Iceland 7-Day Itinerary: West And South Coast Route

I knew Iceland was expensive, but I didn’t realize just how expensive until about 30 minutes after landing.

Our first taxi ride cost us $125… and yeah, that was a bit of a wake-up call.

BUT, even after that painful start, Iceland quickly became one of the most incredible places I’ve ever traveled to.

It’s wild, dramatic, and honestly unlike anywhere else. Waterfalls every few minutes, black sand beaches, glaciers, cliffs, geothermal madness… it just doesn’t stop.

And the best way to see it all? A road trip!

This 7-day Iceland itinerary focuses on the west and south of the country, giving you a mix of iconic highlights and a few lesser-known stops without trying to cram in everything.

It’s fast-paced but realistic, and perfect if it’s your first time visiting.

Iceland 7-Day Itinerary Overview: West And South Coast Route

This route starts and ends in Reykjavik (or Keflavik Airport), covering the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Reykjanes Peninsula, Golden Circle, and Iceland’s famous South Coast.

You’ll see some of the country’s most iconic landscapes while still having the flexibility to stop whenever something catches your eye… which will happen a lot.

• Total Time: Fast-paced 7 days (give yourselves 9 days to account for more stops/less rushed)
• Driving Style: Road trip (car or campervan)
• Route: Reykjavik → Snaefellsnes → Golden Circle → South Coast → Reykjanes → Reykjavik
• Pace: Moderate (a mix of driving + exploring)

This itinerary is best for travelers who want to see a lot without rushing through every stop on the Ring Road. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and actually enjoy the experience rather than just driving by spots.

Is This Iceland Itinerary Right For You

This route is a great fit if:

• You’re visiting Iceland for the first time
• You want a mix of popular sights and quieter stops
• You’re comfortable driving (or open to renting a campervan)
• You prefer flexibility over guided tours

It might not be ideal if you’re planning to explore the full Ring Road or want a super slow, relaxed trip with minimal driving.

Quick Reality Check Before You Go

Iceland is not a cheap destination, and things can add up fast if you’re not prepared.

Gas, food, parking, and accommodations all cost more than most people expect.

That said, doing this trip as a road trip, especially with a campervan, can make things easier and more flexible.

➡️ If you’re considering it, you can check campervan rental options here to compare prices and availability.

I didn’t mention EVERY single spot here, but listed the main ones. Click my guides below for more info on each area mentioned. Now let’s get into the actual itinerary.

Day 1: Reykjavik To Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Time to hit the road. Today’s drive takes you from Reykjavik up to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which packs a little bit of everything into one area.

• Kirkjufell – Yep, this is that mountain. It’s iconic, a bit overhyped, and still worth seeing. Just don’t be surprised when you realize the road runs right through the “perfect” photo spot.
• Londrangar Cliffs – This is where things get dramatic. Jagged cliffs, crashing waves, and wind that might try to take you out. One of the best stops of the day, hands down.

➡️ You’ll want your own wheels for this route. You can compare campervan and car rentals here before prices jump.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Hellissandur Campsite or Grundarfjörður Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options in Snaefellsnes.

Stay another night here or start heading south, depending on how you’re feeling.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Hellissandur Campsite or Grundarfjörður Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options in Snaefellsnes.

READ MORE: Snaefellsnes Peninsula In One Day (What To See + How To Plan)

Day 3: Snæfellsnes To Thingvellir (Scenic Drive Day)

Today is more about the drive than the stops. You’ll leave the peninsula and head toward the Golden Circle, with a few worthwhile detours along the way.

• Hraunfossar – This one’s different from your typical Iceland waterfall. Instead of one big drop, it’s a series of smaller streams flowing through lava rock. Super unique and an easy stop.
• Hvalfjörður Drive – You can take a tunnel and skip this… but don’t. The long way around the fjord is quiet, scenic, and one of those drives where you’ll want to pull over every five minutes.
• Thingvellir National Park – A major stop on the Golden Circle and actually worth it. This is where two tectonic plates meet, which is pretty wild to see in person. You can keep it quick or spend more time walking around depending on your energy.

Stay somewhere near the Golden Circle tonight to make tomorrow easier.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Skjól Campground or Uthlid Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options along the Golden Circle.

• Bruarfoss – This one takes a bit more effort to reach, but the bright blue water makes it stand out from every other waterfall you’ll see. It’s a bit of a mission, but worth it if you’re up for it.
• Gullfoss – One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. It’s big, powerful, and… yes, usually crowded. Still worth a quick stop, just don’t expect to have it to yourself.
• Geysir Area – Quick, easy stop to see Strokkur erupt every few minutes. Not life-changing, but fun and takes almost no effort.

➡️ If you haven’t booked your vehicle yet, this is where having your own setup really pays off. You can check campervan and car rental options here to compare what fits your trip best.

From here, start heading toward the South Coast. This is where the landscapes really start to ramp up.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Hamragarðar Campsite or Skógar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options in Vík.

READ MORE: Golden Circle Iceland Itinerary (Self-Drive Or Tour From Reykjavik)

Day 5: South Coast Waterfalls And Glacier

This is one of the best days of the entire trip. Big waterfalls, easy stops, and your first real taste of Iceland’s glaciers.

👉 NOT DRIVING? BEST TOUR: South Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour

• Seljalandsfoss – One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and yes, you can walk behind it. Expect crowds, expect to get wet, still worth it.
• Gljúfrabúi – Just a short walk away and somehow still missed by a ton of people. This one is tucked inside a canyon and easily one of the coolest waterfalls you’ll see. You will get soaked getting in, but that’s part of the fun.
• Skógafoss – Big, powerful, and impossible to miss. It’s right off the road and usually packed, but the size alone makes it worth stopping.
• Sólheimajökull Glacier – A short walk brings you right up to the glacier, and it’s honestly pretty wild to stand that close to it. If you’re not heading further east, this is a great glacier stop to include.

Stay near Vik tonight so you’re in a good spot for tomorrow.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Vík Campsite or Hamragarðar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options in Vík.

READ MORE: 8 Best South Coast Iceland Stops (From Reykjavik To Vík)

Day 6: Vik And The Black Sand Coast

Today is a bit more relaxed, with some of the most iconic coastal views in Iceland.

• Dyrhólaey – One of the best viewpoints on the South Coast. Cliffs, ocean, and sweeping views in every direction. Easy stop, big payoff.
• Reynisfjara Beach – The famous black sand beach with those wild basalt columns. It’s stunning, but also dangerous. Those waves are no joke, so keep your distance.
• Plane Crash – This one is a commitment. It’s about a 45-minute walk each way across a flat, windy stretch of land. Cool if you’re into it, but easy to skip if you’re short on time or patience.

➡️ Long driving days like this are exactly why having your own setup helps. You can compare campervan and car options here if you’re still deciding.

After exploring, start making your way back west to set yourself up for your final day.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Vík Campsite or Skógar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options in Vík.

• Blue Lagoon – Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. But it’s also a pretty relaxing way to end the trip if you’re into it. If not, skip it and save the money.
• Reykjanes Peninsula – This area is often overlooked, but it’s actually a great final stop. Lava fields, rugged coastline, and way fewer crowds than the rest of your trip.

If you’re flying out, head back to Keflavik Airport. If you’ve got extra time, spend a few hours in Reykjavik grabbing a good meal before calling it.

Where to stay:
Campervanning? Grindavík Campsite or Vogar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options near Keflavík/Reykjanes.

READ MORE: 7 Things To Do On The Reykjanes Peninsula Near Keflavík, Iceland Airport

Final Thoughts On This Iceland Itinerary

This 7-day Iceland itinerary is fast-paced, but it gives you a solid mix of the country’s best landscapes without trying to cram in the entire Ring Road.

You’ll hit waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, cliffs, and some quieter spots that most people skip.

Could you spend more time here? Easily. But if one week is what you’ve got, this is a pretty great way to do it.

➡️ If you’re planning this trip, having your own vehicle will make everything smoother. You can compare campervan and car rentals here to lock in the best option before prices climb.

Now go enjoy Iceland… and prepare your wallet.

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