3 Days in Iceland: Top 3 Itinerary Recommendations

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Thinking of an Iceland trip but can’t spare more than three days? Well, we have some great short itinerary ideas that you may be interested in. Ideally, it takes at least a week to explore all the popular sites and hidden treasures of Iceland. But if you are on a budget or have limited time, 3 days in Iceland is enough to squeeze in the top highlights. Here are a few exciting 3-day Iceland itineraries that include the country's most iconic destinations as well as some off-the-beaten-track gems.

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1. Reykjavik and Snæfellsnes Peninsula: 3 Days in Iceland

Reykjavik is a charming city with a lot of activities.
Reykjavik will have you discovering an emerging art scene, steaming hot springs, and vibrant architecture.
Day 1 Explore the vibrant capital city of Reykjavík on a short walking tour.
Day 2 Explore the breathtaking Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Mountain.
Day 3 Spend your final day in Reykjavík, exploring the city's wonders.

Short and sweet, this 3-day Iceland itinerary is a perfect way to explore the rich culture and dramatic landscapes of Iceland. Discover the wonders of Iceland on a city tour in Reykjavik. Wander through the colorful streets of Laugavegur, visit the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, and explore the National Museum of Iceland. Spend the afternoon soaking in the geothermal waters of the Sky Lagoon, just outside the city. Head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to see some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. See all 3-day tours to Iceland

2. Geysers, Glaciers and the Golden Circle: 3 Days in Iceland

glacier tour on jokulsarlon in iceland
Take in the stupendous view of Jokulsarlon glacier during your 3 days in Iceland.
Iceland-Best places to see the northern lights
 The northern light is an unmissable view that can be seen from anywhere in Iceland.
Day 1 Begin your adventure in Reykjavik before exploring the natural wonders along the Golden Circle.
Day 2 Venture to Vatnajokull National Park to see the black sand Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
Day 3 Head back to Reykjavik, stopping at Fjadrargljufur Canyon, the dramatic lava field at Eldhraun, and Reynisfjara Beach along the way.

This compact 3-day Iceland itinerary combines geothermal geysers, glacial landscapes, and dramatic natural beauty. Visit Thingvellir National Park, see the Strokkur geyser, and admire the cascading Gullfoss waterfall. Walk on the black sand of Diamond Beach and hike on the iconic Vatnajokull Glacier in Vatnajokull National Park. If you are visiting Iceland during winter, hike behind the 60-meter-high cascade of the famous Skogafoss waterfall, explore ice caves, and see the dazzling Northern Lights display. 

3. South Iceland Summer Expres: 3 Days in Iceland

Blue lagoon one of the hottest spots in Iceland
Enjoy one of the most relaxing geothermal spas in Iceland, also known as the Blue Lagoon.
Day 1 Tour Reykjavik, then head southeast to the coast.
Day 2 Begin your second day at the plunging Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
Day 3 Stop to see the beautiful Hjalparfoss waterfall before returning to Reykjavik.

Spend 3 days in Iceland in summer on this adventure-packed tour. Catch a ferry to the island of Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago. Explore the island, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1973. Marvel at the thundering Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Attend the famous lava show in the village of Vik and explore the black lava beach of Reynisfjara. Discover the enchanting Skogar, visit the Skogar Folk Museum, and be mesmerized by the thundering Skogafoss waterfall. Hike amongst the colorful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar and soak in a natural geothermal stream.

Whether adding to an existing tour or hopping over for a long weekend, 3 days in Iceland is just enough to experience the highlights of this incredible country. From the famous Golden Circle to black volcanic beaches, thundering waterfalls, and rainbow-hued mountains, you can have an unforgettable Iceland adventure in just three days.

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Published by Leah Taylor, updated on January 10, 2024

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Plan a trip to IcelandWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to Iceland.
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    Harpa GroissTravel Expert in Iceland
  • Andrés Úlfur Helguson
    Andrés Úlfur HelgusonTravel Expert in Iceland
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    Michele BardasiTravel Expert in Iceland
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