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Best Shore Excursions in Iceland
Explore the top selection of shore excursions with exciting adventures at the lowest prices guaranteed!
Shore Excursions in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed
Discover Iceland’s largest selection of shore excursions and tours designed for cruise passengers. Enjoy your stop in Iceland with unforgettable on-shore adventures.
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Iceland’s Leading Travel Agency
Recognized as Iceland's Leading Travel Agency for 8 consecutive years at the World Travel Awards, we are the most trusted source for planning your Icelandic adventure.
Largest Selection of Services
With over 2000 tours, we offer the most extensive range of tours and activities across Iceland, ensuring you find the perfect experience for your interests and schedule.
Best Price Guarantee
We guarantee the lowest prices for all our tours. If you find a better price elsewhere, we'll match it; that’s how confident we are that you won’t find better prices anywhere else.
Free Cancellation & Easy Booking
Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking options, including free cancellation policies that allow you to plan your trip with confidence.
Expert Local Guidance
Benefit from the insights of local experts who have curated and quality-checked every tour, ensuring authentic and memorable experiences.
Multilingual 24/7 Customer Support
Our dedicated support team is available to assist you 24/7 in 14 languages. We promise you help within seconds, ensuring you're never left waiting.
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Book with us for exclusive discounts at Iceland’s best places, helping you save big on your trip to Iceland.
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Best Cruise Tours and Shore Excursions in Iceland 2026
Cruising around Iceland is one of the easiest ways to see the country’s most dramatic landscapes in a short time. From volcanic islands and fjords to waterfalls, geysers, and wildlife, each port offers a different side of Iceland, often just minutes from where your ship docks.
Cruise tours in Iceland are designed specifically for cruise passengers. They start close to the harbor, follow ship arrival and departure times, and always return you to port with time to spare. This makes them a safe and stress-free way to explore far beyond walking distance, even during shorter port stops.
What Are Cruise Tours and Shore Excursions?
Cruise tours and shore excursions are not standard tours with adjusted pickup times. They are built around cruise schedules and port logistics.
Cruise tours typically include:
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Pickup close to the cruise terminal
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Itineraries timed to ship arrival and departure
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Routes planned for short port stays
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Guaranteed return to the ship
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Guides experienced with cruise passengers
Regular tours, by contrast, often assume a full day, city-center pickup, and sometimes overnight stays. For cruise travelers, shore excursions are the safest way to explore Iceland without risking missed departures.
Main Cruise Ship Ports in Iceland
Iceland has several major ports where cruise ships dock, offering easy access to some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and exciting shore excursions. Here are the main cruise ports in Iceland:
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Reykjavik – Iceland's capital city and gateway to iconic attractions such as the wonders of the South Coast and Golden Circle, and some of the world's most iconic geothermal hot spring spas.
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Isafjordur – The biggest town of the Westfjords, one of Iceland's most remote regions. Rugged landscapes, stunning fjords, and big waterfalls like Dynjandi are the highlights here.
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Akureyri – Often called the "Capital of the North," this port sits at the base of a long, scenic fjord. It is the primary gateway to the Diamond Circle, including the Godafoss waterfall and the volcanic wonderland of Lake Myvatn.
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Husavik – Known as the Whale Watching Capital of Iceland, this charming town offers some of the highest sighting success rates in the world. It’s also home to the unique GeoSea geothermal baths, which overlook the Arctic Circle.
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Seydisfjordur – A picturesque village, famous for its iconic blue church with a rainbow path. It's surrounded by 17 waterfalls and serves as a starting point for inland tours to the dramatic Studlagil Canyon and Hengifoss Waterfall.
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Djupivogur – A tranquil fishing village in the Eastfjords with a "slow travel" philosophy. It’s the best port for excursions to the world-famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the stone eggs of Gledivik.
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Heimaey – The only inhabited island in the Westman Islands archipelago. It offers incredible hiking up the Eldfell volcano, formed by the 1973 volcanic eruption, and is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world.
What to See and Do at Each Cruise Port in Iceland
Each Icelandic cruise port gives access to different landscapes and experiences. Below is a quick overview to help you choose the right shore excursion for your itinerary.
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Reykjavik shore excursions – Golden Circle, South Coast, city tours, geothermal spas
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Akureyri shore excursions – Lake Myvatn, Godafoss, whale watching
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Isafjordur shore excursions – Dynjandi waterfall, Westfjords scenery
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Husavik shore excursions – Whale watching, geothermal baths
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Seydisfjordur shore excursions – Eastfjords scenery, waterfalls, village tours
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Djupivogur shore excursions – Coastal views, local culture
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Heimaey shore excursions – Volcanoes, puffins, island history
Frequently asked questions
What are the best Reykjavik shore excursions?
These are the best shore excursions for cruise passengers from Reykjavik:
1. The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: This best-rated tour takes you along Iceland’s scenic South Coast, where you’ll visit iconic sites like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and views of glaciers and volcanoes. It's an ideal choice for those who want to explore some of the country's most dramatic landscapes.
2. Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik: This adventure combines the classic Golden Circle route with an exhilarating snowmobiling experience on Langjokull Glacier. Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to add an unforgettable activity to their sightseeing.
3. 7-Hour Golden Circle Small Group Cruise Excursion with Reykjavik Port Pick-Up: This small-group tour provides a more personal experience as you visit the must-see Golden Circle attractions. With convenient pick-up from Reykjavik port, it’s a hassle-free way to explore while learning about Iceland's unique history and geology.
1. The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: This best-rated tour takes you along Iceland’s scenic South Coast, where you’ll visit iconic sites like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and views of glaciers and volcanoes. It's an ideal choice for those who want to explore some of the country's most dramatic landscapes.
2. Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik: This adventure combines the classic Golden Circle route with an exhilarating snowmobiling experience on Langjokull Glacier. Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to add an unforgettable activity to their sightseeing.
3. 7-Hour Golden Circle Small Group Cruise Excursion with Reykjavik Port Pick-Up: This small-group tour provides a more personal experience as you visit the must-see Golden Circle attractions. With convenient pick-up from Reykjavik port, it’s a hassle-free way to explore while learning about Iceland's unique history and geology.
What's the cheapest shore excursion from Reykjavik?
You can have a great time during a cruise ship stop in Reykjavik with these budget-friendly tours.
1. The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: Experience the natural wonders of Iceland's South Coast on this comprehensive tour. Visit iconic attractions on this top-rated tour.
2. Fun-Filled 1-Hour ATV Tour on Hafrafell Mountain with Transfer from Reykjavik: This highly rated and affordable tour lets you explore the scenic Hafrafell Mountain on an ATV. With convenient transfers from Reykjavik, it's a quick and affordable way to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
3. Golden Circle and Kerid Small-Group Day Tour from Reykjavik Hotels or Cruise Harbors: Perfect for cruise passengers, this full-day excursion covers the must-see Golden Circle with seamless pick-up and drop-off from the Reykjavik harbors.
1. The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: Experience the natural wonders of Iceland's South Coast on this comprehensive tour. Visit iconic attractions on this top-rated tour.
2. Fun-Filled 1-Hour ATV Tour on Hafrafell Mountain with Transfer from Reykjavik: This highly rated and affordable tour lets you explore the scenic Hafrafell Mountain on an ATV. With convenient transfers from Reykjavik, it's a quick and affordable way to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
3. Golden Circle and Kerid Small-Group Day Tour from Reykjavik Hotels or Cruise Harbors: Perfect for cruise passengers, this full-day excursion covers the must-see Golden Circle with seamless pick-up and drop-off from the Reykjavik harbors.
What are the best Reykjavik walking tours for cruise ship travelers?
Walking tours are an excellent way to learn about a city and its culture, and there are plenty of Reykjavik tours to choose from. These are the best options for your cruise stop.
1. 1.5-Hour Folklore Walking Tour of Reykjavik with Tales of Trolls, Elves & Hidden People: Get to know Icelandic folklore with this highly-rated tour. Hear stories about Hidden People, trolls, and elves as you stroll through the city’s streets with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Reykjavik Food Walk Tour: Taste your way through Reykjavik on this food-focused walking tour. Sample traditional Icelandic dishes and learn about the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
3. Guided 3-Hour Reykjavik Walking Tour of Iconic Capital City Landmarks: Explore Reykjavik’s most famous landmarks, including Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture, while learning about the city’s history and culture.
1. 1.5-Hour Folklore Walking Tour of Reykjavik with Tales of Trolls, Elves & Hidden People: Get to know Icelandic folklore with this highly-rated tour. Hear stories about Hidden People, trolls, and elves as you stroll through the city’s streets with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Reykjavik Food Walk Tour: Taste your way through Reykjavik on this food-focused walking tour. Sample traditional Icelandic dishes and learn about the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
3. Guided 3-Hour Reykjavik Walking Tour of Iconic Capital City Landmarks: Explore Reykjavik’s most famous landmarks, including Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture, while learning about the city’s history and culture.
Is it worth taking a shore excursion in Iceland?
Shore excursions in Iceland allow cruise passengers to maximize their time on land. With knowledgeable local guides, you'll visit major attractions like geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. These tours provide convenience and insight, making them a valuable option for those wanting to explore Iceland’s highlights within a limited time.
What's the best cruise excursion from Akureyri?
When stopping in Akureyri, try these highly recommended shore excursions to explore the highlights of North Iceland:
1. 6-Hour Lake Myvatn Minibus Shore Tour from Akureyri Port: Visit some of North Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders, including the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, the geothermal area of Namaskard, and the serene Lake Myvatn.
2. Small Group 9.5-Hour North Iceland Shore Excursion from Akureyri Harbor: This full-day tour covers attractions like Godafoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon, providing an in-depth look at the diverse landscapes of North Iceland.
3. Amazing 5-Hour Godafoss Waterfall Tour and Forest Lagoon Bathing from Akureyri Cruise Port: Combine sightseeing at Godafoss Waterfall with relaxation at the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa for a balanced and refreshing shore excursion.
1. 6-Hour Lake Myvatn Minibus Shore Tour from Akureyri Port: Visit some of North Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders, including the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, the geothermal area of Namaskard, and the serene Lake Myvatn.
2. Small Group 9.5-Hour North Iceland Shore Excursion from Akureyri Harbor: This full-day tour covers attractions like Godafoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon, providing an in-depth look at the diverse landscapes of North Iceland.
3. Amazing 5-Hour Godafoss Waterfall Tour and Forest Lagoon Bathing from Akureyri Cruise Port: Combine sightseeing at Godafoss Waterfall with relaxation at the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa for a balanced and refreshing shore excursion.
What's the cheapest shore excursion from Akureyri?
Head off for an affordable adventure with these excellent Akureyri shore excursions.
1. Mesmerizing 2-Hour Short Day Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri: Enjoy a quick visit to Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," offering stunning views and rich history in just two hours.
2. Exciting 2-Hour Akureyri City Walk with Food Tasting: Take a cozy walk through Akureyri’s charming streets, explore its cultural highlights, and enjoy a sampling of local Icelandic flavors on this short but memorable tour.
3. Thrilling 5.5-Hour Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall Day Tour for Cruise Ship Guests from Akureyri: Explore the geothermal wonders of Lake Myvatn and the beauty of Godafoss Waterfall in this 5.5-hour tour, perfect for cruise passengers.
1. Mesmerizing 2-Hour Short Day Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri: Enjoy a quick visit to Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," offering stunning views and rich history in just two hours.
2. Exciting 2-Hour Akureyri City Walk with Food Tasting: Take a cozy walk through Akureyri’s charming streets, explore its cultural highlights, and enjoy a sampling of local Icelandic flavors on this short but memorable tour.
3. Thrilling 5.5-Hour Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall Day Tour for Cruise Ship Guests from Akureyri: Explore the geothermal wonders of Lake Myvatn and the beauty of Godafoss Waterfall in this 5.5-hour tour, perfect for cruise passengers.
How will I disembark from my cruise? Do all cruises dock in Reykjavik harbor?
Cruise ships in Reykjavik will have an easy disembarking process, but it can depend on the port size and the vessel. There are eighteen cruise harbors in Iceland, and the means of getting to land from the ship may vary depending on which harbor you dock at.
Tiny harbors cannot receive huge ships, and small ships cannot dock at large ports. On rare occasions, cruises will use zodiac boats to transfer their passengers to land.
Tiny harbors cannot receive huge ships, and small ships cannot dock at large ports. On rare occasions, cruises will use zodiac boats to transfer their passengers to land.
Will my cruise ship wait for me if my tour is delayed?
Unfortunately, cruise ships do not wait for individual passengers if a tour is delayed. The ship follows a set schedule, and it is essential to be back on board before the designated departure time. Shore excursions are usually planned to return in plenty of time to avoid missing the ship, but it's always a good idea to monitor time closely and plan accordingly.
Do all shore excursions include pick-up from Reykjavik harbor?
If the tour is marked as a shore excursion, then you will most likely be picked up from the port of your arrival. For cruises docked at Reykjavik harbor, however, you may have to walk a short distance to reach your tour operator because your ship may be docked in an area not open to the public.
If I miss my on-land-tour because my ship was delayed, will I get a refund?
Shore excursions are tour packages intended to suit the needs of cruise ship passengers to Iceland, and as such, they attempt to accommodate the realities of cruise ship travel.
If the tour is explicitly listed as a "shore excursion," you will receive a refund if you miss it due to a delayed ship. However, refunds cannot be guaranteed if the tour is not listed as a shore excursion.
If the tour is explicitly listed as a "shore excursion," you will receive a refund if you miss it due to a delayed ship. However, refunds cannot be guaranteed if the tour is not listed as a shore excursion.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my shore excursion?
Iceland's weather can change rapidly, but most tour operators are prepared for varying conditions. If the weather is particularly bad, tours may be canceled for safety reasons, in which case, you'll receive a refund.
How long do typical shore excursions last in Iceland?
The duration of shore excursions in Iceland can vary. Most excursions range from 3 to 8 hours, depending on the destination and activities included. Shorter excursions (2–3 hours) are ideal for those with limited time, while full-day tours can offer a deeper exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Can I customize my shore excursion on my Icelandic cruise?
Some shore excursions can be personalized for your needs. You can book customizable private excursions tailored to your interests. If you need assistance finding one, please contact info@guidetoiceland.is.
Can I book a shore excursion in Iceland once I arrive in port?
It’s highly recommended to book your shore excursions in advance, as popular tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak cruise seasons. While some tour operators may allow walk-up bookings, securing a spot beforehand ensures that you get the excursion you want without the risk of it being fully booked.
How should I dress for a cruise and shore excursions in Iceland?
When packing for Iceland, bring warm, waterproof clothing, including hats, mittens, and sturdy shoes. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions.
Can I use debit or credit cards on a cruise excursion in Iceland?
Yes, you can use credit cards for most purchases in Iceland. Onboard your cruise, however, check with your cruise provider about specific payment methods.
Will I need a passport or a visa on my cruise to Iceland?
When traveling to Iceland by cruise, you must bring a passport, as this is the only valid travel document in Iceland. This also applies to citizens of Nordic and Schengen countries. If your country of residence is neither Nordic nor a part of Schengen, you might also need a visa to enter Iceland.
Are meals provided on shore excursions in Iceland, or should I plan to eat on the ship?
Meals are generally not included unless specified. For longer trips, it's best to bring snacks with you or enjoy local Icelandic food at stops during your tour.
What wildlife might I see on a cruise or shore excursion in Iceland?
Depending on the season and location, you may spot various wildlife, including whales, puffins, seals, and arctic foxes. Whale-watching tours are especially popular in both Reykjavik and Akureyri.
Are there any age restrictions for participating in shore excursions in Iceland?
Most shore excursions welcome all ages, but some activities may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Always check the specific excursion details for age-related information.
How accessible are shore excursions for those with mobility issues?
Accessibility can vary widely, so it's essential to check with excursion providers about the level of mobility required. Some tours offer vehicles and facilities adapted for travelers with limited mobility.
How much walking is involved in the typical shore excursion in Iceland?
Walking requirements vary by excursion. Some involve minimal walking, while others, like hiking tours, require a good fitness level. Always check the activity level in the excursion description.
Are there any cultural or historical sites that we will visit during the shore excursions?
Many shore excursions in Iceland include visits to cultural and historical sites such as old towns, museums, churches, and archaeological sites. Specific sites depend on the excursion's itinerary.
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