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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 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.
- Golden Circle Day Tour from Reykjavik - Explore Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park on Iceland's most famous route.
- South Coast of Iceland Day Tour from Reykjavik - Visit waterfalls, black sand beaches, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on this scenic adventure.
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Tour from Reykjavik - Discover charming villages, volcanic landscapes, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
Best Tours Under 5 Hours From Reykjavik
- Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik - Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds in Faxafloi Bay with free retry tickets for no sightings.
- Horse Riding Tour with Optional Pickup from Reykjavik - Ride gentle Icelandic horses through volcanic landscapes just outside Reykjavik.
- Northern Lights Tour With Free Photos & Refreshments - Chase the aurora on this 4-hour guided bus tour with professional photos included.
- The Silfra Snorkeling Tour from Reykjavik - Snorkel in the clear waters of the Silfra fissure between two tectonic plates and get free underwater photos.
- 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
- Reykjavik Food Walk Tour - Sample Icelandic cuisine at six locations while exploring Reykjavik’s food culture.
- Sky Lagoon Swim and Spa Experience with Transfers - Unwind in a luxurious geothermal spa, complete with the Skjol bathing ritual.
- Reykjavik City Card (24 hours) - Enjoy free entry to museums, pools, and bus travel in Reykjavik for 24 hours.
- Reykjavik Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour - Explore Reykjavik’s top sights at your own pace with a flexible bus pass.
- Perlan Museum in Reykjavik: Wonders of Iceland Exhibition - Experience Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and northern lights at this interactive museum.
- FlyOver Iceland Experience in Reykjavik - Take a thrilling virtual flight over Iceland’s stunning landscapes in this 4D experience.
- 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.
- Visit Geothermal Pools - Start or end your trip at the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.
- 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.
- See the Top Sights of the South Coast - Join a guided tour to see Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
- 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'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?
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?
What is the cheapest weekend break in Iceland?
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?
How long is the average weekend break in Iceland?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
How do I get around during my short break in Iceland?
What are some tips for a successful short break in Iceland?
Is Iceland suitable for family short breaks?
Can I visit a geothermal spa during my Iceland short break?
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