Golden Circle Tour and Evening Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Golden Circle Tour and Evening Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

Active

(4 reviews)

10h - 11h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the thrilling forces of nature on a daytime Golden Circle tour and evening Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik. Follow Iceland’s famous sightseeing route to discover its three natural wonders: Geysir geothermal field, the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park; and the spectacular Gulfoss Waterfall. Then, enjoy a 2-3 hour Northern Lights cruise to look for nature’s magic show in the night skies. The exact length of the tour depends on the sightings. Watch for the lights from deck as you learn about the phenomenon and sip on warming hot drinks.

Please note: the Golden Circle tour is available with German guidance on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday. You can select this option when booking. The Northern Lights by Boat tour is always guided in English.

Available options

9AM GC / 9PM NL

9am Departure / 9pm NL: Departs at 9AM for the Golden Circle - German guidance. Evening Northern Lights tour departs at 9PM - English guidance.

9AM GC / 10PM NL

9am Departure / 10pm NL: Departs for the Golden Circle at 9AM - English guidance. Evening Northern Lights tour departs at 10PM - English guidance.

What's included

Northern Lights by Boat: WiFi, cafe & restrooms on board

Experienced guide on both tours

Golden Circle: bus transportation & admission to all activities

Northern Lights by Boat: warm overalls for every passenger

Detailed itinerary

Your Golden Circle tour starts with a visit to Fridheimar greenhouse. You will learn about greenhouses in Iceland, how to grow tomatoes in an eco-friendly way (their specialty) and how they use innovative methods to manage pests with biological controls.where we learn about the magical methods of managing pests by using biological controls.

Geysir is located in the south of Iceland, near an area called Laugarvatn. The most popular feature of Geysir is called Strokkur, which is a very active geysir that shoots water into the air for up to 30 meters (98 feet) every few minutes.

Stop 3

The tour continues to one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland: Gullfoss. This waterfall is created by the Hvítá river, which plunges dramatically into a crevice some 32 m (105 ft.) deep, giving you amazing views and great photography opportunities.

Stop 4

Finally, Þingvellir National Park is famous both for historic and geologic reasons. It is the site of the oldest parliament in the world, the Alþingi. You can also see the Mid-Atlantic ridge above the ground, where the Eurasian and North-American tectonic plates are pulling the land apart by a few centimeters each year.

Your Golden Circle tour ends with a drop off to your hotel back in Reykjavík. You will then have 3-4 hours before your Northern Lights by Boat tour departs.

The Northern Lights tour departs at 21:00 from October 1st – March 14th, and at 22:00 from March 15th – April 15th & September 1st – September 30th. If you have added hotel the extra pick-up for this tour it will begin 60 minutes prior to departure.

Our tour sets sail from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík’s city center, and in just 15-20 minutes you will be in a prime location away from the pollution from the city lights – perfect for viewing auroras! Your guide will share facts on the science science behind the magical phenomenon of the Northern Lights, and tell you stories & myths about the lights from different cultures around the world. The tour takes roughly 2-3 hours depending on how early/late the lights might appear.

What's not included

Food and drinks (unless otherwise stated)

Gratuities

Pick-up service (available upon request for an additional fee)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If this experience is canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund

Hotel pick up: Available to book directly with supplier (extra fees apply).

Meeting point

This is the starting point for the Northern Lights by Boat tour - Special Tours Ticket Office. If you have not added hotel transfers for this portion of the tour, please meet directly on location 30 minutes prior to the departure time.

Important notes

For the Golden Circle, please show your voucher for direct entry.

For the Northern Lights by Boat tour, you will check-in at the Special Tours ticket office to exchange your voucher for a boarding pass.

Please note that the Northern Lights by Boat tour sails at 22:00 from September 1st - 30th and March 15th - April 15th, and at 21:00 from October 1st - March 14th. The Golden Circle tour always departs at 9:00.

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