Iceland is one of the most unreal places I’ve ever visited. Between the waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and tiny turf-roof houses, it honestly feels like you’re stepping into another world.

If you’ve never been, planning a trip to Iceland can feel overwhelming at first. There’s just so much to see and do.

But don’t worry, I’ve been there and I’m breaking down exactly how to plan a trip to Iceland so you can make the most of your time without stressing over the details.

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What to Know Before You Start Planning

Before you get too deep into booking hotels or flights, it helps to understand a few basics about Iceland. It’s a small island nation, but getting around and seeing everything takes more time than you might expect.

Most travelers start their trip in Reykjavik, since it’s close to the Keflavik International Airport, where all international flights land. From there, you can explore on your own by renting a car, or join guided tours to see the highlights without worrying about driving.

Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK), and while credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, it’s smart to keep a small amount of cash just in case. Tipping isn’t expected, and taxes are already included in prices.

Another thing to know – Iceland’s weather changes fast. You might wake up to sunshine, then get hit with wind and rain by lunch. So no matter when you visit, layers and waterproof gear are non-negotiable.

And lastly, Iceland is incredibly safe. It consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, so it’s a great choice for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

Step 1: Get Your Passport

Before you do anything else, check your passport.

Make sure everyone in your group has one that’s valid for at least six months after your trip starts (Iceland officially requires three months, but six is safer). You’ll also need two blank pages for entry stamps.

If you’re applying for a new passport or renewing one, start early. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. I recommend giving yourself at least 4 months before your trip.

For reference:

• Adult (age 16+) passports are valid for 10 years
• Kids under 16 are valid for 5 years

If you need help, I’ve got a full guide on how to get a U.S. passport that walks you through it step-by-step.

Step 2: Check Entry Requirements

If you’re coming from the U.S., you don’t need a visa to visit Iceland for up to 90 days. If you’re coming from elsewhere, double-check if your country is on the visa-free list at the official Iceland immigration site.

There are currently no testing or vaccine requirements, but it’s always smart to double-check the latest rules on the official Iceland government travel site before you go.

And don’t forget to check what your home country might require when you return — sometimes there are forms or declarations you’ll need to fill out.

Step 3: Choose Your Season

Iceland is beautiful all year long, but the experience really depends on when you go. According to the best time to visit Iceland guide, each season has its own perks and challenges, so it’s worth thinking about what kind of trip you want before booking flights.

Summer is the most popular time for a reason. You’ll get long daylight hours, milder weather, and easier driving conditions. My husband and I went in August and had the best time exploring under the midnight sun.

Spring and fall have fewer tourists, cooler temps, and lower prices, while winter brings short days but an amazing chance to see the Northern Lights.

Step 4: Decide Upon Your Length of Stay

How many days do you really need in Iceland? If you asked a dozen people you’d get a dozen different answers.

We did a super active 5-day trip and packed in a ton, but if you want a little more breathing room, a 7-day Iceland itinerary is perfect. It gives you enough time to see all the highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’ve got two weeks or more, you can slow down, drive the full Ring Road, and explore the quieter corners most people miss.

It really comes down to your travel style, how much time you have to work with, and exactly what you’d like to see. Which brings me to our next step…

Step 5: Decide On Your Must-See List

This is the fun part – figuring out what you want to see!

Iceland has so many incredible natural sights, it’s impossible to do it all in one trip. Start by listing your must-sees, then build your itinerary around those.

A few ideas:

• The South Coast: Waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, and even glacier hikes. Here’s my full South Coast guide.
• The Golden Circle: Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss are musts for first-timers. My Golden Circle article covers everything you need to know.
• Blue Lagoon: The most famous geothermal spa in Iceland. First timers almost always want to check this out! Read my Blue Lagoon guide here.
• Whale Watching, Ice Caves, and Horseback Riding: All easy to add depending on the season.
• Northern Lights or Midnight Sun: Depending on when you visit, you’ll get one of these magical experiences.

If you need ideas, check out my full guide on the best things to do in Iceland.

Your vacation to Iceland is completely customizable according to your own tastes, so make a list of your personal must-sees. Some people even choose to take a self-guided road trip all around Iceland to see as much as possible during their stay.

Step 6: Start Booking Your Trip

Once you’ve decided when to go and what to see, it’s time to start booking!

You’ll need:

• Flights (I share my favorite tips in how to book cheap flights)
• Hotels or Airbnbs (here’s how I find the best ones)
• Rental car is important if you’re doing a self-drive trip. I use Rental Cars to book mine.
• Tours or excursions for things like glacier hikes, whale watching, or the Blue Lagoon. My favorite ways to book tours are through Viator and Get Your Guide.
• Travel insurance is always smart to have, for any trip you take, but especially international ones.

Things book up quickly in Iceland, especially in summer, so try to lock things in early.

We stayed at Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel in Reykjavik and absolutely loved it. The location was perfect, the staff was friendly, and the rooms were super cozy. Highly recommend it!

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7. Pack For Every Type Of Weather

Iceland’s weather changes by the hour — no exaggeration. You’ll want to be ready for wind, rain, sunshine, and everything in between.

A few things you definitely need:

• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Thermal base layers
• Fleece or wool sweater
• Sleep mask (it barely gets dark in summer)
• Travel adapter
• Refillable water bottle (the tap water is amazing!)

If you want a full breakdown, my Iceland summer packing list covers exactly what to bring and why.

FAQs About Planning a Trip to Iceland

How many days do you need in Iceland?

If it’s your first visit, plan for at least five to seven days. That gives you enough time to see Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast without feeling rushed.

If you want to drive the full Ring Road, aim for 10-14 days.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

It totally depends on what you want to experience.

Summer (June through August) is great for long daylight hours and easy driving. Winter is best for the Northern Lights and snowy adventures. Spring and fall have fewer crowds and lower prices, but weather can be unpredictable any time of year.

Do you need a car in Iceland?

If you’re staying mostly in Reykjavik and booking day tours, you can skip the car. But if you want to explore at your own pace, especially along the South Coast or the Ring Road, renting a car is the best way to go.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Yes, Iceland can be pricey. Food, gas, and tours all add up. You can save by booking early, staying in guesthouses, cooking some of your own meals, and using grocery stores instead of eating out every day.

Do people in Iceland speak English?

Yes! Almost everyone speaks excellent English, and locals are super friendly and helpful. You’ll have no problem getting around or asking for help.

Final Thoughts