The 15 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik For Those Short On Time

1. Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle is probably the most popular day trip out of Reykjavik, and for good reason. It’s about one to two hours away and covers three main spots. Þingvellir National Park is where you can actually stroll between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It also has a big place in Iceland’s past since the country’s parliament was formed here back in the 900s.

Gullfoss Waterfall is next, with tons of water crashing into a canyon. On sunny days, you might catch rainbows in the mist. Even in winter, the icy edges add a cool vibe to the place. Wear waterproof gear if you plan to walk close—chances are you’ll get sprayed.

Then there’s the Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser goes off every few minutes. Hot water shoots into the air, and you can feel the heat rising from the ground. Nearby is Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake that some folks add to their Golden Circle route. It’s all doable in one day without feeling too rushed.

2. Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula is about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik and has a pretty wild mix of landscapes. There are steaming vents, craggy coastlines, and lava fields. Gunnuhver Hot Springs is a big draw, where clouds of steam pour out of the ground. It’s named after a ghost named Gunna, which adds a local story to the area.

Another must-see is the Bridge Between Continents, a small walkway that crosses the gap between the North American and Eurasian plates. It’s a quick visit, but it’s neat to say you’ve crossed from one continent to another. You can also check out the Reykjanesviti Lighthouse close by, perched on a hill with sweeping sea views.

Since the peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark, you’ll find many other volcanic and geothermal spots scattered around. If you’ve got extra time, drive along the coast, and you’ll stumble on cliffs, black lava beaches, and more geothermal fields. Seltún and Krysuvik are two other geothermal areas worth seeing if you’re exploring the region.

3. Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is roughly 45 minutes from Reykjavik and is famous worldwide for its cloudy, mineral-rich waters. Surrounded by dark lava rock, the bright blue water stands out no matter the season. Even when it’s cold or windy outside, the water stays warm thanks to the geothermal energy.

People like putting on the silica mud masks they hand out, which many say are great for your skin. There’s also an in-water bar and a few steam rooms. Sure, it’s popular and can get busy, but it’s still relaxing once you’re in the water. If you want to treat yourself, booking a massage or a spa package is always an option.

You can either go to the Blue Lagoon right after you land or right before you leave because it’s close to Keflavik Airport. The surrounding Reykjanes Peninsula is full of other geothermal spots, so if you have more time, you can explore those, too. But if all you want is an easy soak, this place checks that box nicely.

4. Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

The Secret Lagoon in Flúðir is about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik and is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, dating back to 1891. The water is naturally heated, and there’s a little geyser that goes off near the pool every few minutes. It doesn’t have a big fancy facility, but that’s part of the draw—things feel simpler.

You can hang out in the warm water and chat with other travelers or locals. Since it’s smaller than the Blue Lagoon, it usually isn’t as crowded. Bring a towel and maybe some flip-flops if you want to be comfortable moving around.

Once you’re done soaking, the town of Flúðir has a couple of places to eat. You can also tie this visit in with a Golden Circle trip if you plan your day well, or head to the greenhouse restaurant Friðheimar, where they grow tomatoes year-round using geothermal power. It’s a nice, relaxed spot if you’re looking for a less touristy experience.

5. Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord)

Hvalfjörður, or Whale Fjord, is about an hour and a half from Reykjavik. Thanks to a tunnel under the fjord, not as many people take the old route around anymore, which keeps it pretty quiet. The road itself goes past farms, waterfalls, and rugged mountains. It’s a nice break from some of the busier tourist hotspots.

The fjord got its name because whales used to be common in the area, and there’s an old whaling station you might spot if you’re driving along the shore. During World War II, this fjord was a strategic spot, so there’s some military history to learn about, too.

If you want to hike, Glymur Waterfall, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, is near here. It’s a fairly challenging hike, but the views are stunning. Otherwise, just enjoy the drive around the fjord. The scenery alone is worth the trip.

6. South Coast Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are about an hour and a half along the South Coast and are two of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss has a path behind the cascade so that you can see the waterfall from the inside. You will get sprayed, so bring a jacket or something waterproof if you want to stay dry.

Not far away is Skógafoss, which is taller and wider, with a huge misty area at the base. There’s a staircase on the side leading to the top if you’re up for a bit of a climb. At the top, the river continues and forms more waterfalls if you keep hiking along the trail.

While you’re in this region, you might also visit the black sand beaches near Vík or explore the Skógar Museum right by Skógafoss. The South Coast is packed with things to do, so you could easily spend a full day here checking out these waterfalls and nearby sights.

7. Laugarvatn Fontana

Laugarvatn Fontana is about an hour and a half drive, located right next to Lake Laugarvatn. They have geothermal pools, steam rooms, and saunas that all use the naturally hot water from the ground. You’ll be soaking with a view of the lake, and it’s a low-key place to chill.

A cool feature here is the geothermal bakery. They bury dough in the hot ground near the shore, and it slowly bakes into rye bread. You can often watch them dig up the loaves, then get to taste it fresh with butter or smoked fish—definitely something different to try.

It’s along the Golden Circle, so you can combine it with seeing the waterfalls and geysers. If you have enough time, you could also visit the Secret Lagoon or any other local hot springs. Laugarvatn Fontana feels a bit more intimate than some of the larger spas, so it’s nice for a slower-paced afternoon.

8. Eldborg Crater

Eldborg Crater is around an hour and a half away, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The crater is a distinct volcanic cone that rises out of a lava field. It’s a fairly short hike across rocky terrain to get to the rim, but it’s not too tough for most people.

Once you reach the crater’s edge, you’ll have a clear view of the surrounding land. The crater formed a long time ago, and the shape is still sharp and noticeable, which makes it pretty photogenic. The walk itself is interesting too, with all kinds of lava rocks and moss.

If you have extra time, you could explore more of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it has so many classic Icelandic sights in one area. Towns like Hellnar or Arnarstapi are worth checking out, and you might even spot the Snæfellsjökull glacier on a clear day.

9. Glymur Waterfall Hike

Glymur is Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, about an hour from Reykjavik. The hike to get there is moderate, with a log crossing and some slightly steep sections, so it’s good to have decent shoes. You’ll walk through pretty landscapes and end up at the canyon where Glymur drops nearly 200 meters (649 feet).

At the main viewpoint, you’ll see the waterfall plunging into a deep gorge. If you keep going, there’s a loop trail that takes you up and around the canyon, offering more views from different angles. It can be narrow in parts, so watch your footing.

Glymur is near Hvalfjörður, so you could combine these two spots in a single day. After the hike, you might also swing by the town of Akranes for its lighthouse and beach. It’s a nice mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back sightseeing.

10. Reykjadalur Valley (Steam Valley)

Reykjadalur Valley is only about 40 minutes from Reykjavik, right by the town of Hveragerði. The main draw is a naturally hot river you can bathe in. The hike is about 3 kilometers one way, and along the path, you’ll see geothermal vents and bubbling mud pools.

Once you arrive at the river, there are basic changing boards and a wooden walkway that runs alongside the water. Different parts of the river have different temperatures, so you can move around till you find the sweet spot. The scenery is pretty nice, and it’s an awesome free way to experience a geothermal dip.

Hveragerði itself is known for its greenhouses and bakery goods. Some cafés around town bake bread using geothermal heat. This is also a good jumping-off point to see other geothermal areas like Krysuvik or Seltún if you’re planning a full day of exploring.

11. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are about an hour and a half away. Hraunfossar is made up of loads of small waterfalls spilling out from underneath a lava field into the Hvítá River. The water is bright blue, which looks great against the dark rocks.

Barnafoss is a little upstream and translates to “Children’s Falls.” Local legend has it that two kids once fell into the water from a natural stone bridge, which gave the waterfall its name. The water here moves quickly through narrow channels, carving some interesting rock shapes.

There are viewing platforms and a small café if you need a quick snack or coffee. If you want to relax even more, Krauma Spa is nearby, using hot water from Deildartunguhver. You could also look into lava cave tours in the area. It’s a good combo of sightseeing and chilling out in one trip.

12. Visiting Akranes and Borgarnes

Both Akranes and Borgarnes are about a 45-minute to hour-long drive north of Reykjavik, making them easy day-trip options. Akranes sits by the sea and is known for its lighthouse, which you can often climb to view the town and the bay. There’s also a beach area, though it’s chilly for swimming most of the year. Still, it’s a pleasant spot for a stroll, especially in summer.

Borgarnes is a little further along the same route and has beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains. The town’s Settlement Center is a good place to learn about Iceland’s early history and the famous Egil’s Saga. There are also a few cafés and bakeries in town where you can grab a bite.

Driving between Akranes and Borgarnes is scenic, with rolling hills and occasional glimpses of the coast. If you want to stretch your legs, look for short hiking trails around Borgarfjörður, or consider visiting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, which aren’t too far away. These two towns show a quieter side of Icelandic life compared to Reykjavik, and they’re close enough that you can visit both in a single day.

13. Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay

Whale-watching tours leave straight from Reykjavik’s harbor and usually last two to three hours. You can spot humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, or porpoises, depending on the season. Guides on board will point things out and share stories about the local sea life.

Many companies offer a free second trip if you don’t see anything on your first outing. But even if you miss the whales, you get great views of the city and nearby mountains from the water. Dress warmly because the wind on the bay can be chilly, even in summer.

Once you’re back on land, explore the harbor area. Grab some fish and chips, or visit the Whales of Iceland museum, where they have life-size whale models. Whale watching fits nicely into a half day, letting you have the rest of your time to explore Reykjavik itself or visit other sights around town.

14. Viðey Island

Viðey Island is just a 15-minute ferry ride from Reykjavik’s old harbor. It’s a quiet spot with open fields and a few walking trails that look back at the city skyline. It’s a nice way to mix city life with a quick dose of nature.

On the island, you’ll find Viðey House, built in the 1700s, and the Imagine Peace Tower, created by Yoko Ono. The tower beams a column of light into the sky at certain times of the year. There’s also a small café if you need a bite, though opening times can vary.

Walking around the island takes maybe a couple of hours. You can have a picnic, watch for birds, or enjoy the views. It’s an easy trip if you don’t want to drive anywhere since the ferry leaves right from Reykjavik, and you’ll still get that peaceful feeling of being away from the city.

15. Keflavik and Grindavik

Keflavik and Grindavik are both about 40 to 50 minutes from Reykjavik and make for a nice day out if you’re more interested in exploring towns than chasing natural wonders. Keflavik is near the international airport, so it’s where most people first land in Iceland. The town has a handful of shops, cafés, and a walking path along the coast. You can also check out the Viking World Museum, which has a replica of an ancient Viking ship.

Grindavik is a small fishing town not too far away, known for its harbor and seafood scene. If you wander around, you’ll find fish processing plants and boats coming in with the day’s catch. There’s also the Saltfish Museum, which shares local history about the fishing industry. For a bite to eat, local restaurants often serve fresh fish dishes—one of the perks of being right by the sea.

If you want to expand your day a bit, these towns are close to the Blue Lagoon and other Reykjanes Peninsula attractions. You could easily do a loop drive, stopping in Keflavik, Grindavik, and perhaps a few geothermal sights or cliff viewpoints along the way. It’s a good break from the usual waterfalls and hot springs if you’re craving a look at everyday life in Icelandic coastal towns.

Conclusion

These 15 day trips are all within a few hours of Reykjavik, so it’s possible to pick a couple of them even on a shorter visit. Iceland’s landscapes are unbelievably varied, and you don’t have to drive far to see waterfalls, volcanoes, geothermal fields, and more. Pick the most appealing to you, rent a reliable car, and have a great time exploring.