As an Iceland elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor and privilege to witness some of the most incredible love stories unfold in this stunning landscape. I’ve explored many corners across the country to help couples find the perfect elopement location and fun adventures to include during their trip here. 

You’re most likely not coming all this way here just for a quick elopement. You come to experience as much of Iceland’s magic as possible! So whether you’re here for a long weekend or a couple of weeks, there’s endless possibilities for an adventure. 

In my Iceland Elopement Guide, we covered how to get oriented and choose the perfect location for your special day, among other details. Now, let’s dive deeper into the Iceland Road Trip Itinerary! This itinerary will be the perfect continuation of your elopement adventure and help you make the most of your stay!

Why is a Road Trip the Perfect Elopement Adventure?

As you know, eloping isn’t just about saying your vows, especially if you plan to do that in an amazing destination like Iceland. The country is an adventurer’s paradise, so what better way to experience all the beauty than by hitting the road? Iceland’s famous Ring Road (Route 1) loops around the island, connecting you with glaciers, fjords, waterfalls, and volcanoes. Driving around gives you the freedom to stop and explore wherever you’d like. You’ll most likely need to rent a car to get around anyway, so why not make a whole trip out of it?

Traveling at your own pace allows you to discover hidden gems, enjoy scenic detours, and truly embrace the vastness of Iceland. And trust me, every turn will bring you something incredible. From volcanic deserts to glacier-filled valleys, each region has its own distinct vibe. I promise you, you’ll LOVE it!

How to Plan Your Iceland Road Trip Itinerary 

To help you with planning, I’ve broken down the key regions of where to stay and stops you should add to your itinerary. Depending on your time, you can do the entire Ring Road in 7–12 days or focus on specific regions if you have less time. Either way, this road trip will give you access to Iceland’s most breathtaking sights.

If you choose me as your Iceland elopement photographer, helping you plan a trip custom to what you’re looking for is part of the package! But until then, this should give you a good idea of what your trip could look like!

Main Hubs to Stay in Iceland

When planning your Iceland elopement road trip, choosing the right place to stay can make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Depending on the spots you’d like to visit, your “home base” will offer easy access to nearby highlights and give you a comfy place to return to and recharge. 

Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital and largest city, Reykjavik, is often the first stop for travelers flying into the country. It’s known for its colorful houses, lively art scene, and incredible dining options, but it is also the gateway to some of the country’s most popular natural attractions.

Why Stay Here:

• It’s the ideal starting point for exploring the Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Strokkur Geysir. These are must-see sights and can easily be done as a day trip from the city.
• Reykjavik is also close enough to the Blue Lagoon, where you can soak in its iconic milky-blue geothermal waters, perfect for relaxing before or after your elopement.
• In the city itself, you’ll love exploring its cozy cafes, incredible restaurants, and unique shops, which will give you a taste of Icelandic culture in between your nature-filled adventures.

Selfoss/Hella

Selfoss and Hella are two neighboring towns located along Iceland’s southern coast, making them fantastic bases for exploring the iconic attractions of this region. Both are conveniently situated for day trips to the Golden Circle, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and even the Icelandic Highlands. While Selfoss is slightly larger and more developed, Hella offers a quieter, more intimate vibe, with both towns providing comfortable accommodations and easy access to nearby natural wonders.

Why Stay Here:

• Staying in Selfoss or Hella puts you in the perfect spot to explore southern Iceland’s most famous sights.
• Hella is particularly well-suited for couples wanting to venture into the Highlands. It’s one of the closest hubs to Landmannalaugar, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and hot springs. Day trips to Landmannalaugar are easily accessible via F-roads from Hella.
• Selfoss offers a slightly more vibrant atmosphere, with a wider range of restaurants, guesthouses, and services. You can also relax in the nearby Secret Lagoon or take scenic drives to explore hidden gems along the south coast.

Vík

Vík is a small but famous village located on the southern coast, offering stunning access to some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll be minutes away from the Reynisfjara black sand beach, where basalt columns rise from the shores and puffins nest in the cliffs. It’s also a short drive from some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Why Stay Here:

• Vík is the perfect base for exploring the south coast, one of the most popular regions for elopements. You’ll have access to jaw-dropping spots like the DC-3 Plane Wreck and Dyrhólaey (a beautiful arch-shaped rock formation), ideal for epic elopement photos.
• The village is small but charming, with a few hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants to choose from. 
• For adventurous couples, Vík is a great jumping-off point for glacier hikes or exploring nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Akureyri

Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest urban area and a fantastic hub for exploring northern Iceland’s highlights. This charming town is located at the head of a fjord and is surrounded by snowy mountains, making it picturesque in every season. It’s also less touristy than the south, giving you a more peaceful, laid-back experience.

Why Stay Here:

• Akureyri is the gateway to some of northern Iceland’s most stunning sights, including Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall), and Goðafoss, aka the “Waterfall of the Gods.
• The northern region offers fewer crowds compared to the popular south coast, so if you’re looking for a more intimate elopement experience, this is the place to be.
• Akureyri has a cozy vibe, with great cafes, restaurants, and boutiques where you can unwind after your adventures. It’s also a fantastic spot for whale watching in nearby Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

Höfn

Located in the southeast, Höfn is a small coastal town known for its close proximity to Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest glacier. This area is perfect for glacier lovers, with opportunities for ice cave tours and hikes on the glacier itself. Höfn is a quiet fishing town that feels tucked away from the busier tourist routes for a more peaceful elopement experience.

Why Stay Here:

• Höfn is the perfect base for exploring the southeast, including the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand shore.
• The town itself is small but offers cozy accommodations and great seafood (you have to try the langoustine, a local specialty).

Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in eastern Iceland and a perfect base for exploring the remote and wild East Fjords. This region is less visited compared to other parts of Iceland, making it a dream for couples seeking solitude and stunning fjord landscapes. The town itself is small, offering a slower pace and fewer tourists, which is a huge plus if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

Why Stay Here:

• From Egilsstaðir, you can explore the dramatic East Fjords, with their rugged coastlines, steep cliffs, and small fishing villages. The region is known for its peaceful beauty and is perfect for couples wanting an intimate, off-the-grid elopement.
• The nearby Hengifoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s tallest, is a beautiful place to explore. It offers a scenic hike and breathtaking views.
• Egilsstaðir is also a gateway to the Lagarfljót River and Hallormsstaður Forest, Iceland’s largest forest — a rarity in this mostly treeless country!

Recommended Iceland Road Trip Itinerary for Each Region

Full Ring Road

Recommended Days: 7-12 days

If you have the time, this is the ultimate Iceland road trip! The Ring Road circles the entire island, covering a diverse range of landscapes from geothermal hotspots to glacier lagoons. In 7 days, you can hit the highlights, but if you really want to enjoy each region, 10–12 days is ideal. Especially if you want to hit the Westfjords and other inland regions.

What to See:

• Golden Circle: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Strokkur Geysir.
• South Coast: Explore the black sand beaches at Vík, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. For a surreal elopement backdrop, stop at the awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
• Eastern Fjords: These quieter, less-visited fjords offer dramatic cliffside drives and quaint fishing villages.
• Northern Iceland: Akureyri is the perfect hub for exploring Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, and the volcanic landscapes of Krafla.

Southwest Coast (Golden Circle + South Coast)

Recommended Days: 3-5 days

If you’re pressed for time, the southwest coast is perfect for a shorter road trip. You’ll still see some of Iceland’s most famous sights without feeling rushed. This route packs in iconic waterfalls, glaciers, and a few hidden gems, making it ideal for a quick elopement trip.

Must-See Stops:

• Þingvellir National Park
• Strokkur Geysir
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• If you want to add something extra, you could try snowmobiling on the Langjökull Glacier or taking a dip in the Secret Lagoon hot springs near Fludir.

Northern Iceland

Recommended Days: 3-5 days

The north is often less crowded than the south, but equally stunning. This area is known for its surreal landscapes, volcanic craters, and expansive fjords. 

What to See:

• Lake Mývatn
• Goðafoss
• Dettifoss
• Húsavík

West East Iceland

Recommended Days: 5-8 days

If you really want to get off the beaten path, the Westfjords and East Fjords offer some of Iceland’s most remote and dramatic landscapes. The roads are quieter, the cliffs steeper, and the views even more incredible.

Highlights:

• Westfjords: Expect rugged landscapes, steep fjords, and quiet roads. It’s more remote, but the sense of solitude is unmatched.
• East Fjords: This area is perfect for those seeking remote fishing villages and dramatic cliffs. It’s often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Exploring the Highlands

For couples seeking a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Iceland’s Highlands are the ultimate destination. This wild, volcanic interior offers jaw-dropping landscapes like colorful rhyolite mountains, vast glaciers, and geothermal hot springs. The Highlands are only accessible in the summer months (from mid-June to mid-September) and require a 4×4 vehicle due to unpaved F-roads. If you’re up for a real adventure, this is how to make it happen!

Highland Day Trips

If you don’t want to spend too long in the Highlands, you can easily take a day trip from hubs like Hella or Selfoss. These towns are conveniently located near some of the more accessible Highland destinations, making them perfect bases for short visits.

Best Day Trip Destinations

• Landmannalaugar: Famous for its multicolored mountains and natural hot springs, Landmannalaugar is a must-visit for hiking and relaxing after your adventure. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Hella via F-roads, making it a doable day trip. The hiking trails here are stunning, and you’ll love soaking in the geothermal baths after your trek.
• Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk): This lush green valley is surrounded by glaciers and offers incredible hiking. Accessible by 4×4 through F-roads and river crossings, it’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Reykjavik or a shorter trip from Hella. Thórsmörk is ideal for nature lovers seeking an adventurous day in Iceland’s wild heart.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying in Reykjavik, you can still do a day trip to these destinations, but it will require a longer drive (about 3–4 hours to Landmannalaugar). Consider guided tours if you’re not comfortable navigating the F-roads yourself.

Longer Trips (2-3 Days)

For a more immersive experience, plan to spend 2–3 days in the Highlands. This gives you time to explore more remote regions like Askja Caldera or Kerlingarfjöll, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, soaking in hot springs, and marveling at the surreal landscapes. Staying overnight allows you to fully embrace the wild beauty of the Highlands without feeling rushed.

Best Destinations for a Multi-Day Stay

Landmannalaugar: Spend an extra day hiking through the colorful mountains or relax in the hot springs. It’s one of the most popular spots in the Highlands, and for good reason.

• Askja Caldera and Víti Crater: This remote volcanic crater lake in the northeastern Highlands is perfect for the truly adventurous couple. You’ll experience dramatic volcanic scenery unlike anywhere else in Iceland.
• Kerlingarfjöll: Another fantastic geothermal area known for its hot springs and surreal landscapes.

Accommodation in the Highlands

• Mountain Huts: For a more immersive experience, stay in one of the mountain huts located in places like Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk. These huts are basic but give you direct access to the Highlands’ hiking trails. They typically require advanced bookings, especially during the summer season.
• Camping: If you’re up for roughing it a bit, there are designated campgrounds in the Highlands. These are quite basic, so be prepared for rough conditions. Make sure to bring plenty of supplies, as there are no shops or restaurants in the Highlands.
• Stay in Nearby Hubs: For day trips, you can base yourself in Hella or Selfoss. These towns have a wider range of accommodation options, from guesthouses to hotels, making them a great choice for couples who want to explore the Highlands without staying overnight.

Golden Circle Road Trip Itinerary

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular and accessible routes. If you’re short on time or looking for an easy day trip from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle will show you some of Iceland’s most iconic sites, all within a few hours of driving. You can easily take this route as a simple full-day adventure, starting and ending in Reykjavik, or you can also stay overnight somewhere along the road.

The driving times below are based on typical routes and conditions, though weather and road conditions can affect the exact travel time!

Start in Reykjavik

• Depart from Reykjavik early in the morning to make the most of your day.

Helgufoss Waterfall

• Driving Time: ~40 minutes from Reykjavik
• Activity: Start your journey with a visit to the hidden gem, Helgufoss Waterfall. This peaceful spot is a great introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty.

Þingvellir National Park

• Driving Time: ~25 minutes from Helgufoss
• Activity: While Þingvellir wasn’t on your initial list, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a traditional Golden Circle stop. Walk between the tectonic plates and explore the stunning landscapes.

Strokkur Geysir

• Driving Time: ~45 minutes from Þingvellir
• Activity: Continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area to watch the Strokkur hot spring erupt every few minutes, reaching up to 30 meters in the air.

Gullfoss Waterfall

• Driving Time: ~10 minutes from Strokkur
• Activity: Visit the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, where you can witness the powerful cascade of water into the canyon. It’s one of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions.

Langjökull Glacier (Optional Snowmobiling)

• Driving Time: ~20 minutes from Gullfoss
• Activity: If you’re up for an adventure, join a snowmobiling tour on Langjökull Glacier. Tours typically start from Gullfoss, making it a convenient stop.

Brúarfoss Waterfall

• Driving Time: ~35 minutes from Gullfoss
• Activity: Hike to Brúarfoss Waterfall, known for its striking blue waters. The trail also offers views of two other waterfalls, Hlauptungufoss and Miðfoss.

Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm

• Driving Time: ~30 minutes from Brúarfoss
• Activity: Take a break at Fridheimar, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by tomato plants in a greenhouse. You might also have the chance to meet the Icelandic horses.

The Secret Lagoon

• Driving Time: ~20 minutes from Fridheimar
• Activity: Relax at the Secret Lagoon in Fludir, Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, heated by natural hot springs. The warm waters are perfect for soaking after a day of exploring.

Sólheimar Eco-Village

• Driving Time: ~15 minutes from the Secret Lagoon
• Activity: Visit this sustainable community to pick up some organic produce, enjoy a coffee, or purchase handmade souvenirs.

Kerid Crater

• Driving Time: ~30 minutes from Sólheimar
• Activity: Explore the vibrant Kerid Crater, with its striking blue lake surrounded by red volcanic rock. You can walk around the rim or down to the water’s edge.

Slakki Petting Zoo and Family Park

• Driving Time: ~15 minutes from Kerid
• Activity: If you’re traveling with family or just love animals, stop by Slakki for a fun and relaxing experience with various animals.

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

• Driving Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes from Slakki
• Activity: Finish your road trip with a visit to Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is famous for the path behind the waterfall, and Gljúfrabúi is a hidden waterfall nearby, accessible through a narrow canyon.

Return to Reykjavik

• Driving Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes from Seljalandsfoss

Final Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Iceland Roadtrip

• Make sure you pack layers. You’re likely going to need them!
• Rent a 4×4 vehicle. Many of the most scenic areas, especially in the highlands, are only accessible via F-roads—these are rough, unpaved roads often featuring river crossings and steep terrain. You’ll need a vehicle with high clearance.
• One of the most important things to keep in mind when traveling in Iceland is to always fill up on gas whenever you see a station, especially if you’re heading into remote areas like the highlands. Gas stations can be few and far between, and you don’t want to get caught without fuel in the middle of nowhere!
• Domestic flights, such as those from Höfn to Reykjavik, are a great way to save time, especially if you want to avoid long stretches of driving.
• It’s also a good idea to stock up on snacks, water, and any other provisions when passing through towns, as services can be limited in the more remote parts of Iceland.
• For the adventurous couple, renting a camper van can be an incredible way to explore Iceland at your own pace. Camper vans allow you to stay close to nature and save on accommodation costs, all while giving you the flexibility to go wherever your heart desires. For this you can check out Hertz at the airport or Campervan rental.
• If you’re limited on time, you may want to skip a few stops or extend your trip to two days with an overnight stay in the Fludir or Selfoss area.
• Iceland’s landscape is fragile, particularly in the Highlands. Leave no trace and stick to designated paths.

Iceland Elopement Resources

• The Ultimate Iceland Elopement Guide
• Unique Iceland Adventure Ideas

My Iceland Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Iceland elopement photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”

My Iceland elopement packages offer a half-, full–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Offered throughout every elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.