Help

Top things to do in Reykjavik

Golden Circle Tours

Iceland's best sights on your bucket list? This trip covers it all – Golden Circle highlights during the day, chasing the magical aurora borealis by night, getting you there and even showing you around.
4.7/5
4,758 travellers from around the world love this
Slide 1 of 11, Person overlooking Kerid Crater's turquoise water, Golden Circle, near Reykjavik.
Person overlooking Kerid Crater's turquoise water, Golden Circle, near Reykjavik.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with Kerid Crater

8 hrs - 11 hrs
1 more

  • Experience Iceland's stunning landscapes on this Golden Circle tour with Kerid Crater, guided by a local expert, uncovering nature and history.

  • Visit Thingvellir National Park where dramatic geology meets millennia of history, and walk in the footsteps of old Viking group leaders.

  • Explore the Geysir geothermal area, which boasts spouting springs, including Strokkur, the most active geyser in Iceland.

  • Stand next to a powerful waterfall and watch it thunder down into a narrow gorge at the Gullfoss Waterfalls.

  • Did you know? Iceland's Geysir was the first to be documented in history and is the one after which all other geysers are named.

More details

  • Experience Iceland's stunning landscapes on this Golden Circle tour with Kerid Crater, guided by a local expert, uncovering nature and history.

  • Visit Thingvellir National Park where dramatic geology meets millennia of history, and walk in the footsteps of old Viking group leaders.

  • Explore the Geysir geothermal area, which boasts spouting springs, including Strokkur, the most active geyser in Iceland.

  • Stand next to a powerful waterfall and watch it thunder down into a narrow gorge at the Gullfoss Waterfalls.

  • Did you know? Iceland's Geysir was the first to be documented in history and is the one after which all other geysers are named.

from
€83.84
Slide 1 of 9, Person standing with arms raised in front of Godafoss waterfall, Iceland, with a rainbow overhead.
Person standing with arms raised in front of Godafoss waterfall, Iceland, with a rainbow overhead.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Blue Lagoon Tour

11 hrs
2 more

  • Perfect for nature lovers, this full-day tour lets you experience Iceland's iconic Golden Circle, the stunning Kerid Crater, and the famous Blue Lagoon with optional upgrades.

  • Led by an expert guide, explore Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly meet in a dramatic landscape.

  • Enjoy hassle-free transfers from the meeting point, and marvel at the power of Gullfoss waterfall, where glacial water cascades into a canyon.

  • Visit the colorful Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera with a turquoise lake at its base formed by a volcanic eruption about 3,000 years ago.

  • Fun fact: Geysir is the namesake of all geysers worldwide, and although dormant, it still captivates visitors with nearby geothermal activity.

More details

  • Perfect for nature lovers, this full-day tour lets you experience Iceland's iconic Golden Circle, the stunning Kerid Crater, and the famous Blue Lagoon with optional upgrades.

  • Led by an expert guide, explore Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly meet in a dramatic landscape.

  • Enjoy hassle-free transfers from the meeting point, and marvel at the power of Gullfoss waterfall, where glacial water cascades into a canyon.

  • Visit the colorful Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera with a turquoise lake at its base formed by a volcanic eruption about 3,000 years ago.

  • Fun fact: Geysir is the namesake of all geysers worldwide, and although dormant, it still captivates visitors with nearby geothermal activity.

from
€224
Slide 1 of 9, Tourists viewing Gullfoss Falls on Golden Circle day trip, Iceland.
Tourists viewing Gullfoss Falls on Golden Circle day trip, Iceland.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Tour

6 hrs 30 mins - 7 hrs 30 mins
3 more

  • Experience the best of Iceland on this full-day tour with an expert guide and round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, making your journey seamless.

  • Explore Thingvellir National Park, home to Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, reflecting the rift valley and hosting diverse bird species.

  • See Strokkur geyser’s spectacular eruptions and the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall, where a rainbow might grace the misty cascade on a sunny day.

  • Enhance your experience with an audio guide available in 10 languages, and optional hotel pick-up and drop-off from selected locations.

  • Fun fact: Strokkur geyser shoots around 2.6 quarts of water per second at 37 mph. It’s the speed, not the volume, that makes its jet look so powerful.

More details

  • Experience the best of Iceland on this full-day tour with an expert guide and round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, making your journey seamless.

  • Explore Thingvellir National Park, home to Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, reflecting the rift valley and hosting diverse bird species.

  • See Strokkur geyser’s spectacular eruptions and the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall, where a rainbow might grace the misty cascade on a sunny day.

  • Enhance your experience with an audio guide available in 10 languages, and optional hotel pick-up and drop-off from selected locations.

  • Fun fact: Strokkur geyser shoots around 2.6 quarts of water per second at 37 mph. It’s the speed, not the volume, that makes its jet look so powerful.

from
€87
Slide 1 of 8, Woman raising arms near erupting Strokkur Geyser, Iceland.
Woman raising arms near erupting Strokkur Geyser, Iceland.

From Reykjavik: Day Tour of Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Secret Lagoon

10 hrs
3 more

  • Hop aboard an all-inclusive 10-hour tour of Iceland’s finest, accompanied an expert English-speaking tour guide.

  • Bus transfers with free Wi-Fi and multilingual audio guides make for an exciting trip.

  • Enjoy the fantastic Golden Circle Tour, which includes visits to the Thingvellir National Park, known for the Alþing (Althing), the site of Iceland's parliament, and a visit to Kerid Crater on your way.

  • Visit the Geysir Hot Springs with the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, and the Gullfoss Waterfal,l where the water plummets into a 32-meter-deep crevice.

  • Choose to begin the trip from your preferred location/hotel or the meeting point.

More details

  • Hop aboard an all-inclusive 10-hour tour of Iceland’s finest, accompanied an expert English-speaking tour guide.

  • Bus transfers with free Wi-Fi and multilingual audio guides make for an exciting trip.

  • Enjoy the fantastic Golden Circle Tour, which includes visits to the Thingvellir National Park, known for the Alþing (Althing), the site of Iceland's parliament, and a visit to Kerid Crater on your way.

  • Visit the Geysir Hot Springs with the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, and the Gullfoss Waterfal,l where the water plummets into a 32-meter-deep crevice.

  • Choose to begin the trip from your preferred location/hotel or the meeting point.

from
€112.12
Slide 1 of 11, Snowmobile ride on Langjokull Glacier under clear blue sky.
Snowmobile ride on Langjokull Glacier under clear blue sky.

Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Langjokull Glacier Snowmobile Tour

10 hrs
2 more

  • Ride a snowmobile across Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, an unforgettable thrill in a winter wonderland.

  • All-in-one adventure with bus transport, expert guide, snowmobile ride, safety gear, and onboard Wi-Fi included.

  • Explore the Golden Circle, with stops at Thingvellir National Park, the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, see Strokkur erupt at Geysir Hot Springs, and marvel at the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall.

  • Snap photos and share your journey instantly, thanks to complimentary Wi-Fi on your climate-controlled bus.

More details

  • Ride a snowmobile across Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, an unforgettable thrill in a winter wonderland.

  • All-in-one adventure with bus transport, expert guide, snowmobile ride, safety gear, and onboard Wi-Fi included.

  • Explore the Golden Circle, with stops at Thingvellir National Park, the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, see Strokkur erupt at Geysir Hot Springs, and marvel at the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall.

  • Snap photos and share your journey instantly, thanks to complimentary Wi-Fi on your climate-controlled bus.

from
€276

Explore more destinations from Reykjavik

1

Vatnajokull glacier's icy crevasses and rugged terrain in Iceland.

Glaciers of Iceland

See Iceland’s raw, icy wilderness through glacier hikes, ice caves, and snowmobile adventures across Vatnajökull, Sólheimajökull, Langjökull, and Mýrdalsjökull. From shimmering blue ice caves to dramatic glacier tongues, these experiences bring you up close to some of the most powerful landscapes on Earth. Choose from beginner-friendly walks to full-day expeditions crafted for every type of explorer.

2

Explorer navigating ice formations in Skaftafell, Iceland.

Skaftafell Glacier Tours

Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park offers guided glacier hikes on Skaftafellsjökull with views of the black sand plains below, often combined with Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon visits. Find guided glacier hikes, ice climbing options, and lagoon combo tours here.

3

Geyser erupting in the Golden Circle, Reykjavik day trip, Iceland.

Golden Circle Tours

Iceland's best sights on your bucket list? This trip covers it all – Golden Circle highlights during the day, chasing the magical aurora borealis by night, getting you there and even showing you around.

4

Group watching Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Reykjavik Northern Lights Tours

Join our guided Northern Lights tours to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. Discover the magic of this natural light show in high-latitude regions, and explore options like the South Coast & Northern Lights Tour, offering a full-day Icelandic adventure.

5

Hikers exploring Solheimajokull glacier in Iceland.

Solheimajokull Glaciers

Explore a curated selection of Solheimajokull Glacier experiences, from beginner-friendly glacier hikes to thrilling ice climbing adventures. Discover Iceland's dramatic ice formations with expert guides and find the tour that best matches your travel style and experience level.

6

Langjökull Glacier with snow-covered peaks under a clear blue sky in Iceland.

Langjökull Glacier Tours

Langjökull glacier is Iceland's second largest and home to the only man-made ice tunnel open to visitors, reached by super-jeep from Reykjavik or Gullfoss. Find ice tunnel tours, snowmobile safaris, and glacier combo formats here.

7

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier's icy peaks and rugged terrain in Iceland.

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier Tours

Mýrdalsjökull glacier sits atop the active Katla volcano on Iceland's south coast and offers snowmobile safaris and guided hikes year-round from Vík. Find guided glacier walks, snowmobile tours, and South Iceland combo options here.

8

Dummy

Katla Ice Cave Tours

The Katla Ice Cave is a natural volcanic cave within Mýrdalsjökull glacier near Vík, featuring black and blue ice formations from the subglacial geothermal activity of the Katla volcano beneath. Find guided ice cave tour tickets and South Iceland day trip combo options here.

9

Rocky arch formation on Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour path, Iceland.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tours

Browse through our collection of Snaefellsnes Peninsula tours and book your tickets to visit this scenic region in Western Iceland. This region is also famously known as Iceland in Miniature because this peninsula offers everything that this country has to offer in this small area!

10

Boats navigating Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with icebergs in Iceland.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tours

Giant icebergs, striking blue ice, black sand beaches, and gorgeous waterfalls like the Seljalandsfoss await on the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon tour. See ice as old as 1,000 to 1,500 years breaking away from glaciers and floating on the water.

Browse by themes

    • Nearby cities to explore

    See all
    Things to do in Glasgow
    Things to do in Glasgow
    United Kingdom

    Your Reykjavik to Golden Circle day trip experience

    Less than an hour from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle brings Iceland’s headline sights together in a manageable day loop. From Þingvellir’s tectonic rift valley and historic parliament site to the erupting Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss waterfall, the route delivers memorable moments all day. Well-paved roads and guided departures, plus options from coach tours to flexible self-drive itineraries, keep this day trip simple to plan.

    Overview

    • Distance from Reykjavik: 300 km (186 mi) round-trip Golden Circle driving loop
    • Typical travel time: 3.5–4.5 hours driving (loop, buffer included)
    • On-site visit duration: 5–7 hours across main Golden Circle stops
    • Budget category: Budget to mid-range, depending on coach, small-group, or private format
    • Best season: May–September and November–March; route operates year-round with changing conditions
    • Meeting/drop-off point: BSÍ Bus Terminal or central Reykjavik hotels within pickup zones
    • Key attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Kerid crater

    What to expect on a golden circle tour from Reykjavik

    Comfortable transfers

    Depart from central Reykjavik in climate-controlled coaches or minibuses, following paved scenic routes into Iceland’s southwest interior.

    Things to know before booking your Day Trips from Reykjavik to Golden Circle

    • Total duration & timing: Standard Golden Circle tours run 8–10 hours, usually departing 8:00–9:00 am; shorter half‑day or combo options mean quicker, more compressed stops.
    • Transit & road conditions: Travel is by coach, small‑group minibus, or self‑drive on paved highways; winter ice and wind mean nervous drivers should prefer guided formats.
    • Group size options: Large coaches carry about 30–50 guests, small‑group minibuses 8–19, while private or self‑drive options suit travellers wanting quieter, more flexible pacing.
    • Expert guided insight: Live guides and optional multilingual audio commentary explain geology and Alþingi history; choose small‑group or premium departures if in‑depth storytelling and Q&A matter.
    • Customizable add-ons: Options include Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon or Blue Lagoon bathing, Silfra snorkeling, Langjökull snowmobiles, beer tasting, whale watching; each alters duration, exertion, and budget.
    • Accessibility & mobility note: Þingvellir and Geysir have partial step‑free paths; Gullfoss’s lower trail and Silfra or snowmobile add‑ons are strenuous—confirm suitability and tour support before booking.

    Which Reykjavik to Golden Circle day trip is right for you

    Golden Circle Classic Half Day Tour

    A shorter Golden Circle coach tour covering Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss in one afternoon, ideal if you’re time-crunched visitors wanting core highlights efficiently covered.

    • Duration: Half day (~4–5 hours, afternoon departure)
    • Inclusions: Guided visits to Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss
    • Transfers: AC coach from Reykjavik with central pickup
    • Group size: Large group coach (around 30–50 guests)
    • Food: Meals not included; free time at service stops
    • Best suited for: Time-crunched visitors

    From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Tour

    Classic full-day coach tour hitting Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss with more time at each stop, suited to first-time visitors who prefer structured, hassle-free logistics.

    • Duration: Full day (~8–10 hours round trip)
    • Inclusions: Guided Golden Circle sightseeing with commentary at each stop
    • Transfers: AC coach from Reykjavik with hotel/terminal pickup
    • Group size: Large group coach (around 30–50 guests)
    • Food: Meals not included; scheduled café and restroom breaks
    • Best suited for: First-time visitors

    Golden Circle & Farm Visit Minibus Tour

    A small-group minibus tour combining the Golden Circle’s main sights with a visit to a working Icelandic farm, offering more local interaction and relaxed pacing.

    • Duration: Full day (~9–11 hours including farm stop)
    • Inclusions: Guided Golden Circle route plus visit to local farm
    • Transfers: Small-group AC minibus from Reykjavik with pickup
    • Group size: Small group minibus (typically under twenty guests)
    • Food: Meals not included; opportunities to buy food en route
    • Best suited for: Travelers wanting smaller groups and authentic rural experiences

    Golden Circle Tour with Admission to Secret Lagoon

    A full-day Golden Circle tour that adds a soak at the Secret Lagoon, ideal if you want sightseeing balanced with geothermal relaxation in one itinerary.

    • Duration: Full day (~10–13 hours including lagoon time)
    • Inclusions: Guided Golden Circle sightseeing plus Secret Lagoon admission
    • Transfers: Guided day trip with round-trip transport from Reykjavik
    • Group size: Standard group tour; not a private experience
    • Food: Meals not included; food available at route cafés and lagoon
    • Best suited for: Travelers wanting classic sights plus an easy hot-spring soak

    Main stops on your golden circle tour from Reykjavik

    Þingvellir National Park

    Walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Iceland’s only UNESCO World Heritage national park. Þingvellir blends dramatic rift-valley scenery with Viking-era history, including the site of the world’s oldest parliament and views over Lake Þingvallavatn.

    • Recommended duration: 1–1.5 hours
    • Included: Yes, all tours

    Your Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik itinerary

    Morning
    Leave Reykjavik in a comfortable coach or minibus, following a scenic route through lava fields toward Þingvellir National Park. Stroll the Almannagjá gorge, stand between tectonic plates, and admire views over Þingvallavatn lake and the historic Alþingi plains.

    Afternoon
    Continue to the Geysir geothermal area to watch Strokkur erupt and wander past bubbling hot springs. Afterward, drive to Gullfoss waterfall, where you explore upper and lower viewpoints, enjoy lunch or a hot drink, and capture rainbow-filled canyon photos.

    Evening
    On many tours, round off the day with a stop at Kerid volcanic crater or a relaxing soak at the Secret Lagoon. As daylight fades, settle back on board and return comfortably to Reykjavik, with drop-off near your hotel or bus stop.

    Best time to visit Golden Circle

    Weather & Climate

    June–August brings the mildest temperatures, long daylight and mostly clear roads, ideal for comfortable touring. May and September–October are cooler and changeable but manageable. November–March means snow, icy sections and very short days, suiting winter-ready travellers.

    Events & Seasonal Highlights

    Midnight sun in June–July allows extended daylight touring. Northern Lights season September–March pairs well with evening aurora excursions. Easter and school holidays in March–April and June–August bring more domestic travel and special Reykjavik events.

    Crowd Dynamics & Peak Windows

    Visitor numbers peak June–August, with heavy coach traffic and busy viewpoints. Quieter yet still convenient periods are May and September–October. For minimal crowds and lower prices, choose winter months November–March, accepting shorter days and weather risk.

    How to get from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle

    Pre-booked round-trip Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik are the simplest way to do the loop. You’re picked up from central meeting points or select hotels, travel in a heated coach or minibus, and your driver‑guide handles navigation, road conditions, and timing at each stop. Commentary brings Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss to life, and your return to Reykjavik is guaranteed whatever the weather. For most visitors, this is the easiest, most stress‑free choice.

    • Best for: First-time visitors and anyone who wants a fully organized day
    • Time taken: ~8–10 hours round trip (including sightseeing)
    • Approx price: ~$60–150 per person (tour price varies by group size and add‑ons)

    Helpful tips for a Reykjavik to Golden Circle day trip

    • Drive the loop anti-clockwise if you’re self-driving: Leaving Reykjavik via Route 1 and 35 for Kerid first lets you reach Geysir and Gullfoss before crowds.
    • Pack proper rain gear for Gullfoss, not just a jacket: The lower viewpoint’s sideways spray can soak jeans and shoes completely, especially on windy days.
    • Book Silfra ahead if it’s on your list: Summer snorkeling and diving slots from Reykjavik-based Golden Circle tours sell out 4–6 weeks in advance.
    • Keep some Icelandic coins handy: Toilets at Þingvellir and Gullfoss, plus a few smaller parking machines, may not accept cards despite cafés doing so.
    • Use your Þingvellir stop for walking, not shopping: Skip the visitor-centre gift shop initially and head straight into Almannagjá gorge before bus groups catch up.
    • Stand uphill and northwest of Strokkur for photos: From this angle the eruption column silhouettes against the sky instead of cafés, particularly in afternoon light.
    • Respect the fragile ground at Geysir: Staying on marked paths isn’t just a suggestion—thin crust and 100°C water have caused serious burns to off‑trail visitors.
    • Plan lunch off-peak at Geysir Center: Aim for an early or late meal, or detour to Efstidalur farm or Laugarvatn Fontana to dodge crowds.
    • Check whether Kerid is included on Reykjavik tour ticket: Many “Golden Circle” itineraries skip this crater, so you may need a variant explicitly listing entry.

    Frequently asked questions about day trips from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle

    • Most full-day Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik last 8–10 hours, including hotel pickup and drop‑off. Half‑day or “express” options run about 5–6 hours with shorter stops. Self‑drivers usually spend 6–9 hours on the loop, depending on how long they linger at each site or add‑on.