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Beautiful South with Blue Lagoon (5 Days) – Iceland tour

Beautiful South with Blue Lagoon (5 Days)

  • 5 days
  • Self-drive
  • Rental Car + Hotel

Discover the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures of Iceland on a 5-day self-drive tour featuring the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Blue Lagoon. Enjoy waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal wonders, and vibrant Reykjavík.

Trip highlights

  • Explore the Golden Circle with Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall
  • Visit stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
  • Experience the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara
  • Discover glaciers and icebergs at Vatnajökull National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon

About this trip

Set off on a five-day self-driven tour that showcases the incredible beauty of Iceland. Start your adventure amidst the dramatic lava landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, providing a thrilling introduction to the island's natural wonders. Your first evening will be spent enjoying the lively scenes of Reykjavík, Iceland's capital. The journey continues as you drive along the stunning South Coast, where you'll be greeted by the towering Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the imposing cliffs of Dyrhólaey, and the iconic black sands of Reynisfjara beach.

The excitement builds on the third day with a trip around the renowned Golden Circle. This route features some of Iceland's most famous sights, including the historic Þingvellir National Park, the bubbling Geysir geothermal area, and the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall. Cap off your exploration with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon, immersing yourself in its warm, mineral-rich waters. This tour combines natural wonders and historical sites, making it an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s scenic south and its most iconic attractions.

Itinerary — 5 days

The shape of your trip

18 stops · 5 days

This is the published tour itinerary. Review the selected departure and operator terms before booking.

  1. Day 1

    Collect your car and settle into Reykjavík

    3 stops

    Approx. 52 km / 32 miles · 55 min driving, excluding stops

    Collect your rental car at Keflavík Airport and follow the main road through Reykjanes towards Reykjavík. Use this first day to settle in, familiarise yourself with the vehicle and enjoy the capital on foot. A short city stroll is enough after a flight, leaving the larger sightseeing days ahead.

    Aerial view of Reykjavík and Hallgrímskirkja church, Iceland

    Route: Keflavík International Airport → Reykjavík

    1. Keflavík International Airport — Follow your confirmed flight and rental arrangements, allowing time for baggage, collection or return before continuing your journey.
    2. Reykjavík — Settle into the compact capital, where harbour walks, colourful streets and cafés offer an easy introduction to Iceland.
    3. Laugavegur — Browse independent shops and cafés along Reykjavík’s central shopping street, choosing a short stroll to suit your arrival time.
  2. Day 2

    The South Coast to Vík

    5 stops

    Approx. 345 km / 214 miles · 5 hr 25 min driving, excluding stops

    Travel east beneath the South Coast mountains, stopping first at the waterfalls and then along the volcanic shoreline. The promontory and beach viewpoints make this a varied day even without a booked activity. Use the weather and access signs to choose your coastal stops, leaving room for the onward drive.

    Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which you can walk behind, South Iceland

    Route: Reykjavík → Selfoss / Hveragerði overnight area

    1. Seljalandsfoss — See the narrow cascade from the main path, taking the route behind the water only when it is open and safe.
    2. Skógafoss — Enjoy the broad curtain of water from below, or use the steps to the upper viewpoint when conditions and energy allow.
    3. Dyrhólaey — Use the permitted viewpoints for the sea arch and sweeping coast, respecting wind warnings and seasonal bird-protection closures.
    4. Reynisfjara viewpoint — View the basalt cliffs and Reynisdrangar from permitted areas, following current access restrictions and keeping well away from the powerful surf.
    5. Vík — Pause in the South Coast village for food and supplies, with coastal views and the church on the hillside above.

    Driving note: The endpoint marks the Selfoss / Hveragerði area rather than a specific hotel. Use your confirmed overnight address for the final part of the drive, allowing for a different local route.

  3. Day 3

    A Golden Circle loop from Selfoss

    5 stops

    Approx. 198 km / 123 miles · 3 hr 15 min driving, excluding stops

    Make a full day of the Golden Circle from your southern base, returning to the same accommodation area in the evening. The route moves from the rift valley to lakeside Laugarvatn, then the geothermal field and waterfall. Keep bathing or other timed activities optional so the main sights retain enough time.

    The Strokkur geyser erupting at the Geysir geothermal area, Iceland

    Route: Selfoss / Hveragerði overnight area → Selfoss / Hveragerði overnight area

    1. Þingvellir — Almannagjá — Walk the marked paths beside Almannagjá, where the rift landscape frames the historic outdoor assembly site of the Alþingi.
    2. Laugarvatn — Pause beside the lake in this geothermal village before continuing through the farms and low hills of the Golden Circle.
    3. Geysir geothermal area — Watch Strokkur erupt among steaming springs, staying on the marked paths around ground heated by the geothermal system below.
    4. Gullfoss — Use the open viewpoints to see the Hvítá river plunge in two stages into its deep, spray-filled canyon.
    5. Flúðir — Pass through this greenhouse-growing village in the southern lowlands, leaving time for a refreshment stop before your overnight base.

    Driving note: The endpoint marks the Selfoss / Hveragerði area rather than a specific hotel. Use your confirmed overnight address for the final part of the drive, allowing for a different local route.

  4. Day 4

    Reykjanes and the Blue Lagoon option

    5 stops

    Approx. 200 km / 124 miles · 3 hr 15 min driving, excluding stops

    Follow the supplier’s Reykjanes day through coastal and geothermal landscapes before returning to Reykjavík. The Blue Lagoon bathing fee is an optional extra, so choose a timed visit or spend longer at the open viewpoints. Volcanic access restrictions take priority over the suggested route; confirm the permitted road connections before departure.

    The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, Reykjanes peninsula

    Route: Selfoss / Hveragerði overnight area → Reykjavík

    1. Strandarkirkja — Stop by the small coastal church in Selvogur, a peaceful landmark on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
    2. Seltún — Stay on the boardwalks through steaming vents and coloured geothermal ground; the boiling springs here are for viewing, not bathing.
    3. Blue Lagoon — A prebooked optional bathing visit offers a pause among the lava fields, subject to current volcanic access advice and operating conditions.
    4. Gunnuhver — Use the designated platforms to view powerful geothermal steam, checking current road access and obeying all site barriers.
    5. Bridge Between Continents — Pause at the marked fissure crossing to consider the volcanic landscape and the movement of the tectonic plates beneath Iceland.

    Driving note: Check official Reykjanes access updates before departure and confirm any Blue Lagoon booking. Closed roads take priority over this suggested route; keep enough time for the onward drive or airport arrangements.

  5. Day 5

    Departure from Iceland

    2 stops

    Approx. 50 km / 31 miles · 50 min driving, excluding stops

    Keep your final day centred on the airport journey and the arrangements in your travel documents. If there is spare time, enjoy a last coffee or short city walk before leaving; longer sightseeing depends on your flight. Allow the rental company’s return buffer and the airline’s recommended airport arrival time.

    Aerial view of Reykjavík and Hallgrímskirkja church, Iceland

    Route: Reykjavík → Keflavík International Airport

    1. Reykjavík — Settle into the compact capital, where harbour walks, colourful streets and cafés offer an easy introduction to Iceland.
    2. Keflavík International Airport — Follow your confirmed flight and rental arrangements, allowing time for baggage, collection or return before continuing your journey.

    Driving note: Follow the confirmed rental-return location and time, then allow the airline’s recommended airport margin. A Blue Lagoon visit or additional sightseeing requires its own booking and sufficient time before departure.

Days 3–5 · 10 more stops
Explore the route

Your journey through Iceland

18 stops
© OpenStreetMap contributors
© OpenStreetMap contributors
A closer look at every stopChoose a day or pin. + shows grouped stops.
Suggested routeReturn journey

What’s included

  • Accommodations with breakfast and private facilities
  • Car Rental with unlimited mileage, VAT, and insurance (CDW, SCDW, GP, TP)
  • Airport Services for car pickup and drop-off
  • Itinerary Assistance is provided in multiple language
  • Emergency Support via an accessible telephone service

Good to know

Things to Know Before Booking
  • This tour is not suitable for visually impaired individuals.
  • Drivers must be at least 21 years old to participate.
  • A valid driver’s license is required for all drivers.
  • It is recommended that you bring an international driver's license.
  • Economy accommodation includes guesthouses and 3-star equivalent hotels.
  • Comfort accommodation features 4-star hotels in Reykjavík.
  • You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder and the days are longer, allowing for more sightseeing time. However, winter (December to February) offers a chance to see the Northern Lights and experience Iceland’s unique winter landscape.

Do I need a special license to drive in Iceland?

A valid driver’s license from your home country is sufficient to drive in Iceland. However, if your license is not in English, it is recommended to bring an international driver’s license for ease of use and translation.

Are meals included in the tour package?

The tour package includes breakfast at your accommodations. Other meals, such as lunch and dinner, are not included, allowing you the flexibility to explore local dining options and enjoy Icelandic cuisine at your leisure.

What should I pack for this trip?

Pack warm and waterproof clothing, as the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Essential items include a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes, layers of warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and swimwear for the Blue Lagoon. It is also advisable to bring a camera, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Can I customize the itinerary?

The provided itinerary is a suggested route, but you can customize your journey based on your interests and preferences. You can spend more time at specific sites or explore additional attractions.

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