Imagine being able to squeeze in an unforgettable mini-vacation on your way to Europe or North America – sounds dreamy, right? That’s exactly what an Iceland stopover itinerary allows you to do.
You get a few magical days in the land of fire and ice without even needing a separate trip!
And who can resist two holidays in one?!
Whether you’re soaking in relaxing hot springs or scratching the Northern Lights off your bucket list, Iceland truly delivers incredible experiences at every turn, even on the shortest of stays.
Find out how you can turn a simple layover into the highlight of your trip!
Let’s get into it. 💪
Table of Contents:
- Is a Stopover in Iceland Worth It?
- What is the IcelandAir Stopover Program?
- What to Do During A Layover in Reykjavík?
- Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Is a Stopover in Iceland Worth It?
Okay, so I might be a tad biased on this one because I’m literally obsessed with all things Iceland.
But, I assure you, if you ask anyone whether a stopover in Iceland is worth it…
… the answer is YES, a thousand times yes!
Ideally, you need 7-14 days to really appreciate what this beautiful country has to offer, but if you have a few days, or heck, just a few hours, anything is better than nothing.
Suppose you’re undecided whether to commit to a full vacation here. In that case, an extended layover in Iceland is the perfect way of getting a taste of this amazing country without fully committing to a whole trip.
And, you get to enjoy two holidays in one.
But be warned: once you’ve had a taste, you will want to come back for more!
What is the IcelandAir Stopover Program?
If you’re stopping in Iceland on the way to Europe or back, the Iceland Air Stopover Program allows you to add a free layover in Iceland.
This means you can enjoy another vacation en route to your final destination, and that’s an amazing way to make the most of your trip!
You can choose a 1 – or 2-day layover in Iceland or extend it up to seven days – at no extra charge!
So, if you’ve wondered how to get a free stopover in Iceland, this is it.
If you’re not planning on renting a car and are opting for a guided tour during your time here, you’ll want to consider getting an Airport transfer when you arrive.
Planning on taking advantage of the full 7 days option? Check out this post on how to experience the best Ring Road attractions in only 7 days on your Iceland stopover .👇
➡️ READ: Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: How To Experience the Best Attractions in Just 7 Days
What to Do During A Layover in Reykjavík?
If you’re looking for things to do in and around the capital for your Iceland stopover itinerary you’re in luck. There are plenty of exciting activities and sights to explore, even if you only have a short amount of time.
1. Explore the Capital on Your Iceland Stopover
All right, so the first thing you need to do in Iceland is hang out in Reykjavík – even if it’s only for a couple of hours.
Walk around the streets, admire all the beautiful homes, explore the main sites, and do some shopping – I highly recommend picking up your very own Icelandic Lopapeysa. Trust me, it’ll be the best sweater you’ll ever own!
The Harpa concert hall: Reykjavík has a lively art scene and the Harpa concert hall hosts many concerts and plays. The nice thing is that you can visit it at no extra charge.
Tjörnin:This is a pond at the very heart of the capital. Not only is it a popular spot to take your kids to feed the ducks, but it’s also surrounded by beautiful architecture.
Grótta Lighthouse: It’s just a short drive from the city, but you can also walk here. It’s one of the best places in Reykjavík to catch the Northern Lights.
If you’re looking for more things to do on your Reykjavík stopover, check out the video below.👇
2. Visit the Hot Springs
Icelanders LOVE their hot springs and pools.
It’s a huge part of their culture and visiting a geothermal pool is one of those things you just need to experience when you’re here!
Many people want to see the famous Blue Lagoon, but because of volcanic activity in the area, it’s not always accessible.
I recommend the Sky Lagoon as a great alternative just outside Reykjavík. You really only need a couple of hours to experience total geothermal bliss, making it a great option for those who are short on time.
Take my advice – jump in some hot water on your Iceland stopover itinerary! 😉
If you’re willing to venture out further, there are some amazing hot springs, pools, and spas to explore. Check out the blog post below if you want to learn more.👇
➡️ READ: Top 10 Blue Lagoon Alternatives: Hot Springs, Pools, and Spas That Are Just as Breathtaking
3. Indulge in the Local Cuisine
You simply can’t visit a new country without diving into the local cuisine, and Iceland has some delicious dishes you’ve got to try!
They use fresh, high-quality ingredients and pair flavors extremely well. Expect incredible lamb, seafood, yogurt, and desserts!
Oh, and their hotdogs aren’t like the processed stuff you might be used to, they’re made with real meat and taste ahmazing.
If you’re traveling with a dietary restriction, there’s no need to worry about finding good food on your trip. Most restaurants accommodate those who are vegan, vegetarian or eating gluten-free in Iceland.
And for all my foodies out there, you don’t want to miss this post I did on the best food and drink hot spots in Reykjavík.👇
➡️ READ: Reykjavík Food & Drink Guide: The Best Foodie Hot Spots In Iceland’s Capital
How about adding the highest-rated tour in Iceland on TripAdvisor to your Iceland stopover itinerary?
💥The Reykjavík Food Walk Tour only takes 3 hours and you’ll get a chance to walk around the capital, visit some of the city’s landmarks, and enjoy great food, all with a knowledgeable local guide.
Get a 10% discount by entering the VIP code: ICEVIEW at the checkout: 👉 Reykjavík Food Walk Tour.
This tour is super popular, so make sure that you book it well in advance.
If you want a taste of what to expect, watch the video below.👇
4. Take a Day Trip
If you have a little more wiggle room in terms of time, you could take a day trip out of the city.
You can do this by hopping on a tour, hitchhiking, or renting a car and driving out of the city.
Are you traveling alone? Not to worry. Solo travel in Iceland is extremely safe and this is one of the best countries in the world to visit on your own.
Here are a few day trip options close to Reykjavík:
Glymur: Iceland is known for its amazing waterfalls and great hiking trails. If you want to check off both activities in one visit, then Glymur is a must-see. The best part is that it’s only 44 miles from Reykjavík. Check out everything you need to know for your Glymur hike here.👇
➡️ READ: Why Glymur Waterfall Should Top Your Iceland Hiking Bucket List
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: What makes this a great place to visit? Well, you’ve got awe-inspiring glaciers, tiny villages, iconic churches, and stunning scenery – just to name a few! It’s accessible year-round and only takes between 2 and 3 hours to drive here from Reykjavík, making it a perfect addition to your Iceland stopover itinerary.
➡️ READ: Snæfellsnes Peninsula:10 Bucket-List Worthy Places in West Iceland
Reykjadalur Hot Springs: This hot spring is only a short 40-minute drive from the capital, making it the perfect day trip. Enjoying a relaxing dip in geothermal waters after a good hike sounds like a perfect day to me!
➡️ READ: Reykjadalur Hot Springs: The Perfect Day Hike & Hot Spring Experience!
The video below has more ideas for quick getaways from Reykjavík.👇
Want to take a day trip and want the freedom of driving yourself? Then I highly recommend renting a vehicle from 🚙 Blue Car Rental.
Their experienced staff make the process a breeze and their online booking streamlines the entire process, so you won’t waste any time with paperwork.
Just pick up your keys, get your vehicle, and enjoy your road trip!
Plus, you’ll get an automatic 5% off the rental price at the checkout when you use this 👉 VIP Link!
You’re welcome! 😎
5. Take a Guided Iceland Stopover Tour
If you’re not keen on exploring on your own, you could always book a guided tour for your Iceland stopover.
Whether you like to take it slow or adventure is calling your name, Iceland has tours for everyone.
Golden Circle: The Golden Circle route is one of the most iconic routes in the country. Even if you only have time for a day tour. Visit geysers, waterfalls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and more on this tour.👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Private Luxury tour Golden Circle 10h SUV 5 Pax
Whale watching: Whale watching tours are incredibly popular and the ones in Reykjavík run all year long. If you’ve never seen these incredible creatures up close, Iceland is a great place to do that!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR:Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík
Puffin watching: Get the chance to see these birds without disturbing their natural habitat by taking a tour – perfect for all you bird watchers out there! Plus, you’ll learn some interesting facts about these birds and the area.
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Reykjavík Classic Puffin Watching
Northern Lights: Experiencing the Northern Lights is an absolute must in my books. So, if you’re eager to see them, why not take a tour? The guides will take you straight to the best spots. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the magic!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Northern Lights Hunt & Hot Chocolate Minibus Tour
Snorkeling the Silfra AND horseback riding: Why not hit two birds with one stone by combining tours like horseback riding followed by snorkeling? Did you know you can snorkel in Iceland, even in the winter?! Silfra is one of the world’s top diving sites. Yes, it’s cold, but it’s sooo worth it!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Silfra Snorkeling – with underwater photos & Horseback riding – Red Lava Tour
Glacier: Take a scenic drive where specially adapted glacier vehicles will take you to Langjökull glacier and ice caves, where you can walk inside the glacier itself! Pretty cool, right?
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Into the Glacier – From Reykjavík
Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Don’t let your flight layover in Iceland be just another stopover – turn it into a mini-vacation you’ll always remember!
If you’re excited to explore Iceland’s bucket-list destinations while staying close to Reykjavík, you’ve got to check out the 👉 West + South Iceland Map + Guidebook.
This 176-page travel guide is packed with information you can trust like:
✅ Hotel and restaurant recommendations, planning checklists, detailed maps and exclusive discounts.
✅ Highlights like the Golden Circle, South Iceland, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Reykjanes Peninsula.
✅ My favorite hidden gems and must-see natural attractions.
So, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, on a budget, or splurging, the South + West guide is for you.
West + South Iceland Map And Guidebook
$35.00
Explore Iceland’s most famous attractions—from black sand beaches to majestic glaciers, and the renowned Golden Circle route—all handpicked by a local to guarantee you see the highlights and hidden gems of the area.
Are you JUST staying in Reykjavík on your Iceland layover? I’ve got something else for you, then!
I know that with a layover, time is of the essence. So, don’t waste a minute trying to figure out what to see in the capital on your own and how to find it.
Grab the Reykjavík Map, which features over 200 pinned locations, from the little-known wonders to key attractions in the city.
Reykjavík Map
$10.00
This map is like having your own personal tour guide showing you the best of the city – from the trendiest restaurants to those little-known local spots most tourists miss out on.
It also includes the best tours, restaurants, and places to stay.
I hope you’re ready for an unforgettable stopover in Iceland!
Happy Planning!
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