How far can you realistically drive in one day?

Planning Your Icelandic Road Trip

Driving in Iceland is an adventure filled with waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal cliffs. But how far can you realistically drive in one day without feeling exhausted? With a bit of planning—and the right stops along the way—you can cover 250–300 km (155–185 miles) comfortably, enjoying every scenic moment.

How Far Can You Go?

• Summer (mid-June to mid-August): 10–12 hours of daylight, ideal for 300 km days with photo stops.
• Shoulder seasons (May & September): 8–10 hours of daylight, plan for 250 km to allow for weather changes.
• Winter (October to April): Shorter days and possible snow, aim for 150–200 km with plenty of breaks.

What to Pack

• Layered clothing: windproof jacket, warm mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear
• Sturdy shoes for short hikes or cliff-top walks
• Snacks, a refillable water bottle, and a portable power bank
• Offline maps or a GPS device (mobile reception can be spotty)
• Emergency kit: flashlight, first-aid essentials, and a spare tire kit

When to Go

Choose summer for the Midnight Sun and endless sightseeing. Spring and autumn offer vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind cooler temperatures and a higher chance of snow, winter brings Northern Lights and dramatic ice formations.

How Long to Stay Behind the Wheel

A single-day stretch of 250–300 km leaves time for at least three quality stops. If you have two days, you can easily split the Ring Road into more leisurely segments, such as:

• Day 1: Reykjavík → Borgarnes (95 km) → Hvítá waterfalls → Truck Inn at Hvítá (stay overnight)
• Day 2: Truck Inn → Snæfellsnes Peninsula highlights (130 km) → The Stykkishólmur Inn for seaside views

What to Do Along the Way

• Gullfoss and Geysir: Classic Golden Circle wonders, perfect for photo breaks.
• Hvítá Inn area: White-water rafting or a gentle riverside walk.
• Stykkishólmur: Seal-watching tours and cultural museums near The Stykkishólmur Inn.
• Westfjords detour: Ísafjörður Inn is your base for dramatic fjord drives and bird cliffs.

Recharge with Ourhotels.is

After a full day on Icelandic roads, unwind in comfort. Stay at Truck Inn at Hvítá, where friendly staff and a hearty breakfast await. Planning to explore more of the Westfjords? Ísafjörður Inn offers cozy rooms in the heart of Ísafjörður, perfect for chasing waterfalls and puffin colonies.

Ready to plan your perfect Icelandic road trip? Book your stay via Ourhotels.is and make every kilometer count!