Small-group Golden Circle Classic Tour from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Small-group Golden Circle Classic Tour from Reykjavik

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(1988 reviews)

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About this experience

Visit the popular sights of the Golden Circle on this 8-hour tour from Reykjavik. Ride through the Icelandic countryside in a minibus to Thingvellir National Park, Gulfoss Waterfall, Geysir and Kerið crater. On-board WiFi is included.

Available options

Golden Circle Small-Group Full-Day Tour by Minibus

Pickup included

What's included

Visit the famous sites of the Golden Circle

Free WiFi on board your bus

Minibus transport

Pick-up & drop off from Reykjavík

English speaking tour guide

Detailed itinerary

The first stop of the day is the town Hveragerði, where we have a short restroom stop. Hveragerði is about 45 min drive from Reykjavik. There are restrooms, a bakery and an exhibition about earth quakes. Consider this a short pit-stop on our way to the Golden Circle.

Stop 2

Gullfoss, is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. It is powerful and tall. Through it the river Hvítá, which is a glacier river originating from Langjökull, plunges down this two step waterfall.

There are a handful of viewing platforms to observe the waterfall and above Gullfoss there is Gullfoss center where there are restrooms, a cafeteria and gift shops.

NOTE: The path leading all the way up to the waterfall is closed during the winter season.

Stop 3

In Haukadalur there is a field of hot springs associated with the hot spring Geysir, but Geysir is one of the most famous hot spring in the world and used to be a geyser. The main display is the hot spring geyser Strokkur, which erupts approximately every 5 minutes.

Here we have time to walk around the area and this is also where we break for lunch. At Geysir center you find restrooms, gift-shops and the restaurant Glíma which serves for suitable for any pallet or diet.

Stop 4

Þingvellir is full of history and natural beauty. It stands between the North-American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This rift valley has a special place in the hearts of all Icelanders. It is where our nation was formed by the Norse Viking settlers when they established the oldest parliament in the modern world, Alþingi Íslendinga, in the year 930 AD.

At this stop there will be enough time to walk around and explore this natural marvel. This is the closest you can get to being in two continents at the same time. We will have the opportunity to walk in the rift valley, where the tectonic plates are pulling apart. We can observe this movement since under the national park the Eurasian and the North-American tectonic plates are moving apart by ~2 cm every year.

Þingvellir was designated as a World Heritage of UNESCO in 2004 and is unquestionably one of the most beautiful and historic places in Iceland.

In the area there are restrooms and coffee shops for visitors.

We'll stop at Kerið crater, a 6500 year old volcanic formation containing a small lake. This crater is characterised by the contrasting colours of the moss, red volcanic rock and light blue water. Be sure to venture down to the lake side and take in the majestic beauty that is Kerið.

What's not included

We break for lunch but customers have to pay for the food themselves.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

654 reviews

5★

522

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

1,334 reviews

5★

1227

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum age is 6 years

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Unfortunately we are unable to transport or store travel luggage or suitcases

Important notes

You are responsible for updating your pick-up location at least 48 hours prior to your tour. To make changes, please contact us at info@yourdaytours.is and reference your booking number.

Please be ready at your designated spot at the time indicated on your booking. Depending on traffic and your location, it may take up to 30 minutes for your guide to arrive. We appreciate your patience.

Please note that this tour may be operated by our sister company, Arctic Adventures. Be sure to look out for vehicles branded with either Arctic Adventures or Your Day Tours.

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