Weekend Breaks

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

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Best Weekend Breaks in Iceland

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, Iceland short breaks 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 another reason to return 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.

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 your 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 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

  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 During One Day in Reykjavik

  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 your weekend or short trip to Iceland by yourself, here are a few tips to help you maximize your time.

Getting to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport

Choose between convenient airport transfers from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik or get a rental car to maximize flexibility. Transfers are ideal for quick trips focused on Reykjavik, while a rental car allows you to explore more freely.

Picking accommodation

For short trips, staying in Reykjavik is the most practical choice. The city offers easy access to attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and South Coast 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 country's natural beauty and unique attractions.

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'll find the most impactful ways to experience Iceland, no matter how short your stay.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best weekend break in Iceland?

One of the best weekend breaks in Iceland is a tour of the Golden Circle and the South Coast and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 845 travelers.
Another highly-rated weekend break in Iceland is a guided ice cave tour that visits South Coast waterfalls and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This weekend break is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 342 travelers.
This weekend break on Iceland's South Coast is also highly-rated, with an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 199 travelers.

Is it worth it to take weekend & short breaks in Iceland?

Absolutely, weekend and short breaks in Iceland are worth it. Despite the brevity, you can experience the country's stunning natural wonders, including the iconic Golden Circle and the rejuvenating Blue Lagoon, making it a perfect getaway without consuming too many vacation days. The unique landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse activities make Iceland an ideal destination for brief but memorable escapes.

What is the cheapest weekend break in Iceland?

This scenic three-day self-drive tour takes you to the Golden Circle and some wonderful hot spring spas and costs around 158 USD, making it a good option for budget travelers.
A great value weekend break in Iceland is a winter northern lights road trip featuring hot springs. This weekend break has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 342 reviewers and costs about 495 USD.
This weekend break is animal-themed, with horseback riding, whale watching and puffin spotting, and is another great option that doesn't break the bank. The three-day tour costs approximately 191 USD.

What is a weekend break in Iceland?

A weekend break in Iceland is a short break, usually two or three days in duration. Because this type of break usually takes place over the weekend, you won’t have to use many vacation days for your trip to Iceland. During a weekend break in Iceland, you can discover the incredible natural sights that the country has to offer. A short break is the most popular way to enjoy Iceland. Even a few days will give you enough time to see some of the country’s most famous sights like the highlights of the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon.

How long is the average weekend break in Iceland?

Weekend breaks or short breaks in Iceland vary in length from two to four days, depending on which you choose. The weekend break is a quick way to get a taste of what Iceland has to offer. The guided tour of Iceland’s south coast to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is a two-day trip. This summer tour means that you can maximize your time with the longer daylight hours from Iceland’s midnight sun. It is a small-group tour that visits waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches.
The longest weekend breaks in Iceland are four-day breaks. These give you a bit more time to explore. This four-day northern lights long weekend in Reykjavik is a popular city break in the northernmost capital of the world. No matter how long you’d like to stay in Iceland, you have plenty of weekend break options from which to choose.

Can you take a weekend break in Iceland during winter?

Yes, you can certainly take a weekend break in Iceland during winter. In fact, winter is a great time to visit Iceland. There’s plenty to do in Iceland during winter, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice caving. It’s also the most magical time to take a trip to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon.
Winter is also the best time to see the northern lights. If these are on your bucket list, then a trip between the months of November and February will give you the best chance of seeing them. During these months, the nights are at their longest and darkest. Early booking will ensure that you get your desired dates and the activities.

Can I do a weekend break road trip in Iceland?

Yes, you can take a weekend break road trip in Iceland. Self-drive road trips are a great way to explore Iceland. You will be experiencing the country from your rental car without a guide and with no additional transfers during the trip. On a self-drive tour, you can travel at your own pace, spending your time as you wish.
Activities, accommodation, and vehicle rental are all included in the cost of a self-drive weekend tour. Choose a three-day winter self-drive tour of Iceland to discover the South Coast. Visit waterfalls, black sand beaches, and even enjoy some ice caving.

Will I be able to see the northern lights during an Iceland short break?

Yes, you may be able to see the northern lights during a short break in Iceland. The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so there is no guarantee of seeing them during your trip to Iceland. To see the northern lights, visit during the winter months. The peak season for the aurora borealis is between November and February when Iceland sees the longest and darkest nights.
A guided tour like a three-day northern lights tour of the Golden Circle and the South Coast will further improve your chances of seeing the northern lights. Your guide on the tour has plenty of local knowledge and will know the best places to see them.

Can I add on extra days to my short break in Iceland?

Yes, you can easily add extra days to your Iceland short break. Sometimes, a couple of days just isn’t enough! Once you have made your booking, you can change the number of days, number of people, or add extra activities to your vacation package. We know that you may change your mind, so we’ve made it super easy to change your booking.
Simply contact your travel agent by email at info@guidetoiceland.is to make changes to your Iceland short break. Please note that additional charges may occur. A 15% service fee applies if you wish to change your booking dates.

Can I go whale watching in on my weekend break in Iceland?

Whale watching is a popular tour on weekend breaks in Iceland as they are easily accessible from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik. They are particularly successful in summer when the great whales migrate to their feeding grounds but still have great sightings throughout winter.

How do I get around during my short break in Iceland?

Renting a car in Iceland is popular for flexibility, but guided tours are also available and recommended for navigating remote areas and harsh weather conditions during your Iceland short break.

What are some tips for a successful short break in Iceland?

Plan your itinerary in advance, be prepared for changing weather, respect the natural environment, and consider both popular and off-the-beaten-path locations for a well-rounded Iceland short break.

Is Iceland suitable for family short breaks?

Iceland is very family-friendly, with activities suitable for all ages, like visiting geothermal pools, interactive museums in Reykjavik, and nature tours. Check out the wide variety of family tours in Iceland you can engage in during your short break.

Can I visit a geothermal spa during my Iceland short break?

Yes, you don't have to travel far to visit some of the best geothermal spas in Iceland. Just a short drive from the airport, you can visit the famous Blue Lagoon. Within the Greater Reykjavik Area, you can experience the Sky Lagoon, with its incredible infinity pool overlooking the Skerjafjordur bay. Just outside of Reykjavik, you can take a dip in Hvammsvik Hot Springs, and its eight geothermal pools right by the ocean.
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