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Ring Road
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Self Drive Route

Ring Road

Iceland's legendary Route 1 — the full circle

1,332 km
7–14 days
Moderate
May–September
4.9 rating

Route 1 circles the entire island of Iceland — 1,332 km of the country's most diverse scenery: glaciers, volcanoes, fjords, geysers, waterfalls and black sand deserts. Most travellers complete it in 7–14 days. It's the ultimate Iceland road trip.

Along the Route

Stops & Highlights

11 must-see locations

Reykjavík
1

Reykjavík

Reykjavík, the world's northernmost capital, is Iceland's vibrant economic and cultural heart.

Selfoss
2

Selfoss

As seen in the image, Selfoss is characterized by the majestic Ölfusá River, flowing broad and grey-green through its heart, spanned by a distinctive suspension bridge that connects its bustling sides. This strategic location makes it a natural stop, boasting a lively town center with shops, restaurants, and a growing cultural scene. Beyond its role as a service town, Selfoss offers a glimpse into authentic Icelandic life, blending modern amenities with the raw beauty of its natural surroundings. The town provides a comfortable and convenient gateway to some of Iceland's most iconic landscapes, from geysers to waterfalls, all within easy reach.

Jökulsárlón
3

Jökulsárlón

The image perfectly captures the serene yet dramatic essence of Jökulsárlón, showcasing massive, sculpted icebergs floating gracefully in the deep blue-green waters, framed by a rugged, gravelly shoreline. This dynamic lagoon, constantly fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, is a breathtaking natural amphitheater where ancient ice, some exhibiting a striking blue hue, slowly melts under the Icelandic sky. Its character is one of tranquil majesty, inviting visitors to witness a unique dance between ice and water, making it an unparalleled destination for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a truly otherworldly experience. The sheer scale and beauty of the icebergs, as depicted, are truly captivating, with their varying sizes and distinct forms. The dark, reflective water contrasts beautifully with the pale and blue ice.

Höfn
4

Höfn

Höfn, Iceland's lobster capital, is a significant fishing town and the majestic gateway to Vatnajökull glacier.

Egilsstaðir
5

Egilsstaðir

Discover Egilsstaðir, a vibrant East Iceland hub steeped in sagas, folklore, and stunning natural beauty.

Dettifoss
6

Dettifoss

Witnessing Dettifoss is a truly visceral experience; the sheer volume of glacial meltwater crashing down into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon is deafening, and the mist rises high into the cloudy sky, often creating rainbows on sunny days. The image perfectly captures its immense scale, with the turbulent grey-brown water dominating the scene as it plunges over the dark, columnar basalt cliffs. Visitors can stand remarkably close to the edge, feeling the ground vibrate and the spray on their faces, truly connecting with nature's force amidst the stark, rocky surroundings and patches of vibrant green moss.

Akureyri
8

Akureyri

Akureyri, North Iceland's vibrant capital, is the largest municipality in the region.

Blönduós Town
9

Blönduós Town

A charming town on the Blanda river estuary with a unique seal center and textile museum.

10

Staðarskáli

Fast Food in North Iceland, Iceland — hot_dog.

Borgarnes
11

Borgarnes

This vibrant town, beautifully captured from above, is characterized by its colorful houses, some with striking red roofs, set against the backdrop of a serene fjord and distant mountains. A distinctive bridge gracefully spans a calm inlet, leading into the heart of the settlement. Borgarnes exudes a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere, inviting travelers to wander its streets, enjoy panoramic coastal vistas, and delve into its fascinating Viking heritage. It's an ideal base for adventures further afield, yet captivating enough to explore at leisure.

Day Plan

Suggested Itinerary

Viator Tours

Ring Road Tours

Guided experiences — small group, luxury and day tours

View all tours

Accommodation

Hotels Along the Route

Accommodation

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Insider Knowledge

Travel Tips

1

Allow at least 10 days — 7 is possible but very rushed

2

Book accommodation weeks in advance in July–August

3

Weather changes fast — always check road.is before driving

4

Some Highland detours (Landmannalaugar, Askja) require a 4WD

Common Questions

FAQ

How many days do I need for the Ring Road?+

10–12 days is ideal for a comfortable pace with time for detours. 7 days is the minimum, but you'll be driving 4–5 hours daily.

Can I drive the Ring Road in winter?+

Yes, but only in a 4WD. Many highland sections and some coastal roads close Nov–Apr. Road.is is essential for daily updates.

Want to customise this route?

Build your own Ring Road itinerary with our AI Trip Planner. Add stops, hotels, tours and get a full cost breakdown.