Extreme Day Trip to Iceland: Reykjavik & Sky Lagoon in 1 Day
Thinking about an 'Extreme Day Trip' to Iceland? It might sound crazy, but we did it – and it was absolutely worth it!
Is a One Day Trip to Iceland Really Possible? Here’s How to Turn It Into an Extreme Day Trip
My 15 year old daughter wanted a spa day as part of her 16th birthday present, so we took things to the next level with a Extreme Day Trip to Iceland.
If you’re short on time but want to experience Iceland’s magic, here’s exactly how we did a one day trip to Reykjavik and the incredible Sky Lagoon.
We break down our timings, costs, and handy tips to make your own adventure as smooth as possible.
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Is it possible to do an Extreme Day Trip to Iceland? Can you visit Iceland in just one day from the UK?
Our Iceland Extreme Day Trip Timings
Flight: Manchester 7:10 AM → Keflavik 9:55 AM (EasyJet)
Transfers: Flybus 10:50 AM → Reykjavik center
Reykjavik highlights: Hallgrimskirkja, Rainbow Street & street murals
Sky Lagoon: 2pm slot with 7-step ritual
Left the Sky Lagoon: 4:30pm
Bus back to the airport: 6:00pm
Return flight: Keflavik 9:05pm → Manchester 11:30pm
Total cost per person: Approx £250
Flights from Manchester to Iceland
We flew out of Manchester Airport with easyJet at 7:10am and landed earlier than expected at 9:55am at Keflavik Airport (KEF) in Iceland.
With no checked baggage (just a backpack each), we were quickly through security with zero queues and were outside the airport within minutes.
Tips:
- Pack light to skip luggage queues
- Book early for cheapest fares (~£58 return from Manchester)
- See more extreme day trips from Manchester
Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik
We had pre-booked the Flybus with Get Your Guide, which offered:
- Free cancellation
- Payment just 2 days before
- No need to queue at the airport
All we had to do was show the driver our voucher, and it meant we didn't need to queue in arrivals to purchase a ticket. Tickets are valid for any departure from the airport.
We got on the bus at 10.20am and it departed at 10.50am, taking 40 minutes to then reach the centre of Reykjavik.
Q: Where to find the Flybus:
A: Just outside arrivals at Keflavik Airport.
Q: How long does The Flybus take?
A: Around 40 minutes to Reykjavik.
Q: Do you need to book the Flybus in advance?
A: Not necessarily – tickets can be bought at the airport and are valid for any departure time on your selected day.
Click Here for FlyBus Tickets we bought.
Important Tip for Solo Parents
If you’re travelling solo with a child, Icelandic immigration officials may ask for a letter of authority from the other parent- they did with us, and many other parents from our flight. We didn’t have one but got through – however, it’s better to be prepared!
Exploring Reykjavik
We had a few hours before our Sky Lagoon slot, so we explored the city.
Hallgrimskirkja – Reykjavik’s Iconic Church
A 10-minute walk (800m) from BSI Bus Terminal took us to Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s iconic church.
Its stunning modernist design and towering height make it the city’s most famous landmark.
You can go to the top for breathtaking views (we skipped this due to time), which costs ISK 1000 for adults and ISK 100 for children ages 7-16 years.
Reykjavik’s Rainbow Street & Street Art
From Hallgrimskirkja, we walked 4 more minutes to the famous Rainbow Street Skólavörðustígur. The street is lined with cafés, boutiques, and street art – perfect for a quick wander and photo stop. We got some lunch here and also a few souvenirs.
After soaking up the sights, we grabbed lunch before heading back to BSI Bus Terminal.
Keep an eye out for Reykjavik’s quirky houses and street murals – they’re dotted everywhere and make the city feel like an open-air art gallery.
Getting to the Sky Lagoon from Reykjavik
We pre-booked the Sky Lagoon- including transfers via Get Your Guide. We went for the package which included our own private changing room, unlimited amounts of towels, shampoo and conditioner, a private shower and hairdryer too. This was the most expensive package, but saved us taking lots of things on our trip.
You can also chose a cheaper package which includes transfers, but with shared changing facilities.
Tickets without transfers are also available for those who've hired a car here.
We booked this back in December as it does sell out, however, with Get Your Guide, we didn't need to pay for it until 2 days before the visit.
The bus left BSI Bus Terminal at 2pm and took us straight to Sky Lagoon – a geothermal infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The journey to the Sky Lagoon from Reykjavik takes around 20 minutes (although more like 30 mins on the way back as it drops off at hotels).
Buses leave on the hour from BSI terminal and return on the half hour- you don't need to specify a return time and you can stay at the Sky Lagoon as long as you wish.
Tip: Book early – slots sell out fast. We recommend 1 PM instead of 2 PM for more time.
Sky Lagoon Experience
Sky Lagoon was honestly incredible. Floating in the steaming geothermal waters while looking out at the Atlantic was pure magic.
The 7-step ritual includes:
- Sauna
- Steam room
- Cold plunge
- Body scrub
- Refreshing Icelandic drink
- Mist room
- Relax in infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic
We originally booked for 2pm, but in hindsight, we’d go for 1pm to allow more time.
At 4:30pm, we reluctantly left and caught the return bus back to BSI Bus Terminal, arriving just before 5pm.
Why it’s unforgettable: Floating in geothermal waters while looking at the ocean is magical.
Tip: Allow 2–2.5 hours for the full experience.
Return to Keflavik Airport
Before heading back to the airport, we grabbed food at BSI Bus Terminal. The bus terminal is small, so really easy to find your bus. Plus, there's an information counter with staff that speak English. They can advise on any queries over logistics and other tours you may find of interest.
Inside the bus terminal, you'll also find clean toilets (around £1.15pp to access) and a café. We got a huge pizza slice for around £6 each.
At 6pm, we took our pre-booked FlyBus back to Keflavik Airport, arriving with plenty of time to check in.
Keflavik Airport Prices & The Northern Lights from the Plane!
Keflavik Airport has plenty of food options, and surprisingly, prices weren’t as bad as expected, despite Iceland's expensive reputation. We got two of the famous Icelandic Hot Dogs for around £5 each. We also got 2 bottled soft drinks and 2 bars of chocolate for £6 in total, which I actually think is cheaper than Manchester Airport!
Our 9:05 PM flight home departed on time, but the real highlight?
We saw the Northern Lights from the plane!
The display lasted a full two hours – an unforgettable end to our Icelandic adventure.
Top Tip: Book seats on the left-hand side for the best chance of seeing them.
We landed back in Manchester at 11:30 PM, absolutely exhausted but buzzing from an incredible day.
Cost Breakdown of Our One Day Trip to Iceland
For less than £250 each, we experienced Iceland’s capital, its famous landmarks, a luxury spa, and even the Northern Lights – all in one day!
- Return Flights from Manchester to Iceland: £58
- Return Airport transfers £32.09pp (for 1 ad & 1 teen ticket)
- Sky Lagoon tickets with transfers £122.54pp
Was it Worth Doing an Extreme Day Trip to Iceland?
✅ YES! It was a whirlwind, but every moment was incredible. If you’re up for an extreme day trip, Reykjavik is surprisingly doable from Manchester.
Would we do it again?
Absolutely – but next time, we’d:
Book Sky Lagoon earlier (1pm instead of 2pm).
Stay overnight to see more of Iceland.
Next time, if we did another Extreme Day Trip to Iceland, we would probably try the Blue Lagoon instead. This is nearer to the airport than the Sky Lagoon. If you're debating going, and not sure which to pick, read our guide on Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon Guide, where we weigh up the advantages (and disadvantages) of each spa.
If spa's aren't your thing but you're still looking to try a one day trip to Iceland, check out our 10 budget-friendly things to do in Iceland guide
If you’re tempted to try this yourself, go for it – it’s one epic travel story you’ll never forget!
Watch the Video of our Extreme Day Trip to Iceland
