Curator’s statement
Iceland is one of those destinations that feels both powerful and deeply personal to me. My connection to it grew even stronger recently when my son took a solo trip there and was fortunate enough to witness the northern lights on his sixth night—an experience that perfectly captures the magic and unpredictability of this country. From a curator’s perspective, this is how I design Iceland for travelers who want freedom, scenery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences without the stress of planning every detail themselves. The journey begins the moment you pick up your rental car, because in Iceland, the road itself is part of the experience and every drive feels cinematic. I carefully map each route in advance so clients always know where they’re going, where to pause, and where the most meaningful moments tend to unfold. From waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal pools and dancing northern skies, Iceland is best experienced at a pace that allows you to truly feel its wild, elemental beauty.
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Day 1: Arrival, rental car pickup & Reykjavik ease-in
Exploring Iceland through his eyes—where even a rainbow road in a tiny Icelandic town becomes part of the story
You land in Reykjavik and pick up your rental car directly at the airport, which I always arrange in advance for a smooth start. The drive into the city takes about 45 minutes, passing lava fields that immediately set the tone for the trip. You check into your hotel, The Reykjavik EDITION, and spend the rest of the day exploring Reykjavik at a relaxed pace. Dinner is casual—this is your soft landing into Iceland. Try Icelandic lamb soup, fresh Arctic char, and a local hot dog stand (“pylsur”).
Day 2: Golden Circle, waterfalls & Geysers
Driving through Iceland where the landscape shifts every few minutes—lava fields, mountains, and endless sky reminding you the journey is the destination.
Today you drive the famous Golden Circle route (~230 km loop, 6–8 hours with stops). You visit Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers at Geysir, and the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall. Be sure to capture Gullfoss waterfall mist and tectonic plate valley for amazing photos. I always recommend stopping often because the landscape changes constantly—lava fields, horses, and mountain views everywhere.
Return to Reykjavik for a relaxed evening. At dinner, try Rye bread baked in geothermal heat and Icelandic butter, as it is a must and mouthwatering at any restaurant along your drive.
Day 3: South coast & waterfalls to Black Sand beaches
Standing on the black sands of Vik where the Atlantic crashes in and nature feels both wild and cinematic.
You drive south along the coast toward Vik, stopping at Seljalandsfoss (walk-behind waterfall) and Skógafoss. The highlight is the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, with basalt columns and dramatic Atlantic waves. This is one of the most cinematic driving days of the trip, with constant photo stops built -especially Reynisfjara black sand beach cliffs is a must-capture photo opportunity. Overnight in the Vik area, Hotel Vik i Myrdal is a nice choice so you can be close to nature for northern lights. For a casual and unique dinner with an Icelandic twist, stop at Black Crust Pizzeria and order a Black Volcano Pizza!
Day 4: Glacier hike, ice cave experience & Jökulsárlón
Walking across ancient ice on a glacier in Iceland—where every step feels like you’re exploring another world.
Today is a major highlight: a guided glacier hiking or ice cave tour on Vatnajökull Glacier (I always pre-book this for safety and timing). You continue east to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs drift into the sea. Across the road, Diamond Beach offers black sand covered in sparkling ice pieces.
Overnight nearby, Hótel Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Hotel for the best chance of northern lights Try Arctic char, cod or ginger carrot soup at the hotel restaurant and a blondie for dessert.
Day 5: East Fjords & scenic drive to quiet towns
A sky full of movement and color in Iceland—watching the northern lights dance like nothing else on earth.
You drive through the remote East Fjords, one of the most peaceful parts of Iceland. Small fishing villages, winding roads, and dramatic cliffs define the day. I design this as a slower driving day to reset after the glacier experience. Overnight at the beautiful Blábjörg Resort with a visit to KHB Brewery and Distillery for a craft beer, or Hafnarhus Café for coffee and homemade pantries, or a light meal and enjoy a quiet evening of stargazing and northern lights potential.
Day 6: North Iceland, Akureyri & whale watching
Out on the open sea in Akureyri, watching whales rise from the deep in complete silence and awe.
You continue north to Akureyri, often called the capital of the north. I schedule a whale watching tour from nearby Húsavík (about one hour away), one of the best whale-watching locations in Europe. After the tour, you explore Akureyri’s charming harbor and botanical gardens and stop to try the fish and chips at Akureyri Fish & Chips. This is also one of the strongest regions for northern lights if conditions are right.
Dinner at Strikið, a standout choice for dinner with a view over the fjord. The Arctic char, lamb shank, or fish of the day is my son’s recommendation.
Day 7: Return south, Blue Lagoon & departure
Iceland doesn’t just show you nature—it reminds you how powerful and peaceful it can be all at once. The Blue Lagoon.
You drive back toward Reykjavik, with optional scenic stops along the way. I always include the option to pre-book at the Blue Lagoon to unwind before your flight in the morning. It’s the perfect contrast—warm geothermal waters after a week of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Enjoy your final Icelandic meal at the Lava Restaurant, set right into the lava cliffs overlooking the lagoon. Try the Arctic char with seasonal vegetables, Icelandic lamb (one of the best in the country) or langoustine soup.
Check back into The Reykjavik EDITION and settle in for your booked morning airport connection.
Need to know
I always remind clients that Iceland is best experienced with flexibility and a slower pace, because the most memorable moments often come from unplanned stops along the road. From waterfalls and lava fields to sudden weather changes and quiet stretches of highway, the journey itself is just as important as the destinations. My advice is simple: don’t rush the route or chase a checklist—let the landscape guide the experience and allow time for spontaneous photo stops, cafés, and viewpoints along the way.
On a more personal note, my son recently took a solo trip to Iceland and came back completely in awe of how the country feels almost otherworldly, especially at night. He described the simple moments—hot drinks in small towns, stepping outside to check the sky, and ultimately witnessing the northern lights on his sixth night—as what made the trip unforgettable. From both of us, the biggest tip is to stay present, look up often, and give yourself space for Iceland to surprise you.
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Lynn Staude
Lynn Staude
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