Iceland seems like the ultimate bucket list destination for an epic road trip! After all, it’s one of the few places where can you see natural wonders like the Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon. While renting a car is the most convenient option to cover iconic spots in Iceland, what if you can’t or don’t want to drive?
As avid travellers, we see an obstacle as a challenge. So, no driver’s licence, no problem! From Reykjavik to the Golden Circle Route and the South Coast of Iceland, in this video we’ll show you how to visit the best places in Iceland without a car!
We found that going on day tours can actually shorten the length of the trip, and help save on accommodation. Plus, we didn’t have to spend on gas. Our favourite part about going on day tours is having knowlegeable sightseeing guides in Iceland — cause on top of not having to worry about the day’s itinerary, we also got a local’s input on the history of iconic spots in Iceland.
Tours don’t have to be super pricey either, we went whale watching, visited Thingvellir National Park, Northern Lights and other attractions on our Iceland bucket list for under S$900.
Plan your own Iceland itinerary: 5-Day Iceland Itinerary Without A Car — Golden Circle, Northern Lights, and South Coast Sights
Exploring Must-see Sights in Iceland Without A Car
0:29 – Blue Lagoon (~S$86) — Soak in this enchanting geothermal oasis in Iceland, known for its pristine blue waters.
0:46 – Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (~S$5) — When you get to Reykjavik, stop by this classic hot-dog shop! Comfort food for the cold.
0:58 – Hallgrímskirkja — Marvel at the architecture of the biggest church in Iceland!
1:05 – Perla (~S$10) — A stunning glass dome perched on Öskjuhlíð hill, offering panoramic views of Reykjavík. It also houses unique exhibitions, dining experiences, and a planetarium.
1:15 – Northern Lights Tour (currently unavailable) — Be awed by nature’s brushstrokes across the Icelandic sky, truly a once in a lifetime experience.
1:25 – Whale-Watching in Iceland (currently unavailable) — We got to cruise on the Atlantic Ocean searching for these magnificent and elusive creatures of the sea.
1:34 – Golden Circle (~S$140) — This includes the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal marvels of Geysir and Strokkur, and the historical and geological wonders of Thingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates collide and ancient Icelandic democracy once thrived.
1:41 – Kerid Crater — The turquoise lake nestled within its volcanic caldera is just gorgeous, definitely a must-visit spot in Iceland.
1:44 – Secret Lagoon — This is one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools!
1:59 – Strokkur Geysir — It’s not everyday you get to see water being launched high up into the sky with such a strong force.
2:02 – Gullfoss — Gullfoss waterfall plunging into a deep canyon is an amazing sight. Fun fact: It was almost exploited for hydroelectric power before Sigríður Tómasdóttir, a local environmentalist in the early 20th century, saved it — ensuring its preservation for future generations.
2:08 – Thingvellir National Park — A captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and nature intertwine. Be the cool one in the friend group who can say you’ve walked in between two tectonic plates!
2:20 – South Coast of Iceland — Explore the South Coast of Iceland — the captivating Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the striking black sand beaches, and the Solheimajokull glacier.
2:22 – Seljalandsfoss — Take a walk behind the 60m metre waterfall! Bring a set of clothes because you’ll most definitely get wet.
2:39 – Skogafoss — Be prepared to get soaked when getting up close and personal with this 60m waterfall!
2:46 – Black Sand Beach — The black hue comes from the volcanic origin of the grains, created by the relentless force of nature shaping the land.
2:53 – Solheimajokull — Hike the glacier with an experienced guide! The ice formations, crevasses, and overall appearance of the glacier can transform over time due to the changing ice formations. So each visit may offer a unique experience and different views to behold.
Getting Around Iceland
Remember to book a bus transfer to Reykjavik before your flight to Iceland. Reykjavik is the largest city in Iceland and most travellers opt to stay in an accommodation there. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, you can opt to travel around Iceland by public bus instead. This is a convenient and affordable way to explore the stunning landscapes of this Nordic island. With an extensive bus network connecting major towns and tourist destinations, you can easily hop on and off to experience the country’s natural wonders, unique culture, and history. For a more guided experience, take tours organised by local operators and explore from the Golden Circle to South of Iceland!
And if you have no idea how to start planning your trip, check out our 5-Day Iceland Itinerary Without A Car — Golden Circle, Northern Lights, and South Coast Sights.
Free Places to Visit in Iceland
Although Iceland might be famous for Instagrammable spots like the Blue Lagoon, there are also numerous incredible places and things to do for free that should not be missed!
For the adventure seekers, try heading up Mount Esja. It’s one of the most popular trails in Reykjavik. On top of being free, it’s accessible by public transport which’ll save you even more moolah. If you’re into arts and culture, take a walk down one of Reykjavik’s oldest streets — Laugavegur. It’s presently a popular shopping district. Streets are lined with bars, restaurants, and local shops nestled within colourful buildings that make for a pretty OOTD backdrop. There are also lesser-known places like Reykjavik Botanical Garden where you can take a break from hikes and go for a quiet stroll instead.
Before your trip, read through our travel guide for more budget saving tips: Iceland Budget Tips — How To Save On Food, Lodging, And Activities In The Land Of Ice And Fire
Recommended Food Spots in Iceland
Iceland’s food scene is a delightful fusion of traditional flavours and unique culinary experiences. One must-visit spot is Iceland Street Food, where you can indulge in delicious Icelandic dishes like hearty fish stew and mouth watering lamb soup (from ~S$17 – S$23). For a taste of the iconic Icelandic hot dog, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is the place to go, serving up juicy sausages topped with an array of savoury condiments (from ~S$5). Sandholt Bakery is a beloved establishment renowned for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth (from S$4 – S$7). Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss Sægreifinn, a charming seafood shack offering delightful lobster soup and a variety of succulent grilled fish options (from S$8).
