, and exciting events. This iconic destination was designed by the renowned Danish artist Olafur Eliasson and Henning Larsen Architects, and features a unique, glass façade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland. Guests can marvel at this stunning work of art in its full glory, or take part in one of the many concerts and performances held in the concert hall. Harpa also hosts conferences, exhibitions, and other special occasions throughout the year.
The lobby is open to the public, without a ticket and you can walk around to see any art installations they may have, eat at the restaurant inside, or do some shopping. They also have a new VR experience similar to FlyOver Iceland.
Besichtigung
Rainbow Road / Skólavörðustígur
Famous Rainbow Road surrounded by shops
Skólavörðustígur, also known as the Reykjavík Rainbow Street, is a pedestrian street in downtown Reykjavik, Iceland. It's a very popular photo spot where you can also get Hallgrimskirkja in the background.
Besichtigung
Hallgrimskirkja
The church towering over Reykjavík
The church overlooking all of Reykjavik. You can pay to get up into the tower to get a good view of Reykjavik.
Restaurant
Pósthús Food Hall & Bar
Vibrant dining with diverse options
Pósthús Food Hall & Bar in Reykjavík is not your average food hall—it's a vibrant hub of culinary diversity and social buzz. With a mix of sushi, funky Bhangra flavors, contemporary Italian pizza, cocktails, French bistro dishes, Korean street food, and more, there's something for every palate. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Pósthús has got you covered with its inviting atmosphere and delicious offerings. Don't forget to check out their electronic gift cards for the perfect foodie present!
Hotel
Reykjavík Marina Hotel
Harbour hotel Iceland
Marina Hotel is prefectly located in the harbour of Reykjavik. You're close to downtown and can walk around without having to use public transport.