How to Plan a Trip to Iceland (2025 Guide)

How to Plan a Trip to Iceland (2025 Guide)

If you're wondering how to plan a trip to Iceland or even just curious how much is a trip to Iceland going to cost, you're not alone. With otherworldly landscapes, active volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, and northern lights, Iceland is a bucket-list destination. But figuring out what to see, how to get around, and how to stick to your budget can get overwhelming.

We’ve been to Iceland over 8 times, led photo workshops across the country, and created a custom Google Maps travel guide with over 60 hand-picked spots to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including budgeting, seasonal travel tips, must-see sights, transportation, and how to use our map to build your dream Iceland itinerary.

Table of Contents

  1. When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?
  2. How Much is a Trip to Iceland? (Real Costs in 2025)
  3. How to Use Our Google Maps Travel Guide
  4. Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Trip to Iceland
  5. How Many Days to Spend in Iceland?
  6. What to See & Do: Must-Have Stops
  7. Driving in Iceland: Rental Cars, Roads & Safety
  8. Where to Stay in Iceland
  9. Packing Tips for Every Season
  10. Final Tips Before You Go

1. When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

Every season in Iceland offers something unique. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Summer (June–August)

  • Longest days of the year (up to 21 hours of daylight)
  • Best for driving the Ring Road, hiking, camping
  • High season = higher prices & more tourists

Shoulder Seasons (April–May & September–October)

  • Fewer crowds
  • Good chance of seeing northern lights
  • Unpredictable weather, some roads/hotels may close

Winter (November–March)

  • Short days (as few as 4–6 hours of daylight)
  • Best for northern lights, snow-covered landscapes, ice caves
  • Need to be flexible due to weather disruptions

Pro tip: We love visiting in late September. The fall colors are stunning, the northern lights start to show, and most roads are still open.

How Much Is a Trip to Iceland?

The Short Answer

A trip to Iceland costs anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 per person for a 7-day itinerary, depending on your travel style. Budget travelers can keep costs low with guesthouses and self-catering, while luxury travelers may spend more on hotels and tours.

Cost Breakdown (7 Days, Per Person)

Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Flights $500-$800 $800-$1200 $2000+
Car Rental + Fuel $400 $400-600 $600+
Accommodation $300 $700 $1,500+
Food & Groceries $500 $800 $1200
Tours/Attractions $100 $300 $700+
Total $2,100 $3,600 $6,000+

 

You’ll save the most by:

  • Visiting in off-season
  • Cooking your own meals
  • Booking small guesthouses
  • Using our Google Maps Guide to self-plan instead of hiring a tour


3. How to Use Our Google Maps Travel Guide

We created a private Google Map with over 60 curated locations from our own trips:

  • Hidden hot springs
  • Jaw-dropping photography spots
  • Cozy places to stay
  • Cool cafĂ©s & geothermal pools

Here’s how to use it:

  1. Request access to the map (link below)
  2. Open it on Google Maps (desktop or mobile)
  3. Browse by category or region
  4. Save spots to your "Favorites"
  5. Start building your own itinerary directly in Google Maps

 

4. Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Trip to Iceland

Step 1: Choose the Time of Year

Use our section above to decide when you want to visit based on your interests (northern lights vs. hiking).

Step 2: Set a Budget

Be realistic about how much you want to spend. Use the cost breakdown to estimate expenses.

Step 3: Book Flights Early

Check prices on Skyscanner or Trip.com.

Step 4: Reserve Your Car or Campervan

We recommend a 4WD vehicle if you’re traveling in winter or exploring the highlands.

Step 5: Use Our Map to Plan Your Route

Choose regions or sights that excite you. Don’t overpack your days—leave room for spontaneity.

Step 6: Book Accommodations in Advance

Especially important in summer. Use Booking.com or Airbnb.

Step 7: Pack Smart

Layer up, waterproof everything, and don’t forget your swimsuit!

Step 8: Download Offline Maps & Travel Apps

Install Google Maps offline, Aurora alerts, and the SafeTravel Iceland app.

 

5. How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland?

Here are sample timeframes:

  • 3–5 Days: Stick to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik, and South Coast
  • 7–10 Days: Do the South + East Iceland or start the Ring Road
  • 10–14 Days: Complete the full Ring Road
  • 14+ Days: Add Westfjords or the Highlands for more remote adventures

6. Must-See Sights in Iceland

We have created another article to share what we believe are the top Iceland attractions to visit and below you can find some.

  • Golden Circle: Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss

  • South Coast: Seljalandsfoss, SkĂłgafoss, Reynisfjara beach

  • East Fjords: Vestrahorn, mountain passes, wildlife

  • North: Myvatn, HĂşsavĂ­k (whale watching), GoĂ°afoss

  • Westfjords: Dynjandi waterfall, puffin cliffs
  • Hot Springs: Reykjadalur, Hrunalaug, Hoffell

Tip: Don’t skip the lesser-known spots—you’ll often have them all to yourself.

7. Renting a Car in Iceland: What to Know

  • Book early (especially in summer)
  • Consider full insurance (wind and gravel damage is common)
  • Use Google Maps + our custom map to stay on track
  • In winter, stick to the Ring Road unless you’re very confident driving in snow

8. Where to Stay in Iceland

  • Hotels: Easy to find in Reykjavik and larger towns. Iceland is fulfilled with amazing cabins immersed in nature,
  • Guesthouses & Farmstays: Often family-run with amazing views
  • Cabins: Great for couples and nature lovers
  • Campers/Campervans: Perfect for summer road trips

Book early. In remote areas, options are limited and fill up fast.

9. What to Pack for Iceland (Seasonal Checklist)

Essentials Year-Round:

  • Waterproof jacket & pants
  • Thermal base layers
  • Swimsuit + microfiber towel
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Power bank + travel adapter

Summer:

  • Sleeping mask (midnight sun)
  • Lightweight hiking shoes

Winter:

  • Crampons (for icy paths)
  • Headlamp
  • Warm gloves & hat

10. Final Tips Before You Go

  • Credit cards are accepted everywhere—no need for cash
  • Always check road and weather conditions before driving: road.is and safetravel.is
  • Gas stations can be far apart—don’t wait until you’re low on fuel. Also don't freak out they are quite enough!
  • Don’t try to do everything. Iceland is about slowing down and soaking it in.
  • Respect nature: Stay on marked paths, don’t drive off-road, leave no trace

Plan Your Iceland Adventure Today

Now that you know how to plan a trip to Iceland and have a realistic idea of how much is a trip to Iceland, all that’s left is to get inspired and start planning.

👉 Grab access to our Google Maps Iceland Travel Guide to build your route, mark your favorites, and discover places you won’t find in most guides.

Let Iceland surprise you—and make it yours.

đź”— Get the Iceland Map Guide Now

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