3 Days in Iceland: The Perfect Self-Drive Itinerary
Got a long weekend and a serious craving for adventure? Iceland might be the most unforgettable way to spend those three precious days off.
You don’t need a guided tour or two weeks of PTO to make it happen. I planned my 3 days in Iceland while working full-time, and it was one of the most freeing, awe-inspiring weekends of my life.
This guide shows you exactly how to pull off a short but epic 3 day Iceland itinerary, from glaciers and waterfalls to flexible timing that works around your schedule. Let’s make your next long weekend unforgettable.
Day 1: Golden Circle Wonders
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular loop – and for good reason. It’s easily done in a day and offers four standout stops. With a rental car, you can skip the crowded tour buses and go at your own pace. It’s the perfect way to start your 3 days in Iceland – by seeing some of its natural wonders.
Þingvellir National Park
Iceland’s first parliament met here in 930 AD. It’s also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart. You can literally walk between two continents – it’s right at the start, just off the car park.
What To Do:
- Stroll through Almannagjá gorge and admire the stunning Icelandic scenery – I did this in March, and the ice set against the blue sky was just stunning
- Snorkel in Silfra fissure
- Learn about Viking history at the visitor centre
Top Tip:
- The national park is free, you just need to pay for car parking at the visitor centre – it’s 1,000 ISK (about £6), and you can pay cash or card. Or pay online.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Strokkur is the star here, erupting every 5 to 10 minutes. It shoots boiling water up to 20 metres in the air.
Top Tips:
- Stick to the paths (the ground is fragile and steaming!)
- Bring a windbreaker/snood – it gets gusty
- Have your camera ready – I recommend burst mode, but watch closely as the geysir erupts without much warning!
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss means “Golden Falls.” The Hvítá river drops in two tiers into a canyon. I found it loud and dramatic, but completely mesmerising.
Top Tips:
- Walk the lower path if it’s open to get close (and soaked!)
- On sunny days, look for rainbows in the mist
We watched Gulfoss from the higher path, and its sheer power was just amazing to witness.
Kerid Crater
This huge crater in the earth’s surface is another of Iceland’s natural wonders that can be seen on a Golden Circle self-drive tour.
Walk along the perimeter and then head down to the base for both aerial and ground-level views.
Top Tip:
- Pay the entry fee at the kiosk – it’s 600 ISK (about £3.65) per person
- You’ll see tourists walking on the icy surface in the winter months – don’t do this. The ice could be thin in places, and if you fall in you will struggle to warm up after. It’s also extremely dangerous.
Day 2: Reykjavik Exploration & Relaxation
After a full day of nature, spend a day soaking in city vibes and relaxing in hot springs. Even with only 3 days in Iceland, it’s still important to take time to rest and recharge.
Reykjavik City Highlights
Reykjavik is small, walkable and packed with charm. Or you can rent e-scooters and zip quickly between the main sights.
Sights To See:
- Hallgrímskirkja: Take the lift to the top for panoramic views – I thought this was well worth the 1,400 ISK (£8.50) fee.
- Laugavegur: Cute shops, cafes, and murals. I loved the colourful street art here!
- Harpa Concert Hall: Striking architecture on the harbour. Don’t miss the Sun Voyager sculpture too – it’s just a short walk along the coastline.
Museums To Try:
- National Museum of Iceland – great for learning about Viking history
- Icelandic Phallological Museum – a biological education, or maybe just a giggle!
- Reykjavik Lava Show – watch real molten lava being poured, right before your eyes!
Tastes of Iceland
Iceland has some amazing dishes to sample. From on -the-go snacks to hearty, warming meals, you’ll find something for every taste.
Local Eats I Loved:
- Icelandic hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – these are famous for a reason!
- Plokkfiskur (fish stew) – order this dish and warm yourself in a cosy café
- Soup in a bread bowl from Svarta Kaffið – I made sure a stop here was included in my 3 day Iceland itinerary, and I’m glad because it was so delicious, and filling!
Food Tour Idea: Join one through a local company and try 7 dishes in 3 hours – I would really recommend this activity if you’re a foodie, like me!
Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
Both lagoons are dreamy. The Blue Lagoon is iconic and more touristy. The Sky Lagoon is more modern and serene, with infinity pool vibes.
I did the Sky Lagoon on my last night – floating in hot water with a view of the ocean was the perfect end to our trip.
Booking Tip: Reserve online, as far in advance as you can. Especially in peak months or for the sunset slot.
Can’t decide between Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon? My blog post comparing the two will help you make the choice.
Day 3: Local Spectacles
Depending on your flight time, you may have time for one or two shorter activities that will give you one final lasting memory of Iceland.
Here are some ideas that are close to Keflavik Airport, so you won’t miss risking your flight.
Perlan Museum
Situated just outside of Reykjavic centre, Perlan Museum is a great way to learn more about the land of ice and fire.
Its stunning glass domed roof houses a cafe, and you can walk outside on the top floor to admire the beautiful aerial view over the city.
But my favourite feature was its ice cave. Sadly, 3 days in Iceland isn’t enough time to reach some of Iceland’s natural ice caves and do much else. But this was a fun, miniature taste of what it’s like to walk through one. There’s an ice throne too, which makes for a great photo opportunity!
Vogar Coastal Walk
One of my favourite activities on my own three-day Iceland itinerary was walking along the pebbled beach from Vogar.
We followed the coastline up to the lighthouse. And while the wind was harsh and the temperature sub zero, the views were just beautiful.
This was the perfect way to get some fresh Atlantic air and clear my head ahead of my flight
Bridge Between Continents
This is a great final stop on your 3 day Iceland itinerary, before you reach the international airport.
Park for free, then walk across a wooden bridge that connects the European and American plates of the earth.
We ventured below the bridge to stack rocks in the sand. With the low winter sun, this area was really other-worldly!
Planning Your Independent 3 Day Iceland Trip
Travelling Iceland without joining tours saves money and gives you control over your itinerary and timings.
Renting a Car
Driving in Iceland is super easy – the roads are simple and traffic is minimal. The country roads are wide and open, and the views are fantastic.
And renting a car is a really cost-effective way of getting around – especially as transfers, taxis and tours can be expensive in Iceland.
We paid around £150 for car hire for our 3 day Iceland itinerary, which was a bargain. And we loved being able to sightsee on our own terms and without following a crowd.
What to Know:
- Book in advance for better rates – I recommend Ppaam Ppaam for comparing deals and even improving on the price of any existing bookings. They’ll also warn you about less reputable hirers.
- Summer: A two-wheel-drive is fine in the milder months
- Winter: Definitely book a four-wheel-drive for safety when there’s snow and ice on the ground
- Get full insurance cover with gravel, wind and ash insurance (just trust me on this one!)
Driving Tips:
- Check road.is daily for closures and weather updates
- Driving is on the right in Iceland – it’s amazing how quickly you adjust
- You must always drive with your headlights – no matter what time of day or night, or how light or dark it is
- Download the area to Google Maps before you depart, then you can navigate even if you don’t have data or cellular coverage
Where to Stay
We chose to stay in this beautiful apartment just out of Reykjavik, in Vogar. It was dark and peaceful, which was perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of our private hot tub!
Plus, having our own kitchen saved us money, as we could prepare lunch and hot drinks for days out. We could also wash and re-wear our clothes, so we didn’t need to pay luggage upgrade fees.
Check availability and book your stay, before someone else does!
Other Options I Recommend:
- Reykjavik guesthouse: A great city base with free parking
- Farm stay near Vik: Peaceful and closer to the second day sights, plus it offers electric vehicle charging
Booking Tip: Use Booking.com or Vrbo. Book early for high season.
What to Pack
Here’s a quick round-up of what essentials to take for your 3 days in Iceland. Believe me, you don’t need as much as you think!
Must-Haves:
- Layers: Wool base, fleece, waterproof shell
- Waterproof hiking boots (even for short walks)
- Swimsuit for spas
- Power bank for phone – cold weather drains your battery fast! I use this one and it’ has been excellent
Optional:
- Waterproof rucksack cover for wet days and waterfall visits
- Reusable water bottle (Icelandic water is pristine!)
Check out my full Iceland packing list blog post for the full list of must-have luggage items that you can fit in an underseat bag (plus free downloadable PDF checklist). Or view all my recommended products in my Amazon Storefront.
Your Icelandic Adventure Awaits
Three days in Iceland is enough to fall in love with it. From erupting geysers to watching real flowing lava, you’ll pack in so much beauty and freedom. You don’t need a tour to experience it all. Just a car, a plan and a sense of adventure.
If you loved this itinerary, you might also enjoy my budget tips for Iceland or my Iceland bucket list guide for even more inspiration.
Set the goal. Make the plan. Take the trip!
