The Ring Road, also called Route 1, circles Iceland for 1,332 km and connects many of the country’s most iconic landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to lava fields, black sand beaches, and quiet fishing towns. If you want flexibility, freedom, and the ability to travel at your own pace, a self-drive Ring Road trip is the best way to experience Iceland.

What Is the Ring Road in Iceland

Route 1 is Iceland’s main highway that forms a loop around the island. It links Reykjavik and the South Coast, continues through the Eastfjords, reaches North Iceland, and returns via West Iceland back to the capital. Most famous stops are either directly on Route 1 or reachable via short detours. Some remote areas, especially in the Highlands, require F roads and a proper 4x4.

Before you set off, read our Driving in Iceland Guide to understand local road rules, seasonal conditions, and safety essentials.

How Long Does It Take to Drive the Ring Road

You can technically drive the full loop in 16 to 20 hours without stops, but that defeats the purpose. Iceland is built for stops, detours, and slow travel.

• Recommended minimum: 7 days
• Ideal pace: 8 to 10 days
• Relaxed exploration: 12 to 14 days

If you want waterfalls, glacier lagoons, and time for spontaneous photo stops, aim for at least 8 days.

Best Time of Year to Drive the Ring Road

Summer

• Long daylight hours
• Easier road conditions
• More services open and more accommodation availability

Winter

• Fewer crowds
• Northern Lights opportunities
• Challenging weather, wind, and possible road closures

Spring and autumn offer a balance of accessibility and lighter crowds, but conditions can change quickly. Always check the weather and roads daily. Use the Icelandic Met Office at en.vedur.is and live road updates from the Icelandic Road Authority at road.is.

Ring Road Map Overview and Key Driving Distances

The Ring Road is straightforward to follow, but distances between regions can be longer than they look on a map, especially in East Iceland. Use this overview to plan realistic driving days and reduce fatigue.

Section	Distance	Estimated Driving Time	Notes
Reykjavik to Vik	180 km	2.5 hours	Waterfalls, cliffs, black sand beaches
Vik to Hofn	270 km	4 hours	Glaciers and the glacier lagoon region
Hofn to Egilsstadir	260 km	3.5 hours	Remote stretches, fewer services
Egilsstadir to Akureyri	270 km	3.5 hours	Myvatn detours and geothermal areas
Akureyri to Reykjavik	390 km	5 hours	Long day, plan breaks and stops

These are driving-only estimates and do not include stops. In Iceland, stops are the whole point.

7 to 10 Day Ring Road Itinerary

This itinerary keeps driving days reasonable while still covering the classic highlights. Adjust based on season, weather, and your preferred pace.

Days 1 to 2: Golden Circle and the South Coast

Start with Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Use our Golden Circle travel guide for route tips and realistic timing.

Continue along the South Coast to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and the Reynisfjara black sand beach near Vik. If waterfalls are a priority, save this guide: Best Waterfalls in Iceland.

Days 3 to 4: Glacier Lagoons and the Eastfjords

Plan time for Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, then continue into the Eastfjords. This region is quieter, scenic, and perfect for travelers who want fewer crowds and more remote coastal drives.

Days 5 to 6: North Iceland

Base yourself near Lake Myvatn for geothermal areas, lava formations, and waterfalls. If you are traveling outside peak summer, build in flexibility here because weather can change fast in the north.

For winter visitors hunting aurora sightings, read Hunting the Northern Lights in Snaefellsnes for practical expectations and planning tips.

Days 7 to 10: West Iceland and Return to Reykjavik

West Iceland combines waterfalls, lava fields, coastal views, and geothermal spots. Keep an eye on conditions if you are traveling in shoulder seasons. Before your final long drive back, review the essentials in our Driving in Iceland Guide.

Is the Ring Road Safe

Yes, the Ring Road is generally safe, but Iceland’s hazards are different from what many travelers expect. Wind, rapid weather shifts, and limited visibility can be bigger issues than snow.

• Wind: Sudden gusts can push the car and damage doors. Open doors carefully and keep both hands on the wheel.
• Single-lane bridges: Slow down and yield correctly. Traffic flow is usually clear, but patience matters.
• Sheep on roads: Common outside towns in summer. Reduce speed in rural stretches.
• Gravel transitions: Some detours and shoulders switch from pavement to gravel. Slow down before the surface changes.
• Winter closures: Conditions can change hour to hour. Always check road.is before long drives.

If you only read one safety resource before your trip, make it our Driving in Iceland Guide.

2WD vs 4x4: What Do You Actually Need

The right vehicle depends on when you travel and how far off the main route you plan to go.

• Summer Ring Road with standard stops: A 2WD vehicle is usually enough.
• Winter Ring Road: A 4x4 is strongly recommended for traction and stability.
• Highland detours and F roads: A 4x4 is required, and some routes need high ground clearance.

If you want extra confidence in changing conditions, choose a 4x4 rental. If you are focused on efficiency and smooth driving, explore our electric or hybrid car rental options.

Cost of Driving the Ring Road

The biggest costs are your rental, fuel or charging, accommodation, and optional paid activities. Driving costs depend on vehicle type, season, and your route choices.

Fuel and Charging Estimates

As a simple planning baseline, many travelers drive close to the full 1,332 km and often more with detours. A petrol SUV might average around 7.5 L per 100 km. That can translate to roughly 100 L of fuel for the full loop, depending on your exact route and driving style.

Fuel prices change frequently, so it helps to check live estimates at Global Petrol Prices.

Electric vehicle charging costs vary by network and charger speed. If you are driving electric, plan charging stops in advance using ChargeFinder.

Parking and Tolls

Parking fees are common at major attractions and in some towns. Build a small daily buffer into your budget. Some tunnels also charge tolls, depending on route and current rules. Always verify on official road updates and local signage.

Electric Car on the Ring Road: Is It Practical

Yes, an electric car can work very well on the Ring Road, especially in summer. Charging coverage is strong along Route 1, and driving is quieter and smoother. The key is planning, not luck.

• Fast charging vs slow charging: Use fast chargers for short top-ups and slower charging overnight at accommodations when possible.
• Winter range impact: Cold weather can reduce range. Plan extra buffer and charge more often.
• East Iceland planning: Distances between services can be longer. Decide your next charging stop before you leave the previous one.

If you want lower fuel costs and a more sustainable trip, start here: Electric or hybrid car rental.

Where to Stay Around the Ring Road

In summer, accommodation sells out quickly, especially near popular regions like the South Coast and Myvatn. In winter, you may have more availability, but weather can disrupt plans. A practical approach is to book key stays early and keep a little flexibility where possible.

For more inspiration and route ideas, browse our Travel Stories hub.

Common Ring Road Mistakes to Avoid

• Trying to do the full Ring Road in 4 or 5 days and spending most of the trip inside the car
• Ignoring wind warnings and driving too fast for conditions
• Not checking road conditions daily, especially in winter and shoulder seasons
• Booking accommodation too late in peak summer
• Not planning fuel or charging stops in East Iceland
• Stopping in unsafe places for photos instead of using pull-offs

The goal is not to “complete” the Ring Road. The goal is to enjoy it safely.

Why the Ring Road Is Worth It

If you want to see Iceland properly, the Ring Road is the best framework. It gives you a full loop of landscapes and regions, from the famous highlights to the quiet places most tours miss.

Why Zero Car Works for Ring Road Travelers

Ring Road trips are smoother when your car pickup is simple and your costs are predictable. With Zero Car Rental, you get contactless pickup options, transparent pricing, and full insurance included with zero excess, so you can focus on the drive instead of paperwork and surprises.