Planning a trip to Iceland often starts with questions — and these days, many travellers turn to ChatGPT to get quick answers. From when to visit and how long to stay, to whether a 4×4 is necessary for winter driving, ChatGPT is becoming a go-to travel planner. But while the AI provides useful starting points, nothing beats advice that’s updated, practical, and written by locals who know the roads, seasons, and hidden gems of Iceland.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the top 10 ChatGPT travel queries about Iceland and answered them with local expertise and car rental insights. Whether you’re curious about chasing the Northern Lights, exploring glaciers, or figuring out the best way to drive the Golden Circle, you’ll find straightforward advice here to help you plan with confidence.
1. Do I need a 4×4 in Iceland?
Whether you need a 4×4 in Iceland depends on when and where you plan to drive. If your trip is mainly around Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, or the South Coast during summer, a regular 2WD car is usually enough since these routes are paved and well maintained.
However, if you’re visiting in winter months (October–April), icy roads and snow make a 4×4 much safer and more reliable. A 4×4 is also mandatory for driving on Iceland’s F-roads in the Highlands, which are open only in summer. These rough gravel mountain roads require extra clearance and traction.
In short: stick to a 2WD for short summer trips on the Ring Road, but choose a 4×4 rental if you’re coming in winter, planning to explore the Highlands, or just want more comfort and confidence on Iceland’s rugged roads.
2. What’s the best time to visit Iceland?
The best time to visit Iceland really depends on what you want to experience. Summer (June–August) offers long days with the midnight sun, mild weather, and easy driving conditions—perfect for road trips, hiking, and exploring the Highlands. On the other hand, winter (November–March) is ideal if you’re chasing the northern lights, enjoying snow-covered landscapes, or trying winter activities like ice caving.
If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are a great balance, with milder weather, beautiful autumn or spring scenery, and a good chance of seeing the aurora before or after summer.
In short: visit in summer for adventure and daylight, winter for auroras and snow, and spring or autumn for a quieter mix of both.
3. Can I drive in Iceland in winter?
Yes, but you need to be well prepared. Here’s what to know:
- Winter conditions last from October to April, with icy, snowy, and windy roads.
- Renting a 4×4 with winter tyres is strongly recommended.
- Main roads (like the Ring Road) are usually kept open, but storms and closures are common.
- Always check real-time updates on Road.is
- If you’re not confident in icy conditions, consider guided tours or shorter day trips.
- With the right car and preparation, you can safely enjoy snowy landscapes and even chase the northern lights.
4. How many days do you need in Iceland?
The number of days you need in Iceland depends on how much you want to see:
- 3–4 days – Perfect for a short stopover. You can explore Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and maybe add a South Coast day trip.
- 5–7 days – Enough time to cover Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, South Coast highlights like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, plus a chance to see the northern lights in winter.
- 8–10 days – Ideal for driving most of the Ring Road, seeing waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and volcanic landscapes at a relaxed pace.
- 12–14+ days – Gives you time for the full Ring Road plus remote regions like the Westfjords or the Highlands (summer only).
In short: 3–4 days for highlights, 7–10 days for the Ring Road, and 2+ weeks for a full Iceland adventure.
5. What are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Some of the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland include Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where the icebergs reflect the dancing aurora, and the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach on the South Coast. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another favourite thanks to its mix of mountains, ocean views, and dark skies, while the Reykjanes Peninsula offers easy access from Reykjavík without the interference of city lights. Down south, Vík and the Dyrhólaey cliffs provide stunning backdrops for aurora photos, and even near the capital, spots like the Seltjarnarnes peninsula by the lighthouse can give you excellent views. In general, anywhere away from towns and artificial light will increase your chances of catching this natural wonder.
💡 Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Time: September through mid-April is the aurora season (long, dark nights).
- Cloud cover: Clear skies are essential. Use aurora and weather forecasts to pick nights with less cloud cover.
- Solar activity: The stronger the solar storms / geomagnetic activity, the more dramatic the auroras.
- Stay up late: Peak aurora activity tends to be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
- Get away from light pollution: Darkness is your friend — even a small amount of artificial light can ruin the view.
- Bring the right gear: Use a tripod, wide-angle lens, and manual camera settings — otherwise, many displays are invisible or faint to the eye but visible in photography.
6. Which glacier should I visit in Iceland?
Iceland has over 250 glaciers, but the best ones to visit depend on your time and interests. The two most popular and easiest to reach are Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull.
- Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, is found in southeast Iceland. It’s home to spectacular ice caves, glacier hiking tours, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs break off into the water. If you want the “ultimate glacier experience,” this is the place to go.
- Sólheimajökull, located on the South Coast about two hours from Reykjavík, is the most accessible glacier for day trips. It’s perfect if you want to try a short glacier hike or ice climbing without driving too far.
Other great options include Langjökull, where you can explore man-made ice tunnels and take snowmobile tours, and Snæfellsjökull, the glacier-capped volcano made famous by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.
In short: choose Vatnajökull for epic landscapes, Sólheimajökull for easy access, and Langjökull or Snæfellsjökull if you want something unique.
7. What’s the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, covering about 300 kilometres (186 miles) from Reykjavík and back. It connects three of the country’s most iconic attractions: Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; the erupting hot spring Geysir and its neighbour Strokkur, which shoots boiling water high into the air every few minutes; and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking cascades.
Because of its short driving distance from Reykjavík and the diversity of natural wonders, the Golden Circle is a must-do for first-time visitors. Many travellers explore it on a self-drive day trip or combine it with extra stops like secret lagoons, volcanic craters, and horse farms along the way.
8. Is it expensive to travel in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is considered one of the more expensive travel destinations in Europe. Food, accommodation, fuel, and activities generally cost more than in many other countries because of Iceland’s remote location and high import costs. Eating at restaurants can be pricey, and tours like glacier hiking or whale watching add up quickly.
That said, there are plenty of ways to make your trip more affordable. Many travellers save money by renting a car and exploring at their own pace instead of joining guided tours. You can also shop at local supermarkets, stay in guesthouses or hostels, and take advantage of Iceland’s countless free natural attractions such as waterfalls, black sand beaches, hot springs, and scenic hikes.
In short: Iceland isn’t cheap, but with smart planning, you can enjoy the country’s highlights without breaking your budget.
9. Can I drive to the Blue Lagoon from KEF airport?
Yes, you can easily drive to the Blue Lagoon from Keflavík International Airport (KEF). The lagoon is located just 20 minutes by car from the airport, making it a popular first or last stop for travellers. The drive is straightforward — follow Route 41 towards Reykjavík, then turn onto Route 43, which leads directly to the Blue Lagoon parking area.
Many visitors choose to pick up their rental car at KEF airport and head straight to the lagoon before checking into their hotel in Reykjavík. Parking is free, and the roads are paved and well maintained year-round. It’s worth noting that the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Blue Lagoon is located, has seen volcanic eruptions in recent years. Authorities closely monitor the area, and the lagoon only opens when it’s considered safe, so always check for the latest updates before your visit.
10. What are the must-see places in Iceland?
These are the must-see places in Iceland based on local recommendations and insider picks (including popular Icelandic social media influencers):
- The Golden Circle — Þingvellir National Park, Geysir (Strokkur), and Gullfoss waterfall remain essentials. The Blonde Abroad lists these among her “bucket list” Iceland experiences.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon + Diamond Beach — Icebergs drifting out to sea and glittering ice chunks on the black sand make this one of the most photogenic places in Iceland.
- Sólheimajökull Glacier — Quite accessible from the south coast and often recommended by travel bloggers for glacier walks or short hikes.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula — Often dubbed “Iceland in Miniature,” it packs mountains, lava fields, sea cliffs, and charming villages in one area.
- Secret Lagoon (Flúðir) / Reykjadalur Hot Spring River — For a more local, less crowded soak, influencers like Justine Doiron recommend hiking to Reykjadalur and enjoying a natural hot spring river.
- Hengifoss & Stuðlagil Canyon — Angela Liguori highlights Hengifoss as a unique waterfall, and her blog also recommends Stuðlagil for its basalt columns and turquoise waters.
- Westfjords & Hornstrandir — For those wanting isolation and dramatic landscapes, many seasoned travelers include the Westfjords in extended itineraries.
- Reykjavík — Don’t skip the city: Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja, and the Sun Voyager are favorites noted by the WildJunket travel blog in their Iceland city highlights.
Exploring Iceland comes with plenty of questions, and hopefully this guide has answered the most common ones travelers ask before their trip. From renting a car to chasing the northern lights, a little local knowledge goes a long way in making your adventure smooth and unforgettable.
If you’re planning your own journey, the best way to see Iceland is at your own pace — and that starts with a reliable rental car. 🚙✨ Check out our available rental cars to find the perfect fit for your trip and hit the road like a local.