Introduction: Why Iceland? Because Few Other Places in the World Feels This Wild
Landing in Iceland feels a bit like stepping into a mixture of a science fiction and fantasy novel written by Mother Nature, after she downed three espressos and decided to get creative. You’ve got glaciers that sparkle like diamonds, volcanoes that rumble with ancient fury, and landscapes so otherworldly you half expect elves or trolls to pop out of the moss-covered lava rocks.
For any traveler craving serious adventure, raw nature, and the chance to soak in steaming geothermal pools while putting on silica or algae lotion on your skin, Iceland delivers like few other places on the planet. Plus, if you only have five days to explore, you’ve got enough time to hit the iconic spots, get your feet wet in the Blue Lagoon (literally), and chase waterfalls without feeling like you’re in a frantic race against the sun, because in the spring and summer, you’re looking at 18–22-hour days. This is the land of the ‘Midnight Sun’ and it’s worth taking advantage of.
Here’s how I spent my first trip to Iceland recently with five fun-packed days navigating this land of ice and fire, from my arrival at Keflavik Airport straight into the bubbling blue waters of the ‘Blue Lagoon’, to road-tripping through magical peninsulas and finally unwinding in Reykjavik’s quirky urban buzz. Strap in as your Icelandic itinerary just got an upgrade from me.
Day 1: Touchdown at Keflavik + Blue Lagoon Bliss
Welcome to Iceland and Prepare for Jaw-Dropping First Impressions
Your plane lands at Keflavik International Airport early in the morning or in the afternoon, about 40 minutes southwest of Reykjavik, and the moment you step outside, the air hits you with a crispness that feels like a clean reset button for your lungs. The air is very dry yet pleasant as you are breathing in the crisp air that gives you a relaxed sensation. It’s early morning when I arrived from Washington DC, and I really want to stretch my legs and relax in geothermal bliss after not catching much sleep on the plane ride over.
Pro tip: If you want a local SIM card to keep your Google Maps and Spotify alive, grab one here. Siminn and Vodafone kiosks are easy to find in the arrivals hall. For about $30-$40 USD, you get data and calls for the whole trip, which beats hunting for WIFI in tiny towns later. As a backup choice, I also recommend looking into purchasing an eSIM with Airalo, a popular vendor for getting the right data plan in five minutes or less and avoiding a stop at the airport kiosk. (No official sponsorship here from these brands, just quality advice that’s worked for me on my trip.)
Quick Pit Stop, Then Straight to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is basically Iceland’s celebrity spa, where you pay a premium to float in milky-blue geothermal waters that are supposedly packed with skin-healing minerals. It’s the perfect introduction to the Icelandic vibe: part natural wonder, part indulgence, and 100% unforgettable.
Booking ahead is non-negotiable, especially during high tourist season, which goes from May to October in my view. I snagged an early afternoon slot which turned out to be the sweet spot: fewer crowds, softer light, and the water wasn’t too cold when you get out. At the lagoon, you can buy a waterproof phone case there for some artsy shots, but be warned, the silica-rich water kills electronics faster than you can say “Eyjafjallajökull.”
The lagoon itself feels like a hot tub on steroids, warm, welcoming, and surrounded by jagged black lava rocks that look like the set of a sci-fi movie. There’s even a swim-up bar if you’re feeling fancy (and by fancy, I mean $10 beer and $12 sparkling wine served mid-soak).
While I really enjoyed my visit to the lagoon and it was not too crowded, I enjoyed the variety in terms of being able to check out the sauna, the steam room, and a cold plunge or two to make it a festival of experiences for your body to really unwind and feel refreshed again.
Where to Stay After Your Blue Lagoon Soak
Post-soak and feeling like a new man after 2-3 hours at the lagoon, I headed to Reykjavik to crash at a cozy hostel in the city center. If you are curious about which one I stayed at, please send me a message to ben@worldofweinberg.com and I would be happy to give you the recommendation! Reykjavik is a small and colorful city with real character where Scandinavian minimalism meets Viking charm along with some modern-day street art. Perfect for winding down but still close enough to dive into local cuisine the next day.
Day 2: Discovering the Mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Why Snæfellsnes? The Ultimate “Iceland in Miniature” Experience
If Iceland had a greatest hits album, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula would be one of the top singles. Nestled about two and a half hours northwest of Reykjavik, this slice of the country packs glaciers, black sand beaches, quaint fishing villages, volcanic peaks, and even a mysterious glacier-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.
The day started early, as I joined EastWest Tours at 8 AM sharp for this day on a small group tour via van, which is one of Iceland’s most reputable tour companies, and set out toward Snæfellsnes with a playlist mixing Sigur Rós and some classic road trip tunes playing in my ears as we headed towards our first stop.
Stop 1: Kirkjufell — The Mountain Every Instagrammer Dreams Of
About halfway into the peninsula (1-2 hours), you hit Kirkjufell, the cone-shaped mountain that’s probably the most photographed in Iceland. It’s easy to see why as it’s perfectly pointed peak rises sharply over a small waterfall, making it postcard-perfect at every angle.
We parked at the small lot and took a short hike up for panoramic views. Pro tip: If you want to snap the mountain reflecting in the pond at sunrise or sunset, remember to plan. The golden hour here feels like magic, so much so that people have been known to camp nearby just to catch the sunset, even if it’s at midnight.
Stop 2: Ytri Tunga and Djúpalónssandur – Welcome to Iceland’s Black Sand Beaches
Next up was visiting Ytri Tunga and Djúpalónssandur, both black pebble beaches that look straight out of a Viking saga. Both beaches were wild, windy, and eerie with rusted remains of a shipwreck scattered along the shore at Djúpalónssandur. I challenged myself to lift the “lifting stones,” ancient Viking test stones meant to measure strength. Turns out, I’m no Thor, but the vibe was incredible. A unique highlight at Ytri Tunga was seeing the big seals sunning themselves on some of the rocks on the beach to enjoy some peace and maybe catch some fish.
A short walk along the beach, I breathed in salty ocean air and marveled at the basalt rock formations that looked like giant, petrified waves frozen in time.
Stop 3: Hellnar Village & Coastal Hikes
Stopping at Hellnar, a tiny village with colorful houses perched on cliffs, it was recommended to the group I was with to hike the nearby coastal trail to Arnarstapi. The hike was easy, about 3 kilometers, hugging the cliffs with crashing waves below and surreal lava formations dotting the path including some unique rock formations.
Along the trail, you find Gatklettur, which is a massive natural stone archway framing the ocean like a postcard window. Perfect spot for a photo break and some quiet reflection. If you have time, make sure to check out the famous tiny wooden church dating back to the 19th century nearby, known as Búðakirkja, which has some beautiful views of the coastline and has stunning views of snowcapped mountains in the distance.
Stop 4: Homemade Lunch at a Local Farm
After a morning of exploring the stark, otherworldly beauty of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, our group rolled into Lýsuhóll horse farm, nestled at the foot of moss-covered lava fields and snow-dusted mountains. The air was crisp, the Icelandic horses and ponies stood proudly in the fields, and inside the cozy farmhouse, the scent of a home-cooked meal welcomed us like a warm embrace.
EastWest Tours had arranged a special lunch for us here, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable meals of the trip. No frills, no fanfare, with just honest, Icelandic cooking straight from the farm.
We sat at long wooden tables while the hosts brought out perfectly baked fish, most likely cod or Arctic char—so tender it flaked at the touch of a fork. It was seasoned simply but beautifully, letting the freshness speak for itself. Alongside it came buttery boiled potatoes, a staple of Icelandic cuisine, and a medley of root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, string beans, and much more.
There was also delicious homemade bread, still warm, with Icelandic butter rich enough to make you forget your manners, and a tangy, creamy skyr-based sauce that elevated every bite. The meal was wholesome, hearty, and clearly made with care. And somehow, it tasted better for being shared with strangers-turned-friends in a place so quietly magical.
The lunch wasn’t just about the food to me, but it was the setting, the authenticity, the connection to the land and the people that made it a memorable one. A little Icelandic hospitality, a lot of flavors, and the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the plates are cleared.
Wrap-Up: Why Snæfellsnes Feels Like the Real Iceland
The drive back to Reykjavik was quieter after a long day exploring the peninsula. The sun was hanging low in the sky, and the landscape lit with that soft, diffused glow Iceland is famous for. Snæfellsnes Peninsula felt like a highlight reel of everything that makes Iceland unforgettable: rugged, remote, beautiful, and just a little bit mysterious.
Day 3: South Coast Rent-a-Car Adventure: Waterfalls, Beaches & Black Sands
Why Renting a Car is the Move on the South Coast
If Day 2 was about discovering Iceland’s mini greatest hits, Day 3 cranks that up to full-on road warrior status. Renting a car and hitting the South Coast is basically your all-access pass to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders with no tour bus shuffling required.
I picked up my rental early (tip: book ahead and get a 4×4 if you want to feel like a legit Viking but in this case, I was given a Range Rover Defender, a hulking beast of an SUV, but which is a hybrid vehicle, accepting both petrol and electric charge), stocked up on snacks (you’ll want fuel for both your body and your alertness), and hit the road from Reykjavik with zero regrets. Driving in Iceland requires a bit of skill due to the unpredictable weather but if you’ve ever handled driving in traffic in a major city or in tempestuous climates, Iceland is quite the breeze by comparison for drivers given its respectful drivers, easy to follow signs, and small population.
Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss: Walk Behind the Waterfall if You Want to Get Wet
The first major stop for me was Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall with a killer trick: you can walk behind it. It’s like nature’s own curtain call. Pro tip: waterproof gear is a must, or you’ll end up soaked like you jumped in the pool fully clothed. The trail behind the falls is slippery but manageable, and the view looking out through the cascading water is something you won’t forget anytime soon.
Stop 2: Skógafoss: Power and Pictures at an Iconic Waterfall
Next, just 30 minutes down the road, is Skógafoss, a thunderous, 60-meter waterfall that’s basically the poster child for Icelandic waterfalls. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the stairs to the viewing platform at the top for a sweeping panorama of the south coast. Bonus points if you catch a rainbow in the mist, totally common here and totally magical.
Stop 3: Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Further east, the rugged cliffs of Dyrhólaey offer incredible views and keep an eye out for puffins if you’re visiting between May and August. Just a short drive away is Reynisfjara, Iceland’s legendary black sand beach. Warning: the waves here are no joke, often called sneaker waves for their ability to catch you off guard and drag you into the icy sea. Respect the signs, keep your distance, and just soak in the otherworldly beauty of those basalt columns rising from the shore and if the sun’s out, you’ll see rocks glistening in the light of the bright skies. Truly memorable and well worth the trip alone.
Optional Stop 4: Vik – The Cozy Coastal Town
After all the natural landscapes, Vik is a great place to pause if you have some energy left over from a busy day on the South Coast. From what I have heard, this tiny town punches well above its weight with great food options, charming shops, and a church perched on a hill with a killer view over the town and coastline. Unfortunately, I was not able to make this stop myself due to being pressed for time that day, but I bet it is a good choice to grab lunch or dinner there before heading back to Reykjavik to drop off your rental vehicle.
Optional Stop 5: Hike and Explore Sólheimajökull Glacier
Before you head back and drop the car back at the rental company in Reykjavik, If you’re feeling adventurous and want to splurge, consider booking a glacier hike or ice cave tour at the Sólheimajökull Glacier. At Sólheimajökull Glacier, I stood face-to-face with one of Iceland’s rawest wonders, a frozen giant streaked with black volcanic ash and blue ice veins. The wind bit at my cheeks as I hiked along its edge, the creaking glacier beneath my feet a reminder of both its power and fragility. It felt like walking on the edge of another planet as it was wild, surreal, and unforgettable. The blue ice caves nearby (seasonal) are like entering a frozen cathedral. I didn’t do it this time but it’s on my list for the next trip to Iceland.
Day 4: The Golden Circle — Iceland’s Legendary Loop
What’s the Big Deal About Exploring the Golden Circle?
Day 4 is all about ticking off Iceland’s famous trio of natural wonders and trust me, they’re worth it. The Golden Circle route is manageable in a day, making it perfect for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with some creature comforts (like restaurants and visitor centers).
I left Reykjavik early with GetYourGuide Tours this time and set my sights on the Golden Circle tour.
Stop 1: Þingvellir – Where You Can Walk Between Continents
Þingvellir is the spot where two massive tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian, are literally pulling apart. Walking through this rift valley is like pacing the fault line of the Earth itself. Plus, Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament; talk about history with a view. Take your time wandering the trails, dipping your toes into the crystal-clear waters of Silfra (if you’re a diver or snorkeler), or just soaking in the vastness of the rugged landscape.
Stop 2: Geysir Geothermal Area – When the Earth Burps
Next up was the Geysir geothermal field, home of the original geyser that gave its name to all others worldwide. The star of the show is Strokkur, which reliably shoots boiling water 20–40 meters into the air every 5–10 minutes. It’s the perfect excuse to practice your camera’s burst mode while dodging unexpected splashes. There’s also a small visitor center and souvenir shops where you can grab that “I survived the Geysir” T-shirt, if that’s your vibe.
Stop 3: Gullfoss Waterfall – The Golden Falls
Just a short drive away is Gullfoss, a massive two-tiered waterfall that crashes into a rugged canyon, and my favorite stop on the Golden Circle circuit. The sheer power of the water and the roar echoing around the canyon made me feel both tiny and ridiculously lucky to be there. There are well-maintained paths and viewing platforms, so you can get up close without risking a swim in the glacial waters or getting wet from the massive water cascading to the ground.
Optional Detour: The Secret Lagoon
If you want to break the nature overload and would like to rest up in Iceland’s oldest lagoon, you should visit the ‘secret lagoon’ during your Golden Circle travel day. If you want to swap out or supplement your Blue Lagoon experience, the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) in Flúðir is a must-visit. It may not be so ‘secret’ anymore, but this oldest and most historic lagoon and natural geothermal pool have been used by locals and tourists alike since the early 1930s.
The historic photos, inscriptions, and the sheer amount of geothermal energy produced by this place make it a worthy pit stop on your way to and from the main stops on this popular day trip through some of Iceland’s most famous sites. Also, unlike the Blue Lagoon’s manicured luxury, the Secret Lagoon is raw, rustic, and relaxed, more like a local hangout than a resort with fine dining.
The water temperature while you soak it all in is comfortably warm, and the surrounding steam vents and bubbling pools create an authentic geothermal vibe. No swim-up bars, no fancy silica masks, just pure and steamy relaxation. It’s especially great if you’re chasing a more budget-friendly, low-key Icelandic hot spring experience that still packs a punch during your stay.
Secret Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: What’s the Difference in the Vibe?
- Atmosphere: Blue Lagoon is Instagram-famous and commercialized: think luxury spa vibes with high-end amenities and a crowd. Secret Lagoon is intimate, natural, and chill.
- Cost: Blue Lagoon tickets often cost upwards of $80–$140 USD (depending on the ticket / package you choose), while the Secret Lagoon is more affordable (around $30–$40 USD), making it great for travelers on a budget.
- Location: Blue Lagoon is closer to Keflavik Airport, perfect for first or last-day visits. Secret Lagoon is deeper into the Golden Circle, a natural stop on this sightseeing route.
- Experience: Blue Lagoon’s milky blue waters are rich in silica and algae, great for skin, but more crowded in the high tourist season. Secret Lagoon’s waters feel more “natural” with steam vents and geothermal features right around you along with a cold plunge nearby and a kiddie-sized pool for children to enjoy.
Day 5: Exploring Reykjavik — Culture, Coffee, and Concerts
Morning Stroll: Hallgrimskirkja & City Vibes
Back in Reykjavik for my last day and needing to rest my legs a bit after four straight days of adventure, I started with the city’s iconic landmark, Hallgrimskirkja church. This towering structure looks like a futuristic spaceship or a frozen waterfall, depending on your mood. The elevator takes you up to the observation deck where you get a 360-degree view of Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops framed by mountains and sea.
Lunch and People-Watching in the Old Harbor
I wandered down to the Old Harbor area, now a hipster hotspot full of cafes, galleries, and quirky shops. Grabbing a coffee at one of the many independent cafés was a must, and of course, you must try the legendary Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand, a small, humble cart that’s been serving since 1937. The verdict? Surprisingly delicious, especially with the classic condiments: raw onion, crispy fried onion, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade. Not quite a Michelin star restaurant, but a true Icelandic experience. Pro tip: make sure to order one of your hot dogs with everything for the full culinary delight.
Afternoon Vibes: Harpa Concert Hall Tour or Live Show
For a perfect cultural finish to cap off my trip to the land of fire and ice, I explored the Harpa Concert Hall during the afternoon. While I was not able to book a tour that day, I do know that they offer them in the Summertime to visitors beginning in June. I would recommend booking a guided tour of Harpa Concert Hall in advance, partly for the cultural experience, but also because of how it is such a beautiful and striking glass building by the harbor that looks like a crystal honeycomb reflecting both the sea and sky. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but if you can snag tickets for a live show or concert in the evening, even better, which was my plan B.
I caught an incredible local orchestral performance on a Monday night that felt intimate and world-class at the same time by a talented group of Icelandic and other European musicians. It was a fun affair that was spontaneous, enjoyable, and budget-friendly. Cultural experiences like seeing a great concert in another country remind me of the beauty of travel and why I do what I do. Bonus tip: there’s a rooftop bar with great views, ideal for a final Icelandic toast before setting off on your journey home. Skal! and I hope you enjoy Iceland as much as I did one day!
My Final Thoughts and Tips for First-Time Travelers in Iceland (Spring/Summer Edition):
- Pack for all seasons, every day: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even in the summer, expect wind, rain, sun, and maybe a snowflake or two. Layering is your best friend, think an umbrella, windproof jacket, waterproof boots, and a warm hat and gloves.
- Book ahead, always: From Blue Lagoon tickets to rental cars and accommodations, Iceland’s tourism has exploded in popularity. Lock in your plans early, especially if you’re traveling May through September.
- Fuel up on snacks and gas in advance: Services outside Reykjavik can get sparse. Gas stations double as mini marts but stock up when you can as you’ll want water and granola bars for those epic drives. If you’re a coffee drinker, get one to go if you’re leaving the city on a bus tour or in a rental car.
- Respect the nature and locals: Icelanders take their environment seriously so please stick to marked trails, don’t drive off-road, and be mindful of fragile moss and landscapes that take decades to grow. Never litter and be mindful of depositing trash and recycling.
- Watch those sneaker (sneakier) waves: Beaches like Reynisfjara can be deadly if you are not careful or observant. Never turn your back on the ocean and obey all warning signs. It’s good to take photos of the unique black sand beaches but don’t get too close to the water or you may get swept out to sea! They call them ‘sneaker’ waves for a reason!
- Plan your days around the extra daylight: In spring and summer, the sun barely sets in Iceland so you can pack in more to your day like I did but be careful not to burn out. Use the long daylight hours to your advantage but prioritize rest too. This is especially the case when you’ll want to save up your energy for exploring the many bars, restaurants, and cultural events that Reykjavik has to offer or in enjoying other nighttime activities that you can enjoy after relaxing at your hotel or hostel.
- Stay connected but unplug too to get the most out of your trip: Having mobile data is handy but I recommend taking the time to disconnect and soak in the moment. Iceland’s magic is in the quiet spaces and in the peaceful surroundings that this country brings to each visitor.
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