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Golden Circle Day Tours

4.7(4,731)

Handpicked tours

Effortless planning

Expert guides. Unique insights

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Person overlooking Kerid Crater's turquoise water, Golden Circle, near Reykjavik.

Geyser erupting in Icelandic landscape on Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik.

Tourists walking along a path near Gullfoss waterfall, part of Reykjavik Golden Circle Day Tour.

Tour group with guide at Thingvellir National Park, Icelandic flag in background.

Visitors enjoying the Secret Lagoon's geothermal waters on the Golden Circle near Reykjavik.

Reykjavik Excursions transfer bus on a scenic road in Iceland.

Kerid Crater with turquoise lake and surrounding red volcanic rock in Iceland.

Geyser eruption at Strokkur, Golden Circle tour, Iceland.

Aerial view of Thingvellir National Park with Icelandic flag, part of the Golden Circle near Reykjavik.

Visitors walking along a path between rocky cliffs at Thingvellir National Park on Golden Circle tour.

4.6(1,828)

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with Kerid Crater

from €77.17

€73.31

5% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

8 hr - 11 hr

Guided tour

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION8 hours 30 minutes

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

FIRST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

LAST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

Timeline

Map

Start point

Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg

45 min by A/C Bus

44.6 km

1. Thingvellir National Park

Tickets included

37 min by A/C Bus

47 km

2. Geysir Geothermal Area

Tickets included

9 min by A/C Bus

10 km

3. Gullfoss Waterfall

Tickets included

45 min by A/C Bus

56.4 km

4. Kerid Crater

Tickets included

60 min by A/C Bus

End point

Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Experience Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss with roundtrip transfers and professional guides.

Explore the heart of Iceland on an 8-hour Golden Circle full-day tour, guided by a local expert.
Start your journey at Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg, located on Þórunnartún street in northeast Reykjavík, and enjoy the showcase of Iceland's natural beauty and intriguing history.
Enjoy a front-row view of the Strokkur geyser, Iceland’s biggest showstopper, as it shoots boiling water upward every few minutes.
Marvel at the grandeur of the Gullfoss Waterfall, feel the refreshing spray as the glaciated Hvítá River plunges into a deep crevice, an unforgettable experience.
Step into the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll tread between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Marvel at the vibrant volcanic crater at Lake Kerid, an explosion of colour with aquamarine waters against fiery-red rocks.

Experience Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss with roundtrip transfers and professional guides.

Explore the heart of Iceland on an 8-hour Golden Circle full-day tour, guided by a local expert.
Start your journey at Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg, located on Þórunnartún street in northeast Reykjavík, and enjoy the showcase of Iceland's natural beauty and intriguing history.
Enjoy a front-row view of the Strokkur geyser, Iceland’s biggest showstopper, as it shoots boiling water upward every few minutes.
Marvel at the grandeur of the Gullfoss Waterfall, feel the refreshing spray as the glaciated Hvítá River plunges into a deep crevice, an unforgettable experience.
Step into the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll tread between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Marvel at the vibrant volcanic crater at Lake Kerid, an explosion of colour with aquamarine waters against fiery-red rocks.

Inclusions

Full-day Golden Circle & Kerid Crater guided tour
Entry to Geysir Geothermal Area
Entry to Gullfoss Waterfall
Entry to Thingvellir National Park
Entry to the Secret Lagoon (as per option selected)
Small-group size (as per option selected)
Professional local guidance
Pick-up & drop-off from the meeting point
Roundtrip transfers by AC bus
Hotel transfers (as per option selected)
Free WiFi

Exclusions

Food & drinks
Additional gratuities

Tip: If you're a 'Game of Thrones' fan, you'll recognize scenes filmed in Thingvellir National Park—keep an eye out for those iconic landscapes!
The tour can run longer on days with challenging weather conditions.
The tour doesn’t include lunch, but it stops at local restaurants between Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfalls, where you can enjoy a meal and stretch your legs.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Woman raising arms near erupting Strokkur Geyser, Iceland.

Geyser erupting in the Golden Circle, Iceland with snowy hills in the background.

Gullfoss Waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs in Iceland.

Tourist at Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland with a rainbow overhead.

Geothermal pool with steam rising, Golden Circle tour, Iceland.

Tourists boarding Reykjavik Sightseeing transfer bus in Iceland.

Reykjavik sightseeing bus on Golden Circle tour route with passengers.

4.7(542)

From Reykjavik: Day Tour of Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon

from

€109.47

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

10 hr

Audio guide

Guided tour

Transfers included

Itinerary

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

FIRST DEPARTUREBlue Lagoon

LAST DEPARTUREBlue Lagoon

Timeline

Map

Start point

Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg

Get direction

1. Blue Lagoon

2. Thingvellir National Park

3. Geysir Hot Springs

End point

Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Discover the sights in Iceland's Golden Circle on this bus tour and relax at a natural hot spring in the Secret Lagoon with an English-speaking tour guide.
Enjoy a comfortable ride as you listen to interesting commentary through an audio guide in 10 languages and enjoy the free Wi-Fi- services.
Visit the Thingvellir National Park dating back to 1928 which was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2004.
Soak in the warm thermal waters of the Secret Lagoon hot springs with the Strokkur geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes & reaches heights of 20 meters.
See the astonishing Gullfoss waterfall that cascades in two stages, the first 11 meters then 21 meters, splashing up a massive screen of mist.

Discover the sights in Iceland's Golden Circle on this bus tour and relax at a natural hot spring in the Secret Lagoon with an English-speaking tour guide.
Enjoy a comfortable ride as you listen to interesting commentary through an audio guide in 10 languages and enjoy the free Wi-Fi- services.
Visit the Thingvellir National Park dating back to 1928 which was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2004.
Soak in the warm thermal waters of the Secret Lagoon hot springs with the Strokkur geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes & reaches heights of 20 meters.
See the astonishing Gullfoss waterfall that cascades in two stages, the first 11 meters then 21 meters, splashing up a massive screen of mist.

Inclusions

10-hours Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon tour
Entry to Thingvellir National Park, Blue Lagoon and Geysir Hot Springs
English-speaking tour guide
Admission to all attractions
Free bus transfers with Wi-Fi, USB chargers onboard
Audio guide in 10 languages
Pick-up from preferred hotel/location (optional)
Pick-up from the meeting point (optional)

Tip: If you're a daredevil then you must snorkel between the tectonic plates at Silfra, one of the world’s top 10 dive sites in the Þingvellir National Park.
Bring your own headphones if you do not wish to purchase the headphones available on your bus.
The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Finnish.
Please Note: The tour itinerary may differ according to the weather conditions or as per the tour operator.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Person standing with arms raised in front of Godafoss waterfall, Iceland, with a rainbow overhead.

Kerid Crater with turquoise water and red volcanic rock in Iceland.

Female tourist relaxing in Blue Lagoon, Iceland, with silica mud on face.

Strokkur geyser erupting in Golden Circle, Iceland, with tourists watching.

Thingvellir National Park landscape with river and distant mountains, Reykjavik Golden Circle tour.

Tour group walking through Thingvellir National Park's rocky landscape on Reykjavik's Golden Circle tour.

Kerid Crater with visitors walking along the path, part of the Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik.

Tourists on a bus listening to a guide on the Appian Way tour in Rome, Italy.

4.9(394)

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

from

€203

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

11 hr

Guided tour

Transfers included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION11 hours

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus

FIRST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

LAST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

Start point

Reykjavík

45 min by A/C Minibus

44.6 km

1. Thingvellir National Park

Tickets included

37 min by A/C Minibus

47 km

2. Geysir Hot Springs

Tickets included

Things to do

Lunch

9 min by A/C Minibus

10 km

3. Gullfoss Waterfall

45 min by A/C Minibus

56.4 km

4. Kerid Crater

5. Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik

45 km

End point

Reykjavík

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Discover Iceland's beauty with Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and luxury silica mud masks.

Nature lovers, this full-day tour takes you through volcanic craters, geysers, and epic waterfalls as you explore Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle.
Feel the mist from Gullfoss as glacial waters crash into a deep canyon, creating an awe-inspiring view that will leave you speechless.
Stroll around Kerid Crater, where the red volcanic rock and serene blue lake create a beautiful contrast and perfect photo opportunities.
Explore the Great Geysir, the namesake of all geysers, which once erupted up to 70 meters high, though it mostly lies dormant today.
Unwind in Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters to unwind. Upgrade to premium admission to elevate your experience with two extra masks, an extra drink, and a bathrobe rental.

Discover Iceland's beauty with Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and luxury silica mud masks.

Nature lovers, this full-day tour takes you through volcanic craters, geysers, and epic waterfalls as you explore Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle.
Feel the mist from Gullfoss as glacial waters crash into a deep canyon, creating an awe-inspiring view that will leave you speechless.
Stroll around Kerid Crater, where the red volcanic rock and serene blue lake create a beautiful contrast and perfect photo opportunities.
Explore the Great Geysir, the namesake of all geysers, which once erupted up to 70 meters high, though it mostly lies dormant today.
Unwind in Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters to unwind. Upgrade to premium admission to elevate your experience with two extra masks, an extra drink, and a bathrobe rental.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, & Blue Lagoon
Expert tour guide
Pick-up & drop-off from/to meeting point
Entry to the Kerid Volcanic Crater
Access to the Blue Lagoon
Silica mud mask
Refreshing drink
2 additional masks at the Mask Bar– choose algae, mineral, or lava (as per option selected)
Extra drink of your choice at the in-water bar (as per option selected)
Bathrobes
Towels
Free Wi-Fi (on the bus)

Exclusions

Food & additional beverages (available at personal expense)

Safety is a priority, so children under the age of 5 are not allowed on this experience.
Swimsuits can be rented at the Blue Lagoon at your own expense.
Use of conditioner and shower gel is complimentary and available in the Blue Lagoon shower rooms.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Snowmobile ride on Langjokull Glacier under clear blue sky.

Snowmobile riders on Langjokull Glacier with snowy mountains in the background.

Rocky cliffs and lush greenery at Thingvellir National Park, Iceland.

Strokkur Geyser erupting with steam in Iceland's geothermal area under a clear blue sky.

Gullfoss waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs in Iceland with a rainbow.

Passengers seated inside an AC transfer bus for the Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobile Tour.

Strokkur geyser erupting under a clear sky in Iceland's Golden Circle tour.

Snowmobile group riding on Langjokull Glacier, Iceland.

Snowmobile riders on Langjokull Glacier, Iceland, with snowy landscape and blue sky.

4.5(801)

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobile Tour

from

€246

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

10 hr

Audio guide

Guided tour

Transfers included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION10 hours

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

FIRST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

LAST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

Start point

Reykjavik

45 min by A/C Bus

44.6 km

1. Thingvellir National Park

Tickets included

37 min by A/C Bus

47 km

2. Geysir Hot Springs

Tickets included

9 min by A/C Bus

10 km

3. Gullfoss Waterfall

Tickets included

17 min by A/C Bus

36.6 km

4. Langjokull Glacier

Tickets included

1 activity

Things to do

Snowmobile Ride

Included in price

17 min by A/C Bus

36.6 km

End point

Gullfoss Waterfall

Explore Iceland with a snowmobile adventure, WiFi, and in-bus guide in 10 languages!

Journey through Iceland's Golden Circle and see spouting geysers and waterfalls, then snowmobile across Langjokull Glacier’s icy, glowing caves with a professional guide.
Benefit from a convenient pick-up from your hotel featuring a bus with an audio guide in 10 languages, WiFi, and tablet computers at each seat.
Marvel at the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park, where evidence of 1,000 years of landscape management and 18th-19th century agriculture remains.
At Geysir Hot Springs watch the steam vents, mud pots, and vibrant springs framed by colorful hills. Strokkur erupts regularly, making it a must-see.
Embark on a snowmobile ride across Langjokull Glacier, one of the largest in the world, with stunning views of volcanic ash, basalt mountains, and lava fields.

Explore Iceland with a snowmobile adventure, WiFi, and in-bus guide in 10 languages!

Journey through Iceland's Golden Circle and see spouting geysers and waterfalls, then snowmobile across Langjokull Glacier’s icy, glowing caves with a professional guide.
Benefit from a convenient pick-up from your hotel featuring a bus with an audio guide in 10 languages, WiFi, and tablet computers at each seat.
Marvel at the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park, where evidence of 1,000 years of landscape management and 18th-19th century agriculture remains.
At Geysir Hot Springs watch the steam vents, mud pots, and vibrant springs framed by colorful hills. Strokkur erupts regularly, making it a must-see.
Embark on a snowmobile ride across Langjokull Glacier, one of the largest in the world, with stunning views of volcanic ash, basalt mountains, and lava fields.

Inclusions

Full-day Golden Circle guided tour
Professional guide
Hotel pick-up from Reykjavik
Snowmobile ride
In-bus audio guide in 10 languages
WiFi, tablet computers & USB Chargers at each seat

Exclusions

Drop-off to your hotel

Tip: Don't miss the local gift shops at Gullfoss Waterfall, which offer unique Icelandic woolen items and volcanic rock jewelry.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
Headphones can be purchased on board the bus.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tourists viewing Gullfoss Falls on Golden Circle day trip, Iceland.

Tourists watching Geysir erupt during Golden Circle day trip in Iceland.

Tour group at Gullfoss waterfall on Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik.

Tourists hiking through rocky landscape in Þingvellir National Park, Iceland.

Geyser eruption at Strokkur, Iceland, with tourists observing during Golden Circle tour.

Aerial view of Thingvellir National Park with church and river, Iceland.

Tomato plants growing in a greenhouse near Reykjavik on the Golden Circle tour.

Greenhouse glowing at dusk in snowy landscape, part of Reykjavik's Golden Circle tour.

4.8(2,101)

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Tour

from

€74

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

6 hr 30 min - 7 hr 30 min

Audio guide

Guided tour

Transfers included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION6 hours 30 minutes - 7 hours 30 minutes

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

FIRST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

LAST DEPARTUREThingvellir National Park

Start point

Reykjavik

1. Thingvellir National Park

2. Geysir Geothermal Area

3. Thingvellir National Park

4. Gullfoss Waterfall

End point

Reykjavik

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Unfold Iceland on a day tour from Reykjavik with an expert guide, transfers in an AC bus, with an optional audio guide and pick-up from select locations.
Discover Strokkur at Geysir, erupting every 5-10 minutes, watch the bubbling pool signal an imminent eruption with impressive steam columns.
Witness Gullfoss’s power, where colossal floods from Langjökull glacier, driven by geothermal heat or volcanic eruptions, have carved deep rock chasms.
Spend the afternoon at Thingvellir National Park, where the world’s first parliament convened, amidst stunning cliffs and deep gorges.
Opt for convenient hotel pick & drop from select locations and choose from 10 languages for your audio guide.

Unfold Iceland on a day tour from Reykjavik with an expert guide, transfers in an AC bus, with an optional audio guide and pick-up from select locations.
Discover Strokkur at Geysir, erupting every 5-10 minutes, watch the bubbling pool signal an imminent eruption with impressive steam columns.
Witness Gullfoss’s power, where colossal floods from Langjökull glacier, driven by geothermal heat or volcanic eruptions, have carved deep rock chasms.
Spend the afternoon at Thingvellir National Park, where the world’s first parliament convened, amidst stunning cliffs and deep gorges.
Opt for convenient hotel pick & drop from select locations and choose from 10 languages for your audio guide.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of the Icelandic Golden Circle
English-speaking guide
Round-trip transfers from select pickup locations (as per option selected)
Transport via AC bus
Entry to Thingvellir National Park
Entry to Gullfoss Waterfall
Entry to Geysir Geothermal Area
Audio guide in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Finnish (as per option selected)
Free Wi-Fi aboard bus

Departure from Reykjavik
Thingvellir National Park
Geysir Geothermal Area
Gullfoss Waterfall

Tip: Arrive early at Strokkur and stand upwind to stay dry. Calm winds enhance visibility for the best eruption views and avoid getting wet from steam.
This experience is not recommended for guests under the age of 6 years.
The order of visits to attractions and their opening times might change depending on the weather or limited daylight in winter.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Make the most of Reykjavik

Person relaxing in Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, Iceland, surrounded by snowy landscape.

Blue Lagoon Iceland

7+ experiences

from€47

Guests on a boat watching a whale dive in Husavik, Iceland.

Whale Watching Iceland

6+ experiences

from€80

Group watching Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Reykjavik Northern Lights Tours

10+ experiences

from€61

Geyser erupting in Iceland with scenic landscape in the background.

Iceland Hot Springs

8+ experiences

from€29.62

A one-day adventure through the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’

The Golden Circle is an iconic sightseeing route, showcasing Iceland’s most incredible natural wonders in just one day. Walk between tectonic plates locked in an ancient tug-of-war, feel the power of an erupting geyser, and marvel at a roaring waterfall that seems dipped in gold. Add to this the fiery reds of a volcanic crater and the mineral-rich waters of a geothermal lagoon, and you’ve got yourself a front-row seat to Iceland’s most diverse natural landscapes!

A handy guide to planning your Golden Circle adventure

Things to know before booking Golden Circle day tours
Find your best Golden Circle day trip match here
Why the Golden Circle should be at the top of your Iceland itinerary?
Experience Iceland's best | Golden Circle route
Scenes from Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle tour
Plan your Golden Circle tour
Frequently asked questions about Golden Circle day tours

Things to know before booking Golden Circle day tours

All Golden Circle tours include transfers from Reykjavik, with select options like the Secret Lagoon tour or the Langjokull snowmobile tour offering direct hotel pick-up and drop-off for a seamless experience.
No matter when you visit, there’s a Golden Circle package perfectly tailored to the season. The long daylight hours between June and August are ideal for exploring Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, while late August to mid-April offers the best aurora sightings. For those visiting in winter, look for Golden Circle tours paired with a relaxing visit to the Secret Lagoon. The warm waters and snowy surroundings make for the perfect combination, and you might even catch the Northern Lights while you unwind.
Take your Icelandic adventure to the next level with the Golden Circle and Glacier snowmobile tour. Feel the adrenaline rush as you journey through rugged, snow-covered mountains in a massive custom-made truck, all the way to the snowmobile base camp at Langjokull Glacier.
Experience Iceland’s best with this all-in-one super combo. Journey through geothermal pools, majestic waterfalls, and volcanic craters, then unwind in the Blue Lagoon before ending the day with a thrilling Northern Lights chase— perfect for those wanting to see it all in a day!
Our Northern Lights tours are thoughtfully designed to give you the best chance of witnessing this magical phenomenon. An expert aurora team carefully surveys the likelihood of auroral activity and weather conditions, only heading out when there’s a promising forecast of clear skies. While nature has the final say and sightings aren’t guaranteed, you can join another tour for free if the aurora doesn’t appear, and continue your adventure.
Most tours including stops at Kerid Crater and Blue Lagoon are suitable for travelers aged 5 and above. While parts of the Golden Circle route are accessible to wheelchair users, some trails leading to the fissures and waterfalls may be uneven or tricky to navigate. The Blue Lagoon, however, is fully equipped with ramps and accessible changing rooms, making sure everyone can soak in its warm, mineral-rich waters.

Find your best Golden Circle day trip match here

Experience

Transfers

Guide

To Know

Duration

Golden Circle tour + Kerid Crater

Included

English tour guide Multilingual GPS-synced audio guides (optional)

Optional upgrade to the Secret Lagoon (with pick-up)

8.5 hours

Golden Circle tour + Kerid Crater + Blue Lagoon

Included (with pick-up)

English tour guide

Small group tour (up to 19 guests only) Bathroom rental, face masks, & drinks of choice (optional premium access) Minimum age: 5 years

11 hours

Golden Circle & Glacier snowmobile tour

Included (with pick-up)

English tour guide Multilingual GPS-synced audio guides

Ride on a custom-made super truck Included walk around Gullfoss Waterfall

11.5 hours

Golden Circle & Northern Lights tour

Included

English tour guide

Optional upgrade to the Kerid Crater (with pick-up) Minimum age: 8 years

9 to 12 hours

Golden Circle tour + Northern Lights + Blue Lagoon

Included (with pick-up)

English tour guide

Small group tour for Northern Lights chase Minimum age: 14 years

15 hours

Why should the Golden Circle be at the top of your Iceland itinerary?

1/4

Iceland’s natural showstoppers | All in one day

Watch Strokkur Geyser launch boiling water 100 feet into the air, stand between continents at the Thingvellir National Park, and unwind in the soothing, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon. The Golden Circle route showcases Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes and geological wonders, all in one seamless adventure.

Experience Iceland's best | Golden Circle route

Plan your Golden Circle tour

Timings

Getting there

What to pack

Visitor tips

Eat

Stay

Golden Circle and Kerid Crater tour: 9am (8.5 hours)
Golden Circle + Kerid Crater + Secret Lagoon tour: 10am (9.5 hours)
Golden Circle + Kerid Crater + Blue Lagoon tour: 9am (11 hours)
Golden Circle snowmobile tour: 8am (11.5 hours)
Golden Circle + Northern Lights tour: 12pm or 12:30pm (9 to 12 hours)
Golden Circle + Northern Lights + Blue Lagoon tour: 9am (15 hours)

Best time to visit: The summer months (June to August) offer warmer weather and easy driving conditions, making it perfect for families and casual travelers. If you want to see snow-covered landscapes and go on a Northern Lights chase, you must visit between November and February. The fall and spring months offer a balance—less crowds, crisp air, and stunning scenery.

Direct transfers from Reykjavik: All Golden Circle tours include convenient transfers from the Reykjavik Terminal, making sure visitors can seamlessly access this iconic route. From free Wi-Fi to USB chargers on every seat and well-timed lunch stops, the comfort and convenience of these transfers let you enjoy the journey.
Pick-up and drop-off services: For added ease, some tours like the Iceland Super Combo, or those with stops at the Kerid Crater or Secret Lagoon, offer pick-up and drop-off services from your accommodation in Reykjavik. This means no hassle with public transport schedules or searching for parking near the terminal. If it’s your first time in the city or you are short on time, make sure to opt for pick-up services.

Golden Circle route map

What to pack to visit Golden Circle Iceland

General essentials: Waterproof jacket, rain-proof pants, sturdy hiking boots, hat, scarves, and a small day pack to carry essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, and snacks.
Summer essentials (April to August): Light fleece or softshell jackets, lightweight moisture-wicking shirts and pants, water-resistant jackets, sturdy hiking boots with gaiters, and sun protection.
Winter essentials (September to March): Thermal base layers, fleece jackets, insulated, waterproof jackets and pants, warm hats, insulated gloves, thick scarves, hand warmers, and crampons or ice cleats for icy conditions.

Golden Circle in winter

Keep extra hours on hand: Some Golden Circle tours can take longer than expected, especially if additional stops like the Kerid Crater or Secret Lagoon are included. Always keep a few extra hours in your schedule for unexpected delays or to explore hidden gems along the way.
Note the seasonal timings for Northern Lights: During summer, longer daylight hours will mean that the chase will begin an hour later than the usual 9pm. Trust the expert guides to chalk out the most optimal plan for the best possible aurora sightings.
Pack a snack bag: While there are dining options along the route, having your own snack bag is always a good idea. Pack energy bars, fruit, and water to keep you fueled, especially during longer tours.
Plan for changing weather conditions: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even if it starts sunny, rain or strong winds can roll in quickly. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and pack accordingly; layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear are a must.

Golden Circle itinerary

Reykjavik Kitchen (2.3km away from Skogarhlio): This restaurant offers a cozy yet modern ambiance, with must-try items like slow-cooked lamb shank and creamy lobster soups on their menu.
Geysir Glima Restaurant (170m away from Geysir): Located near the famous Geysir, Geysir Glima’s standout dishes include Icelandic lamb, freshly caught Arctic char, and hearty, geothermal-baked bread served with local butter.
Supa Geysir (83m away from Geysir): It’s a comforting spot for cozy meals like meat soups, tomato basil soups, and spicy coconut curry soup, popular among locals and tourists alike.
Gullfoss Panorama Restaurant (9.7km away from Geysir): This restaurant offers sweeping views of the ‘Golden Falls’ and is known for its lamb chops, smoked trout salad, and decadent mousse cakes.
Hotel Gullfoss Restaurant (7.7km away from Geysir): Hotel Gullfoss is best known for its traditional specialties like hearty beef tenderloin, charred Arctic trout, pan-seared salmon, and creamy sykr cheesecakes.

Budget stays
Kex Hostel Reykjavik (2.1km away from Skogarhlio)
City Hub Reykjavik (2.4km away from Skogarhlio)
201 Hotel (6.2km away from Skogarhlio)
Mid-range hotels
Bus Hostel Reykjavik (74m away from Skogarhlio)
Alba Guesthouse (350m away from Skogarhlio)
Reykjavik Natura-Berjaya Iceland Hotels (1.1km away from Skogarhlio)
Luxury stays
Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik (2.6km away from Skogarhlio)
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica (3.2km away from Skogarhlio)
The Reykjavik Edition (4km away from Skogarhlio)

Scenes from Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle tour

Hallgrimskirkja church interior with the architectural design in Reykjavik, Iceland.

A close up view of Thingvellir National Park with lush greenery.

An aerial view of Thingvellir National Park, Iceland in Fall season.

Öxarárfoss waterfall in Þingvellir National Park, Iceland.

Visitors exploring the Geysir geothermal area during morning.

Girl standing near Geysir in Iceland with steam rising during winter.

Gullfoss Falls cascading in tiers, surrounded by rugged Icelandic landscape.

Aerial view of the Kerid Volcanic Crater.

Kerid Crater Lake in Iceland with vibrant blue water surrounded by red volcanic rock.

Kerid Crater Lake in Iceland covered in snow during winter.

Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland with mineral-rich waters.

Aerial view of Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland with turquoise waters and surrounding lava fields.

Sky illuminated with the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights illuminating the sky over Reykjavik during an off-road tour with a man.

Faxi Waterfall in Iceland with lush greenery and flowing river.

Almannagja fault in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, with tourists exploring the rift.

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Frequently asked questions about Golden Circle day tours

Are transfers included in all Golden Circle tours?

All Golden Circle day tours include hassle-free transfers from Reykjavik, with a few select options also offering pick-up and drop-off services from your accommodation. For Secret Lagoon and Blue Lagoon tours, pick-up begins 30 minutes before departure. The vehicles are equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB chargers, so you can stay connected throughout the journey.

What languages are the tours conducted in?

All tours are conducted in English, with GPS-synced audio guides available in multiple languages: English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Finnish. The local guides offer expert insights into Iceland’s unique landscapes, history, and culture, making them a perfect addition to your Golden Circle itinerary.

Are there age restrictions for these tours?

Golden Circle day tours have specific age requirements. Children as young as 5 can visit the Blue Lagoon, while the Kerid Lake tour is suitable for visitors above 14 years of age, and Northern Lights tours are only open to those 8 years and older.

What should I bring on my Golden Circle tour?

No matter which activities you choose, warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended for all Golden Circle tours. If you plan to soak in the thermal waters, bring along a swimsuit and towels.

What if the Northern Lights are not visible during the tour?

While expert tour guides monitor real-time aurora forecasts and choose remote locations with clear skies and minimal light pollution, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. In case you do not see them, you can go on the next available tour with no extra charges.

Are meals included? Can I buy food during the tour?

Meals are not included in any of the Golden Circle tours. However, most itineraries have scheduled stops at places like Geysir and Gullfoss. Here, you can sample regional specialties like the Icelandic lamb soup (Kjotsupa), fish and chips, and local beers. If you opt for the premium Blue Lagoon tours, you can enjoy complimentary drinks of your choice, enhancing your spa experience.

What is the difference between the Secret Lagoon and Blue Lagoon experiences?

The Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest natural swimming pool, offering a more rustic, natural bathing experience in a quiet geothermal setting. The Blue Lagoon is a man-made spa known for its milky-blue, silica-rich waters set amidst a lava field. It offers a luxurious experience with modern facilities, including saunas, steam baths, and in-water massages.

How physically demanding are the tours?

The Golden Circle tours are not very physically demanding and are suitable for most fitness levels. You will mostly travel by bus or car to various sites, with short walks in and around attractions like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Lake. Riding on a snowmobile truck at Langjokull might cause some physical discomfort, but the Northern Lights chase and Blue Lagoon visits are comparatively more relaxed.

From happy customers

London

Nov, 2018

I don't know what I liked more, I love adventure and adrenaline rushes, but I am also a botanist, and the national park was amazing

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobile Tour

Adam

Nov, 2018

I am so thankful to Headout for making our vacation a grand success-all tickets booked from here because the prices were just that good. The customer care service is also appreciable- thank you for your service

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobile Tour

Kik

Hong Kong

Dec, 2024

All the sites are great and very beautiful. Very comfortable journey, shoutout to our guide Gudjon who is funny and knowledgable and tried his best to make sure everyone is having a great time!

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with Kerid Crater

Alberto

Argentina

Jul, 2024

The guide very good,Maria from Spain, the bus very good.The buying experience also good. The price was very expensive,comparing to the 10 am departure ,mine was 8 am.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Tour