4-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary: The Best of the South

This 4-day itinerary is designed for a self-drive adventure in December, focusing on the most accessible and spectacular sights of South Iceland. It balances driving with exploration, prioritizing safety and maximizing the limited daylight hours.

Tip: This route is best managed with a 4x4 vehicle equipped with studded winter tires.

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Day 1: Arrival, Reykjanes Peninsula, and Reykjavík

Focus: Picking up your vehicle and exploring the volcanic landscapes near the airport before settling into the capital.

Morning/Afternoon: Arrival at Keflavík Airport (KEF)

• Proceed through customs and locate the Höldur Car Rental desk in the arrivals hall.
• Complete your rental paperwork and receive the keys to your pre-booked 4x4 vehicle.
• Familiarize yourself with the car’s features — especially headlights and heating.

Tip: Headlights must be on at all times while driving in Iceland, day or night.

Afternoon: Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula

Driving Time: 1–2 hours (plus stops)
Route: KEF → Bridge Between Continents → Gunnuhver geothermal area → Reykjavík

• Bridge Between Continents: Walk across the small footbridge spanning the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
• Gunnuhver Hot Springs: Witness steaming vents and bubbling mud pools. Stay on marked paths.

Tip: The Reykjanes area is often very windy — wear a warm hat and a windproof jacket.

Late Afternoon: Drive to Reykjavík and Check-In

Driving Time: 45–60 minutes from the Reykjanes Peninsula.

• Drive to your accommodation in Reykjavík.
• Be aware of paid parking zones (P-zones) in central areas — use parking garages or pay-and-display machines.
• Here, you'll find comprehensive information about parking in Reykjavík.

Evening: Dinner and Northern Lights Hunt

• Enjoy dinner at one of Reykjavík's excellent restaurants.
• Optional: If the aurora forecast is good (vedur.is), drive to a dark spot just outside the city, such as Grótta Lighthouse, for a chance to see the Northern Lights.

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Day 2: The Golden Circle

Focus: Iceland’s most iconic geological wonders — all transformed by winter.

Morning: Þingvellir National Park

Driving Time: 45 minutes from Reykjavík
Duration: 1–1.5 hours

• Walk through the Almannagjá gorge between the tectonic plates.
• Enjoy breathtaking views in soft winter light.

Safety: Paths can be icy — wear shoes with good grip or use crampons/ice grips.

Mid-day: Geysir Geothermal Area

Driving Time: 50 minutes from Þingvellir
Duration: 45–60 minutes

• See Strokkur geyser erupt up to 30 meters (100 ft) every few minutes.
• The steam rising in the cold air makes for dramatic photos.

Tip: Keep a safe distance from boiling pools.

Afternoon: Gullfoss Waterfall

Driving Time: 10 minutes from Geysir
Duration: 45–60 minutes

• Marvel at the two-tiered waterfall, often partially frozen in December.
• Admire ice formations along the canyon walls.

Safety: Viewing platforms can be icy and windy — walk carefully.

Late Afternoon/Evening: Return to Reykjavík

Driving Time: 1.5–2 hours

Tip: If daylight permits, stop at Kerið crater on your way back.
Enjoy Reykjavík’s festive holiday lights in the evening.

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Day 3: The South Coast to Vík

Focus: Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers — Iceland’s scenic south.

Morning: Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss

Driving Time: ~2 hours from Reykjavík to Skógafoss

• Seljalandsfoss: The path behind the falls is closed in winter, but the view from the front is spectacular.
• Skógafoss: A short drive away, this waterfall is easily accessible and very photogenic.

Afternoon: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Driving Time: 30 minutes from Skógafoss

• Explore the black sand beach, basalt columns, and Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
• Stop for lunch and fuel in Vík.

Critical Safety: Never turn your back on the ocean. Sneaker waves are dangerous and unpredictable.

Late Afternoon: Check-In

Stay overnight in or around Vík — ideal for Northern Lights viewing away from city lights.

Evening: Aurora Hunting

After dinner, drive to a dark spot outside town for aurora watching.

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Day 4: Glacier Wonders and Return to Keflavík

Focus: Experience Iceland’s glaciers before your return journey.

Option A: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Driving Time: 2.5 hours from Vík
Duration: 1.5–2 hours

• See icebergs calve from the Vatnajökull glacier on the Glacier Lagoon and float out to sea.
• Walk across to Diamond Beach, where ice chunks glitter on the black sand.

Note: The return drive to KEF is 5–6 hours — start before sunrise and only attempt if comfortable with long winter drives.

Option B (Recommended): Sólheimajökull Glacier & Return

Driving Time: 30 minutes from Vík
Duration: 2–4 hours (with tour)

• Visit the Sólheimajökull glacier viewpoint and walk to the lagoon edge.
• Pre-book a glacier hike or ice cave tour (e.g., Katla Ice Cave from Vík) for a safe guided experience.

Afternoon: Drive Back to Keflavík

Driving Time: 2.5–3 hours from Vík to KEF

Allow plenty of time and plan food stops (e.g., Selfoss).

Evening: Car Drop-Off and Departure

• Refuel your vehicle before returning it to Höldur Car Rental at Keflavík Airport.
• Proceed to the terminal for your flight.

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FAQs for Your 4-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary

How many daylight hours can I expect in winter?

• December–January: 4–5 hours (roughly 11:00–15:30)
• February: 7–8 hours with soft golden light

Plan sightseeing during daylight and use evenings for aurora hunting or cozy cafés.

Is driving safe during winter?

Yes — if you’re prepared. Iceland’s main roads are well maintained, but conditions can change quickly.

Höldur equips all winter rentals with:

• Studded tires
• Emergency equipment
• 24/7 roadside assistance

Always check umferdin.is before setting out.

Does my car rental include insurance for winter conditions?

Yes. All Höldur vehicles include CDW insurance (Collision Damage Waiver). Optional add-ons include:

• Super Collission Damage Waiver (SCDW)
• Gravel protection (GP)
• Sand and ash damage (SADW)

Your rental agent will explain all options clearly at pick-up.

Can I drive the Ring Road in four days during winter?

It’s possible but ambitious. We recommend focusing on the Golden Circle and South Coast for a more relaxed and scenic experience.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?

Yes — especially along the South Coast and popular aurora-viewing areas. Winter travel is quieter, but quality guesthouses still fill quickly.

What should I pack for a winter road trip?

Pack for layering and warmth:

• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof outerwear
• Gloves and sturdy boots
• Reusable water bottle
• Snacks and power bank for photography stops

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Travel with Confidence — Höldur’s Expert Support

From your first kilometre to your final stop, Höldur is your trusted Icelandic travel companion.

With expert local guidance, well-equipped winter vehicles, and friendly, reliable service, we make Iceland’s roads feel safe and accessible — even in challenging conditions.

Whether you’re picking up your car at Keflavík Airport or Reykjavík City, our experienced team helps you:

• Plan realistic routes
• Understand weather conditions
• Choose the perfect vehicle for your itinerary

Drive with confidence. Explore Iceland your way.

Start your 4-Day Winter Adventure with Höldur — the warm, expert guide behind every unforgettable Icelandic journey.

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