Weekly RV Itinerary in Reykjavik - 7-Day Plan 2026

Best Reykjavik RV Itinerary for weekly rv rental - Overview

A 7-day weekly RV rental from Reykjavik is ideal for focused regional exploration, primarily covering the Golden Circle and South Coast, rather than attempting the full Ring Road of Iceland. The recommended season for an RV trip in Iceland is summer, from June to August, due to milder average daily temperatures of 10-13°C, significantly longer daylight hours (up to 24 hours of light in June), and most roads being fully open and easily accessible. While the shoulder seasons of May and September offer unique charm with fewer crowds and potentially up to 25% savings on rental rates, some higher elevation or F-roads may still be closed. Over seven days, travelers should expect to cover approximately 700-1000 km (430-620 miles), allowing for a leisurely pace of discovery from their Reykjavik base, including time for hiking and cultural stops. For a more comprehensive journey covering the entire Ring Road, a 14-day or longer itinerary, such as the "Iceland - Full ring road" trip, is more suitable to fully appreciate the country's diverse landscapes without feeling rushed. Our platform helps you find the best Weekly RV Rental in Reykjavik - Pricing 2026 for your adventure.

7-Day Classic Route in Reykjavik

A 7-day classic RV route from Reykjavik allows you to immerse yourself in Iceland's iconic Golden Circle and South Coast with a comfortable pace, driving slowly and carefully. This itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing and cultural engagement without excessive driving. Bandana RV offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, ensuring you know exactly what your weekly RV rental in Reykjavik entails.

• Day 1: Reykjavik to Thingvellir & Laugarvatn (~90km / 56 miles): Pick up your rented motorhome in Reykjavik, then drive east on Route 1 and then Route 36 to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical and geological wonders where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. After exploring the park and walking along the Almannagjá gorge, continue to Laugarvatn, where you can camp at Laugarvatn Fontana campsite and enjoy its geothermal baths.
• Day 2: Laugarvatn to Selfoss (Golden Circle Finish) (~80km / 50 miles): Continue your Golden Circle adventure by driving to the Geysir hot spring area to witness Strokkur erupting every 5-10 minutes, then proceed to the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Consider a visit to the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir for a natural hot spring experience before heading to Selfoss for overnight camping at Tjaldsvæðið Selfoss campground, offering full hookups.
• Day 3: Selfoss to Vík (South Coast Highlights) (~130km / 81 miles): Journey along Iceland's stunning South Coast, making essential stops at Seljalandsfoss waterfall (where you can walk behind the cascade) and the powerful Skógafoss waterfall. Continue to the dramatic black sand beach of Reynisfjara with its basalt columns, and finally, settle at the Vík í Mýrdal campsite, renowned for its proximity to these natural wonders.
• Day 4: Vík to Kirkjubæjarklaustur (Eastern South Coast) (~70km / 43 miles): Explore the rugged landscapes further east, including the vast Eldhraun lava field, formed by the Laki eruption in 1783, and the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a relatively easy walk. Find a peaceful campsite in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, such as Camping Kirkjubæjarklaustur, which provides essential amenities. Preparing meals in your RV's kitchen is a fantastic way to save on dining expenses and enjoy fresh local ingredients; check out our RV-friendly recipes playlist for ideas.
• Day 5: Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Hella (~100-150km / 62-93 miles): Begin your return journey, allowing time for any missed spots or detours. Perhaps embark on a glacier hike tour from Sólheimajökull glacier, an accessible outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull. Spend the night near Hella, a small town with several campgrounds like Árnes Campsite, providing a convenient base.
• Day 6: Hella to Reykjanes Peninsula (~100km / 62 miles): Explore the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula, a geothermal hotspot. Visit the famous Blue Lagoon (book tickets well in advance!), see the Reykjanes lighthouse, and walk across the Bridge Between Continents, connecting the Eurasian and North American plates. Camp near Grindavik or Keflavik, such as Grindavik Campsite, which offers facilities close to the airport.
• Day 7: Reykjanes to Reykjavik (~50km / 31 miles): Return your rented RV in Reykjavik, leaving time to enjoy the city's vibrant culture, visit Hallgrímskirkja church, explore museums, or stroll along Laugavegur shopping street before your departure. Remember to refill your fuel tank at one of the many N1 or Olís stations before returning the vehicle.

For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route. You can even track every expense along the way on RV PLANET routes for easy budgeting. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.

14-Day Extended Journey in Reykjavik

An extended 14-day RV journey originating from Reykjavik allows for a comprehensive exploration of Iceland's full Ring Road, providing ample time to immerse in each region without feeling rushed. This longer itinerary, like the "Iceland - Full ring road" trip from RV PLANET, covers approximately 2045 km (1270 miles) over 15 days, offering a comfortable average of 140-150 km per day. With a two-week adventure, travelers can thoroughly explore the Golden Circle, the South Coast to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the dramatic East Fjords, the unique volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn in the North, the North's powerful waterfalls like Dettifoss, and the charming Snæfellsnes Peninsula, experiencing Iceland's diverse landscapes at a truly relaxed pace. Grouping days by region, such as spending several days in the North or East, allows for deeper exploration of specific areas, including local industries, traditional visits like historical farms, and unique natural features such as remote hot springs or bird cliffs. This pacing ensures that each stop is savored, aligning with our philosophy of slow travel. For pricing information on longer trips, refer to our Weekly RV Rental in Reykjavik - Pricing 2026 guide.

Recommended RVPlan Trip for Reykjavik

For those seeking a meticulously planned extended adventure, consider the "

Iceland - Full ring road

Another excellent option for a slightly shorter but still comprehensive journey is the "

Iceland - North West

Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)

Avi Bandana's personal picks for an Icelandic RV adventure often include a blend of traditional visits and local experiences that offer authentic insights into the country's culture and nature. A traditional visit to Thingvellir National Park is a must-see for its historical significance as the site of Iceland's ancient parliament (Althing) and its geological wonders, where you can walk between two continental plates. For a taste of local industry, seek out local wool factories or artisan workshops in smaller towns like Vík or Blönduós to witness Icelandic craftsmanship firsthand and learn about their unique heritage. Indulge in authentic Icelandic cuisine at a traditional restaurant; look for highly-rated spots in Reykjavik or charming fishing villages to savor local delicacies such as fresh seafood, lamb stew, or Skyr. Other noteworthy stops along your route could include the dramatic Dyrhólaey Viewpoint, near Vík, known for its arch and birdlife (especially puffins during nesting season), and the serene Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland for a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters. The beauty of a rented RV is the freedom to discover these hidden gems at your own pace. Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana.

Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Reykjavik

Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average to truly savor the journey and allow ample time for spontaneous stops and exploration of Reykjavik and its surroundings. Traveling slowly ensures you fully appreciate Iceland's dynamic landscapes and minimizes fatigue, making the RV experience more enjoyable and less about rushing between destinations. For example, the 50 km journey from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park typically takes approximately 45 minutes of continuous driving, providing plenty of time to explore upon arrival. A common stretch like the 60 km from Thingvellir to the Geysir hot spring area usually takes about 1 hour. A longer segment, such as driving from Reykjavik to Vík, spans approximately 180 km and takes about 2.5-3 hours of continuous driving, highlighting the importance of breaking up longer routes with scenic stops for waterfalls, black sand beaches, and small towns. Remember, Icelandic roads can be narrow, especially outside of main routes, and weather conditions can change rapidly, making slower, more careful driving essential. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention when driving your rented motorhome.

Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks

Choosing the right rented RV class is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable weekly trip from Reykjavik, balancing space and maneuverability. For couples, the Class B - Camper Van is an excellent choice, averaging 5.4 meters in length with sleeping places for around 3.2 people and an adult capacity of 2.8. Its compact size makes it highly maneuverable on Icelandic roads, including navigating Reykjavik's streets, and with common fuel consumption rates of 5-8 liters per 100 km, it's also very fuel-efficient. Consider an "rv rental denver example Category Van" for a flexible and economical choice. For families, the Class C - Alcove motorhome is ideal, offering an average length of 7.3 meters and typically accommodating 6 sleeping places with an adult capacity of 4.8, like the "cruise america rv rental example Explorer" model with its 82-liter fresh water tank and 4 sleeping places. This class provides ample living and sleeping space for larger groups, ensuring comfort throughout your Icelandic adventure. While 4x4 campervans are recommended for F-roads (interior mountain roads), standard motorhomes like the Class B and Class C are perfectly suited for exploring Iceland's main routes and the Ring Road. Driving even larger RVs in cities like Reykjavik is entirely manageable; drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. Rent&Plan by Bandana offers not just RV rentals but also ready-made itineraries crafted by travel experts, providing full access to trip-planning software to remove the hassle of organizing your journey, even offering a 25% planning discount when you use rvplan.net.

Is 7 days enough to drive around Iceland?

No, 7 days is generally not enough time to comfortably drive the entire Ring Road (Route 1) around Iceland while fully experiencing its many attractions, as it would require covering over 1300 km (800 miles) with minimal stops. However, a 7-day RV rental from Reykjavik is perfectly sufficient for an immersive exploration of specific regions, such as the popular Golden Circle and the stunning South Coast, as detailed in our "Weekly RV Itinerary in Reykjavik - 7-Day Plan 2026". This focused approach allows for a more relaxed pace, enabling deeper enjoyment of natural wonders, hot springs, and local culture without feeling rushed. Attempting the full Ring Road in a week would require excessive driving hours daily, leaving minimal time for sightseeing, hiking, or spontaneous detours, making it an unrealistic and less enjoyable experience. Instead, focus on a regional route to truly connect with the culture, the food, and the scenery. Remember that Bandana RV provides transparent pricing, so there are no hidden fees or surprises when booking your trip.

Can you park an RV anywhere in Iceland?

No, you cannot park an RV anywhere in Iceland; strict regulations are in place to protect the country's fragile environment and ensure responsible tourism. Overnight parking and camping with a rented RV are legally restricted to designated campsites or private land with explicit owner permission, making wild camping (boondocking) generally prohibited across the entire island. Violating these rules can result in significant fines (up to €500 or more) and cause irreparable environmental damage, particularly to delicate moss and vegetation, which take decades to recover. Adhering to 'Leave No Trace' principles and utilizing official campsites is crucial for preserving Iceland's natural beauty and respecting local laws and customs. For comprehensive guidance, our RV Rental Iceland - Complete Guide 2026 offers essential information.

Where to park an RV in Reykjavík?

The primary and recommended location for RV parking in Reykjavik for overnight stays is the official Reykjavik Campsite, also known as Laugardalslaug Campsite, situated at Sundlaugavegur 32. This centrally located campground is conveniently close to the city center and offers excellent public transport access, with bus stops nearby for easy exploration of major attractions like Hallgrímskirkja and Laugavegur shopping street. Urban parking for RVs within Reykjavik for day visits can be challenging, with restrictions on vehicle size and limited designated spots, making it advisable to park your rented motorhome at the Reykjavik Campsite and use public buses or walk to explore the city. Overnight street parking for RVs within Reykjavik city limits is generally not permitted, and visitors should always consult local signage and regulations to avoid fines. The Reykjavik Campsite provides essential amenities such as electrical hookups, fresh water, and waste disposal points, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Is boondocking allowed in Iceland?

No, boondocking (wild camping) is generally not allowed in Iceland for RVs, motorhomes, and campervans, with a legal requirement to stay at registered campsites or private land with express permission. Legislation passed in 2015 and subsequent updates further tightened regulations, prohibiting overnight stays outside of designated campsites unless specific written permission is obtained from the landowner. The prohibition aims to prevent environmental damage to Iceland's sensitive ecosystems, particularly from waste disposal and vehicle tracks, and to reduce the burden on local communities. Fines for illegal boondocking can be substantial, often ranging from €100 to €500 or more, and enforcement is active, underscoring the importance of planning your overnight stays at official campgrounds to ensure a legal and ethical RV trip. Many national and state parks only reserve 25-30% of their spots, leaving the rest for first-come, first-serve, so you will find a spot. If not at the first campground, then the next one; just call ahead before driving.

Is a week enough to drive around Iceland?

A week is sufficient for an incredibly rewarding and immersive RV trip in Iceland, provided you focus on specific regions rather than attempting to circumnavigate the entire island. By concentrating on popular areas like the Golden Circle, the South Coast to Jökulsárlón, or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, you can experience Iceland's iconic landscapes and unique local culture at a comfortable pace. This focused approach allows for ample time to hike, relax in natural hot springs, enjoy local cuisine, and simply absorb the dramatic scenery, creating a deeper, more satisfying travel experience. Planning a detailed itinerary with daily driving distances under 150 km (100 miles) will ensure that a weekly RV rental provides a memorable and comprehensive Icelandic adventure without feeling rushed. Remember that with Bandana RV, you get 24/7 support for your booking, from comparing prices to post-booking coordination, ensuring a smooth experience.

What is the most scenic drive in Iceland?

While Iceland boasts numerous breathtaking routes, the South Coast drive, extending from Reykjavik towards Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, is frequently cited as one of the most scenic drives due to its incredible diversity and accessibility. This route showcases a continuous tapestry of majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, dramatic black sand beaches such as Reynisfjara with its basalt columns, impressive glaciers, volcanoes, and towering cliffs. Another highly scenic option for a rented motorhome adventure is the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' offering a condensed version of the island's varied landscapes, including lava fields, the Snaefellsjökull glacier, and charming fishing villages. For a weekly RV rental from Reykjavik, integrating a significant portion of the South Coast or a full loop of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers an unforgettable and easily manageable scenic driving experience, perfectly aligned with our slow travel recommendations. Dive into our RV Travel Guide to Reykjavik - Tips and Top Spots 2026 for more inspiration.