3-Day Iceland Stopover Itinerary: Best Hot Springs, Bakeries & Glacier Adventures from Reykjavik
Reykjavik
If you're flying to Europe with Icelandair or PLAY, a stopover in Iceland is the perfect way to break up the trip and pack in some adventure. When we returned to Iceland on our way to Copenhagen last November, we upgraded from budget to bougie (well, relatively bougie) with a 3-day stopover full of cozy bakeries, stunning hot springs, and an ice climbing tour that brought the adrenaline.
Here’s how we made the most of our fast-paced but still relaxing 3-day Iceland stopover—no kids, no chaos, just the perfect mix of chill and thrill.
Day 1: Jet Lag and Sky Lagoon
We landed first thing in the morning and made our way to Reykjavik. After grabbing breakfast, we wandered around downtown Reykjavik, popping into local shops and boutiques. Even if you're not buying anything, it's a great way to soak in the Nordic aesthetic and get your steps in. The jet lag is always a struggle for us and we’ve learned that it’s best to stay active and avoid the urge to faceplant into our hotel bed at 4pm. Then we headed to our steamy next destination—Sky Lagoon.
Why Sky Lagoon Is Not Worth It (In Our Opinion)
If you only have time for one hot spring during your Iceland stopover, I personally wouldn’t pick Sky Lagoon. Sky Lagoon is convenient to get to from Reykjavik, with beautiful ocean views and sleek, modern facilities. However, we were underwhelmed by the 7-step ritual (included in the premium package)—loved the cold plunge and sauna with a view, but overall it felt a bit overrated for the price. It was also pretty crowded and full of people more focused on creating content than relaxing. Keep reading for our recommendation for one of the best hot springs in Iceland.
Where We Ate
Reykjavik Roasters: One of the best coffee spots in the city. This was our first stop as we landed early and needed caffeine and carbs immediately.
Baka Baka: A local bakery known for its flaky pastries and cozy vibe. We devoured some sweet treats while thawing out from the frigid Iceland wind.
Icelandic Street Food: A casual dinner spot located in the heart of Reykjavik. Their traditional lamb soup and tomato soup are perfect if you're craving something hearty and local. Their bread is incredible—make sure to order your soup in a bread bowl!
Then… we crashed. Jet lag: 1, us: 0. At least we made it until 8pm, right?
Day 2: Hot Springs, Hot Dogs & Hidden Gems
After an early breakfast of (more) pastries, we made the 45-minute drive out to Hvammsvik Hot Springs—and honestly, this might have been our favorite discovery of the entire trip.
Hvammsvik Hot Springs: Iceland's Hidden Gem
This hot spring complex sits right on the ocean, with a mix of natural rock pools and manmade soaking spots that blend into the landscape. It’s low-key, stylish, and less touristy than the bigger lagoons. There’s no official cold tub here—the North Atlantic Ocean is your cold tub. Take a swim at your own risk (we did and it was, as expected, freezing!). Hvammsvik felt more peaceful, more local, and more connected to nature. If you're looking for an adult-focused, authentic Icelandic soak without the scene, Hvammsvik is your spot—but if convenience and amenities are your priority, Sky Lagoon is still a solid (though touristy) choice.
Where We Ate
Brauð & Co: A colorful little bakery where everything smells like butter and magic. Their cinnamon rolls and pretzel croissants are the real deal.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Reykjavik’s most iconic street food stand. We found the hots dogs to be underwhelming (we had much better ones on our 7-day Ring Road trip), but if you’re in the area check it out for yourself.
Mama Reykjavik: A warm and quirky spot with hearty dishes that blend Icelandic ingredients with global flavors. My husband went for a creamy yellow curry, with chickpeas and potato chunks and I had a tasty broccoli soup that was chock full of fresh veggies. Both meals came with—you guessed it—delicious sourdough bread and local butter. Europe just does bread so much better.
Day 3: Ice Climbing on a Glacier
For our final day, we went full adventure mode with an ice climbing and glacier hike tour on Sólheimajökull through Arctic Adventures. It’s about a two-hour drive from Reykjavik, so prepare for an early start—but it’s 100% worth it. If you’re looking for a day trip from Reykjavik a bit further off the beaten path, this is a great option.
How it Went
The tour was hands down the most exhilarating thing we did in Iceland. After meeting at the glacier parking lot, we geared up with crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes before heading out with our guides onto the ice. The hike across the glacier was surreal—deep crevasses, glowing blue ice, and the constant sound of cracking beneath our feet as the glacier shifted below us.
The real highlight? Climbing a vertical ice wall. It looked intimidating, but the guides were incredibly supportive and made sure everyone felt safe (no prior experience needed, just some basic fitness and a willingness to go for it). If you're up for something active and unforgettable, this is a must-do.
Afterward, we drove back to Reykjavik feeling tired, cold, and accomplished. We spent the evening packing our bags and had the most restful (and well-deserved) sleep before heading to the airport early the next day.
View of Sólheimajökull
Final Thoughts: Is a 3-Day Stopover in Iceland Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you're on your way to Europe or heading back home, a 3-day stopover in Iceland is just enough time to soak in the landscapes, relax in hot springs, indulge in Reykjavik’s food scene, and try something adventurous.
You don’t need a rental car the whole time (just for the Hvammsvik and glacier days), and Reykjavik is super walkable. This itinerary balances rest and exploration, with a little luxury sprinkled in—perfect for childfree couples or solo travelers who want to experience Iceland without the rush.
Planning your own Iceland stopover? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments and check out my full 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary if you’re thinking of staying longer—and subscribe below for more childfree, low-fuss travel tips.