Best Weekend & Short Breaks in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed

Weekend trips in Iceland are perfect for experiencing the country’s breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions in just a few days. From chasing northern lights to exploring waterfalls and relaxing in geothermal pools, even the shortest trips to Iceland offer unforgettable experiences!

Are Short Trips to Iceland Worth It?

Planning a short trip to Iceland might seem ambitious, especially if you're traveling from far away. With its remote location and countless natural wonders, it's natural to question whether just a few days are enough to truly experience the country.

The truth is that Iceland’s compact size and well-connected infrastructure make it easy to visit some of its most iconic highlights, even within a short amount of time, provided you plan your trip carefully. If you don't have enough time to see everything, it's just one of many reasons to return for more another time!

Best Weekend and Short Trip Packages in Iceland

Guide to Iceland offers thoughtfully designed packages that maximize your time and let you experience the country’s iconic highlights with minimal stress. Here are some of the top packages for a short trip to Iceland.

• 2-Day South Coast Trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with Ice Caving - Discover the South Coast’s waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This guided tour includes a magical ice cave experience.

• 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Lagoon Tour with Ice Caving and Northern Lights - Explore Iceland’s top highlights, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and a breathtaking ice cave.

• 4-Day Weekend Getaway in Reykjavik with Day Tours and Northern Lights - Perfect for winter travelers, this tour combines the magic of northern lights hunting with visits to the Golden Circle, South Coast, and geothermal pools.

• 5-Day Iceland Winter Trip to the Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Lagoon Tour with Ice Caving and Northern Lights - Experience the best of Iceland in winter, including glacier hiking, ice caving, the Blue Lagoon, and opportunities to see the northern lights.

You can explore more packages on this page or reach out to our experienced travel agents at info@guidetoiceland.is for help finding the perfect weekend getaway or customizing a short trip to Iceland.

Top 3 Day Tours From Reykjavik for Weekend Trips in Iceland

If you only have a weekend or a few days in Iceland, these day tours are the perfect way to experience the country’s most iconic attractions. These guided options are guaranteed to help you maximize your limited time.

1. Golden Circle Day Tour from Reykjavik - Explore Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park on Iceland's most famous route.
2. South Coast of Iceland Day Tour from Reykjavik - Visit waterfalls, black sand beaches, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on this scenic adventure.
3. Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Tour from Reykjavik - Discover charming villages, volcanic landscapes, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.

Best Tours Under 5 Hours From Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s incredible attractions, even if you’re short on time. These tours, complete with convenient transfers, let you venture outside the city to experience Iceland's highlights. Meet the iconic Icelandic horse, relax in a geothermal spa, or witness the magical northern lights, all in just a few hours.

1. Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik - Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds in Faxafloi Bay with free retry tickets for no sightings.
2. Horse Riding Tour with Optional Pickup from Reykjavik - Ride gentle Icelandic horses through volcanic landscapes just outside Reykjavik.
3. Northern Lights Tour With Free Photos & Refreshments - Chase the aurora on this 4-hour guided bus tour with professional photos included.
4. The Silfra Snorkeling Tour from Reykjavik - Snorkel in the clear waters of the Silfra fissure between two tectonic plates and get free underwater photos.
5. Blue Lagoon Ticket with Round-Trip Transfer from Reykjavik - Relax in geothermal waters with comfort admission, a drink, and round-trip transport.

Best Things To Do in One Day in Reykjavik

Reykjavik offers a range of activities that can be enjoyed in a few hours or less, perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in the capital. These experiences invite you to get to know Reykjavik and Icelandic culture better. 

1. Reykjavik Food Walk Tour - Sample Icelandic cuisine at six locations while exploring Reykjavik’s food culture.
2. Sky Lagoon Swim and Spa Experience with Transfers - Unwind in a luxurious geothermal spa, complete with the Skjol bathing ritual.
3. Reykjavik City Card (24 hours) - Enjoy free entry to museums, pools, and bus travel in Reykjavik for 24 hours.
4. Reykjavik Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour - Explore Reykjavik’s top sights at your own pace with a flexible bus pass.
5. Perlan Museum in Reykjavik: Wonders of Iceland Exhibition - Experience Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and northern lights at this interactive museum.
6. FlyOver Iceland Experience in Reykjavik - Take a thrilling virtual flight over Iceland’s stunning landscapes in this 4D experience.
7. Whales Of Iceland Museum Admission - Learn about marine life with life-sized whale models and interactive exhibits.

How To Plan a Short Trip, Weekend, or Layover in Iceland

If you want to plan a short trip to Iceland by yourself, here are a few tips to get you started.

Booking flights to Iceland

Planning your flights to Iceland is a key step for turning your plans into reality. Iceland is a popular destination year-round, so whether your trip extends over a weekend or a few weekdays, booking early helps you secure the best deals. Compare flight options to find routes that align with your schedule and budget.

Getting to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport quickly

Choose between convenient airport transfers from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik or get a rental car for more flexibility. Airport shuttles depart frequently and are ideal if you want a relaxed experience and plan to use Reykjavik as your base. A rental car allows you to explore more independently.

Picking accommodation for a short vacation in Iceland

For short trips to Iceland, staying in Reykjavik is the most practical choice. The city offers easy access to attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and South Coast by convenient transfers and tours. Choose central accommodations in Reykjavik to make the most of your time, with options ranging from boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Choosing things to do in Iceland when time is limited

When your time in Iceland is short, choosing the right experiences is key to making the most of your visit. Whether you have just 24 hours, a weekend, or a few days, these activities offer the most impactful and memorable way to experience the Iceland's natural beauty and unique attractions.

• Visit Geothermal Pools - Start or end your trip at the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon; alternatively, join the locals at the public pools.
• Take a Golden Circle Day Tour - Visit iconic sites like Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Strokkur geyser.
• Explore Things To Do in Reykjavik - Discover the city’s culture, cuisine, and landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja Church.
• Go on a South Coast Day Tour - Discover Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and more.
• Learn How To Find the Northern Lights - If visiting in winter, join a tour for a chance to see this natural wonder.

Summary

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a layover, or a brief visit, Guide to Iceland offers thoughtfully curated tour packages and expert recommendations to help you make the most of your trip. From geothermal pools and northern lights tours to cultural experiences in Reykjavik, you are sure to find impactful ways to experience Iceland, no matter how short your stay.