Golden Circle. Private Day Tour from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Golden Circle. Private Day Tour from Reykjavik

Active

(58 reviews)

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavik. This tour combines historical and geological sites and is recommended for an initial introduction to the country. During the trip, we visit the Thingvellir National Park, the geothermally active Haukadalur Valley with the Geysir and Strokkur geysers, and one of the symbols of Iceland – the Gullfoss waterfall. Other attractions along the way include Fridheimar’s tomato greenhouse and Kerid Crater.

Available options

Group of 2-5 people

SUV or Minivan<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private tour for your group

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik

Driver-guide services on the trip

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Thingvellir National Park is famous for both historical and geological monuments. On the one hand, this is where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate. On the other hand, it is a symbolically important place in the history of the Icelandic nation, the site of the formation of a national assembly since the time of the first settlers during the Viking Age.

During this stop, we walk through the small geothermal valley of Haukadalur, famous for its Geysir and Strokkur hot springs. Although Geysir is inactive today, Strokkur, the largest active geyser in the country, erupts every 5-10 minutes at an altitude of 20-35 meters (60-100 feet).

Stop 3

Gullfoss is the second largest and one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland; it consists of two steps. The height of the first cascade is 11 meters (33 ft), and the second is 21 meters (65 ft). The walls of the canyon into which the waterfall flows reach heights of up to 70 meters (230 ft). Geologists believe the canyon was formed due to glacial outbursts at the end of the last ice age.

Frideimar Tomato Greenhouse, the most famous greenhouse in Iceland, thanks to a small restaurant inside the greenhouse and tomatoes' dishes. Get a special experience by visiting the greenhouse and sample the local tomato soup with freshly baked bread served with cucumber salsa.

Kerid is a compact crater with a small lake at the bottom, formed after an eruption about six thousand years ago. The crater is 55 meters (180 ft) deep and has an oval caldera that is part of the more significant Tjarnarhólar fault, including several craters and mounds. We can walk around the crater or down to the lake at the bottom.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits