Breakfast at Airbnb
Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation in Akranes.
11-Day Iceland Ring Road Adventure
July 14-24, 2025
✈️ Day 11: Return & Departure
July 24
"We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open."
Day Summary
As your Icelandic adventure comes to a close, today offers a final taste of this remarkable island. Begin with a leisurely morning in Akranes before heading back to the capital for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing in Reykjavík. Enjoy a farewell lunch sampling Icelandic cuisine one last time before heading to the airport. Take the time to reflect on the incredible landscapes, experiences, and memories you've collected circumnavigating this land of fire and ice.
Total Driving: ~120 km (75 miles), 1 hour 30 minutes
- Airbnb in Akranes to Reykjavík: ~50 km (31 miles), 45 minutes
- Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport: ~50 km (31 miles), 45 minutes
Daily Schedule
Check out and depart for Reykjavík
Check out of your Airbnb and begin the drive back to Reykjavík for some final sightseeing and shopping.
Shopping in Reykjavík
Enjoy some last-minute shopping in downtown Reykjavík for Icelandic souvenirs, woolen goods, or design items. Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur streets offer the best selection of shops.
Visit to Seltjarnarnes Peninsula
Take a quick trip to this peninsula on the western edge of Reykjavík featuring a lighthouse, bird sanctuary, and scenic coastal walks with views of Mount Esja across the bay.
Farewell Lunch in Reykjavík
Enjoy a final Icelandic meal at Messinn, a popular restaurant known for its traditional fish pans and seafood dishes.
Drive to Keflavík International Airport
Drive from Reykjavík to the airport with enough time for rental car return and check-in procedures.
Return Rental Car
Return your Suzuki Vitara to Blue Car Rental and complete the necessary paperwork.
Airport Check-in
Check in for your international flight and proceed through security. Recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure for international flights.
Duty-Free Shopping and Relaxation
Browse the airport's extensive duty-free shopping area (known for good prices on Icelandic products and alcohol) and relax before your flight.
Flight Departure
Board your Icelandair flight FI 671 from Keflavík (KEF) to Denver (DEN), departing at 4:50 PM GMT.
Key Highlights of the Day
- Final shopping for Icelandic souvenirs in Reykjavík
- Coastal views and lighthouse at Seltjarnarnes Peninsula
- One last authentic Icelandic meal
- Duty-free shopping at Keflavík Airport
Accommodations
N/A - Departure Day
Cost:
Room Type:
Note: Check your Airbnb checkout time and plan accordingly. Most Airbnbs have a checkout time of 11:00 AM, but you may be able to leave your luggage if you communicate with your host.
Alternative Activities
- Blue Lagoon Visit: If you didn't visit on arrival day, the Blue Lagoon is conveniently located between Reykjavík and the airport. Perfect for relaxation before a long flight. Pre-booking essential.
- Reykjanes Peninsula Geothermal Areas: Explore the volcanic landscapes of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, including bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and dramatic geological formations.
- Perlan Museum: Interactive museum with exhibitions about Icelandic nature, including a real indoor ice cave, Northern Lights planetarium show, and observation deck with 360° views of Reykjavík.
- Hallgrímskirkja Observation Deck: Ascend the tower of Reykjavík's iconic church for panoramic views over the colorful city and surrounding mountains and ocean.
- Sky Lagoon: New luxury geothermal spa with an infinity edge overlooking the ocean. Features a 7-step spa ritual based on Icelandic traditions.
Bad Weather Alternatives
- Harpa Concert Hall: Explore the stunning glass architecture of Reykjavík's concert hall and cultural center. The building itself is a work of art with its colored glass facade inspired by Iceland's basalt landscapes.
- National Museum of Iceland: Comprehensive museum chronicling Iceland's history from settlement to present day, with artifacts and exhibits covering over 1,200 years.
- Kringlan Shopping Mall: Iceland's largest shopping mall with over 150 shops, restaurants, and services. Good alternative for souvenir shopping in bad weather.
Notes
- Allow extra time for rental car return and airport procedures.
- Double-check your rental agreement for any special return requirements.
- Remember that international flight check-in typically closes 45 minutes before departure, and it's recommended to arrive at least 2-2.5 hours before your flight.