A 4 day Self-Drive Tour of North Iceland

Day 1

To begin this North Iceland adventure, set out from Akureyri this morning and travel west along the ring road. If you’re visiting in summer and are a nature lover, we’d suggest you drive to Árskógssandur, from where you can catch a ferry over to Hrísey Island. This place is known for its birdlife, but there are also hiking trails to some of the island’s most scenic points where you can immerse yourself in its flora, fauna, geology and history. Don’t miss the fascinating House of Shark Jörundur, which tells the story of shark fishing in this area. Tickets for the ferry can be purchased online, and there are multiple departures in either direction during the warmer months. 

Back on the mainland, this is where you’ll find the Beer Spa. Before this unusual spa opened in 2017, the town was already known for its brewery. Now, it’s possible to wallow in a tub of warm young beer and yeast; if you’re not the one driving, you can also have a glass of beer that you pour yourself right alongside your private tub. Afterwards, continue north to the port of Dalvik. 

If you haven’t spent today on Hrísey Island, you might consider taking a whale-watching trip from here. Humpbacks and minke whales are often seen, and if you’re lucky, you might also catch sight of a blue whale, the world’s largest mammal. Trips depart year-round. Incidentally, this is also the place where you can catch a ferry to Grimsey Island, the part of Iceland that’s located inside the Arctic Circle. However, it’s a longer ride, and most days during summer, the boat returns to the mainland after about four hours. Lastly today, continue along Route 76 to Siglufjörður, your base for the night. Be sure to stop for a quick photo of Héðinsfjörður, which is between the two tunnels. 

Day 2

Siglufjörður is the port at the very tip of the scenic Tröllaskagi peninsula, and it’s had an interesting past. Make your way to the waterfront, close to the Sigló Hotel (if you’re a fan of Icelandic dramas, you may recognize the property from the Netflix series Trapped). 

Park up and you’ll see some brightly colored warehouses set back from the road. This is the Herring Era Museum, which is dedicated to telling the story of the time when this now sleepy town was a bustling port. Migrant workers flocked to the town to process the catch and you can see how and where they lived while they stayed here. The fish stock collapsed in 1969 and that was the end of the industry, which at its peak was responsible for a whopping 45% of Iceland’s income. This award-winning museum is, therefore a must for any visitor who finds themself in the area between May and September (winter opening on request). 

If you’re keen on music, it’s worth checking out the Folk Music Center while you’re in Siglufjörður. There are also some great hikes to check out in summer, and of course, this area offers skiing in winter – the ski area Skarðsdalur boasts four lifts, but check online to make sure they are open. You’ll want to spend a while here, but when you’re ready to leave, it’s about an hour’s drive along the western edge of Tröllaskagi to Hofsós, where you’ll find a pool that has one of the best views in the country, overlooking Skagafjörður and Drangey Island. There are a few guesthouses in the area and a campground if you don’t intend to return to Siglufjörður.

Day 3

Today, stretch your legs with a short hike to see the Staðarbjörg basalt columns right on the coast before continuing south along Route 76. You’ll soon pass Grafarkirkja, the oldest church in Iceland, which is cute and very photogenic. A must for any road tripper is a stop at Samgönguminjasafnið í Stóragerði. Open seasonally in summer, this place has the largest privately-owned collection of vintage cars and other vehicles – buses, motorcycles, farm machinery and sleds among them – in the country. 

Fuel up on tractor waffles before you hit the road again. If you have an interest in a different kind of horsepower, consider detouring to the Icelandic Horse History Center in Hólar in Hjaltadalur. The Icelandic horse is a protected breed and riding one during your stay will give you the opportunity to try its unique fifth gait, the tölt. It’s worth another side trip, this time to Glaumbær Farm & Museum; continue straight over the crossroads when you get to Varmahlíð. 

The place comprises a cluster of farm buildings and turf houses, which have been preserved and staged as a visitor attraction. They provide a fascinating insight into the past and the challenges of living in such structures, which would have been dark and damp. 

Day 4

Back behind the wheel, continue on to Blönduós, where the bold design of its modern church, Blönduóskirkja, which dates from 1993, will make quite an impression. Round out your 4 day self-drive road trip with a loop of the dramatic Skagaströnd peninsula. Set your sights on the lighthouse at its northern tip, Kálfshamarsviti, an imposing white tower that contrasts dramatically with the basalt cliffs that surround it. 

Follow the coast until it turns south to visit Ketubjörg, a magnificent cliff where a waterfall plunges down onto the black sand beach below. Hidden gems such as this are what renting a car is all about – the chance to get off the beaten track and have Iceland’s splendid scenery all to yourself. And it’s not the only example: at Sauðárkrókur, there’s a black sand beach with a fabulous basalt column cave that bears a striking resemblance to that of Reynisfjara a perennially popular stop along the busy south coast, yet it receives a fraction of the visitors. 

FAQ: four day road trip in Iceland

Eventually, though, it will be time to pick up the ring road again and make your way back to Akureyri, where this 4 day self-drive itinerary wraps up. It’s a rewarding and varied route: if you’re keen to explore these and other corners of North Iceland yourself, why not let us supply the vehicle and get you on your way?

Is it worth going to Iceland for 4 days?

Absolutely! With careful planning, 4 days are perfect for exploring breathtaking highlights, especially in regions like North Iceland.

Can you drive the Iceland Ring Road in 4 days?

It’s possible but not recommended. Instead, focus on a specific region, like North Iceland, for a more relaxed and rewarding trip.

Is 4 days too short in Iceland?

Not at all! While longer trips allow more exploration, 4 days give you a taste of Iceland’s beauty and unique experiences.

Is it easy to self drive in Iceland?

Yes, very easy! Roads are well-maintained, and signage is clear. Just check the weather and road conditions before setting off. Especially in the winter months, it is important to prepare.

Should I take tours from Reykjavik or self drive?

If you love flexibility, self-driving is the way to go. Tours are great for convenience, but driving lets you explore at your own pace.