About this experience
The Golden Circle is the most visited and popular day trip in Iceland. It includes some of the most spectacular attractions in Iceland, including Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss and the Kerid Volcanic Crater. Kerid crater is 270m wide and more than 55m deep, there is also a 14m deep lake at the bottom of the crater which makes the whole scene look really magical. This is an 8-hour small-group making it a more intimate experience.
If you want to make the most of your time on the route add an optional visit at the Geothermal Park & Bakery where you can not only try famous geothermal bread but also see the newest Icelandic geyser called Eilífur.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age is 5 years old.
Local guides to help you plan
A base for the Golden Circle you want
Compare a Reykjavík starting point with a stay in the wider region by the arrangements that matter to you.
Plan the Golden Circle with room to look
Connect the principal places with a clear route, useful current information and a pace that fits your visit.
What is included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík
- Driver/guide
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- (OPTIONAL) Visit to the Geothermal Park with bread tasting and second geyser visit
Itinerary and highlights
Your day starts by driving from Reykjavik to the historic site of Þingvellir National Park. This was the venue for the Icelandic parliament from 930 till 1798 and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, both for it´s rich history and amazing nature. This is also where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet which creates an amazing feeling having one foot in each world.
Laugarvatn sits next to a beautiful lake of the same name in a geothermally active area. The plumes of super-heated vapor billowing into the air in this area are used by the locals to bake rye bread in the ground!
Known throughout the world for it´s power and beauty, Geysir has become a synonym for this amazing show of nature. Strokkur, another hot spring, sits nearby and is very active, erupting to heights up to 30 meters every few minutes. Follow one of many paths and enjoy steaming springs bubbling all around you. In the Geysir Area you will also have time to buy lunch or some snacks.
Next on the agenda is the waterfall Gullfoss - the Golden Waterfall. One of the most popular attractions is Iceland, Gullfoss will amaze you with it´s raw power and beauty, plummeting down 32 meters into a rugged canyon.
Small town with lots of Greenhouses
These three attractions complete the classic Golden Circle - but to add even more to your experience - we also stop at the spectacular Kerid Volcanic Crater. This 3000 year old crater is 55 meters deep and offers a unique view of the beauty of the Icelandic nature.
On the way back to Reykjavík tour goes via Geothermal Area in Hveragerði, packed with famous greenhouses powered by green energy and horse farms. After a short drive through mountain pass you will also see Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant.
Meeting and pickup information
- Please note that Nicetravel offers free pickup and drop off from hotels within Reykjavik. As buses are not allowed to drive in certain areas of Reykjavik centre, your pick up may be from the nearest bus stop. After receiving your pickup information, we will notify you of your exact pick up location. If you do not require hotel pickup, you can meet the tour at Nicetravel office in Fiskislóð 45M, 101 Reykjavik. Please notify Nicetravel directly if you intend to use this option and be there before 08:20. Pickup takes place between 08:30 - 09:00, so please be ready from 8:30 at your pickup location and look out for a bus with red NICE Travel logos.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Nicetravel ehf
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age is 5 years old.
- Only small luggage like a small backpack can be taken on this tour
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
If you do not require hotel pickup, you can meet the tour at Nicetravel office in Fiskislóð 45M, 101 Reykjavik. Please notify Nicetravel directly if you intend to use this option and be there before 08:20.
Pickup takes place between 08:30 - 09:00, so please be ready from 8:30 at your pickup location and look out for a bus with red NICE Travel logos.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
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