Small-Group Golden Circle Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This small-group Golden Circle day trip includes all the highlights of the popular Golden Circle route (Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss). The tour includes pickup and drop-off from authorized pickup points located in Reykjavik. If you are looking for a Golden Circle tour in a small group setting with that something extra then this is the tour for you!
Available options
Standard Departure
Pickup included
What's included
Small-group tour for a more personal experience
Reykjavik pick-up and drop-off
Transportation by minibus
Golden Circle Sightseeing with additional stops
Free wi-fi on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Your Golden Circle Complete tour starts with a Reykjavik pick-up. From the Capital, you will head to visit all three of the classic Golden Circle attractions, Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir in addition to other interesting neighbouring stops along the way.
2
The first highlight of the tour is the bright red Kerid crater lake. It's a 3000-year-old spot 55 meters deep and most recognized for its beauty – aquamarine-colored water surrounded by red rocks and greenery. This color scheme is what makes the lake look like a giant eye from above. For this reason, it's called "The Eye of the World."
3
Stop 3
Next up is Gullfoss, Iceland’s best known waterfall. The stunning waterfall falls gracefully down two steps creating a stunning setting for that picture perfect moment.
4
Stop 4
Next, we'll stop at Thingvellir National Park a UNESCO World Heritage site. Drink in the heavy mixture of geological and historical wonders at this popular site as you stroll between the rift valley that the tectonic plates of N-American and Eurasian have created.
5
Netxt, you will visit the phenomenal hot spring area of Geysir. Here you will get to experience Strokkur geyser in action, spouting boiling water up to about 60-100 feet.
6
Your tour will complete back in Reykjavik with a drop off at your original departure point.
What's not included
Food & drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
36 reviews
5★
29
4★
5
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.4
88 reviews
5★
67
4★
8
3★
5
2★
1
1★
7
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Small group experience limited to 19 participants per guide
Minimum age: 5 years old.
Remember to bring: Warm and waterproof outdoor clothing, packed lunch, head-wear, gloves and sturdy shoes.
Rated: Easy - Family tour.
Waterproof clothing & hiking shoes can be rented directly from the operator (own expense) please contact the local operator before travelling
Please note that the order of the itinerary can vary; we might swap the order of the attractions due to weather conditions and other related factors.
Important notes
This tour is operated by Arctic Adventures.
Arctic Adventures offers pick-up from selected pick-up points in the downtown Reykjavik area. You can find a full list of the available pick-up points via the following link: https://adventures.is/information/pick-up/
You are responsible to inform the operator (info@adventures.is) where you would like to be picked up for your tour no later than 48 hours prior to your tour departure.
Please note that you have to be ready for pick-up at your assigned pick-up point in order to not miss the tour. Upon arrival at your pick-up point remember to keep a lookout for your guide and note that it can take your guide up to 30 min. to arrive.
We hope that you will enjoy your tour!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
