How To Spend 24 Hours In Iceland
On my way back from Paris in the summer of 2023, I was able to snag a 24-hour layover in Iceland. These extended layover stops are referred to as stopovers. Several airlines around the world offer them and it’s a great way to fit an extra city or country into your trip without paying for a separate flight. Some airlines even offer free accommodations or tours. However, I was flying on Play Airlines, a low-cost Icelandic airlines. So I had to make my own accommodations, but no worries. I had a great time during my 24-hour trip to Iceland. Here’s what I did:
2 pm: I landed with my carry-on while my main luggage was checked to my final destination. After clearing customs, I then took a shuttle to the rental car lot and picked up my car. And would you believe this was actually the first time I’ve ever rented a car! At 31! Shoutout to my travel credit card that has rental car insurance included. Iceland drives on the same side of the road as the US so adjusting was easy.
4 pm: I arrive at my beautiful boutique hotel, Hotel Berg, about 10 minutes from the airport. I settled in a bit and then headed to Sky Lagoon about 45 minutes away. In my rush, I left my swimsuit behind, but luckily they have swimsuit rentals for $7, plus sizes included!
6 pm: I love the “bathing” culture in Iceland. Please just let me soak in a heated pool every time I’m stressed. Because of this love, I prioritized going back to the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon. Sky Lagoon is the new kid on the block as far as tourist lagoons. The water is warm and clear, perfect for this stormy and slightly cold day. But my favorite part is the views of the harbor even in cloudy weather. I went for the lite package and just unwinded for a few hours with a glass of champagne.
9 pm: Still exhausted I arrived back at the hotel restaurant; Fiskbarrin. I had some interesting Icelandic cuisine and another glass of champagne. Can you blame me?! Champagne is so much cheaper in Europe.
10:30 pm: Still jetlagged and travel tired, I put on my eye mask and go to sleep. Summer in Iceland means the sun doesn’t set so a proper eye mask is a must for sleeping.
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8 am: I get up and munch on some chips before heading to the Blue Lagoon for a morning dip. The hotel did offer breakfast, but I was too busy to stop.
9 am: After a 15-minute or so drive, I arrive at the Blue Lagoon. It’s such a relaxing time before getting on my 6-hour flight home. I got an amazing green juice this morning. time to detox from all the champagne.
10:30 am: I stayed just a bit too long just relaxing in the pool. I called my hotel to make sure I could get a late checkout. No problem.
12 pm: After a lovely shower (Iceland has the most beautiful naturally occurring soft water), I finally check out a bit late and go for a walk on the trail behind the hotel. It was very windy and slightly rainy, but it was so gorgeous. Sometimes when I’m at home, I dream about walking along that trail. Iceland is such a peaceful place for me.
12:30 pm: I fill up my car and drop it back off with no issue. Then I ride the shuttle bus back to the Keflavik airport. I got a traditional Scandinavian shrimp sandwich and settled in a bit before my flight. And thanks to my AirTag, I saw my bag was safe and sound after 24 hours.
3:05 pm: After chilling in the airport for a while (yes I’m a get to the airport EARLY kind of gal), I’m on my way back home after 25 hours in Iceland.
