A Long Weekend in Iceland
Iceland is the perfect destination for a long weekend. There are direct flights from the UK and USA to Keflavik Airport near Reykjavik. It is a safe destination and easy to get around, making Iceland perfect for solo travellers. But how much can you see and do in a long weekend in Iceland?
4 days is a decent amount of time to spend in Reykjavik if you want to see the main sights around the capital. Of course, if you have more time, it’s great if you can stay longer to explore the North and South Coasts. For the full ring road route, you would need at least two to three weeks. However, as I’m about to demonstrate, you can fit a lot into a four day weekend, by basing yourself in Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital.
You will want a tour of Reykjavik while you are there, and there is a fantastic Reykjavik free walking tour that starts from the parliament building daily at 2pm. You learn about Iceland’s history, climate and government. You will get to visit the ‘elf village’ and Reykjavik harbour. You will get the chance to buy a traditional Icelandic hot dog from the best hot do vendor in Reykjavik. Finally, the walking tour ends up at the town Hall where you will learn about the Geography of Iceland through a 3D relief map. If you enjoy the tour and can afford it, you can tip your tour guide, but the walking tour is marketing as free. It is also wheelchair friendly and accessible.
Keep one day aside for the Golden Circle tour Iceland to explore the amazing scenery that this beautiful country has to offer. You will see Gullfoss waterfall, the geysir and Thingvellir national park.
You might be able to fit in the South Coast tour if you have a spare day and are not too tired! The South Coast of Iceland offers many delights in the way of waterfalls, Vic’s black sand beach, volcanoes and glacier lagoons. Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to in my life. If you are lucky you will spot wildlife including Seals and Harlequin Ducks.
Save the Blue Lagoon for your last day and if you can, book in advance to avoid disappointment. It is an extremely relaxing experience and will help you to recover from all of the walking and sightseeing! A Blue Lagoon tour Iceland will make the experience stress free and include transport and pre-booked tickets. If you want to do this on your very last day, you can combine the Blue lagoon with your airport transfer.
The land of fire and ice is a place of immense natural beauty, wildlife and a warming culture valuing respect and equality. Enjoy your long weekend in Iceland!
This author’s life has been an adventure. He has visited over 30 countries, and lived in four different states. He is a traveler at heart, but he also loves exploring the outdoors on his bicycle or hiking with his canine companion.