Iceland's Ring Road How to Make the Most of a 6-Day Stopover
Iceland's Ring Road How to Make the Most of a 6-Day Stopover
If Iceland isn’t on your travel bucket list yet, it’s about time to pencil it in. Elisabeth and I had always dreamed of exploring Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, so when we discovered Icelandic Air offers a complimentary stopover, it was a no-brainer. Six days may not seem long enough to take on the famous Iceland Ring Road, but armed with a camper van, adventurous spirits, and a loose plan, we set off to see just how much ground we could cover.
Spoiler alert—we packed in A LOT. And while we didn’t get to every single landmark, this whirlwind trip showed us just how unique Iceland’s beauty really is. If you've only got six days to spare, this guide will help you hit the best spots on Iceland's Ring Road, prioritize must-see locations, and make every minute count.
What to Know Before You Go
Before jumping into travel tips for Iceland’s Ring Road, here’s what you should know if you're working with a limited timeframe.
- Rent a Camper Van: With unpredictable weather and the freedom to stop wherever, renting a camper van is hands-down the best way to travel. No booking hotels, no rushing to check out. Just pull up, park, and rest.
- Travel Light and Smart: Iceland’s climate is moody. Layers are your best friend. Even in summer, pack a waterproof jacket and sturdy boots.
- Fuel Up Frequently: Gas stations can be sparse in remote areas. Play it safe and refuel whenever you pass one.
- Daylight is Your Superpower: Iceland’s summer daylight stretches nearly 24 hours. This will give you more time to explore, but it can mess with your sleep schedule.
Now that we have the essentials covered, let's hit the road!
Hit the Highlights of the South Coast
The south coast of Iceland is the hotspot for first-time visitors, and for good reason. The landscape is straight out of a fantasy novel.
Must-See South Coast Destinations
- Skogafoss
Skogafoss is unapologetically massive. This iconic waterfall is a crowd favorite and perfect for photos. Get ready to feel the mist on your face as you walk up close to this towering beauty.
- Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
The haunting site of a crashed Douglas DC-3 plane on a black sand beach is unforgettable. The hour-long walk to get there isn’t for the faint of heart, but trust me, the eerie vibe and dramatic setting are worth every step.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Famous for its moody basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves, Reynisfjara is a playground for photographers. Just tread carefully around the water; sneaker waves are no joke here.
- Diamond Beach
If there’s one spot that feels straight out of a dream, it's Diamond Beach. Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, this magical beach earns its name from the glistening, crystal-clear ice chunks that wash ashore on the black volcanic sand. The contrast between the shimmering ice “diamonds” and the pitch-black beach creates a surreal scene photographers can’t resist. Sunrise and sunset are especially enchanting, with the soft golden light reflecting off the ice. Pro tip: Wear warm layers and waterproof boots—this is a place where you'll want to get up close to capture the perfect shot!
- Vik and Vestrahorn
The charming town of Vik is your gateway to more stunning spots like Vestrahorn Mountain. Take some time to admire the black sand mirror beaches here before moving on.
Arctic Henge and the Northern Gems
We continued up to the North Coast, and boy, does this part of Iceland feel like stepping into another universe.
Arctic Henge
This modern site inspired by ancient Norse mythology is like Stonehenge’s mysterious Icelandic cousin. There was some construction going on when we visited, but the lack of tourists made this peaceful spot even more magical.
Hvítserkur Rock Formation
Also known as "Rhino Rock" (you’ll get why when you see it), Hvítserkur juts dramatically out of the water like a mythical creature. Getting down to the base for the best photo spot involves trekking down a steep path, but the effort pays off.
The Sneaky Surprise of Akureyri
Driving through the North, you’ll suddenly stumble into Akureyri. Nestled in a fjord, this lively town almost feels like a mini Reykjavík.
What to Do in Akureyri
- Foodie Favorites
Try the smoked Arctic char—we're still dreaming about it. Pair it with a bowl of their unique seafood chowder. Different, yet delicious.
- Unique Vibes
Akureyri’s relaxed charm made it one of our favorite stops. The surrounding mountains and fjords create a picture-perfect backdrop to this hidden gem.
The Showstopper Stops
No Ring Road adventure is complete without visiting Kirkjufell and the Black Church. These are some of Iceland’s most Instagram-famous spots, and for good reason.
Kirkjufell
“The Church Mountain” is Iceland’s most photographed peak and a Game of Thrones filming location. Get there early to overcome the crowds and capture it during golden hour.
Búðakirkja Black Church
This historic black church on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula might be small, but it packs a visual punch. Its stark black facade against vibrant grass and mountains is simply iconic.
Wrapping Up in Reykjavík
After days on the road, Reykjavík offers a laid-back end to your Icelandic adventure.
Explore the City
- The Sun Voyager Monument
This striking steel sculpture by the sea makes for great photos during sunset.
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
This massive, futuristic-looking church offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.
- Reykjavík's Hot Dog Stand
Yes, the city’s hot dogs have a cult following. Don’t ask what’s in them, just try one!
Can You Do the Ring Road in 6 Days?
The short answer? Absolutely. While 6 days isn’t enough to see everything, you can certainly get a taste of Iceland’s magical landscapes, quirky towns, and epic photo opportunities.
Adventure awaits, so grab a camper van, pack your layers, and hit the road. You’ll leave Iceland with full hearts, memory cards overflowing, and maybe even a few volcanic rocks in your suitcase as souvenirs.
Pro Tip
Want stunning Iceland photos like ours? Invest in a wide-angle lens to capture those jaw-dropping landscapes, and don’t be afraid to include people or objects for scale.
