An Easy 3-Day Weekend in Iceland for East Coasters

Since most flights from the East Coast are red-eyes, do whatever it takes to sleep on the plane. If you’re not flying business class, opt for a window seat—you’ll appreciate having something to lean against. You’ll arrive early in the morning, so it’s important to be rested and ready to make the most of your first day.

After clearing customs and dropping your bags at the hotel, head to Sandholt Bakery for a cozy welcome to Reykjavik. Their coffee is excellent, and the smoked salmon avocado toast or a fresh pastry with pistachio makes for a perfect holiday breakfast.

For your first adventure, I highly recommend booking a Golden Circle small group super Jeep tour. These tours typically depart around noon, giving you time to relax or stroll around the city beforehand. The Golden Circle highlights Iceland’s unique geography—from geysers and waterfalls to tectonic rift zones—making it an unforgettable introduction. If the forecast is favorable, choose the tour option that includes a Northern Lights chase in the evening for a magical first night under the stars.

Dedicate your second day to exploring Iceland’s breathtaking South Coast—a must-see for first-timers. Book a small group guided day tour so you aren’t on a giant tour bus. The dramatic landscapes and contrast between glaciers, sea cliffs, and lush valleys make this one of Iceland’s most photogenic routes. You’ll want to pack a rain poncho for the waterfalls. You will get wet!

For dinner, make a reservation at Apotek around 8:30–9 pm. This upscale yet relaxed dining experience in the heart of Reykjavik will not disappoint. Before your meal, stop by their sister bar, Tipsy, for one of the best cocktails in the city—perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. If you like a little spice, try the Major Pepper with Casamigos, Aperol, and habanero. It is so good.

Insider tip: If seeing the Northern Lights is high on your list and you didn’t catch them on the first day, be ready to pivot. Keep your evening flexible and consider swapping dinner for a 9:30 pm departure Northern Lights tour if the forecast looks promising. Your Icelandic three-day adventure is all about chasing the moments that matter most.

On your final day, take it slow and savor your last few hours in Iceland. Pack up, check out, and treat yourself to one last delicious breakfast or brunch. Reykjavik has no shortage of cozy cafés.

Before heading to the airport, leave 2–3 hours to enjoy at Sky Lagoon, located just 10 minutes from downtown. This oceanfront geothermal spa is relatively new and a true gem. Go early before it gets crowded, and experience the seven-step ritual first, which includes a cold plunge, sauna, and steam room circuit. After that, grab an aperol spritz (you’re still on vacation!) reflect on your adventure while gazing out at the sea before your flight home.

Insider tip: Book your Sky Lagoon ticket in advance and give yourself at least two hours there to fully enjoy the experience. It’s the ultimate way to wrap up a rejuvenating weekend getaway.

If you have one more day, I’d highly recommend the following for the adventurous: Head out to Thingvellir National Park to snorkel in the Silfra fissure, where you float between the North American and Eurasian plates in glacier‑filtered water. This tectonic plate rift is filled with melted glacial runoff, making the water crystal clear. Silfra is the only place in the world where you can snorkel or dive directly between two tectonic plates. And if you haven’t had enough, when you get back to Reykjavik, try to book an afternoon puffin/whale watching tour. You may need a vacation after this level of pack-it-in, but trust me, it is so worth it!