If you’ve been putting off coming to Iceland because you’re short on holiday leave, we have good news. You can still have a vacation packed with activities and memorable experiences even if you’re only able to spare a few days. In this Iceland travel guide, we’ll show you how, with advice on what tours to book , what not to miss and how to streamline your plans to ensure that you’ll be getting the most out of a short trip to Iceland.

Travel logistics

Travel logistics can make or break a short trip to Iceland. Get your plans wrong and you’ll find you waste countless hours waiting around for activities to start or backtracking over routes you’ve already covered. However, invest a little time in thinking through your itinerary and use a map to help you figure out the best order to visit places and you’ll find you can fit much more in.

The biggest advantage of choosing to spend your weekend in Iceland rather than somewhere else is how much you can see and do within a couple of hours’ drive of the country’s main international airport. You can be in downtown Reykjavik just 45 minutes after leaving Keflavik Airport.

Of course the attractions of the Reykjanes Peninsula are even closer than that. The highlights of the south coast can be squeezed into a single day if needed and a slimmed down Golden Circle can be achieved in just six hours. Iceland’s attractions are widespread, but with careful planning, you can see a lot in just a few days.

Seven tips for fitting more in to a short break in Iceland

1. Save time at the airport to free up more for sightseeing

If you’re only in Iceland for a few days, it’s likely that you won’t need much luggage. Travel with cabin bags only and you’ll avoid having to wait by the carousel for your suitcase to arrive. Shop around between airlines as baggage allowances and dimensions can vary significantly.

When travelling with low-cost airlines, it sometimes pays to upgrade to priority boarding to not only get a more generous carry-on allowance but also a seat near the front of the plane that might also minimise time spent queuing at immigration.

2. Come in summer

In summer, Iceland experiences long hours of daylight. This means that for those that have the stamina, sightseeing is a possibility early in the morning and late into the evening. Sites tend to be quieter at these times of day too. However, as long drives can be tiring, taking organised tours can be a big advantage – you can take a restorative nap while your driver covers the miles to your next stop or switch your focus to the passing scenery because you don’t have to concentrate on the road.

Of all the nation’s breathtaking regions, it’s the south coast that’s truly special

On a south coast tour of Iceland you’ll see why for yourself. With magical waterfalls, glacial lagoons, and vast national parks, there’s nowhere that better reveals the miraculous variety of the Land of Ice and Fire.

Read our blog to learn about some of the best Iceland south coast tours. You’ll discover six of the best destinations to explore and find the answers to some key questions.

3. Utilise transfer coaches and shuttles

While it can be tempting to rent a car for your stay, as we’ve seen, leaving the driving to someone else can be beneficial. Pre-booking airport transfers will also save you time; with a guaranteed spot on the coach, at peak periods you won’t need to hang around. It’s also worth exploring the possibility of stopping off at the Blue Lagoon; breaking your journey from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik makes sense as reaching this luxury geothermal spa involves barely any detour.

4. Choose your base carefully

Before you book your accommodation, think about where you want to visit. If much of what you plan to do is located in and close to Reykjavik, it makes sense to opt for a single base. Many tours and activities pick up from the city centre so you don’t miss out. Nevertheless, if a lot of what you want to see is further east, then consider spending a night in Vik or Selfoss to save time travelling to and from the capital. Planning a loop route makes sense as you won’t cover the same scenery twice.

5. Be walkable to city attractions

In Reykjavik, choose a hotel or guesthouse that’s situated within walking distance of the main sights so that you don’t have to spend time on public buses or looking for a car parking space. It’s a relatively small capital, so this shouldn’t be difficult. For instance, if you’re keen to incorporate a whale watching tour and Harpa concert hall into your itinerary, you might wish to aim for somewhere near to the old harbour which is also close to shops, museums, cafés, bars and restaurants.

6. Eat on the go

While it’s a treat to enjoy leisurely restaurant meals, you might prefer to allocate some of that time to activities. That doesn’t mean you should skip meals altogether. Instead, carry a packed lunch to eat during a hike, try traditional lamb soup bought at a gas station, devour Icelandic hot dogs from a street food cart or graze on global cuisines at one of the country’s excellent food halls. If you’re willing to give up table service, you’ll save time without compromising on taste, though there are also plenty of fast food joints if you prefer.

7. Pack for all weathers

Even in summer, Iceland’s weather can be a bit hit and miss. If you are only there for a few days, you won’t have the luxury of postponing activities until the wind eases or the rain stops. Check the forecast the day before you leave, but even if fine weather is predicted for all of your stay, it’s a good idea to throw in some weather-proof gear too. Rainproof outer layers are a must, including jacket and trousers as well as waterproof hiking boots. Pack a hat and gloves too, and don’t forget your swimsuit for those wonderful geothermal lagoons.

A suggested itinerary for a three-day visit to Iceland

If it’s your first time here, even if you only have a weekend in Iceland, you should aim to fit in a stay in Reykjavik, a tour of the Golden Circle and at least a couple of natural landmarks such as a waterfall, glacier or volcano. Don’t forget to throw in a few experiences and activities too, including a soak in a geothermal lagoon and a whale watching trip. In summer, you might want to seek out puffins, while the Northern Lights are a must if you’re here when the nights draw in. Let’s take a look at how that might look.

Day 1

Take advantage of a shuttle transfer to the Blue Lagoon as you make your way from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik. A fixture on the landscape for more than three decades, its blue water and charcoal lava surroundings have become an Icelandic icon. Continue on to Reykjavik. There, perhaps start by riding the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja to get a feel for the layout of the city and the mountains beyond.

If you’re keen to see more of Reykjavik, the Hop On, Hop Off bus is an ideal way to cover the ground. It loops the city, stopping at 16 destinations including Hallgrímskirkja, the National Museum of Iceland, Harpa Concert Hall and Höfði House. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours, so there’s plenty of time to take a break for other activities, such as FlyOver Iceland, a thrilling motion ride that uses special effects to immerse visitors in Iceland’s landscapes without leaving their seats.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching and this activity is possible year-round. Boats depart every day from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, laden with passengers eager to set out into Faxaflói Bay in the hope of a close up encounter with these magnificent marine mammals.

In summer, watch out for migrating seabirds such as puffins, who come here to nest and rear their chicks. As with all wildlife tours sighting can never be guaranteed, but species such as humpback whales, harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins are often spotted. Back on land, learn more about Icelandic cetaceans at the excellent Whales of Iceland museum.

If you’re visiting Iceland between late August and mid-April, keep an evening free for a Northern Lights hunt. Tours take place both at sea and on land, with convenient pickups from downtown Reykjavik. Venture into the countryside on a small group tour with a knowledgeable guide who’ll know the darkest, most suitable sites, maximising your chances of seeing the magical aurora borealis. Some Northern Lights tours make use of super jeeps to travel off-road to remote locations; a ride in one of these massive vehicles is an experience in itself.

When you get back to the city, fuel any grumbling stomachs with an Icelandic hot dog. One of the most famous places is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur; even former US president Bill Clinton has ordered here. Look for its distinctive red livery and be prepared to wait in line.

Hit the ultimate highlights of the island with our round-up of the top 10 attractions in Iceland.

If you are visiting for a short break, or long weekend or just want to make sure you cover the most important sights in the country, we’ve got you covered. Read our top attractions guide to discover the ten best things to see in Iceland.

Day 2

South Coast sightseeing is an Iceland must see, even if you’re only here for a short time. In summer, some tourists make it all the way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach and back in a day, but this tour involves around ten hours on the road plus stops. For many, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime to see icebergs drifting through the lagoon before being washed up on a black sand beach; if seals show up it’s the icing on the cake.

A slightly shorter option is Reykjavik Excursions’ South Coast Wonders tour. It packs a lot in, yet you’ll still be back in the capital in time for dinner. You’ll have the chance to see two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls – step behind the curtain of water at Seljalandsfoss and climb to the top of Skógafoss for breathtaking views of the coastline. Tours also call in at Reynisfjara beach near Vik. It’s an Iceland must see, known for its dangerous sneaker waves and towering basalt cave.

This part of the country is known for its striking scenery and if you truly want to experience the “Land of Fire and Ice” then this is how you do it. Even if time is short, the landscapes in this Icelandic region are jaw-droppingly beautiful. If you prefer to stay close to Reykjavik, however, you can get a sense of what you’re missing if you visit Perlan. This museum boasts a manmade ice cave, interactive volcano exhibit and a mesmerising aurora show.

Team it with a ride out to Reykjanes peninsula, where you can hike to see the lava flows created during the Fagradalsfjall eruption a few years ago. The vast, blackened stain on the bare earth is a reminder of just how powerful nature can be. Also in this part of Iceland you can visit the Bridge between Continents, where the North American and Eurasian plates are pulling apart.

If you chose to keep your evening free, then why not spend it at another of Iceland’s famous geothermal lagoons? There are several options close to Reykjavik. The first is Sky Lagoon, whose infinity edge pool looks out over the water and whose seven step ritual is designed to make your skin feel refreshed and reinvigorated.

A short drive to the north is Hvammsvik Hot Springs, a more rustic collection of baths that are clustered on the edge of a fjord on a black sand beach. Each of these geothermal spas offers a different experience, but what they have in common is a chance to experience one of the country’s most convivial pastimes.

Back in the city, if you’re hungry, head over to one of Reykjavik’s food halls. Try Grandi, on the edge of the old harbour, where you can eat fish and chips in what used to be a fish factory while watching the boats come and go. Alternatively, sample the food offered by the trendy eateries within the stylish Hafnartorg Gallery, or those in the cosy interior of Pósthús, which has a more vintage vibe.

Adrenaline junkies rejoice with a huge selection of adventure tours in Iceland to get the heart pumping.

From ziplining high above the rugged hills and rivers of Vik to hiking atop frozen glaciers, Iceland is not short of activities for the adventurous traveller. Check out our complete adventure guide to Iceland to find the daring activity for you.

Day 3

The Golden Circle is a scenic loop that sits within easy reach of Reykjavik. If you’re only in Iceland for a weekend, then concentrate on the three main sites. Thingvellir National Park is closest to the capital so is usually the first stop. This is where Iceland’s first parliament met and also a huge draw for its dramatic geology – like Reykjanes, here the two tectonic plates meet.

Tours next call in at Geysir geothermal area. Iceland has many geothermally active sites, but at this one you can witness the spectacle of a geyser shooting superheated water high into the air. It’s a remarkable sight and one which will surely have you reaching for your camera again and again as the gusher repeatedly bursts into life.

Lastly, you’ll visit Gullfoss waterfall. Iceland is home to hundreds of waterfalls but this one stands out. Huge quantities of water cascade over a double step in the Hvítá River, where a steep sided gorge has been carved from centuries of erosion. Hike alongside the waterfall and feel the spray on your face. As with the other Golden Circle attractions, it’s open year-round, though in winter ice can make some sections of the path inaccessible for safety reasons.

By choosing an express tour, you’ll have the opportunity to add on an activity before or after. There are numerous possibilities. For instance, you might combine your sightseeing with an exhilarating ride on a snowmobile across the surface of Langjökull, Iceland’s second largest glacier. Alternatively, how about a fun ATV buggy adventure or the prospect of seeing lava that flowed thousands of years ago as you visit the Lava Tunnel Raufarhólshellir.

Perhaps you had in mind something more sedate? A horseback ride on a sturdy yet easy-going Icelandic horse might fit the bill – as well as offering you a chance to see more of the pretty Icelandic countryside. Less active but no less interesting is a trip to Friðheimar to learn about how Icelandic tomatoes are grown using geothermal energy. In the greenhouse café, you can sample their popular tomato soup as well as more unusual menu items such as tomato ice cream.

Planned well, a short trip to Iceland doesn’t have to feel rushed. However, no matter how much you pack in to your itinerary, it will leave you wanting more. Be prepared to start thinking about a return visit as soon as you get home!

What to Pack for Your Iceland Trip: Your Complete Guide

With rugged volcanic and glacial landscapes, cutting-edge museums, and thrilling outdoor activities on offer, Iceland promises a holiday you’ll never forget. Yet with so much on offer, visitors often have a fundamental question before they embark on their getaway: what to pack for a trip to Iceland? Read our handy guide about what to pack for your Icelandic trip.

Questions and Answers about Short Trips to Iceland

Can I enjoy a meaningful trip to Iceland if I only have a few days? Yes, with careful planning and efficient travel logistics, you can pack in a variety of activities and experiences even in a short trip.

Can you do Iceland in 3 days? Yes, you can experience many of Iceland's highlights in 3 days with a well-planned itinerary that includes Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and key natural attractions like waterfalls and geothermal lagoons.

Can I go to Iceland for 2 days? Yes, a 2-day trip to Iceland can be enjoyable, especially if you focus on Reykjavik and nearby attractions such as the Blue Lagoon and a condensed Golden Circle tour.

Is 4 days too short in Iceland? Four days is not too short for Iceland; it allows you to explore Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and South Coast highlights, providing a more relaxed pace than a shorter trip.

Is it worth going to Iceland for 5 days? Yes, a 5-day trip to Iceland is worth it. It provides enough time to explore Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, South Coast, and possibly even a glacier or volcanic area.

How much money should I take for 3 days in Iceland? For a 3-day trip to Iceland, budget approximately $300-500 per day per person to cover accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities, though costs can vary accidring your stravel style and comfort needs.

Is 2 nights in Reykjavík enough? Two nights in Reykjavik is enough to explore the city’s main attractions, including its museums, restaurants, and nightlife, and to take a short day trip to nearby sites.

Where to base yourself in Iceland? Reykjavik is the best base for short trips due to its proximity to major attractions and availability of tours. For exploring the South Coast, consider an overnight stay in Vik or Selfoss.

Can you do a day trip to Iceland? While technically possible, a day trip to Iceland is very rushed and limiting. It’s better to spend at least a couple of days to truly experience the country’s unique attractions.

What are some tips for saving time at the airport? Travel with cabin bags only, upgrade to priority boarding for a more generous carry-on allowance, and minimize time spent queuing at immigration.

Why is summer a good time for a short trip to Iceland? Summer offers long hours of daylight, allowing for early morning and late evening sightseeing when sites are quieter.

Should I rent a car or use transfer services? While renting a car offers flexibility, using transfer coaches and shuttles are more eco-frinedly (especially our carbon-neutral tours) can save time and allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How should I choose my accommodation? Choose your base carefully, ideally within walking distance of major attractions in Reykjavik or close to the areas you plan to explore.

What are some quick dining options to save time? Eat on the go with packed lunches, street food like Icelandic hot dogs, or meals from food halls to maximize time for activities.

What should I pack for a short trip to Iceland? Pack for all weathers, including rainproof outer layers, waterproof hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a swimsuit for geothermal lagoons.

What is a recommended itinerary for a three-day visit to Iceland? Include a visit to Reykjavik, a tour of the Golden Circle, and natural landmarks like waterfalls and geothermal lagoons, along with activities like whale watching or Northern Lights tours.

How can I maximize my sightseeing in Reykjavik? Use the Hop On, Hop Off bus to efficiently cover major sights and consider staying near the old harbor for easy access to attractions like Harpa Concert Hall and whale watching tours.

What are the must-see natural attractions on a short trip? Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle's main sites (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), and South Coast landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and Reynisfjara beach.