Embark on a captivating 7-day journey across Iceland, exploring its iconic landscapes from geothermal wonders and powerful waterfalls to stunning black sand beaches. This mixed-interest trip offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural insights, all within a moderate budget.

Begin your journey to Iceland with a flight departing from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
Ensure you arrive at the airport well in advance for check-in and security. Dress warmly as you're heading to Iceland in winter!
Check-in at PHL airport for your flight to Keflavík International Airport (NOC).
Continue your journey towards Iceland, with connecting flights and travel across time zones.
Use this time to relax, enjoy in-flight entertainment, and prepare for your Icelandic adventure.
Follow your flight schedule for connections and gate information.
Land at Keflavík International Airport (NOC), the main international airport for Iceland.
Clear customs and collect your luggage.
Consider pre-booking an airport transfer or taking the Flybus to Reykjavik for convenience.
After landing, take a bus (e.g., Flybus, Airport Direct) or a taxi from NOC to your accommodation in Reykjavik. The journey is approximately 45-60 minutes.
Check into your hotel in downtown Reykjavik and settle in.
Take some time to unpack and relax after your journey.
Take a leisurely walk around the charming downtown area of Reykjavik.
See landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja church from the outside.
The city center is very walkable and beautifully lit during winter evenings. Wear warm layers!
Enjoy a traditional Icelandic dinner at a local restaurant.
Try lamb soup or fresh seafood.
Embark on a private Northern Lights tour with a professional photographer.
Chase the elusive aurora borealis away from city lights.
Dress in your warmest winter gear. The tour boasts a 95% success rate and includes a photographer to capture the magic. Booking required.
The tour typically picks up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Reykjavik.
Embark on a breathtaking drive along Iceland's South Coast.
Witness stunning landscapes, black sand beaches, and powerful waterfalls.
If driving yourself, be mindful of winter road conditions. Many tours offer guided excursions for this route.
This can be done via a rental car from Reykjavik or by booking a guided tour that includes transportation.
Visit Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls.
In winter, the path behind the waterfall may be icy or closed, but it's stunning from the front.
Bring waterproof outer layers, as the spray can be intense. Spikes for shoes are recommended for icy conditions.
Explore Skógafoss, another magnificent waterfall where you can walk right up to its base.
There's also a path to climb to the top for panoramic views.
The climb to the top offers great photo opportunities, but can be slippery in winter.
Join a private tour for a guided hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier, an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull.
Experience the unique ice formations firsthand.
This tour has a maximum group size of four people, ensuring a more intimate experience. Crampons and ice axes are provided. Booking required.
Meet at the Sólheimajökull parking lot or arrange pick-up if offered by the tour operator.
Visit the dramatic black sand beach of Reynisfjara, famous for its basalt columns and powerful waves.
Be cautious of sneaker waves.
Even in winter, this beach is stunning, but daylight hours are short. Visit just before sunset or as part of a longer tour.
Enjoy dinner in the charming coastal village of Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Iceland.
Experience the authentic flavors of Iceland with a delightful combination of traditional Icelandic food and local brews.
This tour offers a perfect blend of culinary delights and exploration with local guides. Booking required.
Experience the feeling of flight as you virtually soar over sweeping glaciers, stunning fjords, and iconic Icelandic landscapes with state-of-the-art technology.
A unique indoor attraction perfect for experiencing Iceland's beauty in a short amount of time, especially in winter. Booking recommended.
Join locals at one of Reykjavik's many communal bonfires, a cherished Icelandic New Year's Eve tradition.
Enjoy singing and socializing.
Bonfires typically start around 8 PM. Check local listings for exact locations. Dress very warmly!
Experience Reykjavik's spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display.
Locals light off thousands of fireworks, creating an incredible show across the city.
Head to a good viewpoint like Hallgrímskirkja church or Perlan for the best views. The main show is around midnight.
Embark on a guided tour of Iceland's famous Golden Circle.
Visit Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area with its spouting hot springs, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. This tour immerses you in Icelandic history and breathtaking landscapes.
Dress in warm layers as weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Many tour operators offer pickups from hotels in Reykjavik.
Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Reykjavik after your day exploring the Golden Circle.
Explore options near your accommodation.
Consider trying Icelandic lamb or fresh seafood. Reservations might be helpful, especially on New Year's Day.
Join a private tour with a professional photographer to chase the elusive Northern Lights.
Maximize your chances of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon away from city lights.
Seeing the Northern Lights is weather-dependent. Dress extremely warmly, as you'll be outside for extended periods in cold temperatures. Tour operators typically provide updates on viewing conditions.
Experience the feeling of flight as you virtually soar over Iceland's stunning glaciers, fjords, and iconic landscapes with state-of-the-art technology.
A fantastic final overview of the country.
Located conveniently near the harbor. This activity is a great way to enjoy a last Icelandic experience without requiring extensive travel outside the city.
Travel from your accommodation in Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport (Keflavík, NOC) for your departure.
Consider pre-booking an airport transfer such as Flybus or Airport Direct, or a taxi for convenience and timeliness.
Allow ample time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding your international flight back home.
Ensure all necessary travel documents are easily accessible. Duty-free shopping is available after security.
This 7-day itinerary for Reykjavik, Iceland can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.