8-Day Iceland Itinerary in October: Reykjanes & West Iceland

The journey, day by day

Open any day for the full plan — stops, drives, and where to stay.

1. DAY 1

   Day 1 · 2026-10-16

   Late Arrival & Transfer to Capital

   Arriving at Keflavik Airport this evening, pick up your rental car and drive directly to Reykjavik, settling into your accommodation for a relaxing first night.

   2 stops0 hours 50 minsReykjavik
2. DAY 2

   Day 2 · 2026-10-17

   Journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

   From Reykjavik, journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, exploring its dramatic southern coastline. Discover seal colonies, the iconic black church, and stunning basalt cliffs before reaching Grundarfjörður.

   6 stops4 hours 10 minsGrundarfjörður
3. DAY 3

   Day 3 · 2026-10-18

   Snæfellsnes Icons & Return South

   From Grundarfjörður, explore the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, hike Saxhóll Crater, and discover Djúpalónssandur's unique black sands. Conclude with a scenic drive and cultural insights in Borgarnes.

   6 stops4 hours 10 minsBorgarnes
4. DAY 4

   Day 4 · 2026-10-19

   Golden Circle Wonders to Vík

   From Borgarnes, journey through the iconic Golden Circle, witnessing the continental rift at Þingvellir, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, before continuing to Vík.

   5 stops4 hours 10 minsVík
5. DAY 5

   Day 5 · 2026-10-20

   Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Sand

   From Vík, explore iconic South Coast waterfalls, embark on a thrilling Sólheimajökull glacier hike, and witness the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey.

   5 stops2 hours 30 minsVík
6. DAY 6

   Day 6 · 2026-10-21

   Glacier Lagoon & Return to the Capital

   From Vík, journey east to witness the majestic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Then, begin the long scenic drive back west towards the vibrant capital, Reykjavik.

   6 stops6 hours 30 minsReykjavik
7. DAY 7

   Day 7 · 2026-10-22

   Reykjavik Exploration & Coastal Relaxation

   From Reykjavik, embark on a morning whale watching adventure, explore the city's iconic landmarks, delve into Icelandic history, and unwind at the scenic Hvammsvik Hot Springs.

   5 stops2 hours 40 minsReykjavik
8. DAY 8

   Day 8 · 2026-10-23

   Reykjanes Geothermal Wonders & Departure

   From Reykjavik, explore the Reykjanes Peninsula's vibrant geothermal landscapes at Seltún and Gunnuhver, then cross the Bridge Between Continents before heading to Keflavik Airport for your evening flight.

   4 stops2 hours 10 minsKeflavik