Classic 10-Day Winter Ring Road Tour Around Iceland
Set off on an incredible winter road trip around Iceland with our 10-day self-drive Ring Road tour. This unforgettable adventure begins in the heart of Reykjavík. It winds its way through some of the country’s most iconic and lesser-known winter gems—from the mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the dramatic Eastfjords to the quiet charm of North Iceland. There’s nothing quite like exploring Iceland in winter—when snow-dusted landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and serene coastal villages come alive in a truly magical way. This flexible self-drive tour gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stop wherever your curiosity takes you, and experience the raw beauty of Iceland like the locals do.
One of the greatest joys of a self-drive tour in Iceland—especially in winter—is the freedom it gives you. You’re not tied to a rigid schedule or crowded tour bus. Instead, you can chart your course across our stunning country, stopping whenever the view takes your breath away—or when you spot a perfect photo opportunity under the northern lights.
Driving through Iceland in winter is a magical experience in itself. The snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the chance to witness the aurora dancing across the sky make every mile a memorable experience. Don’t worry—the main roads, including the Ring Road, are regularly maintained, and rental cars come fully equipped with winter tires for a safe and smooth journey. Just take your time, check the forecast, and embrace the adventure.
Along the way, you’ll get to visit some of Iceland’s most beloved sights. The legendary Golden Circle—home to Þingvellir National Park, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, and the bubbling Geysir Hot Springs—is a must, especially when the low winter sun casts golden light over the snowy terrain.
Heading west, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers what we locals call “Iceland in miniature.” Here, you’ll find dramatic coastlines, black sand beaches, the striking Snæfellsjökull Glacier, and charming spots like Arnarstapi and the famously photogenic Kirkjufell Mountain.
As you make your way north, the surreal volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn, the steaming geothermal fields at Hverir, and the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall await. In the Eastfjords, you’ll discover peaceful fjords, snow-covered fishing villages, and quiet, winding roads where it often feels like you have the entire landscape to yourself.
To top it off, head south to Vatnajökull National Park, where you’ll witness the beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach, where glittering icebergs meet the black sand shore—a true winter wonder.
Accommodation and car options
Take the wheel with our self-drive tour and enjoy the freedom of exploring Iceland with 4×4 car that is perfect for winter conditions. You can choose between the manual and automatic options available.
Relax in cozy 3-star hotels with rooms that feature private bathrooms and a scrumptious breakfast. You can also upgrade to premium cars and accommodations—just get in touch for more info!
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Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & pick up rental car, overnight in Reykjavik
Velkomin til Íslands! Your Icelandic adventure begins as you land at Keflavík International Airport, the main gateway to our island. After collecting your rental car, you’ll start your first taste of the journey with a scenic 45-minute drive from the airport to Reykjavík, Iceland’s lively and welcoming capital. Even on this short stretch, you’ll pass lava fields, distant mountains, and glimpses of the North Atlantic—just a small preview of the dramatic landscapes that await.
Once you arrive in Reykjavík, you’ll have the rest of the day to settle in and explore at your own pace. We always recommend starting with a stroll through the vibrant Old Town, where traditional Icelandic houses sit alongside modern shops and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the chance to visit Hallgrímskirkja, the city’s iconic church with panoramic views from its tower, or walk along the scenic waterfront where the Sun Voyager sculpture stands facing the sea.
Reykjavík’s food scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Icelandic seafood, a hearty lamb stew, or a slice of rúgbrauð (our famous dark rye bread, often baked using geothermal heat), the city’s restaurants and bistros offer plenty of local flavor. For those interested in nightlife, Reykjavík’s downtown area comes alive in the evenings with a variety of bars and live music venues that reflect Iceland’s creative spirit.
After a day of relaxed exploring, you’ll spend the night in Reykjavík. It’s the ideal place to begin your self-drive tour in Iceland—offering both the comforts of a modern capital and quick access to the natural wonders that define our island. Get a good night’s rest—the real adventure starts tomorrow.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 2: Reykjavík – Snæfellnes/Reykholt area – Borgarnes
After a restful night in Reykjavík, it’s time to hit the road and dive into one of Iceland’s most captivating regions—the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Often described as “Iceland in Miniature,” this area packs an incredible variety of landscapes into a compact region, from jagged coastlines and black sand beaches to volcanic craters and the glacier-topped Snæfellsjökull, made famous by Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”
Start early to make the most of your day. As you drive northwest out of Reykjavík, the road soon opens up to dramatic mountain passes and ocean views. Highlights on the peninsula include Arnarstapi, a charming fishing village with stunning basalt cliffs and coastal walking paths; Djúpalónssandur, a black pebble beach scattered with remnants of shipwrecks; and Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, lovely when dusted in snow.
After soaking in the natural beauty of Snæfellsnes, begin making your way inland toward Reykholt, a historic village with deep roots in Icelandic literature and culture. This was once the home of the medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and it remains an important cultural landmark to this day. On the way, you can also stop by Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, where geothermal steam billows into the crisp winter air.
If time allows, take a short detour to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, a pair of unique waterfalls flowing through ancient lava fields—particularly striking in winter when ice forms around the rushing water.
Your day ends in Borgarnes, a quiet town by the sea with panoramic views across Borgarfjörður. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on the day’s adventures. If you’re curious about Iceland’s early settlers, the Settlement Center here offers immersive exhibits on Viking history and local sagas.
After a full day of exploring the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, soaking in the history of Reykholt, and enjoying the warm hospitality of West Iceland, settle in for a relaxing evening in Borgarnes.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 3: Borgarnes - Skagafjörður – Akureyri
Your winter road trip continues today as you journey north from Borgarnes, making your way to Akureyri, often referred to as the “Capital of the North.” This scenic drive offers a deep dive into Iceland’s rural heartland—filled with dramatic valleys, historic sites, and the unmistakable charm of small-town Iceland.
After leaving Borgarnes, you’ll drive through Skagafjörður, one of Iceland’s most culturally rich regions. Known for its sweeping fjords, fertile farmlands, and strong ties to the Icelandic horse, this region is cherished by locals for both its beauty and rich traditions. If you’ve ever wanted to see Icelandic horses up close—or even try a short winter ride—this is one of the best places to do it. Their smooth tölt gait and thick winter coats make them especially striking against the snowy backdrop.
A stop at the Glaumbær Turf Farm & Museum is highly recommended. This preserved farmstead showcases traditional Icelandic turf houses, providing a genuine sense of how rural families lived centuries ago. It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down, and history feels alive beneath the snow-covered roofs.
Continuing north on the Ring Road, you’ll begin to see the Eyjafjörður fjord opening up before you—a sure sign that Akureyri is near. Nestled at the base of the fjord and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Akureyri combines small-town coziness with a lively, local vibe.
Once in town, you can stretch your legs with a walk to Akureyri Church, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (the same architect behind Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík), then head over to the Akureyri Botanical Garden—one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, and surprisingly lush even in winter.
Akureyri also boasts a thriving café culture and offers some excellent spots to savor local cuisine. Try a bowl of plokkfiskur (traditional fish stew) or sample Icelandic craft beer from one of the local breweries. And if you’re ready to unwind, join locals at the Akureyri swimming pool, with its geothermal hot tubs and mountain views—perfect after a long day on the road.
Optional detour: If you have extra time or want to plan for the next day, consider a side trip to Húsavík, often considered Iceland’s whale-watching capital.
Wrap up your evening with a cozy night in Akureyri—whether you’re chasing the northern lights or simply enjoying a quiet walk through town, you’re now deep in North Iceland, where nature and culture go hand in hand.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 4: Akureyri – Goðafoss – Mývatn, visit at Myvatn Nature Baths
As your winter road trip in Iceland continues, day 4 takes you from the cozy streets of Akureyri into the heart of North Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscape. Today’s route includes some of the region’s most unforgettable natural sights, beginning with the majestic Goðafoss waterfall and leading to the steaming, snow-covered terrain of Lake Mývatn.
Just a short drive east from Akureyri, your first stop is Goðafoss, meaning “Waterfall of the Gods.” In winter, this crescent-shaped cascade is framed by ice and snow, creating a scene that feels pulled straight from a postcard. According to legend, after Iceland officially embraced Christianity around the year 1000, a local chieftain cast his pagan idols into the falls, giving this powerful site its name and spiritual significance. Take your time here, walking along the snowy pathways and capturing photos of the glacial blue waters.
From there, continue your journey toward the Lake Mývatn area, a region locals love for its rich mix of volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and quiet natural beauty. On your way in, you’ll pass through lava fields, steaming vents, and snow-draped craters—all signs that this land is very much alive beneath its icy surface.
Once at Mývatn, we recommend heading straight for the Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North.” This lesser-known gem offers a more relaxed and intimate experience than its southern counterpart, with naturally heated, mineral-rich waters surrounded by raw volcanic scenery. Sitting in the warm water while snowflakes fall around you is a memory you won’t soon forget.
After your soak, take time to explore the nearby Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, known for their strange, almost mystical rock formations. Some even say these lava pillars are home to Icelandic trolls! Not far from there is Hverir, a bubbling geothermal field where mud pots boil and steam rises from the earth—giving the landscape a surreal, almost alien feel.
Settle in for the night in the Lake Mývatn area, resting up for more incredible discoveries on the road ahead.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 5: Mývatn – Egilsstaðir
Day 5 of your Iceland winter self-drive adventure takes you deeper into the raw and remote beauty of the island as you leave the volcanic wonders of Lake Mývatn behind and head toward Egilsstaðir, the heart of East Iceland. This stretch of the Ring Road is one of the most dramatic—less traveled, more remote, and full of rugged charm that locals know and love.
As you depart Mývatn, be sure to stop at Námaskarð (Námafjall & Hverir) if you missed it the day before. This geothermal area is unforgettable—steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and colorful mineral-rich ground that smells faintly of sulfur.
Continuing eastward, the road winds through desolate highlands, wide-open plains, and past the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which carves deep canyons and feeds into Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls farther north. On clear days, you may spot Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, looming far in the distance—an awe-inspiring sight that quietly dominates the eastern horizon.
This part of the journey is defined by isolation and silence. There are few towns, no crowds—just you, the road, and Iceland’s untamed winter landscapes.
As you begin your descent into the Eastfjords, the landscape changes dramatically. Steep mountain passes give way to winding roads that trace the edge of deep fjords. Keep your camera close—these views are something special.
Your destination is Egilsstaðir, a quiet town perched by Lagarfljót Lake—a serene body of water known for its folklore, including tales of the mysterious Lagarfljót Wyrm, Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness Monster. Egilsstaðir may be small, but it’s the perfect base for exploring the Eastfjords and a welcome stop after a day on the road.
Depending on daylight and energy, you might consider a short detour to Seyðisfjörður, just over the mountain pass. This artistic village, with its colorful houses and dramatic fjord setting, is a local favorite—especially in winter when the snow piles high, and the town feels like something out of a storybook.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 6: Egilsstaðir – Eastfjords - Höfn
Today, you’ll travel from Egilsstaðir to Höfn, with every kilometer offering postcard-worthy views and peaceful moments far from the crowds.
As you leave Egilsstaðir, the road quickly turns into a winding route that hugs the cliffs and coastlines of the Eastfjords. In winter, the snow-covered peaks rise dramatically above deep fjords while the ocean stretches endlessly to the east. It’s a breathtaking combination—one that most travelers miss if they skip this corner of the country.
Your journey will take you through Fáskrúðsfjörður, a charming village with strong historical ties to France. Street signs here are bilingual, and there’s a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the French fishermen who once worked these waters. Continue through Djúpivogur, a quiet and artistic harbor town known for its dramatic setting beneath steep mountains and its laid-back atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down—and that’s part of its charm.
Along the way, take a moment to stop at scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the fjords. If you’re lucky, you might spot reindeer grazing by the roadside—East Iceland is the only region in the country where wild reindeer roam freely, especially during the colder months when they move to lower ground.
As the road curves south, the Vatnajökull Glacier—Europe’s largest ice cap—gradually appears on the horizon. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Höfn, a small but lively fishing town that sits in the shadow of this icy giant. Known locally as the “lobster capital of Iceland,” Höfn is the perfect place to try langoustine, a regional delicacy served in many of the town’s cozy restaurants.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 7: Höfn - Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon & Skaftafell – Vik
Day 7 of your Iceland winter self-drive tour leads you along the legendary South Coast, one of the most visually stunning and geologically rich regions in the country. Today’s route, from Höfn to Vík, will introduce you to some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders—from sparkling glacier lagoons to windswept black sand beaches, all wrapped in the crisp magic of winter.
Your first major stop is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, just west of Höfn. This surreal lagoon, filled with floating icebergs from Vatnajökull Glacier, is one of Iceland’s most unforgettable sights. In winter, the scene becomes even more dreamlike—ice formations shimmer beneath the soft light, seals swim through the icy waters, and the peaceful silence of snow-covered surroundings adds a tranquil atmosphere. Just across the road, don’t miss Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacial ice wash ashore on the black volcanic sand, glistening like crystals under the winter sun.
Next, continue to Skaftafell, a nature reserve within the vast Vatnajökull National Park. If conditions allow, take a short hike to Svartifoss, a striking waterfall framed by hexagonal basalt columns that resemble a natural cathedral. The trail is especially beautiful in winter, when icicles cling to the cliffs and the landscape is blanketed in snow.
After exploring Skaftafell, you’ll follow the South Coast westward toward the village of Vík í Mýrdal, passing through lava fields, mossy plains, and open stretches of coastline. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop at Reynisfjara, one of Iceland’s most famous black sand beaches. This wild, untamed shoreline is renowned for its towering basalt columns, crashing waves, and the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise out of the Atlantic. Be sure to keep a safe distance from the powerful surf, especially in winter when sneaker waves are common.
A little farther along the coast, take in the sweeping views from Dyrhólaey, a high promontory with panoramic vistas of the coastline, sea arches, and even distant glaciers on a clear day.
Finally, you arrive in Vík, a small but vibrant village nestled between cliffs and the sea. If you have time before sunset, take a walk on the beach or visit the church for one of the best views in town.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 8: Vík - South Coast – Golden Circle – Reykjavík
Your final day on the Classic Winter Ring Road Tour is filled with some of Iceland’s most iconic sights as you make your way from the scenic village of Vík back to the capital, Reykjavík. Along the way, you’ll explore the majestic waterfalls of the South Coast and the legendary landmarks of the Golden Circle, making this day the perfect closing chapter of your winter adventure.
Leaving Vík in the morning, head west along the South Coast, where open lava fields and glacier views continue to impress. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls. What makes this waterfall truly unique is the footpath that leads behind the cascade—offering a rare 360-degree view of a waterfall in action. In winter, the icy spray and snow-covered cliffs add a magical layer to the experience, so be sure to wear sturdy boots and tread carefully.
Just a short drive down the road lies Skógafoss, another jaw-dropping waterfall with a thunderous 60-meter drop. On sunny days, rainbows often dance in the mist—making this a favorite photo spot. If you’re up for a small climb, a staircase beside the falls offers panoramic views from above.
As you continue the drive, keep an eye out for Mýrdalsjökull Glacier in the distance and the black sand plains that lead toward the coast.
From there, transition into the famed Golden Circle, a trio of must-see sights showcasing Iceland’s volcanic, geological, and cultural heritage. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Iceland’s first parliament was founded over 1,000 years ago. It’s also where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates slowly drift apart, creating deep fissures, rift valleys, and crystal-clear spring-fed lakes. Walking through this ancient landscape in winter, blanketed with snow, is both peaceful and profound.
Next, visit the Geysir Geothermal Area, where bubbling mud pots and steam vents surround Strokkur, a mighty geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes. Watching a column of boiling water shoot into the chilly sky is a sight that never gets old—whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.
End the Golden Circle circuit with Gullfoss, or “The Golden Falls.” This two-tiered waterfall is one of Iceland’s most dramatic, plunging into a rugged canyon with icy cliffs and roaring spray. In winter, parts of the falls freeze, creating shimmering ice sculptures that make this natural wonder even more striking.
After a full day of exploring, return to Reykjavík, where your journey began just a week ago.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 9: Culture & Nordic City Life in Reykjavik, Bath in Sky Lagoon
Your Icelandic winter journey comes to a close with a full day to explore Reykjavík, a city that perfectly blends Nordic charm, contemporary culture, and the laid-back Icelandic lifestyle. After days spent surrounded by waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain roads, today is your chance to slow down and soak in the urban side of Iceland—from its fascinating museums and iconic landmarks to cozy cafés and relaxing spas.
Start your morning like a local with a leisurely breakfast at one of Reykjavík’s welcoming downtown bakeries. Freshly baked kleina (Icelandic twisted doughnuts), sourdough bread, and strong coffee will provide a comforting start to your day.
Stroll through the vibrant Old Harbour district, where renovated fishing sheds now house hip eateries, local boutiques, and art studios. You can pop into a fish and chips shop for a light lunch or browse handcrafted goods made from Icelandic wool and lava stone.
If you’re curious about daily life in Reykjavík’s past, take a short detour to the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum on the outskirts of town. Here, preserved turf houses and historic homes paint a vivid picture of how people lived in Reykjavík through the centuries—especially eye-opening during winter when you see how Icelanders adapted to the elements.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to the ultimate geothermal spa experience at the Sky Lagoon, located just a short drive from downtown Reykjavík. This oceanfront retreat offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the city skyline, with warm, mineral-rich waters that feel especially soothing after a day on the road. Don’t miss the spa’s signature seven-step ritual, which includes a cold plunge, steam bath, sauna, and nourishing body scrub.
As the day winds down, enjoy watching the winter sunset from the lagoon—its colors reflecting off the warm water as Reykjavík lights up in the distance. In the darker months, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights, which occasionally appear even above the city.
Return to the city for a final evening of Icelandic cuisine. Reykjavík offers something for every taste—from high-end Nordic tasting menus to hearty, home-style dishes like lamb stew and seafood soup.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
Day 10: Reykjavík – Keflavik airport, Departure
Your Icelandic winter journey comes to a close with a full day to explore Reykjavík, a city that perfectly blends Nordic charm, contemporary culture, and the laid-back Icelandic lifestyle. After days spent surrounded by waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain roads, today is your chance to slow down and soak in the urban side of Iceland—from its fascinating museums and iconic landmarks to cozy cafés and relaxing spas.
Start your morning like a local with a leisurely breakfast at one of Reykjavík’s welcoming downtown bakeries. Freshly baked kleina (Icelandic twisted doughnuts), sourdough bread, and strong coffee will provide a comforting start to your day.
Stroll through the vibrant Old Harbour district, where renovated fishing sheds now house hip eateries, local boutiques, and art studios. You can pop into a fish and chips shop for a light lunch or browse handcrafted goods made from Icelandic wool and lava stone.
If you’re curious about daily life in Reykjavík’s past, take a short detour to the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum on the outskirts of town. Here, preserved turf houses and historic homes paint a vivid picture of how people lived in Reykjavík through the centuries—especially eye-opening during winter when you see how Icelanders adapted to the elements.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to the ultimate geothermal spa experience at the Sky Lagoon, located just a short drive from downtown Reykjavík. This oceanfront retreat offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the city skyline, with warm, mineral-rich waters that feel especially soothing after a day on the road. Don’t miss the spa’s signature seven-step ritual, which includes a cold plunge, steam bath, sauna, and nourishing body scrub.
As the day winds down, enjoy watching the winter sunset from the lagoon—its colors reflecting off the warm water as Reykjavík lights up in the distance. In the darker months, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights, which occasionally appear even above the city.
Return to the city for a final evening of Icelandic cuisine. Reykjavík offers something for every taste—from high-end Nordic tasting menus to hearty, home-style dishes like lamb stew and seafood soup.
Suggested driving itinerary for the day
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