Iceland in 3 days: The Golden Circle and More
When you fly transatlantic from Ireland with Icelandair, you can choose to add a stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare - it’s a great way to add another destination to your holiday plans! In August 2018 we did a 3-night stopover with our kids on the return journey from Canada to Ireland.
Day 1: Exploring the geothermic landscape
We had a non-stop flight from Edmonton and landed in Reykjavik at 6:00 am, jumping time zones and getting little sleep. But with bags collected and our rental car ready, we were off to explore!
Our first stop was the Reykjanes Peninsula, an other-worldly landscape of lava fields, craters, and steaming vents (it's the same area where recent volcanic eruptions have taken place). The highlights were seeing the rugged coastline and standing on the very spot where the North American and European continents meet! By afternoon, jet lag caught up with us, so we headed to our hotel in Reykjavik for an early night.
Day 2: Reykjavik, Horses, and the Golden Circle
We started the day exploring Reykjavik, before heading out to visit some Icelandic horses at a nearby riding centre. The kids loved meeting these iconic animals and having a little ride around the paddock.
Next, we hit the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route. It’s a stunning mix of natural and historical landmarks, and there is just so much to see. Instead of staying on the main trail, we spent the night in the village of Laugarvatn, set on a peaceful lake and famous for its Fontana Geothermal Baths.
Day 3: Iconic Sights and
Relaxation
On our final day, we visited three of the Golden Circle’s must-see spots: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot spring, and Pingvellir National Park (a site steeped in history and natural beauty).
Back in Reykjavik, we skipped the tourist crowds of the Blue Lagoon and opted for local fun at the Árbaejarlaug swimming complex. With heated pools, water slides, and saunas, it was the perfect way to unwind as a family. That evening, we stayed at a hotel near the airport, reflecting on just how much we managed to experience in such a short time.
Why Iceland Should Be on Your List
Iceland is just a 2.5-hour flight from Dublin, so even if you’re not planning a stopover, it’s a fantastic destination for a long weekend or a longer trip. With its incredible landscapes, geothermal wonders, and a chance to see the northern lights, Iceland is a destination that never disappoints.
