Golden Circle Classic Tour

Highlights

• Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
• Geysir Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss Waterfall

Inclusions

• Round Trip Transportation
• Professional Tour Guide
• Free WiFi on the Bus
• Comfortable Coaches
• Golden Circle Tour
• 10% Discount at Glíma Restaurant - Hotel Geysir (Geysir Geothermal Area)
• 10% Discount on Meat Soup at Gullfoss Café* 

*Automatic 10% discount after showing the booking confirmation (received when booking this tour)

Tour Itinerary

The Golden Circle Tour

See the unique natural marvels of Iceland's world-famous Golden Circle on this enjoyable tour of its three most iconic places. First, you'll walk between two continents at Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, a spectacular rift valley packed with Viking history and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then you'll be thrilled by the soaring fountains of superheated water at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the tremendous two-tier 30-meter waterfall at Gullfoss. Along the way you will be treated to mesmerizing views of Iceland´s landscapes, make sure you have your camera ready! We offer a range of options and departure times to make this a fun-filled experience you'll never forget!

What is the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is a renowned tourist route in Iceland that showcases three of the country’s most spectacular attractions: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This scenic route is a must-visit for anyone eager to explore Iceland’s natural wonders and historical landmarks. Conveniently located near Reykjavík and the airport, the Golden Circle offers a perfect day trip filled with breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the geological rift at Þingvellir, witnessing the explosive geysers, or standing in awe of the majestic Gullfoss, the Golden Circle promises an unforgettable adventure.

Viking History & Colliding Continents at Iceland´s Þingvellir National Park

Your first stop on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, one of the main Golden Circle attractions. This place of outstanding natural beauty is the birthplace of the Icelandic Parliament. The Vikings made their laws for a thousand years and celebrated summer festivals in this stunning location. You can walk between the towering North American tectonic plates and Eurasian tectonic plates here, which are splitting apart at the speed of a few millimeters a year. Iceland declared its independence here in 1944, and in 2004, Thingvellir was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine yourself walking with Vikings in this magical place!

Bubbling with Excitement at Geysir Geothermal Area

The next adventure on your Golden Circle tour is the world-famous Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. The world’s geysers take their name from this place – Geysir means “to gush” in Icelandic. Geysir itself erupts very rarely now, but don’t worry! Nearby, Strokkur is very active, with fountains of boiling hot water soaring high into the sky every 10 minutes or so. It truly is one of Iceland´s must see attractions. Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet as it prepares to explode, and smell the sulfur in the air! This is where you can really experience Iceland’s powerful underground geothermal energy at close quarters. Just watch which way the wind is blowing!

Many tour companies include the Geysir Geothermal Area in their Golden Circle itineraries, offering unique experiences.

Majestic Gullfoss Falls, the Golden Falls of Hvita River

Your final treat on our Golden Circle tours is a trip to Gullfoss Waterfall, which translates as the “Gold Falls” is a short drive from the Great Geysir. Fed by glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier (the Long Glacier), you'll be amazed by this roaring two-tiered waterfall, plunging more than 30 meters and then crashing deep into a rocky canyon. If you visit on a sunny day, you'll see spectacular rainbows rising above the waters, or if you're here in the winter, the falls will be a frozen wonderland instead! Clouds of spray hang in the air, making Gullfoss Waterfall a sensational sight, and there are several viewing platforms so you can experience it at different levels. We'll stop for lunch at the excellent Gullfoss Waterfall Café.

Golden Circle Tour Details

A typical Golden Circle tour lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on the itinerary and the number of stops. The tour includes comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and admission fees to all the main attractions. Given that the tour takes place outdoors, it’s essential to dress according to the weather. Layer up with waterproof clothing, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery. Some itineraries may also include additional activities like hiking or walking, so be prepared for a day of exploration and adventure.

Memories That Last a Lifetime on a Golden Circle tour Iceland

The glittering jewels in Iceland's crown, the Golden Circle is the perfect introduction to the spectacular sceneries that the “Land of Fire and Ice” offers you! With one stunning sight after another, your camera will be clicking all day! Our knowledgeable tour guides will be ready to wow you with fascinating stories of Viking heritage and fun facts to take away from this unforgettable experience.

Combining the Golden Circle Tour with Other Activities

Enhance your Golden Circle tour by combining it with other exciting activities. Many tour operators offer combination tours that include a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon or a thrilling glacier hike. You can also add unique experiences like snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra or horseback riding through Iceland’s rugged terrain. These combination tours provide a comprehensive way to experience Iceland’s unique natural beauty and rich history, making your trip even more memorable.

Why Choose Gray Line Iceland for Your Golden Circle Tour?

Gray Line Iceland stands out as a reputable tour operator offering a range of Golden Circle tours. Our classic Golden Circle tour is a must-do activity in Reykjavik, highly praised by many reviewers. Our tour guides are not only knowledgeable but also entertaining, providing fascinating insights into Iceland’s history and geology. We offer various tour options, including combination tours and private tours, to cater to every visitor’s needs. With Gray Line Iceland, you get great value for your money, considering the number of attractions and activities included in our Golden Circle tours. Join us for an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s most iconic sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle route is in southwest Iceland, not far from the capital city, Reykjavík. The first stop on your Golden Circle tour is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, just over 30 miles (50 kilometers). It's about an hour's drive from Reykjavík. Next, reaching the Geysir Geothermal area will take about 45 minutes. The last stop is Gullfoss Waterfall, which is only another ten minutes further away from Geysir. The entire route is about 80 miles (130 kilometers) in each direction. So, if you're looking for an enjoyable day trip full of history and nature, the Golden Circle is a perfect choice! Join us and see what makes this the most popular Iceland guided tour.

2. How long will my day tour around the Golden Circle take?

Starting with a convenient pick-up from the city, the journey to the Golden Circle and stops at all the main attractions and the return journey will last about seven and a half hours. Your tour guide will provide you with a rich history of every part of the journey around the Golden Circle in Iceland.

3. What does Iceland's Golden Circle tour include?

The tour includes convenient city pick-ups and a comfortable journey in one of our modern coaches, with expert commentary and support from one of our professional tour guides in English. Enjoy the free WiFi and USB charging points onboard, so you can make the most of your time when you visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss.

4. How long is the Golden Circle tour?

The overall distance from the city to the Golden Circle Route stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall, plus the return is around 155 miles (250 kilometers).

5. Can you enjoy the Golden Circle tour if the weather is bad?

Icelanders have a saying: “If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes.” So that means you need to be prepared for all eventualities. Bring waterproof clothes (especially a waterproof jacket), dress in light layers that you can take off and put back on quickly, and wear sturdy waterproof shoes with good grip! We operate this tour year round, so please dress for for the season.

6. Where can you eat during the Golden Circle tours?

We ask you not to eat and drink when you're on board our coaches, but don't worry about getting hungry along the Golden Circle! There are places where you can grab something to eat and drink along the way at our three stops - Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss! Also, enjoy a 10% discount at the restaurants at Geysir and Gullfoss! All you need to do is to show your tour confirmation when paying.

7. Where are the pick-up locations for the Golden Circle tours?

Where possible, we will collect you from all major hotels in the greater Reykjavík area. In the city center, tour buses cannot always park outside the hotels, so we will pick you up from designated bus stops instead. We also pick up from the cruise ports for Golden Circle Tours.

8. What other natural beauties can I add to my Golden Circle Tour Iceland?

The standard Golden Circle Tour in Iceland includes the main stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geryser Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. Many travelers like to combine Iceland's Golden Circle tour with extra attractions. A visit to the World Famous Blue Lagoon, The Secret Lagoon, or Fontana Geothermal Baths. Adding on a visit to one of Iceland´s Hot Springs is the perfect way to add some relaxation into your Golden Circle adventure. If you want to get even farther off the beaten track, a glacier snowmobile tour might be for you! There are so many things you can explore in one day in Iceland.

9. Have we answered all your questions about the Golden Circle tours of Iceland?

If you have any questions or are considering visiting the Golden Circle route on your own, or need recommendations for your visit to Iceland, just click here to ask us for more information! As a leading tour operator in Iceland, we offer trips to many other attractions in the beautiful country that we call home, other guided day tours in Iceland can be viewed here.

Please note

• This Golden Circle tour is by default guided in English.
• Restrooms available at all the tour stops

Pickup points

Not booked your hotel yet? Hotel not listed? Staying with a friend/family?

Don't worry, you can give us that information when you add this item to your cart.

Pickup Info

Please present your electronic travel voucher/ticket at the time of tour departure.

Pick up and drop off
Pick up from hotels, guesthouses and designated bus stops starts 30 minutes before the tour departure time stated on your voucher.

Need assistance?
Call: +3545401313 or e-mail: iceland@grayline.is