Best Golden Circle Tours in Iceland
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best Golden Circle tour in Iceland?
These are the best Golden Circle tours for your Iceland trip:
1. The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: The best Golden Circle tour in Iceland has an incredible rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 554 reviewers. The minibus ensures the tour is not too crowded, and you'll also enjoy a sample of traditional Icelandic food along the way. It costs around $91 USD.
2. Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater: This small group tour brings you to all the main sights in 8 hours, with the additions of the Bruarfoss waterfall and the Kerid crater. It has a fantastic rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 470 reviews and costs around $99 USD.
3. Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater: This tour adds a stop at the Kerid volcanic crater and takes a total of 8 hours. It has an excellent rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 250 reviews. It costs approximately $108 USD.
1. The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: The best Golden Circle tour in Iceland has an incredible rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 554 reviewers. The minibus ensures the tour is not too crowded, and you'll also enjoy a sample of traditional Icelandic food along the way. It costs around $91 USD.
2. Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater: This small group tour brings you to all the main sights in 8 hours, with the additions of the Bruarfoss waterfall and the Kerid crater. It has a fantastic rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 470 reviews and costs around $99 USD.
3. Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater: This tour adds a stop at the Kerid volcanic crater and takes a total of 8 hours. It has an excellent rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 250 reviews. It costs approximately $108 USD.
What is the cheapest Golden Circle tour?
These are the cheapest tours for the Golden Circle in Iceland:
1. Classic 8 Hour Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Crater: This is the cheapest way to do a tour of the Golden Circle and the Kerid crater. It has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and costs around $73 USD.
2. 8.5 Hour Afternoon Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle: It brings you to the main sights along the Golden Circle and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20 reviews. It costs approximately $73 USD.
3. Classic 7-Hour Golden Circle Tour with an Audio Guide: See the main sights with the benefit of an audio guide, available in 10 languages. It has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 80 reviews and costs around $76 USD.
1. Classic 8 Hour Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Crater: This is the cheapest way to do a tour of the Golden Circle and the Kerid crater. It has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and costs around $73 USD.
2. 8.5 Hour Afternoon Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle: It brings you to the main sights along the Golden Circle and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20 reviews. It costs approximately $73 USD.
3. Classic 7-Hour Golden Circle Tour with an Audio Guide: See the main sights with the benefit of an audio guide, available in 10 languages. It has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 80 reviews and costs around $76 USD.
Can I combine a Golden Circle Tour with other activities?
Yes, there are many ways to expand your Golden Circle tour with other activities. This Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour brings you to Iceland's most famous spa, and has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from over 220 travelers.
For a different water adventure, go snorkeling in Silfra with free underwater photos! The Silfra ravine is one of the best places for snorkeling in the world, and this tour has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews.
Explore the selection of tours for many more activity ideas for your trip!
For a different water adventure, go snorkeling in Silfra with free underwater photos! The Silfra ravine is one of the best places for snorkeling in the world, and this tour has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews.
Explore the selection of tours for many more activity ideas for your trip!
How long is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle route is just under 140 miles (225 kilometers), making it easy to drive in a single day. However, the distance increases if you intend to visit other lesser-known spots in the Golden Circle area, and it's easy to spend multiple days discovering all that the region has to offer.
How long does take to travel the Golden Circle?
Golden Circle trips from Reykjavik usually take around 6–8 hours, depending on the tour operator and itinerary. The longer tours, which include more stops and experiences, can take up to 10 hours.
Can I do the Golden Circle in Iceland on my own?
Yes, self-drive tours are a popular option for exploring the Golden Circle. It's conveniently located near Reykjavik, so if you rent a car in Iceland, it is an easy drive to make and be back in the capital by the evening.
What should I wear on a Golden Circle tour?
You should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Depending on the season, you may need to wear additional layers, a waterproof jacket, and warm accessories such as gloves, hat, and scarf.
Keep in mind that when visiting Gullfoss waterfall, there can be a lot of spray in the air, so wear a waterproof jacket or a rain poncho if you want to get close to the falls.
Keep in mind that when visiting Gullfoss waterfall, there can be a lot of spray in the air, so wear a waterproof jacket or a rain poncho if you want to get close to the falls.
Is Iceland's Golden Circle worth it?
If you're staying in Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is the most accessible and diverse tour you can do in one day in Iceland. It includes a national park, a large waterfall, and an erupting geyser! These are some of the most famous locations in Iceland, and seeing them all in one day makes for a highly memorable tour. So yes, the Golden Circle is definitely worth it!
Can I stay in a hotel in the Golden Circle?
Yes, there is a wide variety of accommodation options in the Golden Circle that you can explore. Some are located right by the attractions, such as the 4-star Hotel Geysir, which is situated by the geothermal area of the same name, while others are located in more secluded areas but within a short distance from the wonders of the Golden Circle.
Can I book a private Golden Circle tour?
Yes, many tour operators offer private Golden Circle trips for individuals, families, or groups. These tours can be customized to suit your preferences and schedule, such as this private Golden Circle and sightseeing day tour, where you'll travel in a luxury Mercedes Benz V-Class!
Where are the pick-up locations for Golden Circle tours in Iceland?
Pick-up locations for most Reykjavik Golden Circle tours are located in various spots in the city. Many tours offer pick-up from popular hotels around the city, and usually, you will find a pick-up location very close to your accommodation. Contact your provider if you are unsure where your Iceland Circle tour pick-up location is or need to make other arrangements.
Is the Blue Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?
No, the Blue Lagoon is located on the Reykjanes peninsula and is not in the Golden Circle area. However, it may be included as an extra stop in some tours, like this Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour from Reykjavik.
Is the Secret Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?
A classic Golden Circle Iceland tour has three stops, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss waterfall.
However, many tour companies have their own twist on the Golden Circle, and include a visit to locations like the Secret Lagoon, such as this 10-hour Golden Circle tour.
If you're driving the Golden Circle route yourself and want to end the day soaking in natural hot spring water, make sure to book your ticket to the Secret Lagoon ahead of time.
However, many tour companies have their own twist on the Golden Circle, and include a visit to locations like the Secret Lagoon, such as this 10-hour Golden Circle tour.
If you're driving the Golden Circle route yourself and want to end the day soaking in natural hot spring water, make sure to book your ticket to the Secret Lagoon ahead of time.
Is there a lot of walking in the Golden Circle tour?
Compared to many other tours around Iceland, the Golden Circle is very accessible and doesn't require a lot of walking. The most challenging place to explore is the Gullfoss waterfall.
You can get close to the falls by descending stairs to reach the waterfall, but there is a closer parking lot with accessible parking where you can skip the steps if you need to. There is also a lot of mist in the air, so the stairs and paths can be slippery in the winter.
You can get close to the falls by descending stairs to reach the waterfall, but there is a closer parking lot with accessible parking where you can skip the steps if you need to. There is also a lot of mist in the air, so the stairs and paths can be slippery in the winter.
Is the Golden Circle accessible for people with disabilities?
Some parts of the Golden Circle tour may be difficult for people with disabilities, but many tour operators offer accessible options or private tours tailored to specific needs.
The lower platform at Gullfoss waterfall requires descending stairs and slippery paths, but the upper platform is wheelchair accessible.
The lower platform at Gullfoss waterfall requires descending stairs and slippery paths, but the upper platform is wheelchair accessible.
Are meals included in Golden Circle tours?
This will depend on which tour you choose. Some Golden Circle tours may include meals or snacks, while others may not. Read the tour description carefully beforehand to know what is included in the tour price.
In case you forget to bring a snack, you can buy ready-made meals and snacks at the visitor center in Thingvellir National Park, which is usually the first stop on Golden Circle tours, or at the service centers of Geysir and Gullfoss.
In case you forget to bring a snack, you can buy ready-made meals and snacks at the visitor center in Thingvellir National Park, which is usually the first stop on Golden Circle tours, or at the service centers of Geysir and Gullfoss.
Can I get a full refund if I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can book and cancel Golden Circle day tours up to 24 hours before departure.
Can you travel the Golden Circle in Iceland if the weather is bad?
The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and change in an instant. Icelandic sites and landscapes are, therefore, explored in almost any weather. Most tours around the Golden Circle will remain operational except in the rare instances when the weather poses a safety risk. Your tour provider will inform you if the weather is too bad to travel.
However, if you are driving yourself, please check the weather forecast regularly and keep an eye on the SafeTravel website. It's an excellent safety resource for travelers in Iceland.
However, if you are driving yourself, please check the weather forecast regularly and keep an eye on the SafeTravel website. It's an excellent safety resource for travelers in Iceland.
What is the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a popular sightseeing route in Iceland and a classic day trip from Reykjavik. It covers three major attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall (and may include other stops). It is a must-see for visitors who want to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and learn about its history and culture.
What is Thingvellir National Park?
Thingvellir is a national park east of Reykjavik. In the year 930, Iceland's parliament, Althingi, was founded here, making Thingvellir the home of the world's oldest existing parliament.
The park sits in a rift valley caused by the separation of two tectonic plates and is home to Silfra revine, one of the world’s most beautiful sites for diving and snorkeling tours. Thingvellir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.
The park sits in a rift valley caused by the separation of two tectonic plates and is home to Silfra revine, one of the world’s most beautiful sites for diving and snorkeling tours. Thingvellir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.
What is Geysir?
What is Gullfoss?
Gullfoss is a waterfall in the canyon of the Hvita river and one of Iceland's most iconic natural attractions. The name translates to "Golden Falls" and is divided into two cascading sections, which are 36 feet (11 meters) and 70 feet (21 meters) high, respectively.
What is Kerid?
Kerid, which translates to "the vessel," is a 3000-year-old volcanic crater that has a shallow pool of water at the bottom. The color of the water is a unique blue due to minerals in the soil, and the surrounding earth is very colorful.
Kerid is not one of the three official attractions of the Golden Circle, but many tour companies include a short stop there during their Golden Circle tours as it's easily accessible and provides a great photo opportunity.
Kerid is not one of the three official attractions of the Golden Circle, but many tour companies include a short stop there during their Golden Circle tours as it's easily accessible and provides a great photo opportunity.
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