Nous sommes 6 amis et nous avons décidé de partir en Islande cette année, avec pour objectif (on croise les doigts) de voir une aurore boréale. Normalement 2013 est l'année ou l'activité solaire sera la plus intense, et mars un des mois les plus propices aux aurores. On verra bien...
Mais comme on ne va pas s’asseoir sur un rocher jusqu'à ce qu’apparaissent les lumières vertes, on s'est aussi préparé un petit parcours, et c'est à ce sujet que j'aurais voulu avoir vos avis éclairés, en terme de faisabilité, de spots à ne surtout pas rater, de petit bains chauds cachés au détour d'une piste etc...
Donc voilà l'itinéraire prévu :
J0 : arrivée à Reykjavik, on prend le pouls de la ville et on se prépare... en faisant une bonne grosse fête le samedi soir :)
J1 : pas trop vite, aujourd'hui jour off, et direction blue lagoon
J2 : on commence les choses sérieuses, avec une journée consacrée à la plongée à Silfra entre les plaques européenne et américaine. Afin de ne pas perdre de temps, en fin de journée direction immédiate vers le cercle d'or pour passer la nuit dans une auberge. Nous n'avons encore réservé aucun hébergement. Pensez vous que c'est indispensable? j'ai peur que réserver à l'avance nous empêche d'être totalement libre de modifier notre planning simplement parce qu'on a décidé d'aller ailleurs...
J3 : matin : Gulfoss et Geysir. Après midi Skogar, Dyrholaey et on dort aux alentours de Vik. 2h30 de route pour 280km (résultats google map... vous en pensez quoi?)
J4 : direction landmannalaugar. On pensait passer 2 jour et demi sur place (c'est à dire partir le jour 6 vers midi), faire de la rando et dormir sous la tente... mais j'ai un peu peur de la neige et qu'il fasse trop froid à cette période. 3h de route pour 120 km
J5 : rando donc...
J6 : l'après midi sera consacré à se diriger vers Jokulsarlon, et à dormir sur place (auberge?). 4h10 de route pour 220 km
J7 : on profite du Jokulsarlon, et l'après midi direction Egilsstaoir pour faire des provisions et y passer la nuit. 3h30 de route pour 257km
J8 : Direction le parc national Jokulsargljufur, on y passe la journée, le temps de voir Dettifoss, Rauoholar et Asbyrgi, et on dormirait dans une auberge au nord du parc. 2h11 de route pour 188km
J9 : route vers le volcan Krafla et le lac Myvtan. 1h50 de route pour 142km
J10 : Direction Hvammstangi (et donc impasse sur Akureyri) afin de s'avancer le plus possible vers les fjords du nord ouest. 3h50 pour 310km
J11 : direction Isafjorour, quelques craintes car on m'a dit que la neige pouvait empêcher le passage à cette période. 4h15 de route pour 365km
J12 : Rando dans la région des fjords du nord ouest, rien encore de défini
J13 : on quitte les fjords par la route 60, en direction de Stykkisholmur. 5h35 de route pour 385km
J14 : Visite du parc de Snaefellsjokull et retour sur Reykjavik. 3h36 de route pour 270 km
J15 : retour en France.
Voilà le parcours que l'on a imaginé. J'ai un peu peur d'avoir été trop ambitieux, et d'être obligé de passer mon temps à courir ou à faire de la voiture.
Donc encore une fois, merci d'avance pour vos conseils, bon plans, suggestions et remarques en tout genre !!!
En plus d'être un peu trop ambitieux, votre parcours serait plus approprié en été.
Au mois de Mars, vous pouvez oublier le Landmannalaugar, les pistes seront fermées.
En fait, vous traînez trop au début puis vous courez comme des malades à partir du Jokulsarlon.
Bon, le point positif, c'est que si je retire le Landmannalaugar, on gagne 2 jours. Ca va nous permettre de moins courir et de prendre un peu plus le temps sur la suite du voyage.
J'ai un question par contre, tu dis que le parcours serait plus approprié l'été... d'après toi, sur quoi vaut-il mieux se focaliser en mars? Faire le tour de l'ile par la route 1 nous paraissait le plus approprié en hiver afin d'être sur de pouvoir circuler. Si tu as d'autres idées, je suis preneur, notre itinéraire n'étant pas figé.
C'est le fait de vouloir aller au Landmannalaugar et la vitesse de ton parcours à partir du Jokulsarlon qui me faisait dire que ce serait plus approprié en été.
Au mois de Mars, il faut tenir compte de la météo qui peut pas mal vous ralentir.
De plus, les journées devraient être d'environ 12h. C'est déjà plus long qu'en hiver, mais ça laisse pas une grosse marge de manœuvre.
Faire le tour de l'ile par la route 1 nous paraissait le plus approprié en hiver afin d'être sur de pouvoir circuler.
En Mars, de toute façons, il n'y a pas 36 solutions. Les pistes des hautes terres sont fermées. Donc faire le tour de l'ile est une bonne idée.
C'est surtout les détours vers les péninsules du nord ouest et Snaefellsnes qui mériteraient plus de temps.
Justement au sujet de la péninsule Nord Ouest, je me demandais si il ne valait pas mieux la laisser de côté... Même si j'ai très envie d'y aller, ça à l'air compliqué à cause de la neige, des pistes fermées... Donc si on y va pour ne pas en profiter, autant passer du temps ailleurs.
Autre raison pour laquelle j'avais envie d'y aller, c'est que qd les prévisions d'Aurore boréales sont sur "1 quiet", il n'y a que depuis la péninsule nord que l'on a des chances de les voir...
Des avis?
Merci pour l'info, effectivement il y a l'air d'avoir pas mal de choses à faire vers le lac Myvtan, donc on profitera certainement pour passer plus de temps là bas.
Tu sais si il y a des boucles de 2-3 jours de rando dans le coin? on aimerait bien pouvoir faire une vraie bonne marche avec une nuit sous la tente (même s'il fait très froid, on est équipé).
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Hello, VoyageForum friends, and happy holidays!
I’m planning a trip with my 19-year-old grandson to Milan for Easter Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in 2025.
I’d love your insights on what we can visit in Milan that would interest both my grandson and me (I’m 75). Of course, I’m thinking of the must-sees, but not just those—cozy little restaurants, trendy neighborhoods, and anything else you’d recommend. I’m also looking for a comfortable hotel in the city center that isn’t too expensive!
I’m sure the VoyageForum community will help me uncover some hidden gems! Looking forward to your replies.
Bonsoir qui connait l'Algarve ?
Lagos une location ou un hôtel, comment aller de l'aéroport au bord de mer, comment visiter la ville ? Quoi à voir ?quoi à faire ?
Merci pour vos idées et conseils
Summer 2027 is going to be Norwegian for us!
We’re heading to the Lofoten Islands first, then Senja, near Tromsø, and finally the North Cape.
We’ll likely start from northern Finland (flight tickets and car rentals are more affordable there).
I’d like to book accommodations early to have more options.
Good value-for-money places go fast in these pricey Nordic destinations...
But where should we book?
We’re planning to stay around ten nights in the Lofoten Islands.
What’s the best approach?
One place in the central part and explore from there?
One place in the south and another in the center?
Or one in the south, one in the center, and one in the north (3-4-3 nights)?
Hi,
My daughter is heading to Iceland for a 4- to 5-day trek. Our Belgian network doesn’t cover Iceland. What’s the best alternative to stay reachable as much as possible, even while hiking?
Thanks
Hi there, my husband and I are planning a trip to Iceland in mid-October 2026.
Would you have any advice on the best places to visit for a first trip to this destination? Thanks
Hi there, a friend will be visiting Great Britain in August and would like to explore some representative spots in Denmark before heading back to Canada.
What affordable activities could you recommend to him?
He’d really appreciate it, as he has a deep appreciation for Nordic countries—probably because of his own Nordic roots.
Thanks
Hi, I'm heading to Italy soon and I wanted to know if Italian banks charge fees when you withdraw cash at an ATM, or if, like in Spain or Greece, it's better to avoid taking out money and bring cash instead. Looking forward to your replies... Thanks
We’re planning a short trip at the end of July to explore the legendary mountains and valleys of the Bernese Oberland: round trip from Nancy (Swiss highway vignette planned), 2 nights in a room with a small kitchen in Adelboden, then 2 nights in a hotel at the Gletscherblick in Grindelwald, both with half-board included.
Could you share some tips on the best road routes to take, as well as some walking hikes (we’re not as fit as we used to be, so nothing longer than 2-3 hours)? Maybe also 1 or 2 cable car rides—I was thinking of Oeschinensee Lake above Kandersteg and the First gondola above Grindelwald for better panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau... all while keeping it doable with our schedule. We’ve ruled out the "premium" trip up to the Jungfraujoch for this time.
I’m also guessing that paying to access Wengen or Mürren only makes sense if we’re staying there for a few days, right?
- Is the road through the narrow valley of the White Lütschine toward Lauterbrunnen and beyond still worth it in terms of views and scenery?
On the way back, if we have a little time to explore Bern’s historic old town, what’s the best parking plan for a 1- or 2-hour stop?
Thanks in advance for your advice, fellow travelers familiar with this beautiful region! 😉
Hi,
I’ll be in Barcelona at the end of October.
I can choose to be there over the weekend or during the week. Probably 4 nights.
Is there a big difference in terms of crowds in the city and in the museums?
Little or no difference would simplify my itinerary on the way.
Hi there,
I’ll be in Rome from April 1st to 13th, 2026—it’s coming up fast!
I’ve been searching online for tickets to visit the Borghese Gallery, but either there’s no availability or the tickets offered are ridiculously expensive.
Could someone guide me to a website where I can book 2 skip-the-line tickets (I’ve heard you have to reserve in advance online)?
Hi everyone,
I rented a car through Klaus Wagen, picking it up in downtown Porto and returning it in downtown Lisbon.
After paying, I read some pretty negative reviews about them.
So, can anyone reassure me with positive experiences they’ve had with them?
Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Setúbal at the end of June with my granddaughter, and I can’t seem to find clear info on the best way to get from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal. It looks like there’s a train or bus, but I can’t find the exact names of the bus (or train) companies or the precise departure points. Thanks if anyone can help me out! 😉 Just to clarify, I’m on a tight budget and have already ruled out taxis or similar options.
Hello,
We’re heading to Puglia at the end of May. We’re a senior couple. We arrive in Bari, where we’ve booked accommodation for 2 nights. We’ve rented a car.
Day 1: Bari
Day 2: Polignano a Mare – Monopoli
Day 3: Ostuni – Brindisi
Day 4: Lecce
Day 5 & 6: Exploring the coast from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca
Day 7 & 8: Gallipoli area
Day 9 & 10: Matera
We’re considering renting a place near Lecce for 5 days and using it as a base to explore the region.
Hi there,
I visited the Faroe Islands in late March 2026 for about ten days. I was invited by a friend who lives near Tórshavn, so I don’t have any info on tourist accommodations or car rentals. Still, I’d like to share a few thoughts about my trip:
- Before leaving, I consulted travel guides and blogs. I was surprised by how repetitive and unoriginal the featured sites were. This leads hurried travelers to follow the same overcrowded routes, which can annoy locals. I found that all Faroese villages were interesting—they reflect the country’s identity, even without the iconic grass-roofed houses. Those are indeed harmonious and beautiful, but they feel like an exotic cliché. For activities, I loved the lively ports that keep the country running.
- I was annoyed by the paid trails in tourist spots. Locals explained that these paths cross private land, and owners are responsible for maintenance and safety. There are plenty of free trails, too—signs at the start detail their features. While not alarmist, the extreme and unpredictable weather is a key factor to consider before setting out.
- The wind’s strength really impressed me. The architecture, with doors and windows opening outward to prevent gusts from blowing roofs off, speaks to the harsh climate. Some days, relentless rain and squalls made going outside unappealing. I realized that in this country, it’s best to plan for flexible indoor days.
- Distances are relatively short. I was happy to be based near Tórshavn because it was easy to explore one or more places in a day. The roads are in great condition. In late March, diesel was 2 €. Tunnel tolls can add up (~26 € per crossing), making a fixed base less practical than I’d thought.
- Everyone agrees: the landscapes are breathtaking. Nature feels untamed here—except for the short grass, thanks to all the woolly sheep.
- The flight from Paris to the Faroe Islands (and back) was long in March—11 hours with three legs: Paris-Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Copenhagen, Copenhagen-Vágar. In bad weather, Vágar Airport can close, causing delays. During tourist season, Atlantic Airways offers a direct Paris-Faroe Islands flight, which is more comfortable and cheaper.
- I found a book recommendation in a guide that fascinated me after my trip: *Les collectionneurs d'images* by Joanes Nielsen. Through its sometimes caricatured characters, it offers a glimpse into Faroese mentalities from the 1950s to 1970s—attitudes that likely persist today.
In conclusion, I’ve traveled a lot and I’m tired of destinations that all start to look the same. The Faroe Islands were a delight—a country stunning in its landscape, climate, and culture, where tourism has barely altered its authenticity.
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip for October to visit Naples (6 nights) and the Amalfi Coast (5 nights). We’ve already got the historic center and the Lapis Museum in Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Procida, Sorrento, and Ravello on our list. Any suggestions, addresses, or tips?
Thanks for your help.
Hello,
We’re heading to Rome from 21/09, arriving in the early afternoon, and returning on 28/09, leaving in the morning. We’ve already booked our flight tickets and our accommodation in the city center: Via Ezio.
I’d love to get your feedback on our itinerary and if there are any visits we should book right now:
Monday 21 afternoon:
Largo di Torre Argentina: a sacred spot for cats.
Tuesday 22:
The Vatican: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in the morning. Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica, the dome, and if possible, the necropolis.
Wednesday 23:
Morning: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Afternoon: Trastevere neighborhood and the Monumento a Garibaldi.
Thursday 24:
Piazza Navona, Church of St. Louis of the French, the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Venezia, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, Trevi Fountain.
Friday 25:
Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Quirinale, Piazza della Repubblica, and Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Saturday 26:
Aventine and Testaccio neighborhoods, the Capuchin Crypt.
Sunday 27:
Ostia.
Monday 28:
Departure.
Are any days too packed, or should we add more visits?
Thanks for your input and help!
Cheers!
Anne
Hi there,
I’m looking for some great tips for a stay in Palma de Mallorca this summer.
I need cheap flights departing from Toulouse and affordable accommodation for 4 people.
What do you recommend?
Best regards,
I’d love to get your thoughts on the following itinerary (late May). I like to take my time in ruins and museums, and beaches don’t interest me. I’ll be staying in hostels and using public transport. Do you see any major omissions or things that aren’t worth it?
Thanks!
Day 1: Arrival in CATANIA
Day 2: Catania – visit (fish market, cathedral, Biscarri Palace, etc.)
Day 3: Mount Etna (day trip)
Day 4: Morning trip to TAORMINA, visit the town
Day 5: Alcantara Gorge (day trip) + more time in Taormina
Day 6: Trip to SYRACUSE, visit Ortigia
Day 7: Ortigia
Day 8: NOTO (day trip) (or another Baroque town?)
Day 9: Syracuse Archaeological Park + more time in Ortigia (or leave for Enna?)
Day 10: Transport via Enna? TO BE RESOLVED (long, 2 or 3 changes, limited accommodation in Enna...)
Day 11: AGRIGENTO: town and Scala dei Turchi (optional)
Day 12: Valley of the Temples + archaeological museum
Day 13: Departure for TRAPANI (4h), afternoon: town (+ salt flats?)
Day 14: Segesta (day trip) + town/Erice
Day 15: Monte Cofano Nature Reserve (hike + summit) (day trip)
Day 16: Zingaro Nature Park (coastal route out, ridge route back) (day trip)
Day 17: Departure for the AEGADIAN ISLANDS: Levanzo and Favignana (bike), overnight if possible
Day 18: Egadi Islands
Day 19: Departure for PALERMO + first visits
Day 20: The city
Day 21: The city (Monreale?)
Day 22: Options:
- Capo Gallo hike (3.5h round trip) (via Mondello)
- Cefalù (45 min by train)
Day 23: Return flight
Hello,
We’re heading to Bavaria from May 13 to 23, with a side trip to Austria.
Here’s our itinerary:
Day 1: Brussels-Munich
Day 2: Munich
Day 3: Munich and departure for Salzburg
We’ll be staying three nights in Salzburg.
Then we’ll head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where we’ll stay for five nights.
Visiting Munich and Salzburg isn’t too tricky.
Once in Garmisch, we’re planning a day in Innsbruck, a day for Neuschwanstein Castle, and the rest is still up in the air.
What’s really got me stumped is that we’d love to see Königssee Lake—everyone says it’s a must-see.
We’d also like to visit the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), where the landscapes are supposedly stunning.
This would either be a round trip while we’re in Salzburg or on the way between Salzburg and Garmisch, but I’m guessing it’s impossible to do the drive from Salzburg to Garmisch, the Eagle’s Nest, *and* Königssee Lake all in one day.
Plus, the Alpine route between Salzburg and Garmisch seems prettier than the highway.
But honestly, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with the planning.
We should’ve added a stop between Salzburg and Garmisch, but the hotels are already booked.
Thanks for any advice on the itinerary and visits!
Another question: How far in advance should we book Neuschwanstein, Königssee, and the Eagle’s Nest in May?
Thanks so much in advance for your tips and ideas!
hi
I’m wondering if anyone can give me some info on how to get from Mallorca to Menorca.
Since flights are cheaper to Mallorca, I’d like to go that way.
Thanks so much for your help!
We’re planning a trip to Finland and Norway this summer, starting in Oulu to explore Lapland, heading up to the North Cape, and then making our way down to Bergen.
This route means renting a car in Finland and dropping it off in Norway. My initial searches are showing rental rates that are... astronomical—about three times the price compared to returning it at the starting point.
I’m guessing I’m not the only one wanting to visit both countries. Are there any great tips to drastically reduce the cost of renting a car?
Hi there, we’re a couple of bikers planning a trip to Majorca in June 2026, and I’d love to organize a half-day or full-day boat or catamaran outing. Which coast do you think is the nicest for this, and do you have any suggestions or personal experiences to share? Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
Does anyone know if there are any works in progress at Torcello, and if so, what type of works and how long they’re expected to last?
Thanks in advance
