Sightseeing Tours

Best Sightseeing Tours in Iceland

Choose from Iceland's biggest selection of sightseeing tours. Connect with spectacular landscapes and untouched nature with knowledgeable guides.
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Sightseeing in Iceland

Sightseeing in Iceland offers travellers a unique plateau of geological features, from domineering mountainscapes to carved and crooked coastlines.

Iceland’s formation started about 18 million years ago, as lava rising from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, then cooling on the ocean’s surface. This process continues today. The primordial energy that shaped the land seen today is often exposed at the surface, with geothermal areas and hot springs dotting the country.

This intense mixture of the elements has produced many other natural features, including fumaroles, geysers and bubbling mud puddles, providing the unique chance to see, and smell, the earth as it jostles and moves under heat and pressure.

Water is a central feature of Iceland’s scenery, having long sculpted the island with huge carving glaciers, heavy rainfall, crashing Atlantic waves and flowing rivers. Waterfalls are prolific, whether they are gentle trickles emerging from lava plateaus or thundering cascades plummeting from the interior highlands; there are simply too many to count, and they make up an integral part of any sightseeing route around the country. 

Ice dominates much of the landscape, with glaciers covering 11% of the island. Visitors can admire these glaciers from a distance or take the opportunity to see them up close. The spaces these glaciers leave behind create dramatic fjords, now an iconic feature of the Icelandic coastline.

Fantastic rock formations are plentiful and varied. From erupting sea-stacks to basalt columns, there’s no end of wonder to gaze upon. Dramatic lava fields cover much of the surface of this ancient land and are often covered with thick moss.

Travellers to Iceland will always find something new, as the countryside transforms dramatically with each season. Grand waterfalls, accented with rainbows, are a staple sight in the summer but become ice-riddled behemoths in the winter time.

No matter where or when you choose to embark on a sightseeing tour, you’re promised a unique and memorable experience, not to mention countless subjects to feast your camera lens upon.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best sightseeing tour in Iceland?

The best sightseeing tour in Iceland is this Golden Circle small group minibus tour with transfer from Reykjavik, rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by more than 545 travelers. This eight-hour tour, which costs around 93 USD, takes you to the iconic Golden Circle and its attractions and even lets you sample raditional Icelandic food.

Another highly rated tour is this one-hour zodiac boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, given a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars with over 390 reviews. Aboard a boat, you’ll get up close to the massive and impressive icebergs that float in Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. In good weather, you also have the chance to see gulls and seals playing on ice.

Is going on a sightseeing tour in Iceland worth it?

Going on a sightseeing tour in Iceland is definitely worth it. These tours unveil the country's breathtaking natural beauty, showcasing iconic landmarks like cascading waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers.

The immersive experiences offered by knowledgeable guides provide unparalleled insights into Iceland's unique geological and cultural heritage, making the tours a truly enriching and memorable adventure.

What is the cheapest sightseeing tour in Iceland?

The cheapest sightseeing tour in Iceland is this affordable boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon that costs around 48 USD. Marvel at the otherworldly beauty of the icebergs at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and watch out for seals playing on the ice.

For those interested in getting around Reykjavik, take this hop-on hop-off bus tour that costs around 36 USD. Tour the city at your leisure as you hop on and hop off the cherry-red city sightseeing bus. This is an efficient way to see the several attractions that Reykjavik has to offer.

You may also avail of the Reykjavik city card | 72 Hours which costs about 59 USD. This card gives you free access to the city museums and galleries, as well as public transport, geothermal pools, the Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo, and more.

What are the major attractions on the Golden Circle sightseeing route in Iceland?

The three major sites visited on the Golden Circle sightseeing tours are Thingvellir National Park, a historical and geological site, the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, and finally Geysir geothermal area from which all geysers derive their name. All Golden Circle tours will take you to these three sites, but many will also introduce you to lesser-known attractions along the way.

What are the major attractions on the South Coast of Iceland?

While on a tour along the South Coast of Iceland, guests can expect to see the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the famous black sand beach Reynisfjara, explore the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, and the mystical Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. There are, however, two types of South Coast tours; ones that take you all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and others that stop at Vik and Reynisfjara black sand beach before heading back to Reykjavik. Please check the individual tour description before booking.

What are the major attractions on the Diamond Circle sightseeing route in Iceland?

The four major stops on the Diamond Circle sightseeing tours are the charming town of Husavik, the mythical Asbyrgi canyon, beautiful Lake Myvatn and the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss. All of these diverse attractions are located in North Iceland. Diamond Circle sightseeing tours depart from Akureyri, the largest town in the north.

How long will guests have at each attraction when sightseeing in Iceland?

It largely depends on the stop, and how much there is to do and see there. At each attraction, guests can expect to have between 10-60 minutes to take photographs and appreciate the beautiful scenery of Iceland.

Is lunch included?

Unless otherwise specified, lunch is not included on sightseeing tours, though there is a half-hour break in which you can purchase food or eat a packed lunch.

What time of the year do the sightseeing tours operate?

Sightseeing tours operate year-round. Northern lights sightseeing tours can only be undertaken during the winter months and midnight sun sightseeing tours can only be taken during summertime.

Which language will our tour guide speak?

All tour guides speak fluent English. If you wish to partake in a tour with another language, please contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is and we will support you to find a suitable tour.

Will I be able to be picked up and dropped off at my accommodation in Iceland?

The majority of operators pick up from all major hotels and guesthouses in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik. However, those staying at Airbnb or private accommodation must travel to the tour meeting point themselves. This will either be at a tour operator’s office or a nearby bus stop.

Can I sign up for a sightseeing tour in Iceland if I am a solo traveller?

Of course! Book online or get in touch at info@guidetoiceland.is and we will fit you onto a tour that suits you.

What type of vehicle is used on a sightseeing tour in Iceland?

The type of vehicle used depends on the sightseeing tour you choose to partake in. You could be looking at the attractions from a minibus, from a luxury coach, or from a 4x4 private jeep.
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