A nature lover’s paradise, Iceland is a haven for spectacular natural phenomena and wild outdoor attractions that will leave travellers in awe of their existence. Also known as “The Land of Fire and Ice”, it’s not difficult to imagine the surreal aspects of the country’s landscapes that have gained it this nickname.
As the most active volcanic region in the world, Iceland harbours ginormous glaciers that cut through the Earth and geysers that propel boiling water from cavernous systems hundreds of metres into the air. And beyond these extraordinary sights, there’s something else to amaze at every turn during a getaway to Iceland.
For the most adventurous of travellers looking to connect with Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and learn of its spectacular geological formations, the country is a more than accessible destination for many countries in the Western Hemisphere. Accessible from America and Canada in as little as 5 to 6 hours, and from the UK and wider Europe in as little as 3 hours, many travellers decide to take a quick getaway to Iceland, either for a weekend or slightly longer.
So, for anyone who is thinking of taking a whistlestop trip during the week or at the weekend in Iceland, look no further as I’ve pulled together the perfect Iceland trip itinerary for you to see the country in just 2 days. From soaking in the thermal springs of the world-renowned Blue Lagoon to trekking through the volcanic landscapes of the Golden Circle route, you’ll be at one with this country’s natural splendours during a 2 day trip.
It is with a word of warning that I say that you need to be prepared for the expense that comes with having a getaway to Iceland. It is one of the world’s most expensive countries and thus you’ll have to pay the price to visit its exceptional destinations. So, this is just something to bear in mind whilst planning your 2 day trip, as you may have to dedicate more to your budget than you would for other European destinations.
When it comes to where you may want to stay during your 2 days in Iceland, we’d recommend Reykjavik as the city to base yourself in. As the country’s capital and largest city, it’s ideally situated near some of Iceland’s best and most famed attractions and is also a destination that you’ll no doubt want to explore during your stay.
As such, when you’re deciding where you’ll be staying in Iceland, you’ll want to look for the best central accommodations in Reykjavik to make your stay as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best places you can book during your Iceland short trip to suit a range of budgets.
Luxury
As one of Reykjavik’s most luxurious apart-hotels, the Black Pearl perfectly balances opulence and luxury with its prime location, being only 350 metres away from Old Reykjavik Harbour.
The property’s rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, an iPad for use in the property, luxurious furnishings and a large, sheltered balcony overlooking the city. With ample space in these opulent settings, guests can enjoy added comforts during their stay here including complimentary tea and Nespresso, a large flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and in-suite breakfast, which can also be delivered to the apartment at an additional charge.
Black Pearl Apartment Hotel also features a 24-hour front desk, a laundry service (at an additional cost), private parking, and a lift to all floors. So, to sample some of the finer things during your stay in Reykjavik, you can select when you’d like to stay at this opulent aparthotel.
Mid-Range
Nestled only 200 metres from Laugavegur, the capital’s most iconic shopping street, the Hotel Holt is a stylish accommodation boasting impressive artworks created by Icelandic artists that are hung proudly throughout its interiors. Wi-Fi is free throughout the venue, which also boasts a spacious lounge with comfortable leather sofas and a cosy Hygge atmosphere where you’ll want to do nothing but snuggle up with a good book.
Hotel Holt also features a laundry service for an additional cost, free parking, a 24-hour front desk, a bar, and a lift to all floors. Tea and coffee makers are featured in all rooms alongside a satellite TV.
To secure your stay for your next midweek or weekend trip in Iceland at Hotel Holt, you can reserve a room online now.
Budget
Situated only a few hundred yards from some of Reykjavik’s most iconic sites, including the Solfar Sun Voyager and the Arnarhóll, The Swan House Apartments are centrally located only a 1-minute walk from the famous Laugavegur.
These modern and spacious apartments feature free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, and a fully functioning kitchen space with essential appliances. The building also offers parking, if you’re planning on hiring a car whilst staying in Iceland, as well as a lift to all floors.
You can book the Swan House Apartments at any time of year with just the click of a button for your 2 days in Iceland.
If you’re considering how to get around Iceland during your next getaway to the country, travelling by car is probably the most flexible way to see its sights and attractions. Reykjavik’s International Airport has hire companies where you can get a car quickly and easily for your trip, or you can also find some in Reykjavik city centre.
Alternatively, many choose to travel around Iceland with tour groups and excursions which, if you’re staying in Reykjavik and your trip is only for 2 days, is probably your most convenient option. These tours will typically pick you up from one of the city centre bus stops, and also drop you off at them, or some even pick you up from outside your own accommodation for added convenience.
When planning a trip to Iceland, you’ll be asking yourself how many days you should spend exploring the country. In my opinion, 2 days is a comfortable amount of time for those in search of a quick trip abroad. This is why I’ve rounded up the best Iceland sights to see and excursions for your next getaway here, split across 2 full days.
The most famous of Iceland’s scenic routes, the Golden Circle incorporates three of the most impressive natural marvels in the country: Geysir Geothermal Field, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
The route can easily be accomplished in a day and is located to the east of Reykjavik. Many visitors choose to either drive the route themselves, which is straightforward, or opt for an organised tour for added convenience.
Thingvellir National Park – 51km from Reykjavik
Situated in an active volcanic landscape, Thingvellir National Park is situated some 51km, or a 45-minute drive, from Reykjavik. With a UNESCO World Heritage status, Thingveller has received recognition for its political and historical significance, with sites including Gallows Rocks and the Drowning Pool being two of the most notable sites there. One of the most photographed places in Thigvellir is the tectonic plate divide, where travellers can walk through a gap that has been created in the landscape from tectonic activity.
Geysir Geothermal Field – 110km from Reykjavik
Likely to be the most impressive of attractions along the Golden Circle route, the Geysir Geothermal Field has sprung back to life after having been dormant since 1916. Its geysers propel boiling hot water into the air at immense speeds and there is a stench of sulfur and a steamy haze which lingers across its plains.
Strokkur is the area’s main attraction, which now erupts every 10 or so minutes. This means that regardless of the time that you arrive, as long as you stay for 10 minutes you’re guaranteed to see this natural phenomenon in action.
Gullfoss Waterfall – 120km from Reykjavik
Translating to ‘Golden Falls’, Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural sites. It lies roughly 120km away from Reykjavik and is normally the last stop on the Golden Circle route. In the Hvitá river canyon, water travels 32 metres down Gullfoss’ dramatic two-step falls. Thought to have been created from glacial outbursts, the geological formation of Gullfoss is simply breathtaking.
Golden Circle trips run frequently from Reykjavik, and you can book the classic version of the tour now as you begin planning your itinerary for Iceland to make the most of your 2 day trip.
Undoubtedly, one of the things to see whilst in Iceland is the Northern Lights. If you visit during the right time of the year to spot the spectacle (between September and March) you’ll be mesmerised by these dancing green and purple lights that awaken the night sky.
If you go on a Northern Lights Tour, which typically departs from Reykjavik, you’ll be taken outside of the populated areas of Iceland to a more remote location to increase your chance of spotting this marvel. You can select a traditional Northern Lights tour now to be in with a chance to spot the world-renowned natural phenomena and have a fun evening activity to add to your Iceland itinerary.
As Iceland’s most visited destination, it only makes sense that Reykjavik is a part of this Iceland itinerary. Known worldwide for its culture, art, and natural beauty stretching in every direction from its borders, there’s much to see and do in the city during your Iceland getaway.
Some highlights that I’d recommend include climbing to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. Watching over Reykjavik, this distinctive church built of concrete offers a typically Scandinavian and airy interior. You can climb to the top of the structure for some sensational views over the city’s rooftops and out to sea to gain a new perspective of Reykjavik from above.
I’d also recommend heading to the Perlan Museum. Situated a little out of the centre of the city, the Perlan’s exhibits and displays are captivating to all ages. You’ll learn a lot about the geographically changing landscapes of Iceland here, and the historical events that were responsible for some of the country’s most significant events. The Ice Cave Tunnel is a particularly unique experience in which 350 tonnes of snow has been used to create a man-made ice structure that you can journey through to experience what it’s like to walk within a glacier.
An absolute must on any visitor’s Iceland itinerary – the ‘Blue Lagoon’ geothermal spa is the most visited attraction in the country. Boasting naturally heated water which reaches 40°C and is rich in minerals, the area has become a Mecca for health and leisure in the 21st century.
There are bars, treatment areas, and restaurants in the complex so that you can have an all-round relaxing experience as you spend the day here, with everything you want and need within easy reach.
You could easily spend hours lazing in the milky waters here and there’s ample space to move around, with bridges, drinking fountains, as well as steam rooms in its outdoor area. The Blue Lagoon is one of the must see places in Iceland to go that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone looking for some R&R during their trip.
As the Blue Lagoon is easily accessible by bus or car from Reykjavik, this is the perfect afternoon or evening activity to do during your 2 days in Iceland. I’d recommend booking a Blue Lagoon excursion that includes tickets and transfers so that have all aspects of your trip to this natural wonder covered. But you need to book in advance to make sure that you secure a slot, as tickets sell out quickly. So, what are you waiting for? Get yours now.
It’s not hard to understand why Iceland takes a top slot on many avid travellers’ bucket lists. From exploding geysers to the spectacular Aurora Borealis, and the blissful waters of the Blue Lagoon, this country is the ultimate destination to connect with the natural world and experience the most spectacular phenomena that Mother Earth has to offer.
Whatever you choose to do during your 2 days in Iceland, I hope this post was helpful in guiding you to discover how you might want to spend your time during your next visit to this Land of Ice and Fire.
Any period between September to March is a great time to indulge in a getaway to Iceland and to visit Reykjavik. This times your trip perfectly with when the Northern Lights are most likely to be spotted, and you can indulge in the wintery atmosphere in the city.
Alternatively, summer activities are also popular in June and August in Reykjavik. This is when temperatures are warmer and the nearby natural wonders can be seen in their best light. So, depending on your preference, you can visit Reykjavik at this time of the year too.
Despite its higher costs compared to other European destinations, Iceland is well worth a visit. This country often tops the list of the best destinations to explore, and its recognition is well deserved given the wealth of attractions that it has to offer, as touched upon in the above itinerary. Without a doubt, the Land of Ice and Fire needs to be on your bucket list.
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