Your Guide to 48 Hours in Iceland - Iceland Car Rental
Iceland’s expansive landscapes, enchanting culture, and unique geological makeup have gained it a reputation as a top travel destination in the last decade or so. People travel from all over the world to explore this Nordic island, and it’s also a popular destination for an extra-long stopover. If you’re planning to spend just a short amount of time in Iceland, fear not - there are still plenty of ways to experience the best the country has to offer, especially if you follow our tips on how to make the most out of spending 48 hours in Iceland.
We’d absolutely recommend renting a car when in Iceland. This allows you the flexibility to get out and explore on your own, and also keep to your own timetable. If you’re trying to see as much as possible in Iceland within just two days, it’s vital that you can move at your own pace, and our fleet of cars offers the perfect solution, no matter your plans.
Can You See Iceland in 2 Days?
While 2 days isn’t enough to see all of Iceland, or even to embark upon a road trip of the iconic Ring Road, you can have a fantastic experience in a short amount of time in Iceland. 2 days will allow you to see some of the most popular and stunning attractions to give you a real taste of what the country is like. Our itinerary for spending a weekend in Iceland will help you plan your time accordingly so that you can see the sights, sample the food, and meet the people of this unforgettable destination.
If you are keen for a more adventurous trip, such as visiting the Highlands of Iceland or exploring the entire Ring Road, a longer stay might be necessary. This is simply due to the size of the island and the time it takes to fully enjoy all the natural highlights that a longer road trip has to offer!
Is 2 Days Enough To Explore Reykjavík?
Many people traveling from the United States choose Reykjavík as their stopover location. The city is compact and walkable, and full of curious wonders and eateries to discover. The museums, galleries, and charming cafes are more than enough to keep you occupied for 48 hours without feeling the need to take to the open road!
Is 2 Days Enough To Explore the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is an iconic road trip route near the capital comprising 3 major attractions in southern Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. There are also a number of smaller but fascinating spots that are well worth your time. 2 days is a comfortable amount of time to hit up the main attractions and spend the time that you want at each one to enjoy it.
What To Do in 2 Days in Iceland?
To get a real feel for Iceland in just 2 days, we suggest mixing up your plans. Focus on seeing the city of Reykjavík, and also make sure you escape the capital into the countryside a bit so that you can witness the natural beauty of Iceland. We’ve put together our top choices for the sights you simply just have to see if you’re spending 2 days in Iceland!
Got some extra time? Explore our recommendations for 3 days in Iceland.
Day 1: Discover Reykjavík and the Golden Circle
Morning
Start your day with breakfast in Reykjavík.
The city is well known for excellent coffee and pastries, so why not head to a local bakery or cafe to sample the local goods before beginning to explore the city?
Take a Walking Tour of Reykjavík
There are many organized walking tours of the city, but you can also wander on your own. The size of Reykjavík makes it easy to explore on foot without getting overwhelmed or lost. Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Hallgrímskirkja Church for panoramic city views, a stroll along Rainbow Street and Laugavegur for shopping and sightseeing, before finishing up with a walk along the seafront to take in the stunning coastal views.
Afternoon & Evening
Enjoy a Golden Circle Adventure
After exploring the city, hop in your rental car or join a Golden Circle tour. This compact circular road trip begins just 40 minutes outside of Reykjavík and includes some of the top sights in Iceland. On the itinerary, you will find Thingvellir National Park, where you can see Iceland’s original parliament location and walk between tectonic plates at the amazing Almannagjá Gorge.
Then, head on to Geysir Geothermal Area, where you can wander among bubbling mud pots and watch Strokkur, the geyser, erupt every few minutes. For your last stop, enjoy the power of the double-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. Before heading back to Reykjavík for the evening (or wherever you’re planning to spend the night), enjoy a unique tomato-themed dining experience at Fridheimar, a restaurant you’ll never forget! Looking for more ideas? Discover the best things to do in Reykjavík.
Day 2: Explore Iceland’s South Coast
Morning
A Morning of Waterfall Exploration
Plan for a busy day of exploring Iceland’s wonderful South Coast. Make an early start and head to Seljalandsfoss, a famous waterfall that you can walk behind after a brief hike. This is an unforgettable experience and makes for some amazing photo opportunities. After exploring Seljalandsfoss, head further along the road to your second destination: Skógafoss.
This imposing waterfall is another of Iceland’s most famous, and it’s remarkably convenient to get to and explore. There’s a nearby parking lot so that you can get close without having to hike to the falls. There’s also a 400-step staircase next to the falls. Climb to the top for jaw-dropping panoramic views of the surrounding area, including mountains and the Skóga River.
Afternoon & Evening
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach & Lunch in Vik
Iceland is famous for its black sand beaches, and Reynisfjara is one of the best-known. Wander the shoreline, admire unique basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks, and take some time to snap photos. It’s very important that you don’t get in the water or put yourself in a situation where you might find trouble. Reynisfjara is notorious for being dangerous, thanks to sudden and large waves that can appear without warning, surging much further onto the beach than expected. If you’re standing too close, you could get swept away. Always stay 100 feet away from the waves or more when exploring the area. Never enter the water - the waters at this beach are known for deadly rip currents and undertows, which can sweep even the most experienced swimmers out to sea.
After spending some time exploring the beach, head into nearby Vik for lunch. We’d recommend Vikurskáli, a local diner offering traditional Icelandic fare. It’s the perfect stop for a quick meal before continuing on your adventures.
Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
For the ultimate Icelandic experience, join a guided glacier walk tour of Sólheimajökull Glacier. Get to understand the mighty glaciers of Iceland by learning about ice formations, crevasses, and amazing colored ice. You’ll see dramatic landscapes and learn tons of interesting things from your tour guide. All safety equipment would be supplied through your tour.
Return Drive with Stops
Head back to Reykjavík after a full day of exploring, but make sure to appreciate the sights on the way. Don’t miss the views at Dyrhólaey viewpoint, where you can see amazing rock formations, archways, birdlife, and stunning views over a volcanic beach.
Experience the Blue Lagoon
Mark your final night in Iceland with an authentic spa experience at the Blue Lagoon. Located just outside of Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon offers a number of treatments and options for those looking to treat themselves.
2 days in Iceland is just enough time to pack in some of the best sights and experiences the island has to offer. And a hire car is the best way to make the most of your time! Browse our modern fleet of rental cars today for affordable and hassle-free rentals.
If you’re only here for 48 hours, that’s fine too! Discover our tips for spending 2 days in Iceland.
