Iceland. The Land of Fire and Ice. A country with beautiful black sand beaches, wondrous waterfalls, and glorious geysers, where travel budgets get pushed to their limits. Sure, Reykjavík is one of the most expensive cities in the world, but the Bros believe that anything is possible.
Iceland is one of the top spots on traveler’s bucket lists, and with Icelandair offering free stopovers in Reykjavík, it’s time to strike while the iron is hot. Here’s how to spend 3 days in Iceland on a budget.
DAY 1
GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR
The Golden Circle tour. The most popular thing to do in Iceland for sure, but why spend extra money on a tour? Your time at each stop will be limited. You’ll be ushered from spot to spot as quickly as possible while competing with a bus full of tourists for the same photos. You won’t get to truly appreciate nature as it was meant to be appreciated. And trust us, the nature in Iceland is pretty spectacular and you’ll want to soak it all in.
The best way to start your 3 days in Iceland on a budget is to check into a hostel, talk to your roommates, and split a rental car. When you split the cost between 3 or 4 people it’s actually pretty affordable. Having your own car means you will be in control of your own destiny. You’ll be able to go at your own pace, turn down random mysterious roads and explore parts of Iceland that aren’t included in a packaged Golden Circle Tour. Talk to the front desk at your hostel, as they can often arrange to have the car dropped off right at your doorstep!
Here’s a list of the stops to make on your “Do It Yourself” Golden Circle Tour along with some google maps directions. Follow this plan on Day 1 to get off to a good start on your 3 days in Iceland on a budget.
- Þingvellir National Park – marks the boundary between the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates, clearly visible in the form of cracks and faults.
- Geysir geothermal area – The original geyser is located here, naturally named “Geysir”, from which all others are named after. The name comes from the Icelandic word of geysa (to gush). Strokkur erupts every few minutes, blasting boiling water up to 100 feet in the air.
- Gullfoss waterfall – One of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls, it has two levels of wide cascades dumping massive amounts of water and mist. Bring a rain jacket!
- Kerið volcanic crater – Often missed by Golden Circle Tours, but if you have a rental car you can visit this 3,000-year-old volcanic crater lake which displays vivid reds in its volcanic rock and appealing aquamarine colors in the lake due to the minerals in the soil.
DAY 2
ROAD TRIP ALONG THE SOUTHERN COAST
The Golden Circle may be the most popular, but the Bros think a road trip along the southern coast of Iceland is really where it’s at. The drive will pass through otherworldly landscapes. Is this Iceland or Mars? You’ll encounter the unique, majestic horses of Iceland as you drive with your jaw wide open due to the stunning scenery surrounding you.
You’ll hike on top of a magnificent waterfall that regularly displays rainbows. If that’s not impressive enough, how about walking behind and standing underneath a waterfall that is regularly ranked as one of Iceland’s best? And since you have your own rental car, you’ll have time to stop off at a hidden waterfall. Afterward, debate with your friends about which one ranks at the top of your list. It’s sure to be a tough debate.
The Day 2 itinerary also includes one of the most popular spots for photos in all of Iceland, the black sand beaches of Vík. Take a stroll towards the basalt columns at the edge of the beach. Climb the rock structures and get lost in your surroundings. There’s not another place on Earth like this one. Keep an eye out for the puffins, funny miniature penguin-looking birds. See below for the must-see stops of your drive along the southern coast. Here are some directions for the day.
- Skogafoss – One of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland. Consistently displays rainbows, sometimes even a double rainbow! Can be spotted in movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.
- Seljalandsfoss – This waterfall originates in a volcano glacier. A path will lead you behind the waterfall, an incredible experience.
- Gljúfrabúi – Follow the trail from Seljalandsfoss to this waterfall tucked behind the cliffs. A hidden gem, for sure.
- Black Sand Beaches of Vík – The southernmost village of Iceland, famous for its black sand beaches, basalt rock formations, and puffins. It’s located on a glacier that lies on top of the Katla volcano. Scientists believe that an eruption is overdue and could occur soon. Travel safely!
DAY 3
A DAY IN REYKJAVÍK
Your trip to Iceland won’t be complete without some time in the world’s northernmost capital of Reykjavík. With a population of about 130,000, it has a small town feel and is known for being green, clean and safe. If you only have 3 days in Iceland and you’re on a budget, the Bros believe one day is enough. Here’s a list of things to do during one day in Reykjavik.
- Hallgrimskirkja Church – Lutheran Church is the most recognizable landmark in Reykjavík. Check out the large pipe organ inside and the views of the city from the top of the church. Get a photo with the Leif Erikson statue out front.
- Sun Voyager Sculpture – Sculpture symbolizing an ode to the sun, hope, progress & freedom.
- Eat the food – If you’re feeling adventurous and have a few extra Icelandic króna laying around, try the fermented shark. For a budget-friendly option, the hot dog stand Bæjarins bestu (The Town’s Best) is a must! Get one with everything, including crunchy onions, raw onions, remoulade, mustard & ketchup. Even U.S. President Bill Clinton has eaten one of these world-famous sausages located near the harbor.
- Party in Reykjavík – The home of Viking Beer sure knows how to party. If you are visiting during May-July, you can party under the midnight sun, the time when the sun literally sets around midnight or later. All the pubs, bars, and clubs are centrally located and easy to walk to. Here’s a list of some popular spots.
- Hot tubs & pools – Icelanders love to get together and commiserate in a pool or a hot tub. The good news is you don’t have to go far to take part in the Nordic nation’s pastime. The Bros’ say skip the Blue Lagoon altogether. It’s a bit of a tourist trap that will set you back on your budget while you’re surrounded by nothing but tourists. Go local. It’s cheaper and a more authentic experience. Here’s a list of pools, hot tubs, and hot springs.
- Northern Lights – Visible during September-March. Auroras are one of the most fascinating naturally occurring phenomena that can be witnessed on this planet. Try to target a clear night. Here’s a list of places to view the Northern Lights.
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READY FOR 3 DAYS IN ICELAND ON A BUDGET?
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