Sometimes, all you have is three days (like me), and I’m here to ensure you make the most of your Icelandic adventure with my 3-day Iceland itinerary. This itinerary is primed for adventure, with little sleep, but we’re hitting all of Iceland’s South Coast’s most iconic spots–I’m talking waterfalls, basalt columns, hot springs, and the famed Diamond Beach. So, buckle up and let’s hit the road, shall we?

Should you book a tour?

PROS OF BOOKING A TOUR:

• See as many sights as possible in one day

• Have someone else keep track of time to stay on schedule

• No need to worry about a rental car

• Affordable

PROS OF TRAVELING ON YOUR OWN:

• Have the flexibility to take spontaneous stops in unexpected scenic landscapes

• Spend more time at a place that might interest you more

• Can spend the night along the way vs doing a day trip

If you don’t have a lot of time, and would rather just spend one long day experiencing Iceland’s South Coast without the nuances that come with planning your own adventure, a tour might be a great way to go!

Here’s one I’d recommend: Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Should You Rent a Camper Van?

If you want the freedom to spend time wherever your heart desires with ample flexibility, I highly recommend renting from Cozy Campers. Their vans are perfect for exploring the South Coast and sections of the Ring Road at your own pace and come with everything you could ever need to stay comfortable on the road (bedding, cookware, etc.!)

Camper Van Camping Rules in Iceland

If you decide to use a camper van for your 3-day Iceland trip, there are a few important rules to know.

CAMP ONLY IN DESIGNATED CAMPSITES
(See the next section for tips on finding great sites!)
Wild camping in a camper van is not allowed anywhere in Iceland unless you have explicit written permission from the landowner. Luckily, campsites are everywhere along the South Coast and close to most major attractions.

PARK ONLY IN MARKED AREAS
Do not pull off into mossy fields or unmarked land. Iceland’s moss takes decades to recover from damage.

FOLLOW POSTED SIGNS AND RESPECT THE WEATHER GODS
Wind can be extreme. Always secure your doors and avoid opening both sliding and back doors in high winds.

USE CAMPSITE FACILITIES
Most campsites include kitchens, bathrooms, showers, and sometimes hot pots, making camper van travel easy and comfortable.

How to Find Camper-Friendly Campsites in Iceland

Traveling Iceland by camper van is one of the best ways to experience the island. You get sunrise on one coast, sunset on the other, and the freedom to pull over whenever a waterfall suddenly appears beside the road. But Iceland has strict camping rules, so knowing where to stay is key.

Here’s how to easily find camper-friendly campsites during your trip.

1. Use the Official Camping Map of Iceland

The website tjalda.is is the most accurate and up-to-date resource for campsites across the country.
You can filter by region, season, and even see which sites are open year-round!

Search for:

• Campsites near the South Coast

• Campsites near Reykjavik

• Campsites along the Ring Road

Most listings mention whether they have bathrooms, showers, kitchens, washing machines, and camper van spaces.

2. Check Google Maps for “camping” or “camper van campsite”

Google Maps in Iceland is surprisingly reliable for campsite locations.

Search along your route and look for places labeled:

• Camping

• Campground

• Tjaldstæði

Pro tip: Read the most recent reviews.

3. Use the “Park4Night” App

This app is camper gold. It lists official campsites, amenities, prices, and what type of vehicle they allow. Just remember: Iceland does not allow wild camping in a camper van, so stick to spots marked “official campsite.”

4. Cozy Campers and Other Rental Companies Provide Lists

If you rent from Cozy Campers, their welcome guides usually include a list of recommended camper-friendly campsites that pair well with the Ring Road or South Coast itineraries. Companies often update these lists seasonally, which is super helpful for winter travel.

3-Day Iceland Itinerary Map

Day 1

Arrive + Drive (Vik)

Arrive to the gorgeous country of Iceland! Pick up your rental car or camper van and it up the grocery store and grab some snacks and lunch for the road. If you’re trying to stay budget friendly and flexible, I’d recommend getting enough food for all three days so you can spend ample time outside and experiencing this gorgeous country! We’ll dine our hearts out when we get back to Reykjavik.

GROCERY STORES

• Bónus

• Krónan

• Nettó

Drive as far as you can. I ended up in Vik at The Barn, and it was one of the most beautiful hostels I’ve ever stayed at! Go for a little night drive to see some wildlife! If you’re there during the winter, as I was, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights and little arctic foxes! They’re the CUTEST!

Reyniskirkja Church is just down the street if you’re looking for a little something extra to do!

If you arrive with extra daylight, wander over to the basalt columns and black sand near Hálsanefshellir Cave. It feels carved by giants and polished by crashing waves. If you don’t have time, no worries, you can hit up this spot on your way back!

Day 2

The South Coast

Today is all about the wild beauty that brings travelers to Iceland in the first place. This is a full itinerary, but it is packed with moments you will talk about long after you leave.

Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon

Wake up for an early morning drive to Diamond Beach. It’s about 2.5 hours from The Barn, if that’s where you spent your evening, and I wanted to make sunrise to see those gorgeous icebergs refract that golden morning light! What’s so special about this beach? Massive chunks of ice break off from the glacier behind, float out the river and into the Atlantic to then wash back up on the black sand beach. It literally looks like you’re walking amongst massive diamonds. Truly magical.

OPTIONAL: ICE CAVE OR GLACIER HIKE

If your schedule allows and the season is right, book a guided ice cave experience or glacier hike. Both give you a glimpse into Iceland’s icy underworld that you cannot get from the road.

Here are some options I’d recommend based on reviews.

Pro tip: Pay close attention to which glacier you’d be hiking/climbing, and where the tour leaves from when planning your adventure!

• Blue Ice Classic: Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing: they mean business. I’m talking climbing real ice walls, navigating crevasses, the real deal.

• Ice Cave Tour in the National Park of Vatnajökull. Get the most caves for your buck!

• If ice caves and a jeep next to a volcano sound fun.

• Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour: If you’d rather stay on top of a glacier with some ice hiking.

• Solheimajokull Glacier 3-Hour Small-Group Hike
  
  

Fjaðjadrárgljúfur Canyon

Next up is Fjaðrárgljúfur. This gorgeous moss-covered canyon seemingly comes out of nowhere and is nothing short of epic. You can drive almost all the way up to it if you have an off-road-friendly vehicle!

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Continue toward Reynisfjara, home to the famous basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. This is where I recommended you spend night 1, so if you’ve already experienced this, heck yes! Keep on driving down the Ring Road. If not, it’s worth a quick stop to see one of the most dramatic coastlines in Iceland. Pro tip: Keep plenty of distance from the water. It’s gorgeous but unpredictable. And the wind here does not mess around. It sent my tripod flying and slammed my camera into the rocks. RIP.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Ahhh, Skógafoss. Quite possibly one of the most iconic stops in Iceland. It’ll be crowded regardless of when you swing by this gem, but it’s absolutely necessary to get drenched by its mist. Maybe wear something that you’re not afraid to get wet. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, climb the stairs for a bird’s eye view. I didn’t have time to do so with this 3-day Iceland itinerary, but if you have the flexibility, get after it!

Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool

If daylight is on your side and you have a little energy left, hike into the valley to the historic Seljavallalaug pool. Warm water, steep green walls, and the feeling of being tucked away from the whole world. I wish I could’ve made it to this stop, but the hike was a little farther than my short winter day allowed. Let me know how it is!

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Gljufrabui

Two of my absolute favorite waterfalls: First, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the one you can walk behind. If you can catch this one at sunset, the light hits it in a stunning way that can only truly be fully experienced in real life.

Then wander over to Gljufrabui, hidden inside a narrow canyon. It’s easy to miss because you can’t see it from the road, but once you walk through that tiny little canyon, your jaw will be on the floor. Mine was. Be prepared to get wet, it’s worth it.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring River

If you want extra geothermal magic, consider the hike to the Reykjadalur hot spring river–another stop I wish I had time for in my short winter day. I mean, who wouldn’t want to soak in a natural hot spring river?! A dream.

Day 3:

Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon

Reykjavik

Start your morning wandering the streets of Reykjavik. Grab a pastry from a local bakery, pop into wool shops, or take yourself on a casual walking tour through colorful neighborhoods.

BAKERIES:

• Brauð & Co: This is maybe Reykjavík’s most iconic bakery — their warm cinnamon rolls, flaky croissants, and sourdough loaves win consistent praise.

• Sandholt Bakery: Family-run with four generations of bakers, Sandholt Bakery is known for beautiful sourdough breads, cakes, and pastries. Cozy interior seating makes it perfect for sit-down breakfasts or slow coffee breaks.

• Hygge Coffee & Micro Bakery: This modern, Scandinavian-style café is a vibe and a half. It offers pastries, seasonal specials, and fresh breads, often with vegan and other creative options.

RESTAURANTS: My rec’s for trying the best local eats in Reykjavik.

• Seabaron (Saegreifinn): A legendary no-frills harbor-side spot loved for its fresh fish skewers and lobster soup (WHICH IS TO DIE FOR). Simple, affordable, and very Icelandic.

• Messinn: Beloved for its sizzling fish pans that arrive bubbling at the table. Try: Arctic char, plokkfiskur, or cod in buttery sauces, served family style.

• Café Loki: Right by Hallgrímskirkja with traditional home-style recipes. Try: Rye bread ice cream, lamb soup, and rye bread with smoked trout.

• Icelandic Street Food: Comforting and casual with generous portions. Try: Lamb soup or seafood soup in a bread bowl. You can usually get free refills.

• Apótek Kitchen + Bar: A modern take on Icelandic ingredients in a stylish atmosphere.
  Try: Icelandic lamb, fresh fish dishes, or cocktails infused with local herbs.

Blue Lagoon

There’s no better way to end your 3-Day Iceland itinerary than with a trip to Blue Lagoon. The warm, milky blue water melts away every mile from the past two days. It is popular for a reason and absolutely worth ending your trip here.

Shopping

Spend your final hours in Reykjavik picking up snacks and souvenirs. Icelandic wool, handmade ceramics, and local chocolate make meaningful keepsakes from your time on the island!!