Iceland is one of my favorite places to revisit and to recommend. It’s an incredibly-easy flight from the East Coast, and you can pack so much into even a short trip (the majority of my visits have been two nights - and that’s as standalone trips, not stopovers!). The landscapes feel completely otherworldly, and the drives between spots are just as memorable as the destinations themselves. I’ve done this itinerary in full and in pieces over the years, and it works whether you’re squeezing it into two nights or stretching it out over a week.
I just shared the full version - the day-by-day route, my hotel picks, activity highlights I’ve loved - on my Fora profile:
Iceland in 5 Nights: Waterfalls, Glacier Lagoon, The Golden Circle & Some Serious Relaxation
But here’s the quick version:
You’ll start strong with an early-morning arrival from the USA and head straight to the south coast, where glacier views, crashing waterfalls, and peaceful hotels get you right into the vibe. From there, my preferred loop winds back through the Golden Circle, with stops for natural hot springs, more waterfalls, and a walk between tectonic plates. There’s a night in Reykjavík and a full day soaking in your own virtually-private Blue Lagoon with a Michelin-starred dinner before jetting home refreshed.
A typical view while driving along the south coast of iceland
