How Long to Drive Around Iceland? Complete Ring Road Timing, Tips & Itineraries

Driving Iceland’s Ring Road is a bucket list journey for nature lovers, photographers, and road trip enthusiasts. The entire route loops around the country’s dramatic coastlines, lava fields, glaciers, hot springs, and charming villages.

But how long does it take to drive around Iceland? That depends on your schedule, season, travel pace, and how deeply you want to explore.

This comprehensive guide breaks down:

• Total driving time

• Suggested itineraries (5 to 14 days)

• Seasonal considerations

• Daily driving limits

• Budgeting, fuel costs, and rental tips

• Ring Road detours and must-see stops

What Is the Ring Road (Route 1)?

The Ring Road, or Route 1, is Iceland’s national highway that encircles the entire island.

Quick Facts:

• 🛣️ Length: ~1,332 km (828 miles)

• 🔁 Loop: Fully circular – start and end anywhere

• 🏞️ Main route: Paved, well-maintained year-round

• ❄️ Winter access: Often open, but occasionally closed due to weather

• 📍 Popular start: Reykjavik, heading east or west

It connects Iceland’s major towns, tourist regions, and countless natural attractions.

How Long Does It Take to Drive the Ring Road?

🚗 If You Drove Straight Through (No Stops):

• Approx. 17–20 hours total

• Realistically not recommended — you’d miss everything that makes Iceland special

🧳 With Daily Driving and Sightseeing:

💡 Recommended minimum: 7 days
This gives you enough time to see South Iceland’s highlights, East Fjords, Mývatn area in the north, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west (optional).

Ring Road by Season – What to Expect

☀️ Summer (May–Sept):

• 24-hour daylight in June

• Easier weather and road conditions

• Open access to F-roads and Highlands

• Most campsites and tours operate

❄️ Winter (Oct–April):

• Limited daylight (as little as 4 hours)

• Slower driving required

• Risk of road closures, especially in East and North

• Northern Lights visibility

• 4x4 + studded tires recommended

💡 Winter travel = fewer hours/day on the road. Factor in early sunsets and storm delays. For further details check out our Mounth by month weather guide. 

Sample Itineraries for Driving Around Iceland

📆 5-Day Itinerary (Fast-Paced)

• Best for: Return visitors or tight schedules

• Cons: Rushed, little time to explore off-route sights

• Route: Reykjavik → Vik → Höfn → Egilsstaðir → Akureyri → Reykjavik

📆 7-Day Itinerary (Balanced)

• Best for: First-timers wanting the full loop

• Covers: Major waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, scenic towns

• Route:

• Day 1: Reykjavik → Vik

• Day 2: Vik → Jökulsárlón → Höfn

• Day 3: Höfn → East Fjords → Egilsstaðir

• Day 4: Egilsstaðir → Dettifoss → Mývatn

• Day 5: Mývatn → Akureyri

• Day 6: Akureyri → Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Day 7: Snæfellsnes → Reykjavik

📆 10–14 Day Itinerary (Relaxed & Deep Dive)

• Ideal for: Nature photographers, families, hikers

• Highlights: Westfjords, Highland detours, hidden geothermal pools

• Flexibility: Stay 2 nights in key spots, explore Iceland’s cultural side

Daily Drive Time Planning Tips

The key to enjoying Iceland’s Ring Road is not just how long, but how far you drive each day.

Recommended Max Driving per Day:

💡 Start early—especially in winter—to avoid night driving.

Must-See Stops Around the Ring Road

Optional detours: Westfjords, Highlands, Þórsmörk (4x4 only)

Budget & Fuel Planning for the Ring Road

💰 Estimated Ring Road Budget:

Pro Tips:

• Fill up early—gas stations can be far apart

• Use self-service pumps with a credit card

• Always check for sand and gravel insurance, especially for South Iceland

Campervan & Family Road Trip Tips

Driving a campervan around Iceland is popular for:

• 🛏️ Saving on accommodations

• 🍳 Flexibility to cook meals

• 🧭 Camping in scenic areas

🛑 Rules for Campervan Use:

• Overnight stays only at registered campsites

• No wild camping in parking lots, farms, or pull-outs

• Most campsites offer bathrooms, kitchens, showers

With Kids?

• Opt for shorter driving days

• Pack snacks and extra clothes

• Plan warm, indoor stops (museums, pools)