Top 10 Locations You Should Visit on the Ring Road, Iceland
Start an unforgettable journey on Iceland's Ring Road. This 1,332-kilometer path circles the whole country and offers stunning views and special experiences. Thanks to its natural beauty, history, and culture, it's a favorite spot for tourists.
Ring Road in Iceland has amazing waterfalls and beautiful black sand beaches. As you travel, you'll find a world full of wonder, and each place you visit will leave you in awe.
- Ring Road Iceland is a 1,332-kilometer route that circles the entire country
- Iceland's Ring Road offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences
- The route showcases the country's natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture
- From waterfalls to black sand beaches, ring road Iceland has something for everyone
- Iceland's Ring Road is a popular destination among tourists
- The route is perfect for those interested in history, nature, or culture
Why Iceland's Ring Road is Your Gateway to Adventure
celand's Ring Road is full of adventure, with its varied landscapes and fun activities. To enjoy your trip fully, plan well. Think about the best time to go and how many days you'll need.
The summer months, from June to August, are the best time to visit. The weather is nice, and the days are long. With 7-10 days, you can take your time exploring the iceland ring road. You'll see amazing views and learn about Iceland's culture.
Here are some key tips for a great ring road adventure:
- Book your places to stay early
- Bring layers for the weather
- Use a mapping app to find your way
By following these tips, you're set for an amazing Iceland Ring Road journey. So, start planning your Ring Road adventure now and see all Iceland has to offer!
1. Thingvellir National Park
- Distance from Reykjavik: 45 km (28 miles)
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir National Park is historically significant as the site of Iceland's first parliament in 930 AD. The park is located on the tectonic plate boundary between North America and Eurasia, making it a geological wonder.
- Best Season: Year-round
- How Long to Spend: 2-4 hours
- Highlights: Silfra fissure (snorkeling/diving), Almannagjá rift, Öxarárfoss waterfall.
Thingvellir National Park
2. Geysir Geothermal Area
- Distance from Reykjavik: 100 km (62 miles)
- Why Visit: Home to the original Geysir, which gave its name to geysers worldwide, and its active neighbor Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes.
- Best Season: Year-round
- How Long to Spend: 1-2 hours
- Highlights: Strokkur eruptions, geothermal features, nearby hot springs.
3. Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall is a famous natural wonder in Iceland. It's known for its golden color and beautiful scenery. The waterfall is on the Hvita River and drops 32 meters into a canyon.
Visitors can walk along the edge and see the stunning views. They can also learn about the waterfall's geology and history.
Some key features of Gullfoss waterfall include:
- Location: On the Hvita River
- Height: 32 meters
- Unique feature: Golden color
Gullfoss is a must-see on Iceland's Ring Road. It shows the country's natural beauty and power. The gullfoss waterfall is a prime example of Iceland's unique geology.
It's a popular stop for tourists and nature lovers. The waterfall's golden color comes from the sediment in the water. It's a unique and breathtaking sight.
Gullfoss waterfall is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the views, learn about its history, and try activities like hiking and photography. It's a top destination on Iceland's Ring Road.
Gullfoss waterfall
4. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Distance from Reykjavik: 120 km (75 miles)
- Why Visit: This picturesque waterfall allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.
- Best Season: Spring to Autumn
- How Long to Spend: 1 hour
- Highlights: Walking behind the falls, nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
5. Skógafoss Waterfall
- Distance from Reykjavik: 150 km (93 miles)
- Why Visit: Skógafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, with a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters.
- Best Season: Year-round
- How Long to Spend: 1-2 hours
- Highlights: Hiking the Skóga River trail, stunning photo opportunities, nearby Skógar Museum.
Skogafoss Waterfall
6. Vík í Mýrdal and Reynisfjara Beach
- Distance from Reykjavik: 187 km (116 miles)
- Why Visit: Vík is a charming village near Reynisfjara, a black sand beach known for its basalt sea stacks and powerful waves.
- Best Season: Year-round
- How Long to Spend: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Basalt columns, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Dyrhólaey Peninsula.
Reynisfjara Black Beach
7. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Distance from Reykjavik: 372 km (231 miles)
- Why Visit: This glacial lagoon is filled with floating icebergs, creating a surreal and ever-changing landscape.
- Best Season: Year-round, with peak ice viewing in summer and northern lights in winter.
- How Long to Spend: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Boat tours, Diamond Beach, nearby Vatnajökull National Park.
8. East Fjords
- Distance from Reykjavik: 680 km (423 miles)
- Why Visit: The East Fjords offer serene landscapes, quaint fishing villages, and rich wildlife.
- Best Season: Spring to Autumn
- How Long to Spend: 1-2 days
- Highlights: Seyðisfjörður artsy town, puffin colonies, scenic drives.
9. Lake Mývatn
- Distance from Reykjavik: 480 km (298 miles)
- Why Visit: Known for its unique geology and biodiversity, Lake Mývatn is a hotspot for nature enthusiasts.
- Best Season: Year-round, though summer offers longer days and more birdlife.
- How Long to Spend: 1-2 days
- Highlights: Hverir geothermal area, Dimmuborgir lava formations, Mývatn Nature Baths.
10. Akureyri
- Distance from Reykjavik: 380 km (236 miles)
- Why Visit: Iceland’s second-largest city, Akureyri is known for its vibrant culture, charming streets, and scenic fjord setting.
- Best Season: Year-round
- How Long to Spend: 1-2 days
- Highlights: Akureyri Botanical Gardens, local cafes, whale watching tours.
Tips for the Ring Road Journey:
- Seasonal Considerations: Summer (June to August) offers long days and milder weather, ideal for exploring. Winter (November to February) brings snow and shorter days but offers a chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Driving Conditions: Always check the weather and road conditions, especially in winter. Some routes may require a 4x4 vehicle.
- Accommodation: Book in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability.
- Packing: Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots regardless of the season.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Ring Road, Iceland is more than just a road trip; it’s a journey through some of the planet's most awe-inspiring landscapes. From the historical significance of Thingvellir National Park to the serene beauty of Lake Mývatn, each stop along the way reveals a new layer of Iceland's diverse natural wonders. Whether you’re captivated by cascading waterfalls, enchanted by glacial lagoons, or mesmerized by black sand beaches, the Ring Road offers a unique adventure that caters to all types of travelers.
About the Author
Meet Gitana, the adventurous soul behind Tripsiniceland! She has been living in Iceland since 2022, Gitana is passionate about helping travelers discover the best of this stunning country. Through her blog, she shares expert tips and insider advice to ensure you have an unforgettable Icelandic adventure. Whether you're dreaming of glaciers, volcanoes, or hidden gems, Gitana’s goal is to make your Iceland experience truly extraordinary!