12-Day Iceland Itinerary for Couples: Golden Circle & South Coast

The journey, day by day

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

1. DAY 1

   Arrival and Coastal Hot Springs Relaxation

   Starting the trip from Keflavik Airport, explore the Reykjanes Peninsula's unique landscapes, enjoy a relaxing soak at Hvammsvik Hot Springs, and conclude the day in vibrant Reykjavik.

   4 stops3 hours 40 minsReykjavik
2. DAY 2

   Reykjavik City Exploration

   From Reykjavik, embark on a thrilling whale watching adventure from the Old Harbour, then delve into Iceland's rich history at the National Museum, before enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.

   5 stops1 hourReykjavik
3. DAY 3

   Golden Circle Wonders & Langjökull Glacier Snowmobiling

   From Reykjavik, explore the historic Þingvellir National Park and powerful Gullfoss waterfall, before an exhilarating snowmobile tour on Langjökull glacier. Conclude the day at Geysir and Kerið, then head to Selfoss.

   5 stops3 hours 20 minsSelfoss
4. DAY 4

   Highlands Adventure: Landmannalaugar's Rhyolite Mountains

   From Selfoss, embark on a thrilling 4x4 journey into the Highlands to witness the majestic Hjálparfoss. Explore Landmannalaugar's vibrant rhyolite mountains with a hike, concluding with a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

   5 stops5 hours 10 minsSelfoss
5. DAY 5

   South Coast Waterfalls and Glacier Hike

   From Selfoss, journey along the South Coast to witness the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls, marvel at Skógafoss, then embark on an exhilarating glacier hike on Sólheimajökull.

   5 stops3 hours 10 minsVík
6. DAY 6

   Ice Caves, Black Sands, and Lava in South Iceland

   From Vík, embark on an exciting Katla Ice Cave tour, then explore the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach and Dyrhólaey arch, concluding with an evening Lava Show in Vík.

   4 stops2 hours 40 minsVík
7. DAY 7

   Canyons and National Park Hiking

   From Vík, explore the majestic Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon before heading to Skaftafell. Enjoy a rewarding hike to Svartifoss waterfall, concluding with a stunning glacier viewpoint.

   4 stops2 hours 10 minsHof
8. DAY 8

   Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

   From Hof, embark on an unforgettable journey to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for a boat tour amidst icebergs, then witness their beauty ashore at Diamond Beach, concluding with the dramatic Vestrahorn.

   5 stops3 hours 10 minsHöfn
9. DAY 9

   Eastfjords Coastal Drive to Egilsstaðir

   Enjoy a relaxed drive through the dramatic Eastfjords, exploring charming Djúpivogur and the picturesque town of Seyðisfjörður, before reaching Egilsstaðir.

   6 stops3 hours 50 minsEgilsstaðir
10. DAY 10

    Geothermal Wonders of Mývatn

    From Egilsstaðir, journey into North Iceland's stark landscapes, witnessing Dettifoss's power, exploring Námaskarð's geothermal fields, and hiking Hverfjall crater before relaxing at Mývatn Nature Baths.

    5 stops2 hours 50 minsMývatn
11. DAY 11

    Waterfall of the Gods and Akureyri

    From Mývatn, journey west to witness the powerful Goðafoss waterfall before arriving in Akureyri. Explore the city's botanical garden, iconic church, and relax at Forest Lagoon.

    5 stops2 hours 20 minsAkureyri
12. DAY 12

    West Iceland: Return to Keflavik

    From Akureyri, journey south through West Iceland, exploring the historic Glaumbær Farm and ascending Grábrók Crater, before concluding your Icelandic adventure at Keflavik Airport.

    5 stops5 hours 50 minsKeflavik