Want to go on the most amazing Reykjavik to Vik drive?
I am here to help!
Driving Southern Iceland’s stunning landscapes will truly make your trip here unforgettable. I didn’t research any cool places when I drove this route and missed so many stops (I had to do the whole route again But it was so worth it!) 🥲
No matter where your Iceland travel itinerary takes you, this is the most popular route to drive so it helps to be prepared!
Don’t make my mistake and let’s explore the best things to do between Reykjavik and Vik and all the tips you need for the ultimate Iceland road trip!
✅ Want all the planning & driving done for you? BOOK THIS Ring Road Tour
Planning A Trip To Iceland? Use The Resources Below!
► Accommodation– I Recommend Booking.Com
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► Car Rental– I Always Use DiscoverCars.Com
► Travel Insurance– Use TravelInsuranceMaster.Com
Reykjavik to Vik drive: quick guide
I know what it’s like to be in a hurry and you just want to get to the good stuff, so let’s jump straight in!
🏆Lotus Car Rental – Overall Best Car Hire Option
🚌 Strætó– How to get around if you do not want to drive
The 11 Stops you cannot miss:
- Reykjadalur Hot Spring
- Kerid Crater
- Seljalandsfoss
- Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
- Dyrholaey Arch
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Skogafoss Waterfall
- Westman Islands
- Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
- Hella
- Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
🇮🇸 Top Experience- Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour
🏨 Best Place To Stay- Hótel Kvika
Other Important Information:
Car Rental Documents You Need – Passport, Valid Drivers License, Credit or Debit Card (preferably Credit)
Road Trip Distance and Length– 187.7 km (116.6 Miles), 4 Hours but 1-2 days is recommended
Best Time To Visit– April-June, for amazing weather but less crowds than July and August (make sure your car is prepared if you are driving during the winter months)
What you need to know before the Reykjavik to Vik drive
Before you set off on your tour to Vik, here are the important things you need to know and possibly book before setting off:
How do I get from Reykjavik to Vik?
For anyone looking to travel to Vik, the best way to get there is by car. But there are other ways to get there too- they just take longer and cost more!
🚗 Car– Taking Route 1 will get you there in no time – it’s the quickest and most convenient option.
🏆 To keep costs low compare EVERY rental company in Iceland with Discover Cars (this is my fave company to use!)
🚎 Bus– If you don’t want to drive, taking a bus is your next best bet. The Route 51 bus from Mjódd or the N1 express will both get you there.
👆 Use Strætó (The Public Transport System In Iceland) To Find Routes & Tickets
🚕 Taxi– I would not recommend taking a taxi as it will be extremely expensive – approximately 90,000 ISK (£600/$780). Many travellers wanting a private transfer book a tour to Vik from Reykjavik but end the tour in Vik rather than doing a return journey.
How far is Vik from Reykjavik?
The distance from Reykjavik to Vik is 187.7 km (116.6 Miles).
This is about a 2-4 hour journey depending on how you are planning on getting there. If you are in a hurry, renting a car is the quickest and most direct way!
However, if you are driving in the winter the weather may make your journey longer and more dangerous. If you are not used to driving on the ice, take the bus or visit in the spring/summertime.
What you need to pack for your Reykjavik and Vik trip
If you’re planning a road trip or a day trip to Vik you’ll need to pack some important items to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for the journey. From Reykjavik, there are plenty of amazing sights and experiences along the way – but you’ll want to be properly equipped before taking off.
✅ No matter the season, you’ll need a waterproof jacket and warm layers like sweaters and thermals.
✅ Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes or boots for exploring the beaten path
✅ Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the strong Icelandic sun.
✅ A Head Net if you’re visiting during summer months (these are a saviour for keeping the bugs away!).
✅ It’s also a good idea to bring jumper cables for your car – you never know if you might get stuck in a remote area and need a jump start.
✅ Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit as an added precaution – with Iceland’s vast landscape and adventure activities, it’s always better to be safe than sorry (You could be hours away from the nearest hospital!)
Where to Stay on the Reykjavik to Vik Drive
Even though the drive to Vik is just over 2 hours, there are some epic places on the route that you should explore. To make the most of these places, it’s a good idea to stay somewhere overnight.
These are the best accommodation options between Reykjavik to Vik you should consider booking:
✅ Hótel Kvika– has 2 hot tubs and a sauna!
🌋 Hótel Lækur– has the most amazing views of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull Volcanoes
🌲 Eyja Mörk Cabin & Bubble Bedroom– Excellent location and a hot tub
What is between Reykjavik and Vik?
- Reykjadalur Hot Spring
- Kerid Crater
- Seljalandsfoss
- Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
- Dyrholaey Arch
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Skogafoss Waterfall
- Westman Islands
- Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
- Hella
- Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
The 11 Best Reykjavik To Vik Drive Stops
1. Reykjadalur Hot Spring
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 1-3 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Frost and Fire Hotel
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: Valley Hike With Hot Springs Visit
One of the most epic stops along the way from Reykjavik to Vik is Reykjadalur Hot Springs, a thermal river nestled in the Icelandic Highlands.
The hot springs are located in the town of Hveragerði, about a 45-minute drive southeast of Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can take a series of buses for about an hour and 15 minutes to Hveragerði, but you’ll need to walk over an hour and a half (or try and get a taxi).
You’ll find the entrance to the springs by Reykjadalur Café and there’s plenty of parking around if you drive here.
From here, you’ll climb up 2.5 miles into the green mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass Djúpagilsfoss Waterfall and technicolour hot springs, bubbling in the ground. You’ll eventually reach a wooden bridge and a wooden platform next to a steamy river, where you can get in and relax in its magical waters.
There are wooden dividers along the boardwalk to provide privacy, but your best bet will be wearing your swimsuit under your clothes (and don’t forget to stuff a towel in your backpack!).
As you get in the river, it will get warmer the further upstream you go and, while there are usually other soakers enjoying the springs, there’s plenty of space to spread out.
2. Kerid Crater
Suggestion By Taylor Travelgram
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 15 Minutes- 1 Hour
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Golden Circle Luxury Cabin
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: Golden Circle & Local Food Tour
Kerid (Kerið) is a volcanic crater lake filled with rich red rock and aquamarine-colored water. This is my absolute favourite stop on this drive because it is usually less crowded than the other stops.
Only a 15-minute drive off of the Ring Road, it’s a fantastic stop to add to your itinerary as it is just under the halfway point!
The gentle hike around the rim of the crater is about 1 mile and takes approximately 20 minutes. The hike down to the water is an additional 10 minutes each way and is somewhat steep. Please note you cannot swim in the water at Kerid Crater any time of year.
From June to August, the Kerid crater is open from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The rest of the year it is available during daylight hours. The parking lot is relatively small, so if you can, it’s best to get there either very early or late in the day.
To enter Kerid Crater costs 400 Icelandic Króna (approximately 3 Euros) for adults, however, children under 12 can enter for free.
3. Seljalandsfoss
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 2-3 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Seljalandsfoss Horizons
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: South Coast & Glacier Experience With Boat Tour
Seljalandsfoss is a famous waterfall in the south of Iceland and one of the country’s iconic natural landmarks. The waterfall is part of the Seljalands River, 60 metres high and 25 metres wide.
When you are travelling between Reykjavik and Vik, you can easily spot Seljalandsfoss from Route 1, as it is located close to the road, southeast of Hvolsvöllur. Seljalandsfoss is therefore worth a stop on a road trip around Iceland.
One of the most unique features of the Seljalandsfoss is that it is possible to walk behind the waterfall. A footpath leads behind the falls, allowing visitors to experience the waterfall from behind.
Seljalandsfoss is not only famous for its natural beauty but is also very popular among photographers. Its exceptional location offers the opportunity to take stunning photos of the waterfall, especially at sunset!
Seljalandsfoss is open to visitors all day, but as it is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, it is recommended to visit either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Parking is also available near the waterfall, and the daily parking fee is ISK 800 (about $6) per car.
4. Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 1 Hour
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Starlight Camping Pods
When you’re making the journey from Reykjavik to Vik, there is one stop that you won’t want to miss: Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool. With its breathtaking views and secluded location, this pool provides a unique experience unlike any other in Iceland.
It’s 36 minutes away from Vik and about a 10-minute drive from the Ring Road, it’s worth every bit of effort to get there. The swimming pool is about a 20-minute walk from the free car park area.
It’s one of the best pools in Iceland due to its remote location, so you can get away from the tourist crowds and enjoy a peaceful dip in the water.
Since it is natural, sometimes there is a lot of Algae present so take care not to put your head underneath! You should also be aware that the changing rooms are not the best, so it’s a good idea to bring a changing towel and some flip-flops.
5. Dyrholaey Arch
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 2-3 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hótel Dyrhólaey
Visiting Dyrholaey Arch on your Reykjavik to Vik drive is well worth it!
The drive up and down the mountain to this volcanic arch is manageable but make sure you take your time (especially if you find driving stressful) as it has a lot of tight corners. It’s also a short drive from Black Sand Beach so you can visit both easily.
The views at the upper path around the lighthouse are spectacular so I recommend walking this route. Not only is this place stunning but It is an amazing place to spot birds, and even though it can get windy, you should still take the time to check out this amazing destination.
The conditions of the wind make for a truly unique experience but if the wind speeds are high, I don’t recommend visiting as it feels really unsafe if you are not used to it.
6. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 2-3 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hótel Skógafoss by EJ Hotels
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: Icelandic Horse Ridding Beach Tour
Reynisfjara is a beautiful black sand beach, a 12-minute drive before hitting Vik. The views from the beach with small black shiny pebbles and the rock formations just offshore make this worth stopping here.
I found driving here in March a lot easier than the rest of the months so consider visiting during the spring!
At the eastern side of the beach, down by the Reynisdrangar cliffs, are rock formations similar to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. There is also a cave where you can see underneath these interesting formations.
The best views are from the beach, but for panoramic views, go to the viewpoint on top of the cliffs, called the Reynisfjell observation deck. The path to the viewpoint starts closer to Vik. Looking out it is amazing to think that if you set sail from here you would end up in the Outer Hebrides in Northern Scotland.
Parking with toilets and a restaurant is available right next to the beach. The Black Beach Restaurant is the only place to stop for food close to the beach.
7. Skogafoss Waterfall
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 1-2 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hotel Anessis
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Beaches Tour
Skógafoss Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder in Iceland that’s a must-visit spot on any drive from Reykjavik to Vik.
Located about two hours away from Reykjavik, Skógafoss offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
You can reach Skogafoss via public transport or by car. If you choose to take the bus, catch bus 51 from Mjódd, a suburb linked to Reykjavik city centre. After disembarking, it’s just a half-mile walk to the waterfall.
If you go by car, the parking is completely free right by the waterfall.
Visitors can walk to the base of the waterfall and get up close. Then, scale the stairs to reach the top for a beautiful view of this Icelandic marvel. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short walk along Fimmvörðuháls Trail and immerse yourself in the tranquil Icelandic nature.
If you’re planning to visit Skógafoss Waterfall, make sure you bring a rain jacket and wear comfortable walking shoes. There are toilets here at no extra cost (always a win in my books!)
8. Westman Islands
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 4-6 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hotel Anessis
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: RIB Island Boat Tour
The Westman Islands, (also known as Vestmannaeyjar), are situated off the southern coast of Iceland. This cluster of islands offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant history, and rich cultural heritage.
What makes the Westman Islands particularly special is their dramatic volcanic landscapes The islands are also home to diverse wildlife, including puffin colonies that dot the cliffs.
To reach the Westman Islands, a ferry departs from Landeyjahöfn taking you to the main island of Heimaey in 40 minutes. You can take the car on the ferry or leave it at the ferry terminal where there is a large parking area. If you want to take a car over you must book in advance as space is limited.
Try and plan your visit from May to September. This is the perfect time to see the stunning birdlife or take boat tours to explore the surrounding waters and spot whales and seals.
9. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 1-2 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hotel Anessis
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: South Coast Highlights Tour
One of the best stops on a drive to Vik is visiting the DC-3 plane wreck. Located only 160 kilometres from Reykjavik it’s a great stop to add to your itinerary.
The plane you will see is an actual plane wreck from 1973 and amazingly, everyone on board survived. The plane has been on the beach for fifty years and is still in good condition. Please remember that climbing or touching the wreckage is not allowed. This is to protect its historical importance and ensure your safety.
To reach the plane wreck at Sólheimasandur black sand beach, you’ll need to walk about 4 kilometres from the car park. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that are good on dirt and rocks. This walk allows you to experience Iceland’s untouched nature, which feels like being on another planet.
When you get closer to the site, the abandoned aircraft against the stark landscape creates a surreal atmosphere. It’s a must-see for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
10. Hella
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: At Least 1 Day
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Hotel Kanslarinn Hella
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: THIS Buggy Beach Tour
1 hour away from Reykjavik and a 1-hour drive to Vik, Hella is a town worth stopping in for the mythical legends, beautiful nature, secret lagoons and incredible wildlife.
Despite being a relatively small town, there’s quite a lot to do in the region. And thanks to Hella’s close proximity to a lot of South Iceland’s attractions, you will and a wide range of accommodation options here!
Hiking brings most travellers to town because of the strikingly explosive Hekla volcano, which is clearly visible from town, making for excellent, dramatic pictures. Many people also choose Hella as a starting point for longer multi-day hikes, including those between Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar. But it’s not just known for hiking!
Stop by Ytri-Ranga River for salmon fishing, try horseback riding on the iconic Icelandic horses, dog-sledding, and countless other sightseeing tours. And If you want to do an epic day trip from here, visit Jökulsárlón Diamond Beach!
But my favourite thing near Hella is the Secret Lagoon, hidden away from most of the tourist crowds. Whilst there is a geothermal pool in town, opt to visit the Secret Lagoon which is more of a natural setting.
Jump into the hot geothermal waters, and if you want to bathe in true Icelandic style, alternate between dipping into the glacier-fed river and in the hot geothermal pool. Cold and hot therapy is meant to be great for you!
11. Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
⏰ How Long To Spend Here: 2-6 Hours
🏨 Best Place To Stay: Sólheimahjáleiga Guesthouse
🇮🇸 Best Activity To Book: 3-Hour Glacier Hike
Just off the Ring Road 30 minutes outside of Vik, there is a glacier called Sólheimajökull which is about 8 km long and 2 km wide. The views on Sólheimajökull offer incredible otherworldly sights which include ice formations, crevasses and cauldrons.
The car park here is spacious if you are driving. Getting a bus here isn’t super easy so I recommend booking a tour from Reykjavik.
Visitors to Iceland may want to check out this incredible glacier while we still have it and is a fantastic thing to do in Iceland, especially with kids -Keep in mind though, that visitors must be at least 10 years of age.
But you can visit the glacier and admire it without doing the hike. I visited for my Birthday and the views alone were worth it! 😍
To hike you will need to book a tour as it is illegal to hike without the proper equipment or training. But don’t worry, your expert guide will equip you with a helmet, ice axe and crampons. (Don’t forget to wear good hiking boots and warm clothes.)
Reykjavik to Vik drive FAQs
To help you make the most of the best Iceland’s south coast attractions, these are the most commonly asked questions and answers visitors have.
You can reach Vik from Reykjavik by bus, car or private transport. However, the quickest and most direct way is to rent a car and drive via Route 1.
Vik is well worth visiting. With easy access to some of Iceland’s most amazing beaches, waterfalls and glaciers it is a popular place to stay and explore.
Vik is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the whole of Iceland. With its uncrowded beaches overlooking the sea and vast landscapes, you will have plenty of chances to see them.
Vik is 218.8 km away from Blue Lagoon and you can reach it in under 3 hours by car. It is not easy to reach by bus from Vik so book a tour or arrange a private transfer if you don’t want to drive there.
Reykjavik to Vik drive final thoughts
Whether you’re looking to plan a drive along the Iceland Ring Road for sightseeing or for adventure, you won’t be disappointed. From Reykjavik all the way to Vik, there are plenty of natural attractions and points of interest that are worth visiting and exploring.
And even if you don’t want to drive, you can use the bus service or private tours to explore this route full of glaciers and bubbling hot springs. However, no matter how you do this route, it’s worth taking your time and booking a night or two along the road to make it more enjoyable.
If you are visiting this part of Iceland for a day, week or month, make sure you add these stops to any Iceland south coast self-drive itinerary for the best time!
To prep for your Iceland getaway, here are some more helpful posts:
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✔️ Ultimate Places To Visit In Europe In November
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✔️ Can You Drink The Water In Iceland?
Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.
