Essential Iceland Extended – Winter🌌
Experience the ultimate winter road trip through Iceland with this 14-day extended self-drive tour. From Reykjavík to the East Fjords and the rugged Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this route covers the country’s most iconic natural wonders and lesser-known gems. Highlights include the Golden Circle, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and the mystical Northern Lights. With flexibility to explore at your own pace, you’ll stay in hand-picked accommodations while immersing yourself in Iceland’s raw, untouched beauty.
Guided
Self-Drive (Not Guided)
Custom Dates /Fixed Dates
November - April
Price
Starting from £2,000 - £2,500 per person
Price Detail
The tour price includes 13 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, flights, a rental vehicle for 14 days with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance, a detailed road map, and a personalized travel guide with itinerary and local tips. Airport service fees and 24/7 emergency assistance are also included. Optional activities, entrance fees and fuel are not part of the package. Prices may vary depending on travel dates, vehicle category, and room preferences.
Day 1: Welcome to Iceland
Arrive at Keflavík Airport. Once you have picked up your rental vehicle, you head directly for Reykjavík, the colorful capital city of Iceland. If your flight arrives early enough, we have a great suggestion for starting your trip off the right way: plan a visit to Iceland’s world-famous Blue Lagoon (book online at www.bluelagoon.com) or to the Sky Lagoon, the newest spa and wellness attraction situated just a short drive from Reykjavík. Be sure to pack your swimsuit, so you can take a relaxing dip in either of those spa’s soothing geothermal waters before heading to your hotel.
Driving distance / time: approx. 50 km / 45 minutes
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Suggested add-ons, on request: Sky Lagoon
Day 2: Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Hella or Hvolsvöllur
Drive to Thingvellir National Park, one of the geological wonders of the world. Observe various cracks and fissures in the earth’s crust, due to the movements of tectonic plates. Continue to Geysir geothermal area where the Strokkur hot spring ejects its water column high into the air every 5 to 10 minutes. Afterwards you only have a short drive to reach Gullfoss, surely one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls. Depending on local weather conditions, this first night in the Icelandic countryside, away from the light pollution of Reykjavík, will give you your first best opportunity to observe northern lights, this mesmerizing natural phenomenon also known as aurora borealis (until mid-April). However, sightings can never be guaranteed, and you’ll have to hope that Nótt, the Norse goddess of the night, and Baldur, the god of light, join their forces for your pleasure and delight!
Driving distance / time: approx. 200 km / 3-3,5 hours
Overnight: in Hella or Hvolsvöllur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Snowmobile on Langjökull Glacier; Secret Lagoon
Day 3: South Coast – Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Continue along the South Coast for your overnight stay in Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur area. On your way there, discover beautifull waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss. Also, explore the famous black sand beach and basalt columns of Reynisfjara. In the vicinity of Katla and Eyjafjalajökull volcanoes, south of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, you might also want to take some time to explore the Sólheimajökull glacier outlet and its breathtaking surroundings.
Driving distance / time: approx. 100-175 km / 1,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Horseback riding tour in Vík; Glacier walk on Sólheimajökull glacier; Snwomobile tour on Mýrdalsjökull glacier; ATV tour on black sand beach; Katla Ice Cave Under the Volcano
Day 4: Skaftafell – Jökulsárlón – Höfn
In the beautiful region between Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur, drive across the vast Mýrdalssandur sand plains and Eldhraun lava field, a result of the major Laki eruption that occurred in 1783 and was arguably one of the greatest disasters in Iceland’s history. Further to the east, discover the towering cliffs of Lómagnúpur, Iceland’s highest at 670m, Skeidarársandur sand plains, and Skaftafell National Park. Under the gaze of Hvannadalshnúkur peak, this region is surrounded by the glacial tongues of Vatnajökull on one side and vast volcanic sand plains on the other. Explore Vatnajökull Glacier area, observing numerous glacial outlets along your route. At Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, the glacier breaks into stunning icebergs that drift peacefully towards the ocean (“Diamond Beach”). This exceptional site sits at the foot of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur.
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-280 km / 2,5-3,5 hours
Overnight: in Höfn area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Glacier walk in Skaftafell National Park
Day 5: East Fjords – Egilsstadir
Discover the East Fjords between the small towns of Höfn and Egillsstadir. Between the capes of Stokknes and Hvalnes, you pass through the beautiful Lónsvík bay. Occasionally, along the road and depending on the season, you might catch a glimpse of a herd of reindeer or observe the graceful flight of swans. Passing through small fishing villages such as Djúpivogur and Breiddalsvik, at times the road hangs precariously high on the mountain slopes. In Stodvarfjördur a local lady has collected an impressive number of minerals and stones, presented in Petra’s Stone Collection (www.steinapetra.is). Note that in winter, most museum are opened by appointment. Call ahead of your visit!
At the end of the day, you reach Egilsstadir and Lake Lagarfjlót area.
Driving distance / time: approx. 250-325 km / 3-4 hours
Overnight: in Egillsstadir area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Vök Baths
Day 6: Egilsstadir – Mývatn
From Egilsstadir, cross the barren regions of Mödrudalsöræfi. On the way, depending on weather conditions and accessibility, take a detour to Dettifoss waterfall. However, even if the road is open (20km drive from road n°1), access to the waterfall from the parking lot can sometimes be difficult and perilous in winter (deep snow and/or icy grounds), limiting visibility of the waterfall and canyon. Use caution! Then head towards Lake Mývatn and its many natural wonders, including fantastic volcanic formations, geothermal activity, and the lake itself. Visit the geothermal area of Námaskard, where numerous solfataras, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pots emit strong sulfuric odours. Depending on snow condition and accessibility of sites, take a walk around the pseudo-craters of Skútustadir, or through the labyrinthine lava formations of Dimmuborgir, the “dark citadel.”
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-250 km / 2,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Mývatn area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Mývatn Nature Baths
Day 7: Mývatn – Godafoss – Akureyri
After completing your visits in Mývatn area, follow road n°1 towards Akureyri to the West. Halfway between Mývatn and Akureyri, plan a stop at Godafoss waterfall, a beautiful site where the Skjálfandi river has created a magnificent arrangement of cascades. When in Akureyri, plan a visit to Forest Lagoon, a local spa and wellness center situated only a few minutes away from the city. Alternatively, especially if you travel with children, you can also visit the local swimming-pool in Akureyri, one of the best in Iceland and with some of the most exciting slides in the country.
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-250 km / 2,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Akureyri area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Snowshoeing guided hike in Mývatn; Dog sledding; Forest Lagoon
Day 8: Eyjafjördur & Tröllaskagi Peninsula
Drive along the shores of Eyjafjördur and Tröllaskagi, the “Peninsula of the trolls”, with its majestic mountains and deep valleys, sculpted a long time ago by the glaciers of the last ice age. From the harbour of Árskógssandur, you can go on a whale watching tour (except from Dec. 15 until Jan. 31) or soak in a beer bath at the local Beer Spa. In Siglufjördur, you can visit the Herring Era Museum (by appointment in winter: www.sild.is/en/hours/), a fascinating exhibition dedicated to the glorious era of Iceland’s herring fisheries and industry, from the early to mid-1900s.
Driving distance / time: max. 150 km / 2,5 hours
Overnight: in Akureyri area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Whale Watching Cruise from
Árskógssandur; Beer Spa
Day 9: Skagafjördur – Borgarfjördur
West of Akureyri and Öxnadalsheidi mountain pass, explore the neighbourhing fjord of Skagafjördur. In the charming village of Hofsós, go for a swim at the local swimming-pool. Overlooking the fjord of Skagafjördur, it is one of the most scenic in Iceland. In Glaumbær, visit a restored traditionnal turf farm from the 19th century (by appointment in winter: www.glaumbaer.is/is/en). Continue back along road n°1 towards the Borgarfjördur region, in the western parts of Iceland. On this day and the next one, take some time exploring this area. You can make a detour to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Further away, discover Hraunfossar waterfalls where the water flows out from underneath a lava field into the river below.
Driving distance / time: approx. 400 km / 5 hours
Overnight: in Borgarfjördur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Krauma Spa
Day 10: Borgarfjördur – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Complete your visits in Borgarfjördur area. Then, from Borgarnes, make your way to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for the majestic Snæfell volcano. Spend the day exploring the numerous places of interest including the basalt pillars of Gerduberg, the lovely wooden church of Búdir, and Arnarstapi, a small fishing village, where basalt columns have been eroded by the pounding waves of the North Atlantic Ocean. Take a stroll at Djúpalónssandur black sand beach and at Skardsvík, its white sand counterpart. Then drive along the north shore of the peninsula, passing through fishing villages and discovering beautiful mountains such as Kirkjufell.
Driving distance / time: approx. 280-320 km / 4-5 hours
Overnight: on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Suggested add-ons, on request: Into the Glacier – Ice Tunnel in
Langjökul; The Cave Explorer – Vidgelmir Lava Tunnel; Húsafell Canyon Baths
Day 11: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spend the day visiting the many natural sites on Snæfellsnes Peninsula and in Snæfellsjökull National Park.
Driving distance / time: approx. 280-320 km / 4-5 hours
Overnight: on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Suggested add-ons, on request: Vatnshellir Lava Cave
Day 12: Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Reykjavík
After completing your visits on Snæfellsnes peninsula and in Borgarfjördur area, you make your way back to Reykjavík to explore some of the attractions that Iceland’s capital has to offer.
Driving distance / time: approx. 150-200 km / 2-2,5 hours
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Day 13: Reykjavík
Reykjavík offers a wide range of sights to visit and lots of activities. Take a stroll in the old city centre and around Lake Tjörnin. Visit the Town Hall and walk through the Austurvöllur square, where the Parliament building stands, and down to the harbour. Walk up and down the main street, Laugavegur, and nearby Skólavördustígur street: have a look at the shops and art galleries, find a gastronomic restaurant or a cosy coffee. Do not miss the church Hallgrímskirkja or the dome Perlan, a modern building from where you have a magnificent view over the whole city. There are several museums worth visiting in Reykjavík, such as the National Museum of Iceland near the University, the National Gallery of Iceland and the Reykjavík Art Gallery. A whale-watching tour from Reykjavík harbour is a also wonderful experience. And so is the visit of one of the local swimming-pool! Alternatively, you can also drive from Reykjavík to the Reykjanes Peninsula, and either visit the geothermal springs of Krýsuvík or Gunnuhver.
Driving distance / time: max. 120 km / 0-2 hours
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Suggested add-ons, on request: Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík;
FlyOver Iceland
Day 14: Departure
It is now time to head back home, after an amazing journey through some of the world’s most picturesque landscapes. Drive to Keflavík International Airport and return your rental car before your flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you may be able to enjoy your last day strolling around Reykjavík or discover some of its attractions.
Driving distance / time: approx. 50 km / 45 minutes
This self-drive tour is available from November 2025 to April 2026. Winter road conditions may vary—4WD rental vehicles, flexible planning, and caution are strongly recommended. Some attractions may be weather-dependent or require advance booking.
Overview
Guided
Self-Drive (Not Guided)
Custom Dates /Fixed Dates
November - April
Prices
Price
Starting from £2,000 - £2,500 per person
Price Detail
The tour price includes 13 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, flights, a rental vehicle for 14 days with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance, a detailed road map, and a personalized travel guide with itinerary and local tips. Airport service fees and 24/7 emergency assistance are also included. Optional activities, entrance fees and fuel are not part of the package. Prices may vary depending on travel dates, vehicle category, and room preferences.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Iceland
Arrive at Keflavík Airport. Once you have picked up your rental vehicle, you head directly for Reykjavík, the colorful capital city of Iceland. If your flight arrives early enough, we have a great suggestion for starting your trip off the right way: plan a visit to Iceland’s world-famous Blue Lagoon (book online at www.bluelagoon.com) or to the Sky Lagoon, the newest spa and wellness attraction situated just a short drive from Reykjavík. Be sure to pack your swimsuit, so you can take a relaxing dip in either of those spa’s soothing geothermal waters before heading to your hotel.
Driving distance / time: approx. 50 km / 45 minutes
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Suggested add-ons, on request: Sky Lagoon
Day 2: Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Hella or Hvolsvöllur
Drive to Thingvellir National Park, one of the geological wonders of the world. Observe various cracks and fissures in the earth’s crust, due to the movements of tectonic plates. Continue to Geysir geothermal area where the Strokkur hot spring ejects its water column high into the air every 5 to 10 minutes. Afterwards you only have a short drive to reach Gullfoss, surely one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls. Depending on local weather conditions, this first night in the Icelandic countryside, away from the light pollution of Reykjavík, will give you your first best opportunity to observe northern lights, this mesmerizing natural phenomenon also known as aurora borealis (until mid-April). However, sightings can never be guaranteed, and you’ll have to hope that Nótt, the Norse goddess of the night, and Baldur, the god of light, join their forces for your pleasure and delight!
Driving distance / time: approx. 200 km / 3-3,5 hours
Overnight: in Hella or Hvolsvöllur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Snowmobile on Langjökull Glacier; Secret Lagoon
Day 3: South Coast – Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Continue along the South Coast for your overnight stay in Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur area. On your way there, discover beautifull waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss. Also, explore the famous black sand beach and basalt columns of Reynisfjara. In the vicinity of Katla and Eyjafjalajökull volcanoes, south of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, you might also want to take some time to explore the Sólheimajökull glacier outlet and its breathtaking surroundings.
Driving distance / time: approx. 100-175 km / 1,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Horseback riding tour in Vík; Glacier walk on Sólheimajökull glacier; Snwomobile tour on Mýrdalsjökull glacier; ATV tour on black sand beach; Katla Ice Cave Under the Volcano
Day 4: Skaftafell – Jökulsárlón – Höfn
In the beautiful region between Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur, drive across the vast Mýrdalssandur sand plains and Eldhraun lava field, a result of the major Laki eruption that occurred in 1783 and was arguably one of the greatest disasters in Iceland’s history. Further to the east, discover the towering cliffs of Lómagnúpur, Iceland’s highest at 670m, Skeidarársandur sand plains, and Skaftafell National Park. Under the gaze of Hvannadalshnúkur peak, this region is surrounded by the glacial tongues of Vatnajökull on one side and vast volcanic sand plains on the other. Explore Vatnajökull Glacier area, observing numerous glacial outlets along your route. At Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, the glacier breaks into stunning icebergs that drift peacefully towards the ocean (“Diamond Beach”). This exceptional site sits at the foot of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur.
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-280 km / 2,5-3,5 hours
Overnight: in Höfn area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Glacier walk in Skaftafell National Park
Day 5: East Fjords – Egilsstadir
Discover the East Fjords between the small towns of Höfn and Egillsstadir. Between the capes of Stokknes and Hvalnes, you pass through the beautiful Lónsvík bay. Occasionally, along the road and depending on the season, you might catch a glimpse of a herd of reindeer or observe the graceful flight of swans. Passing through small fishing villages such as Djúpivogur and Breiddalsvik, at times the road hangs precariously high on the mountain slopes. In Stodvarfjördur a local lady has collected an impressive number of minerals and stones, presented in Petra’s Stone Collection (www.steinapetra.is). Note that in winter, most museum are opened by appointment. Call ahead of your visit!
At the end of the day, you reach Egilsstadir and Lake Lagarfjlót area.
Driving distance / time: approx. 250-325 km / 3-4 hours
Overnight: in Egillsstadir area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Vök Baths
Day 6: Egilsstadir – Mývatn
From Egilsstadir, cross the barren regions of Mödrudalsöræfi. On the way, depending on weather conditions and accessibility, take a detour to Dettifoss waterfall. However, even if the road is open (20km drive from road n°1), access to the waterfall from the parking lot can sometimes be difficult and perilous in winter (deep snow and/or icy grounds), limiting visibility of the waterfall and canyon. Use caution! Then head towards Lake Mývatn and its many natural wonders, including fantastic volcanic formations, geothermal activity, and the lake itself. Visit the geothermal area of Námaskard, where numerous solfataras, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pots emit strong sulfuric odours. Depending on snow condition and accessibility of sites, take a walk around the pseudo-craters of Skútustadir, or through the labyrinthine lava formations of Dimmuborgir, the “dark citadel.”
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-250 km / 2,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Mývatn area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Mývatn Nature Baths
Day 7: Mývatn – Godafoss – Akureyri
After completing your visits in Mývatn area, follow road n°1 towards Akureyri to the West. Halfway between Mývatn and Akureyri, plan a stop at Godafoss waterfall, a beautiful site where the Skjálfandi river has created a magnificent arrangement of cascades. When in Akureyri, plan a visit to Forest Lagoon, a local spa and wellness center situated only a few minutes away from the city. Alternatively, especially if you travel with children, you can also visit the local swimming-pool in Akureyri, one of the best in Iceland and with some of the most exciting slides in the country.
Driving distance / time: approx. 200-250 km / 2,5-3 hours
Overnight: in Akureyri area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Snowshoeing guided hike in Mývatn; Dog sledding; Forest Lagoon
Day 8: Eyjafjördur & Tröllaskagi Peninsula
Drive along the shores of Eyjafjördur and Tröllaskagi, the “Peninsula of the trolls”, with its majestic mountains and deep valleys, sculpted a long time ago by the glaciers of the last ice age. From the harbour of Árskógssandur, you can go on a whale watching tour (except from Dec. 15 until Jan. 31) or soak in a beer bath at the local Beer Spa. In Siglufjördur, you can visit the Herring Era Museum (by appointment in winter: www.sild.is/en/hours/), a fascinating exhibition dedicated to the glorious era of Iceland’s herring fisheries and industry, from the early to mid-1900s.
Driving distance / time: max. 150 km / 2,5 hours
Overnight: in Akureyri area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Whale Watching Cruise from
Árskógssandur; Beer Spa
Day 9: Skagafjördur – Borgarfjördur
West of Akureyri and Öxnadalsheidi mountain pass, explore the neighbourhing fjord of Skagafjördur. In the charming village of Hofsós, go for a swim at the local swimming-pool. Overlooking the fjord of Skagafjördur, it is one of the most scenic in Iceland. In Glaumbær, visit a restored traditionnal turf farm from the 19th century (by appointment in winter: www.glaumbaer.is/is/en). Continue back along road n°1 towards the Borgarfjördur region, in the western parts of Iceland. On this day and the next one, take some time exploring this area. You can make a detour to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Further away, discover Hraunfossar waterfalls where the water flows out from underneath a lava field into the river below.
Driving distance / time: approx. 400 km / 5 hours
Overnight: in Borgarfjördur area
Suggested add-ons, on request: Krauma Spa
Day 10: Borgarfjördur – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Complete your visits in Borgarfjördur area. Then, from Borgarnes, make your way to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for the majestic Snæfell volcano. Spend the day exploring the numerous places of interest including the basalt pillars of Gerduberg, the lovely wooden church of Búdir, and Arnarstapi, a small fishing village, where basalt columns have been eroded by the pounding waves of the North Atlantic Ocean. Take a stroll at Djúpalónssandur black sand beach and at Skardsvík, its white sand counterpart. Then drive along the north shore of the peninsula, passing through fishing villages and discovering beautiful mountains such as Kirkjufell.
Driving distance / time: approx. 280-320 km / 4-5 hours
Overnight: on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Suggested add-ons, on request: Into the Glacier – Ice Tunnel in
Langjökul; The Cave Explorer – Vidgelmir Lava Tunnel; Húsafell Canyon Baths
Day 11: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spend the day visiting the many natural sites on Snæfellsnes Peninsula and in Snæfellsjökull National Park.
Driving distance / time: approx. 280-320 km / 4-5 hours
Overnight: on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Suggested add-ons, on request: Vatnshellir Lava Cave
Day 12: Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Reykjavík
After completing your visits on Snæfellsnes peninsula and in Borgarfjördur area, you make your way back to Reykjavík to explore some of the attractions that Iceland’s capital has to offer.
Driving distance / time: approx. 150-200 km / 2-2,5 hours
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Day 13: Reykjavík
Reykjavík offers a wide range of sights to visit and lots of activities. Take a stroll in the old city centre and around Lake Tjörnin. Visit the Town Hall and walk through the Austurvöllur square, where the Parliament building stands, and down to the harbour. Walk up and down the main street, Laugavegur, and nearby Skólavördustígur street: have a look at the shops and art galleries, find a gastronomic restaurant or a cosy coffee. Do not miss the church Hallgrímskirkja or the dome Perlan, a modern building from where you have a magnificent view over the whole city. There are several museums worth visiting in Reykjavík, such as the National Museum of Iceland near the University, the National Gallery of Iceland and the Reykjavík Art Gallery. A whale-watching tour from Reykjavík harbour is a also wonderful experience. And so is the visit of one of the local swimming-pool! Alternatively, you can also drive from Reykjavík to the Reykjanes Peninsula, and either visit the geothermal springs of Krýsuvík or Gunnuhver.
Driving distance / time: max. 120 km / 0-2 hours
Overnight: in Reykjavík
Suggested add-ons, on request: Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík;
FlyOver Iceland
Day 14: Departure
It is now time to head back home, after an amazing journey through some of the world’s most picturesque landscapes. Drive to Keflavík International Airport and return your rental car before your flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you may be able to enjoy your last day strolling around Reykjavík or discover some of its attractions.
Driving distance / time: approx. 50 km / 45 minutes
Need to Know
This self-drive tour is available from November 2025 to April 2026. Winter road conditions may vary—4WD rental vehicles, flexible planning, and caution are strongly recommended. Some attractions may be weather-dependent or require advance booking.
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