Iceland in 4 Days: Chasing Waterfalls, Coffee, and Midnight Black Sand
In October 2021, Michael and I finally checked Iceland off our bucket list. Five days of adventure, coffee, and jaw-dropping scenery — with just enough chaos to make it memorable.
Day 1 — Touchdown in Reykjavík
We landed at Keflavík Airport around 7:00 a.m., running on fumes and airplane coffee. Customs was quick, and within minutes we had keys to our rental car — a must if you want to explore beyond the city.
Our first taste of Iceland wasn’t a geyser or a glacier, but a cozy café: Kökulist bakery. Think strong espresso, flaky pastries, and that Nordic minimalist charm. After fueling up, we headed straight to the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is a famous geothermal spa in Iceland known for its milky blue, mineral-rich waters and volcanic surroundings. It's located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik, Iceland. The water is a by-product of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, and its unique color and properties are due to the high silica and mineral content.
Day 2 — Black Sand & Bus Coffee
We set our alarms painfully early for Reynisfjara Beach. The black sand, towering basalt columns, and crashing waves were surreal — a scene that makes you forget to breathe for a second.
From there, we found Skool Beans, a quirky coffee shop inside a repurposed school bus. It was warm, smelled like espresso heaven, and the barista had stories that made you want to stay all morning.
We spent the rest of the day weaving through Iceland’s South Coast, pulling over every five minutes for “just one more picture.” Spoiler: it’s never just one.
Day 3 — Reykjavík Wanders
Our home base was the Reykjavík Residence Hotel, a comfy spot perfect for walking to the city’s highlights. We grabbed breakfast at Kaktus Espressobar — a locals’ favorite — before wandering to Hallgrimskirkja, the iconic “spooky church” with a view that stretches across the whole city.
That afternoon was our least glamorous moment: getting COVID tests (thanks, travel requirements). But we rewarded ourselves with more wandering, more coffee, and the kind of slow-paced exploring that makes a city feel like yours for the day.
Day 4 — One Last Sunrise
Our final morning came too soon. We checked out before sunrise, the streets still quiet. Dropping off the car felt like closing a chapter, and soon we were at the airport with suitcases full of sweaters and hearts full of memories.
What I’d Do Again in a Heartbeat
Rent a car — Iceland is a country made for road trips.
Wake up early — Sunrise is pure magic here.
Balance big sights with slow mornings — Some of my favorite moments were over coffee, not just at famous landmarks.
Iceland has this way of making you feel small — in the best possible way. The landscapes remind you just how wild and untamed the world can be. And even though we went in 2021, the memories are still vivid: the smell of salt air on the coast, the warmth of a coffee cup in cold hands, and the endless stretch of horizon.
Until next time, Iceland. I’ll be back.
