A Complete Guide to Driving Iceland’s Ring Road: Tips, Stops & Hidden Gems

Encircling the entire island, Iceland’s Route 1—better known as the Ring Road—is the ultimate way to experience the country’s breathtaking diversity. This 1,332-kilometer (828-mile) highway links glaciers and volcanoes, fjords and fishing villages, black-sand beaches and steaming hot springs. Whether you have five days or two weeks, driving the Ring Road gives you freedom, flexibility, and front-row access to Iceland’s most spectacular sights.

This guide covers everything you need to know about tackling the Ring Road: when to go, how long it takes, what to pack, must-see stops, and a few hidden gems along the way. We’ll also link to relevant sections of our full Iceland Travel Guide so you can plan each stage of your journey in detail.

Why Drive the Ring Road?

Most visitors stick to day trips from Reykjavík, but self-driving the Ring Road unlocks the real Iceland. You’ll witness ever-changing scenery, stumble upon tiny cafés in fishing villages, and photograph landscapes without crowds. With good planning, it’s safe and straightforward—even for first-timers.

When to Go & How Long to Allow

• Best Season: May through September offers mild weather, long days, and open highland roads. In winter, expect snow and limited daylight but magical Northern Lights.
• Recommended Duration: 7–10 days for a relaxed loop, 5–6 days for a fast trip, or 14+ days to include detours into the Highlands.

Check our Travel Tips for Iceland for seasonal advice on driving conditions.

Car Rental & Road Basics

You can rent cars at Keflavík Airport or in Reykjavík. Compact cars work for summer trips, but a 4×4 is recommended for winter or highland detours. Fuel is widely available but expensive—budget accordingly.

• Speed Limits: 90 km/h (56 mph) on paved roads, 80 km/h (50 mph) on gravel, 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns.
• Insurance: Consider gravel protection; Iceland’s wind and loose stones are notorious.
• Apps: Download “112 Iceland” for emergencies and “Veður” for weather forecasts.

For more practical info, see our Transportation Guide for Iceland.

Must-See Stops Clockwise from Reykjavík

Driving clockwise or counter-clockwise works; here’s a popular clockwise itinerary:

Golden Circle (Day 1)

Start with Iceland’s iconic trio: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. All within a few hours of Reykjavík.

South Coast (Days 2–3)

• Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss: Twin waterfall highlights where you can walk behind or climb for panoramic views.
• Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach: Basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks near Vík.
• Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park: Gateway to glacier hikes and ice caves.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach: Icebergs drifting to sea and glittering on black sand.

East Fjords (Day 4)

Quiet fishing villages, narrow fjords, and winding coastal roads. Stop at Djúpivogur for sculpture trails and local crafts.

North Iceland (Days 5–6)

• Dettifoss: Europe’s most powerful waterfall.
• Mývatn Nature Baths: A geothermal soak with fewer crowds than the Blue Lagoon.
• Húsavík: Whale-watching capital of Europe—see our Adventure & Activities in Iceland for details.
• Akureyri: Iceland’s “second city” with gardens, cafés, and a charming downtown.

West Iceland (Day 7)

Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—nicknamed “Iceland in Miniature” for its volcanoes, lava fields, beaches, and fishing hamlets. If time allows, detour to the Westfjords for dramatic cliffs and puffin colonies.

Hidden Gems Along the Ring Road

• Stokksnes Peninsula: Iconic view of Vestrahorn mountain rising from black sands.
• Hraunfossar Waterfalls: A series of gentle cascades emerging from lava fields.
• Hofsós Infinity Pool: A spectacular seaside swimming pool in North Iceland.

Budgeting & Accommodation

Gas, food, and lodging can be pricey. Save money by shopping at Bonus or Kronan supermarkets and booking guesthouses or campsites early. Our Accommodation in Iceland page lists options for every budget.

Safety & Sustainability

Weather can change rapidly; check forecasts daily and never off-road drive (it damages fragile moss and is illegal). Respect signage at beaches and cliffs. For tips on minimizing your footprint, see Sustainable Tourism in Iceland.

Sample Itinerary Table

Plan Your Ring Road Adventure

Driving the Ring Road is more than a road trip—it’s a journey through one of the planet’s most dramatic landscapes. Use this guide alongside our full Iceland Travel Guide for detailed information on Food & Drink in Iceland, Travel Tips for Iceland, and Iceland by the Numbers to enrich your journey.