The way I see it, you really need to visit Iceland at least twice in your lifetime – once in the winter and once in the summer.  This is a country that will never be a one-and-done for you, and that is because different seasons offer very different experiences. That said, I’ve created an itinerary for how to spend 6 perfect days in Iceland.

I believe that you really only need about 6 days to do the south of Iceland in winter, and I would stick to the south of Iceland simply because of the country’s weather conditions.  Even if you’re avoiding the most severe winter storms, you will still encounter pretty bad weather at this time of year.

When trying to determine when in “winter” to visit, I strongly suggest looking at March. This is the best month to visit because you’ll still be able to do all of the standard winter activities but there is less of a chance to be caught in the most brutal of snow storms during the last month of the season. (This could still happen but it’s less likely.)

Winter in Iceland is harsh and traveling north can be risky and problematic unless you are able to take a very long holiday and can spare a day here and there for road closures and bad weather conditions.  If you have flexibility in your schedule, then by all means circle the entire country! If you do not have flexibility, then it’s best to stick to the south, which is really where the bulk of the winter activities are anyway.  (I also recommend reading my post on Driving in Iceland if you’re planning on renting your own car.)

DAY 1 – Arrive to Reykjavík

Depending on when your flight lands, I would plan to go directly to Iceland’s capital.  Here I would spend the night in a hotel and check out some of the city’s main sights. I would also definitely buy a traditional hand sewn Icelandic sweater (it’s COLD in Iceland and these sweaters are not only a fantastic souvenir but they are also incredibly warm).  Do as much as you can in this first day because you won’t be coming back to Reykjavík.

DAY 2 – Drive the Golden Circle

After you’ve finished doing everything you want to in Reykjavík, hit the road and head to the “Golden Circle” area.  The Golden Circle refers to 3 tourist highlights that can be seen in Thingvellir National Park – the first geyser ever discovered, where the tectonic plates converge, and the Gullfoss waterfall.  It’s also home to the Secret Lagoon (a natural hot spring).  Take your time and once you’ve finished, consider spending the night near Selfoss.

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DAY 3 – Visit Waterfalls on the Way to Vik

Wake up early the next morning and begin your quest to see three of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland: Urriðafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss (in that order). Make sure you bring waterproof boots/shoes for Seljalandsfoss and take the short path along the side of the cliff to the Gljúfrabúi waterfall (which is another spectacular waterfall back inside the canyon). Once you are done, visit the famous black stone beach, Reynisfjara.  Spend the night in Vik.

DAY 4 – Blue Ice Cave Adventure

Look into a one-day blue ice cave adventure with a tour company such as Glacier Adventures.  This is one of the main reasons to come to Iceland in the winter. The glaciers in Iceland are breathtaking and wondrous! Inside they are made of the most incredible blue ice you will ever see in your life.  These tours can last anywhere from 4 hours to a half day, depending on if you want to hike on top of the glacier.  This may just be the most perfect of your perfect 6 days in Iceland.

Once you have finished your glacier tour, head over to the famous Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon and Diamond Beach, before concluding your day. Spend the night either back in Vik or in Hof (nearby the lagoon).

DAY 5 – Head back to Grindavik

This will be the worst day of driving, as you backtrack toward Iceland’s main airport.  Take your time to stop along the way for pictures of the majestic scenery.  Spend the night in Grindavik which is close to the Blue Lagoon and the airport. 

Depending on what time you arrive to Grindavik and what time your flight is the following day, make a reservation for the Blue Lagoon.  This is the perfect way to end your visit to Iceland. Plan on spending at least 3-4 hours here as there is much to do and it’s incredibly relaxing.

DAY 6 – Fly Home

BONUS: Hunt the Northern Lights

Make your 6 perfect days in Iceland EVEN better by adding in a hunt for the Northern Lights. March is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of the infamous light show.  While there is never a guarantee that you will see them, there is always a chance.  I recommend downloading the “Hello Aurora” app and checking it regularly. All you need to see the lights is a clear sky and no light pollution (or city lights).  It’s best to drive a little bit aways from your hotel so you don’t have any extra light in your photos and just wait.  The app will tell you the best time of night to see them based on your location.  You should try every night that you are in Iceland!

I hope you found this itinerary helpful.  Have you been to Iceland?  What would you consider a “must-do” during the winter? Let me know in the comments section!

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