Iceland Travel Itinerary 5 Days: The Perfect Self-Drive Adventure

Iceland Travel Itinerary 5 Days: Explore Iceland at Your Own Pace

If you only have five days in Iceland, don’t worry—you can still see some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. This Iceland travel itinerary (5 days) is designed for independent travelers who want the freedom of a rental car, comfortable overnight stays, and unforgettable sights every step of the way.

Why Choose a Rental Car for Your Iceland Travel Itinerary (5 Days)?

A rental car is your key to unlocking Iceland's raw beauty. With limited public transport outside Reykjavík, a self-drive trip lets you experience more in less time. At Round Car, we offer:

Compact Cars – perfect for solo travelers or couples sticking to paved roads.
4x4 SUVs – ideal for winter driving and rougher terrain.
Crossover Vehicles – a balance of comfort, space, and fuel economy.
Campervans – if you’d rather sleep on the road (available seasonally).

Day 1: Keflavík Arrival – Reykjavík City Sights

Pick up your rental car from Round Car, just 5 minutes from Keflavík Airport. Head to Reykjavík, Iceland’s colorful capital.

What to See:

Hallgrímskirkja Church
Harpa Concert Hall
Sun Voyager Sculpture
Old Harbour cafes

Recommended Car:

Compact (easy parking in the city)

Overnight Stay:

Reykjavík

Day 2: Golden Circle Loop

Take on the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route.

What to See:

Þingvellir National Park
Geysir Geothermal Area
Gullfoss Waterfall
Kerið Crater (optional stop)

Driving Tip:

Roads are well maintained, year-round

Recommended Car:

Compact or SUV (SUV in winter)

Overnight Stay:

Selfoss or Hveragerði (offers good access to Day 3 drive)

Day 3: South Coast Wonders

Head southeast along the Ring Road to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural sights.

What to See:

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Skógafoss Waterfall
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Recommended Car:

SUV for winter grip or wind-prone days

Overnight Stay:

Vík

Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park & Glacier Lagoon

Explore east toward Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s crown jewels.

What to See:

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (optional)
Skaftafell Nature Reserve (hikes available)
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Diamond Beach

Recommended Car:

4x4 or SUV for maximum safety, especially in winter

Overnight Stay:

Höfn (a charming coastal town with great seafood)

Day 5: Blue Lagoon or Reykjanes Peninsula – Departure

Loop back west for your final day.

Option 1:

Relax at the Blue Lagoon (book in advance)

Option 2:

Explore the geothermal areas of the Reykjanes Peninsula

Return your car to Round Car at Keflavík Airport.

Recommended Car:

All types suitable; compact if returning directly

Why Book with Round Car?

Just 5 minutes from Keflavík Airport
Fleet of compact, SUV, and 4x4 vehicles
Free shuttle from terminal
Transparent pricing – no hidden fees

Final Tip

This 5-day Iceland travel itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors looking to balance relaxation and adventure. With your own rental car, you’ll cover Iceland’s must-see highlights with the flexibility to stop anywhere your heart desires.

👉 Reserve your car now with Round Car and start your Iceland road trip adventure.