Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, offers a breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. Here are some must-see stops along the way:

1. Reykjavík What to see: Start your trip in Iceland’s capital, where you can visit the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, explore the Harpa Concert Hall, and stroll through the Old Harbor.
   Nearby: The Blue Lagoon is a short drive away if you want to relax in geothermal waters.
2. Thingvellir National Park What to see: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s where the Icelandic parliament was founded in 930 AD. You can also see the Almannagjá Rift where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet.
3. Gullfoss Waterfall What to see: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss is a two-tiered waterfall that plunges into a deep canyon. It’s especially stunning when surrounded by mist and rainbows.
4. Geysir Geothermal Area What to see: The Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters high. The area is full of hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
5. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall What to see: A unique waterfall that you can walk behind. The view from behind the falls, with the sun setting in the background, is incredible.
6. Skogafoss Waterfall What to see: Another iconic waterfall, Skogafoss is wide and powerful. You can hike up the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
7. Dyrhólaey What to see: A massive arch-shaped rock formation with stunning views of the coast, Dyrhólaey is also a great spot for birdwatching, especially puffins during summer.
8. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach What to see: Famous for its black sand, dramatic basalt columns, and towering sea stacks, Reynisfjara is one of the most striking beaches in the world.
9. Vatnajökull National Park What to see: Home to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, this national park offers glaciers, ice caves, and incredible views. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are nearby highlights.
10. Höfn What to see: A charming town known for its lobster dishes and stunning views of the Vatnajökull glacier. It’s a great place to stop for a meal and a stroll.
11. East Fjords What to see: The East Fjords are less visited but offer some of Iceland’s most beautiful and remote landscapes, with rugged mountains, picturesque fishing villages, and incredible wildlife.
12. Dettifoss Waterfall What to see: One of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, Dettifoss is an awe-inspiring sight. The nearby Selfoss waterfall is also worth visiting.
13. Lake Mývatn What to see: A geothermal area with hot springs, mud pools, and volcanic craters. The Mývatn Nature Baths are a relaxing spot, and Hverir is a great place to see bubbling mud pots.
14. Akureyri What to see: Known as the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is a charming town with great restaurants, a botanical garden, and a beautiful church. It’s also a gateway to the nearby Goðafoss Waterfall.
15. Húsavík What to see: A small town known for its whale-watching tours. You can spot humpback, minke, and blue whales in the waters off the coast.
16. Siglufjörður What to see: A picturesque fishing village with colorful buildings and a rich history. It’s also home to the Siglufjörður Herring Era Museum, which tells the story of the town’s herring industry.
17. Westfjords What to see: If you have time, the Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote and stunning regions, with towering cliffs, secluded beaches, and dramatic fjords.
18. Snæfellsnes Peninsula What to see: Often referred to as “Iceland in miniature,” this peninsula offers a bit of everything: Snæfellsjökull Glacier, lava fields, volcanic craters, and picturesque fishing villages like Arnarstapi and Hellnar.

This route will take you through some of Iceland’s most diverse and scenic landscapes, from geothermal hot springs to glaciers, waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines. Make sure to plan for plenty of stops to enjoy the natural beauty of Iceland!