Iceland is a land of fire and ice, where glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers create breath-taking natural landscapes. In summer, Iceland comes alive with endless daylight under the Midnight Sun, giving you more time to explore. Lush green landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and puffin-filled cliffs make the scenery truly magical. From hiking glaciers to driving the Ring Road to relaxing in geothermal hot springs, every moment feels like an adventure. Whether exploring waterfalls, black-sand beaches, or charming villages, Iceland offers a journey unlike anywhere else.
Planning an adventure holiday in Iceland can feel overwhelming, so I have broken down the different regions worth exploring. From there, you can customize your journey based on the number of days you have. Personally, I spent 10 days touring the entire country, with some days involving over 5 hours of driving. Traveling at the end of summer was ideal, as daylight stretched from around 6 a.m. to past 10 p.m. This made long driving days manageable and allowed me to cover more sights without feeling rushed.
The Greater Reykjavik Area
The Greater Reykjavík Area includes the capital itself along with nearby towns such as Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, and Seltjarnarnes. Most visitors spend one or two nights in Reykjavík, the northernmost capital in the world, which can easily be explored in a day. The city has a laid-back charm, blending colourful corrugated-iron houses with a wide range of restaurants serving Icelandic cuisine, souvenir shops, and sites of cultural and historical interest.
One of Reykjavík’s most iconic landmarks is Hallgrímskirkja Church, whose striking design was inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns. For a small fee, you can ascend its tower for panoramic views of the city. Leading up to the church is the Rainbow Street, a vibrant symbol of Reykjavík’s commitment to diversity, LGBTQ+ rights, and inclusivity. Another highlight is the Perlan Museum, Iceland’s largest exhibition centre, where interactive displays bring the wonders of Icelandic nature to life. Stand inside a real ice wave , witness Northern Lights and feel volcanic power. If time permits, catch the Lava Show , which recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava and pouring it into a showroom full of spectators. In fact, it is the only Lava show on its kind in the world which one can catch it in the Reykjavik or in the town of Vik, Southern Iceland. It is an eye opening experience since one can see lava in a safe setting.
Reykjanes Peninsula
This is often the starting point for international tourists as one will fly into Keflavik airport. Do note there is a domestic airport located within Reykjavik, not to be confuse with Keflavik, which is the international airport. Keflavik International Airport is located 45 minutes away from the capital of Reykjavik. The Reykjanes Peninsula is worth spending a night there upon arrival if you have flown into Iceland after a long flight. Often being overlook by tourists, the peninsula is mainly a lava area with hot springs and spectacular landscape. Blue Lagoon, with its unique milky-blue, mineral-rich geothermal waters set against a dramatic volcanic landscape, is Iceland’s most iconic wellness retreat and an unmissable highlight for visitors. People often visit either on the first or last day of the trip before heading to the airport. Bridge between continents , is a small footbridge which provides clear evidence of the presence of a diverging plate margin between Europe and North America. Gunnuhver, Iceland’s largest mud pool is an underrated site that offers a dramatic, steaming landscape! Seltun, an area of active geothermal area with many bubbling mud pots. There are good walking path around the area to experience in person and showcases Iceland’s powerful geological forces. Reykjanes Lighthouse is Iceland’s oldest lighthouse and the surrounding area is a crowd favourite with sites such as Karlinn cliff, overlooking the vast sea. I would suggest staying a night in this area at the town of Grindavik. It is one of the big fish towns in Iceland , but in November 2023, a state of emergency was declared and the town was evacuated due to severe seismic activity. Nowadays, the town seems very deserted with residents moved out, creating an eerie feel as empty houses lined the streets. The only people living mostly are tourists to the area as a few hotels and camping grounds are open. People can enter the area but must pay close attention to announcements on possible Earthquakes, crack formations and possible volcanic eruptions. I would rate highly to spend a night in this town.
Western Iceland (Snaefellsnes Peninsula)
Snæfellsnes , West of Iceland region, is often called ‘Iceland in Miniature’ because it captures the country’s diverse natural beauty in one compact region—glaciers, waterfalls, lava fields, and dramatic coastlines. It offers a complete Icelandic experience within a short timeframe, easily visited as a day trip from Reykjavík or a brief overnight stay. The famous road in this area to drive is The Silver Circle route. Spanning approximately 146km long, drive through magnificent and ever changing landscape. During the drive, stop at powerful hot springs, breath-taking waterfalls. Deildartunguhver, is the most powerful hot spring in whole of Europe. Hot enough to be burn, be warn! Smell the sulphur, feel the energy under the ground. Head to Krauma , if you want to try outdoor spa at Deildartunguhver, where hot geothermal water has been harnessed from the spring nearby. Hraunfossar, glacial river seeping out through the lava into the beautiful Hvita creating a unique waterfall. While driving in the area, look out for Langjokull, second largest glacier in Iceland. Can be seen for miles on a clear day. Búðir is a quaint village located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The black church of Budir is a surprime location for catching minimalistic photographs. Arnarstapi, nestled at the foot of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery. A scenic walk connects Arnarstapi to Hellnar, winding through striking lava fields along the shoreline. The iconic Gatklettur Arch and the abundant birdlife on the cliffs make this area a true highlight of the peninsula. Saxhóll Crater is renowned for its easy accessibility and sweeping panoramic views, giving visitors to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula a striking glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past. The star attraction of this region is the iconic duo—Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and Mount Kirkjufell. Their perfectly framed combination has made the site one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks. With the mountain’s strikingly symmetrical cone shape, the cascading waterfall, and the breathtaking Snæfellsnes landscapes all around, it’s a picture-perfect scene not to be missed!
Northern Iceland
People often termed it as the Diamond Circle (250km) driving route in this region. This route is equivalent to the famous Golden Circle route in the South of Iceland. Driving along Diamond Circle route will lead one around the vast and beautiful part of the country. GoðafossWaterfall is a spectacular, horseshoe-shaped waterfall located conveniently on Iceland’s Ring Road. Lake Mývatn, formed by ancient volcanic activity with craters and lava formations, is renowned for its rich biodiversity—especially the abundance and variety of birdlife that thrive in the area. Myvatn Nature Baths is the answer to Blue Lagoon in the South. Situated in a lava field overlooking the beautiful Lake Myvatn, this is a wonderful place to relax and recharge after a long day of driving. The highlight in this region is the Dettifoss Waterfall, a powerful glacial waterfall in the middle of nowhere. Akureyi , is the capital of the Northern Iceland , also Iceland’s second largest town. There are thermal swimming pools and wide selection of restaurants in this town. The main feature of this town is the Akureyri church with its two towers and daunting steps rising above the town. The view from the church makes it worthwhile to climb. Being a seaside town, activities in Akureyi include whale watching, diving and fishing. Do note that if you are driving into Akureyi town, there is likely a 8km tunnel you need to drive through. Remember to pay the toll within 24 hours of passing it through at www.tunnel.is or risk heavy fine! On the North East of Iceland, there lies another town call Husavik. It is now renowned for being the whale capital of Iceland and one of the best spots in the world with an average of 98% success rate of seeing a whale in action! The harbour is located in the heart of the town with many restaurants , whale booking offices and souvenir shops. The Whale Museum is not to be miss! The geothermal bath, Geosea, located on a cliff beside the lighthouse is the place to soak in hot and mineral rich sea water while enjoying view over the bay. Trust me, it is worth it! Ásbyrgi canyon is known for its distinct horseshoe shape, a prominent feature of its geological formation by massive glacial floods. The Ásbyrgi Canyon forms part of the Vatnajökull National Park, which is the 2nd largest national park in Europe.
Eastern Iceland
Eastern Iceland region is home to majestic mountains, highlighting the wild, rugged character of the Icelandic highlands. There are a number of gravel roads in this area, do drive with caution. The area is more remote, sparsely populated region characterized by dramatic coastlines, narrow fjords, mountains, waterfalls. If you wish to disconnect from the city life and enjoy a deeper connection with nature away from large tourist crowds, this is the place to be in! Eglisstaoir, is in the centre of the Eastern region. It is the stop over point for many visitors to the area where more accommodations can be found after a long drive. It is only a short distance away from the main attractions and fjords found in this region. Stuðlagil Canyon is famed for its towering basalt columns and striking turquoise river, creating one of Iceland’s most photographed landscapes. The canyon features one of Iceland’s most significant collections of basalt columns, which are natural, pillar-like formations created by contracting volcanic rock as it cools.
Southern Iceland
By far, this is the most well known area among tourists to Iceland. It also mean getting accommodation in this region very difficult, with high prices esspecially so during Summer months. The Southern region consists of 2 National Parks, a mix of farmland, glaciers , rugged mountains, flowing rivers, geothermal springs, waterfalls and floating icebergs. It stretches from the town of Hofn to Hverageroi in the South. Driving in this region is mainly on Road 1 , more popularly known as the Ring Road. Be warned that there are close to 20 single lane bridges between Reykjsvik and Hofn. Hofn is known for its lobster catch and the top rated restaurant in town is Pakkhús Restaurant. The fresh lobster is a true highlight—tender, and perfectly prepared. Their lamb is equally impressive, cooked to perfection with rich, savory flavors that make it unforgettable. The cosy ambiance is ideal for escaping the chill, offering a warm and inviting vibe that enhances the dining experience. The highlight in this region is Jökulsárlón. The lagoons are specticular with floating icebergs. Not far away is another lagoon called Fjallsarlon. Both lagoons offers exciting boat trips on the glacier lagoon on the amphibian boats. During the excursion, one will sail among the huge icebergs in the picturesque scenery of Jökulsárlón. The other highlight which I personally like for the experience which allows one to walk behind the waterfall and feel the water spray is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Nearby, hidden from most tourists, Gljufrabui Waterfall is a smaller but equally stunning waterfall — tough to reach, with every step requiring careful footing. Skogafoss Waterfall is a stunning 60meters waterfall that cascades over a rocky cliff. This natural wonder is surrounded by picturesque green slopes and cliffs, making it an ideal stop on an Icelandic road trip. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is a famous attraction located quite near to the town of Vik. This Navy DC-3 aircraft from United States crashed into the black sand desert in 1973 due to fuel failure. Fortunately, there were no casualties. Dyrholaey , is a small peninsula with stunning natural formations. This area is home to puffins which usually nest in the summer months along the cliffs. Reynisfjara Beach is must visit destination featuring black sand and impressive basalt columns along the beach. This beach is known for its powerful waves also call sneaker waves which can be dangerous, pulling people into the deep sea. Vik is a charIn that aspect, if you are heading to Iceland during the peak summer months, do book the rooms as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Rooms rates are pretty steep in the town of Vik. Another highlight or must do activity during summer months is to visit Katla Ice Cave. This ice cave’s striking mix of blue glacial ice and black volcanic ash creates a breath-taking, ever changing landscape. Unlike most, its stable formation allows year-round access, making it a rare summer excursion in Iceland.
In short, Iceland in the summer is a truly magical experience! It feels like nature giving you a generous window to explore its raw, otherworldly beauty — without limits, without darkness, and with a quiet, joyful sense of freedom that few places on Earth can offer. It is made even more extraordinary by the long daylight hours and the favourable weather conditions. Even though it is peak season, Iceland never really feels crowded — especially if you venture off the Ring Road!
From late May to early August, Iceland experiences the Midnight Sun, where the sun barely sets and twilight lingers all night. This means you can: Hike at midnight with golden sunlight bathing the landscapes. Chase waterfalls and volcanoes without worrying about it getting dark. Drive for hours through epic scenery, knowing you will not be racing the sun.
Summer also unlocks parts of Iceland that are inaccessible or dangerous in winter. The highland roads (F-roads) open, leading you to wild, remote regions. Puffins return to the cliffs, giving birdwatchers and photographers a chance to witness their charm. Hiking trails are in prime condition. While still cool by most standards, Iceland’s summer weather is the most pleasant of the year. Days range from 10–15°C with blooming wildflowers, lush green valleys, and glacial rivers running strong!
If you are looking for a rough breakdown of expenses based on 10 Days Road trip around Iceland, here are the damages. In total, it would cost around Singapore Dollars (SGD)$4,800 or USD3,700 per person.
Need a detailed itinerary of how to visit all the attractions mentioned? Here is the link to the 10 Days/ 9 Nights Itinerary.
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