7 Days in North Iceland: A Winter Itinerary Based Around Lake Mývatn

21.09.2026
7 Days in North Iceland: A Winter Itinerary Based Around Lake Mývatn

There's something special about spending winter in one place long enough to truly experience it. Instead of driving the entire Ring Road, you can settle into the quiet rhythm of North Iceland. Here, every day brings a different landscape and a new winter adventure.

With seasonal direct flights to Akureyri during the winter months, reaching Lake Mývatn is easier than many travellers realise. Once you're there, volcanic scenery, geothermal wonders, and peaceful winter landscapes are never far away. If you're looking for an Iceland winter itinerary that balances adventure with slower travel, this guide is for you.

Why Spend a Week in North Iceland in Winter?

Many travellers planning an Iceland winter itinerary head straight for the South Coast, the Golden Circle, or the famous Blue Lagoon. Some even attempt to drive the entire Ring Road. While these destinations are popular for good reason, North Iceland offers a quieter and more immersive way to experience winter.

With Lake Mývatn as your base, you'll have easy access to snow-covered volcanic landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs. The region also offers winter adventures that you won't find elsewhere in Iceland, like horseback riding on a frozen lake. Beyond that, you can explore Lofthellir Ice Cave, ride on a dogsled with wonderful huskies, drive the Diamond Circle, or spend the evening chasing the aurora borealis. Every day brings a different experience without feeling rushed.

Staying in one place also means less time packing and unpacking, giving you more time to enjoy the landscapes around you. It's an ideal way to spend seven days in Iceland, with a slower pace that lets you discover a quieter side of the country many travellers overlook. 

 

waterfall

The Ultimate 7-Day North Iceland Winter Itinerary

This seven-day itinerary begins in Akureyri and uses Lake Mývatn as a base for exploring North Iceland. Each day introduces a different part of the region, with comfortable driving distances and flexibility to suit winter conditions.

Day 1: Arrive in Akureyri and drive to Lake Mývatn

Begin your North Iceland winter itinerary by flying into Akureyri. Seasonal direct international flights operate from October to April, making it easy to start your holiday in the north. If you're not hiring a car, you can also book an airport transfer with Geo Travel. Their service picks you up from Akureyri Airport and drops you off at your accommodation around Lake Mývatn.

Once you've settled in, unwind at Earth Lagoon Mývatn (formerly Mývatn Nature Baths). Soaking in the warm geothermal water while surrounded by snowy landscapes is the perfect way to ease into your winter holiday. If the skies are clear after dark, step outside for your first chance to see the Northern Lights around Lake Mývatn.

northern lights

Day 2: Explore Lake Mývatn's snow-covered volcanic landscapes

Spend the day discovering the landscapes that make Lake Mývatn one of Iceland's most fascinating winter destinations. Wander through the snow-covered lava formations of Dimmuborgir, then visit Hverir, where steaming geothermal vents contrast beautifully with the snow. Continue to Grjótagjá Cave before stopping at the Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters or enjoying a peaceful walk around Höfði, if conditions allow. The Visitor Center in Gígur is open from 10-17 in the winter time, where you can meet the rangers working in the area. There is also a free exhibition about nature and culture in Mývatn and the northern highlands, well worth the visit.

With most stops only a short drive apart, you'll have plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the winter scenery.

Day 3: Enjoy a winter adventure around Lake Mývatn

Today is the perfect opportunity to experience some of the unique winter activities around Lake Mývatn. Go snowmobiling with Mývatn Snowmobile or GeoTravel, explore snowy trails with Eyjadalsá Horse Riding, or enjoy a dog sledging tour with Snow Dogs. You can also try ice fishing on the frozen lake with the locals, only available during the Mývatn Winter Festival. For some thrills, go cross-country skiing around Lake Mývatn, or head to the Krafla Caldera area for downhill skiing.

After your adventure, warm up with dinner at a local café or restaurant such as Kaffi Borgir or Vogafjós Restaurant.

geotravel snowmobile

Day 4: Visit Lofthellir Ice Cave before an evening aurora hunt

Join a guided ice caving tour to Lofthellir, one of Iceland's most remarkable lava caves. Travel by Super Jeep with Geo Travel, then descend into a cave filled with striking natural ice formations. The tour takes around 4.5 hours, with the journey itself forming part of the adventure.

As with all cave tours in Iceland, visiting with an experienced guide is essential. Lofthellir is only accessed once pr. day, and Geo Travel is the only operator.

Private guides such as Kristinn Ingi Pétursson can also offer jeep tours to see the more remote areas, or simply take you around the most popular sites, offering insights from someone who knows the area like the back of his hand!

If conditions are favourable after sunset, head away from artificial lights for another evening aurora hunt around Lake Mývatn.

lofthellir

Day 5: Discover the Eastern Diamond Circle

Dedicate today to exploring the eastern side of the Diamond Circle. Begin at Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, which is accessible via Road 862 during winter. If road conditions permit, continue to Ásbyrgi Canyon, where snow transforms the horseshoe-shaped canyon into a peaceful winter landscape.

From Ásbyrgi, follow Road 85 towards the town of Húsavík. If you have extra daylight, especially in October or April, stop at the quiet black sand beach along the coast. You can also pause at viewpoints overlooking Öxarfjörður Fjord or the Hringsbjarg sea cliffs on the Tjörnes Peninsula.

In Húsavík, grab a bite to eat and take a walk. Cozy town, with a beautiful church in the centre. If the skies are clear, take an evening walk along the harbour for another chance to see the Northern Lights. During December, you can also enjoy Húsavík's festive Christmas lights, decorated fishing boats, and the town's Christmas tree. Return home to Mývatn, a forty minute drive.

Day 6: Explore the Western Diamond Circle

Today is a good day to visit Goðafoss Waterfall. Drive on Route 1 (Ring Road) going west, for a half hour scenic journey through North Iceland. Before or after visiting the waterfall, enjoy lunch at the restaurant by the east-side car park. If you enjoy animals, it would be a good idea to visit Daladýrð, the petting zoo in Fnjóskadalur after your lunch. Meet the common farm animals, the horses, sheeps, the cows, hens and pigs. But also goats, rabbits, kittens and dogs. Sometimes you can even meet arctic foxes! Daladýrð is open all year around.

In the afternoon, follow Route 1 back to the Lake Mývatn area. Spend your final evening soaking in the geothermal waters of Earth Lagoon Mývatn. Or simply relax and enjoy Lake Mývatn's peaceful winter landscapes.

godafoss

Day 7: Relax around Lake Mývatn before flying home

Enjoy a slower start before heading back to Akureyri. If you didn't have the chance the previous evening, treat yourself to one last soak at Earth Lagoon Mývatn. You can also revisit a favourite viewpoint around Lake Mývatn or enjoy a final walk through Reykjahlíð.

The drive to Akureyri Airport takes about an hour. Be sure to allow enough time to return your rental car or catch your pre-booked airport transfer before your flight.

After seven days in North Iceland, you'll leave with memories of volcanic landscapes, geothermal bathing, winter adventures, and unforgettable scenery, all without needing to travel around the entire country. 

Driving in North Iceland in Winter: Tips and Reminders

Most of this itinerary follows well-maintained roads, but winter conditions can change quickly. Checking the latest road and weather updates before you leave each day will help you travel more safely and confidently.

Before setting off each day:

  • Check road conditions on road.is.

  • Monitor weather forecasts on vedur.is.

  • Choose a suitable rental car with winter tyres.

  • Keep your fuel tank topped up before longer drives.

  • Allow extra travel time in snowy or icy conditions.

  • Be flexible if the weather affects your plans.

To make the most of this North Iceland winter itinerary, also consider: 

  • Download offline maps: Mobile coverage can be limited in some areas.

  • Consider a 4x4: Highly recommended if you plan to visit Dettifoss and Ásbyrgi.

  • Visit earlier in winter: October to early December often offers better road access and longer daylight hours, especially for the Diamond Circle route.

  • Join a guided tour: If you're not confident driving in winter, consider a private Diamond Circle tour with trusted local operators like Geo Travel.

  • Dress in warm layers: Wear waterproof clothing and insulated footwear.

  • Pack snacks and drinks: Bring refreshments for longer journeys.

Most destinations in this itinerary are within an hour's drive of Lake Mývatn. This makes it easier to adjust your plans if winter weather changes unexpectedly.

Where to Stay Around Lake Mývatn in Winter

Basing yourself around Lake Mývatn makes this North Iceland winter itinerary both convenient and relaxing. If you're looking for accommodation around Lake Mývatn, here are some of the best places to stay.

If you prefer a full-service hotel experience:

If you're looking for a cosy, local stay:

Staying in one place means less packing and unpacking while keeping many of North Iceland's highlights within a comfortable driving distance.

Make Lake Mývatn Your Winter Base in North Iceland

A memorable Iceland winter itinerary doesn't have to involve driving the entire Ring Road. By spending seven days around Lake Mývatn, you'll experience North Iceland at a more relaxed pace. Discover frozen waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, winter adventures, and the beauty of the Northern Lights along the way. 

With comfortable daily drives and plenty of sightseeing opportunities, Lake Mývatn is an ideal base for a winter holiday in Iceland.

Tip: Need more help planning your Iceland winter vacation? Read our guide on how to plan a trip to Lake Mývatn and its surroundings.

FAQs

Is North Iceland worth visiting in winter?

Yes! North Iceland offers snowy volcanic landscapes, frozen waterfalls, geothermal bathing, and exciting winter activities. It also provides excellent opportunities to see the aurora borealis, often with fewer crowds than many attractions in South Iceland.

Is seven days enough for North Iceland in winter?

Yes, seven days gives you enough time to explore Lake Mývatn and the Diamond Circle. You'll also have time to enjoy several winter activities without rushing from one destination to the next.

Can you drive around Lake Mývatn in winter?

Yes, the roads around Lake Mývatn are generally maintained throughout winter. Always check the weather and road conditions before travelling, as heavy snowfall or strong winds can occasionally affect access.

Do you need a 4x4 in North Iceland in winter?

Not always. A rental car with winter tyres is usually enough for driving around Lake Mývatn. However, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to explore the Diamond Circle during winter.

Can you visit the Diamond Circle in winter?

Yes, many of the Diamond Circle's main attractions remain accessible during winter. However, weather and road conditions may affect some routes, especially along Dettifoss and Ásbyrgi Canyon. Checking conditions before setting out is always recommended.

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