Best Golden Circle Tours in Iceland — Biggest Selection & Lowest Prices Guaranteed
Discover the top Golden Circle tours for every budget and traveler. Watch exploding geysers, and majestic waterfalls, learn about Iceland's rich history, and enjoy unforgettable adventures.
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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: This is the best-rated Golden Circle tour in Iceland. You'll travel in a minibus, ensuring the tour is not too crowded, and you'll also enjoy a sample of traditional Icelandic food along the way.
2. Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater: This very highly rated small group tour brings you to all the main sights in 8 hours, with the additions of the Bruarfoss waterfall and the Kerid crater.
3. Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater: This tour has excellent ratings from travelers and adds a stop at the Kerid volcanic crater. It takes a total of 8 hours.
1. The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: This is the best-rated Golden Circle tour in Iceland. You'll travel in a minibus, ensuring the tour is not too crowded, and you'll also enjoy a sample of traditional Icelandic food along the way.
2. Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater: This very highly rated small group tour brings you to all the main sights in 8 hours, with the additions of the Bruarfoss waterfall and the Kerid crater.
3. Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater: This tour has excellent ratings from travelers and adds a stop at the Kerid volcanic crater. It takes a total of 8 hours.
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, and it has excellent ratings from travelers.
2. 8.5 Hour Afternoon Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle: This highly-rated tour brings you to the main sights along the Golden Circle.
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.
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, and it has excellent ratings from travelers.
2. 8.5 Hour Afternoon Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle: This highly-rated tour brings you to the main sights along the Golden Circle.
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.
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. It is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Some tours also include other stops between these three locations.
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.
The whole Golden Circle route length is just under 140 miles (225 kilometers).
The whole Golden Circle route length is just under 140 miles (225 kilometers).
Are Golden Circle tours available year-round?
Yes, Golden Circle tours operate year-round. However, weather conditions in winter may affect travel times and accessibility.
Can I do the Golden Circle in Iceland on my own?
Yes, you can rent a car and drive the Golden Circle yourself. It's an easy day tour to make from Reykjavik. However, guided tours offer insights from experienced guides and are a stress-free option for those unfamiliar with Iceland’s roads.
What is included in a Golden Circle tour?
Most Golden Circle tours include transportation, a guide, and stops at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.
Some tours also offer extras like visiting Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon, or Fridheimar Tomato Farm.
Some tours also offer extras like visiting Kerid Crater, Secret Lagoon, or Fridheimar Tomato Farm.
Are Golden Circle tours family-friendly?
Yes, Golden Circle tours are suitable for all ages. The sites are easily accessible, though some walking is required. Always check with your tour operator for specific recommendations.
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.
Are meals included in Golden Circle tours?
Meals are typically not included in Golden Circle tours, but many tours make stops at cafes, restaurants, or visitor centers along the way. You can buy meals there if you don't want to bring food with you.
Some premium tours may include a meal, so make sure to read the tour description carefully beforehand to know what is included in the tour price.
Some premium tours may include a meal, so make sure to read the tour description carefully beforehand to know what is included in the tour price.
Do I need to book Golden Circle tours in advance?
It’s always best to book Golden Circle tours in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer). Popular tours can sell out quickly.
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 top-rated Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour brings you to Iceland's most famous spa.
Get to know the Icelandic horse on a combination Golden Circle and horse riding tour.
Take a dip in the oldest geothermal pool in Iceland with this Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour.
For a different water adventure, go snorkeling in Silfra with free underwater photos. It's one of the best places for snorkeling in the world!
Explore the selection of tours for many more activity ideas for your trip.
This top-rated Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour brings you to Iceland's most famous spa.
Get to know the Icelandic horse on a combination Golden Circle and horse riding tour.
Take a dip in the oldest geothermal pool in Iceland with this Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour.
For a different water adventure, go snorkeling in Silfra with free underwater photos. It's one of the best places for snorkeling in the world!
Explore the selection of tours for many more activity ideas for your trip.
Are there Golden Circle tours for small groups?
Yes, many operators offer small-group for a more personalized experience. These options are ideal for families, couples, or travelers who prefer a quieter environment.
During this top-rated Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik, you'll travel in a minibus with a small group.
During this top-rated Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik, you'll travel in a minibus with a small group.
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 tailored to suit your preferences and schedule.
This highly-rated 8-Hour Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour offers a comfortable experience, and you'll enjoy visiting a geothermal pool.
Alternatively, this private Golden Circle and sightseeing day tour is a great option and fully customizable.
This highly-rated 8-Hour Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour offers a comfortable experience, and you'll enjoy visiting a geothermal pool.
Alternatively, this private Golden Circle and sightseeing day tour is a great option and fully customizable.
Is the Golden Circle accessible in winter?
The Golden Circle is accessible year-round, so you can experience it during winter. Tour operators use vehicles equipped for winter driving, but it’s important to dress warmly and prepare for icy conditions.
Can I see the northern lights on a Golden Circle tour?
Some tour operators offer combined Golden Circle and Northern Lights tours, which extend into the evening for a chance to see the aurora borealis.
This northern lights and Golden Circle tour with an audio guide is a convenient option from Reykjavik. It takes 10,5 hours, and the audio guide is available in 10 languages.
For a small group experience, this 11-hour Golden Circle and northern lights winter tour includes Reykjavik pick-up in a minibus.
This northern lights and Golden Circle tour with an audio guide is a convenient option from Reykjavik. It takes 10,5 hours, and the audio guide is available in 10 languages.
For a small group experience, this 11-hour Golden Circle and northern lights winter tour includes Reykjavik pick-up in a minibus.
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.
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!
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.
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 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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