The Best Iceland Short Tours & Weekend Breaks
When do you want to go?
2024
I'm flexible
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Introduction
Iceland is a magical travel destination, a unique country in Europe where nature is in control. Home to cascading waterfalls, ancient glaciers, erupting volcanoes and impressive geysers, its nickname of ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ is well deserved. One of the best things about Iceland is that you can take in all the main highlights of the country in just a few days. It’s a great destination to explore over a long weekend, allowing travellers to enjoy a dip in the Blue Lagoon, discover the capital, Reykjavik, and take in the unrivalled power of nature. We offer a range of short escorted tours in Iceland, as well as day trips that you can book as part of your visit. Read on to find out more about our short tours to Iceland, and start planning your weekend break!
Best Short Tours of Iceland for Weekend Breaks
These are our best short tour packages and day tours in Iceland of 5 days or less. All of your sightseeing, transportation and accommodation is included where relevant, meaning all you need to do is arrive in Iceland, we’ll take care of the rest! Many of our short Iceland tours depart every single day, so it doesn’t matter if you’re planning a long weekend trip, or taking a mid-week break, we’ve got the package for you! If you’re exploring Europe from further afield, such as Australia, you can take a few days of your busy schedule to see the best of Iceland, with many airlines including Icelandair offering stopovers in the country on their long haul routes.
Reasons to Take a Short Break or Weekend Trip to Iceland
Time Efficiency
A short tour allows you to experience the highlights of Iceland in a condensed timeframe, making it ideal for travellers with limited holiday time or those looking for a quick getaway without sacrificing the essence of the destination.
Cost-Effectiveness
Short tours tend to be more budget-friendly compared to longer ones, as they typically involve fewer accommodations, meals, and activities. This makes them an attractive option for travellers seeking an Icelandic adventure without breaking the bank.
Reduced Travel Fatigue
Long tours often involve extensive driving or multiple destinations, which can lead to travel fatigue and burnout. Opting for a short tour allows you to minimize travel time and maximize relaxation, ensuring you have the energy to fully enjoy each experience without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Highlights of South Iceland
South Iceland is home to the majority of the country's main attractions, meaning you can take in all the best sites on a short tour of Iceland. Here are some of the highlights you could see on your Iceland weekend break.
Black Sand Beaches of Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara's black sand beaches, basalt columns, and towering sea stacks create a dramatic coastal landscape. Visitors can explore the unique geological formations and witness the powerful waves of the North Atlantic Ocean crashing against the shore.
Skaftafell National Park
Part of Vatnajokull National Park, Skaftafell is a haven for hikers and anybody who likes exploring the great outdoors. Explore glacier tongues, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls, including the impressive Svartifoss waterfall surrounded by basalt columns.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
This stunning glacial lagoon is adorned with icebergs of all shapes and sizes, creating a unique landscape. Visitors can take boat tours to sail among the floating ice or simply admire the scenery from the shore, with views of Breidamerkurjokull glacier in the background.
Got More Time? Longer Tours to Iceland
There are benefits to spending more time in Iceland. Travellers can head to the lesser visited north of the country, including the second city of Akureyri. And they can take in the remote Westfjords, and the whale watching hotspot of Dalvik Bay. Our Iceland tours range in length from 1 day to 12, and here are some of our longer itineraries.
Conclusion
Iceland is a great destination for a short trip, whether that’s a weekend trip from Europe or a short stopover for travellers for further afield on their way to or from mainland Europe. Short Iceland tours are cheaper and less time consuming than long tours, and many of the country’s main attractions are located close together in the country’s south, near Reykjavik and the airport.
