Experience the Wonderful Golden Circle Tours in Iceland

Iceland’s Golden Circle tours offer the ultimate Iceland experience

Iceland’s Golden Circle, spanning 300 kilometers, guides you to Iceland’s most popular attractions: UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, and the tranquil Kerið volcanic crater lake. 

These wonderful Golden Circle landmarks eloquently showcase Iceland’s distinctive geological wonders, enchanting landscapes, and a rich blend of history and culture.

Explore the famous Golden Circle of Iceland

See cascading waterfalls, erupting geysers, enchanting geothermal fields, serene glacier waters, rugged volcanic ridges, and so much more.

Embark on thrilling adventures to truly experience the wonders of Iceland.

The Golden Circle sightseeing route is conveniently close to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, making it a prime choice for combining sightseeing with exciting activities. Among the most popular options departing from Reykjavik are whale watching, horseback riding, exploring the Perlan Ice Cave, experiencing the Northern Lights Planetarium, soaring through FlyOver Iceland, and more.

Ready for an adventure, plus Golden Circle tours

Within the Golden Circle route, there’s much to see and do. Explore our selection of combo tours, pairing thrilling activities with Golden Circle sightseeing.

Exciting Activities to Explore Along the Golden Circle Route

Beyond the iconic attractions of the Golden Circle Route, Iceland beckons with a host of adventurous experiences. With activities to suit diverse tastes and interests, Iceland promises the thrill of trying something new during your visit. 

Ever imagined swimming between the tectonic plates in some of the world’s clearest waters? Dive into the Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park. How about a thrilling snowmobile ride atop Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, and an exploration of its mesmerizing blue ice caves? Or perhaps savoring a taste of geothermal bread, freshly baked in the natural ovens fueled by volcanic heat in Laugarvatn, nestled between Thingvellir and Geysir? 

Iceland’s natural wonders offer a plethora of surprising adventures—discover yours today.

Discover Your Golden Circle Activities

Iceland’s extraordinary natural beauty provides numerous unexpected adventures to explore

The Golden Circle of Iceland

The Golden Circle spans approximately 300 km, starting in the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik, and winding its way east before returning to the capital. Despite Iceland’s modest size in Europe, it boasts some of the most distinctive and diverse landscapes on the planet.

Our day trips to this renowned tourist route ensure you visit all the must-see stops, with additional options for off-the-beaten-path excursions.

The Golden Circle Attractions

While the Golden Circle has its top four attractions, don’t forget that this route holds even more treasures beyond these four spots. Rushing through the journey, even if you can catch many sights before noon, might cause you to miss out on the variety of other attractions dotted along the way, including some hidden gems. Here are some must-visit places:

Thingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park, nestled within a rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, is a lush oasis of natural wonder. Just 40 km from Reykjavik, the park has tranquil lakes, undulating grassy slopes, and a web of varied hiking trails.

Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out not just for its picturesque landscapes from its unique geological features, but also for its historical significance as the birthplace of the world’s first parliament.

Photography lovers will enjoy the picturesque opportunities, so don’t forget to bring your camera along.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Iceland has gained worldwide recognition for its mesmerizing Northern Lights displays and its exceptional natural geysers. Haukadalur valley is the ultimate destination to witness some of the country’s most astonishing geothermal sights.

Among these, the two standout geysers are Strokkur and the renowned Great Geysir, from which all geysers take their name. While Strokkur is a reliable performer, erupting every 5-10 minutes, the Great Geysir hot spring remains dormant for decades, adding an air of mystique to the landscape. Surrounding these geysers, you’ll find a surreal area filled with hot springs, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pools, creating an otherworldly atmosphere unlike any other.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, the “golden falls,” is a breathtaking natural wonder that promises to etch unforgettable memories in your heart. Unlike most waterfalls, which are typically observed from below, Gullfoss offers a unique vantage point from above, adding to its distinct charm. 

The surrounding landscape features a network of scenic trails, inviting you to take leisurely walks and discover the best viewpoints. While Gullfoss can be admired year-round, it’s worth noting that some viewpoints may temporarily close during certain weather conditions.

Kerid Volcanic Crater Lake

Kerid is a remarkable volcanic crater lake characterized by its stunning red, black, and green slopes juxtaposed against mesmerizing blue-green waters. This striking geological feature came into existence approximately 6500 years ago when the magma chamber of an ancient volcano crumbled at the culmination of an eruption. 

For a more comprehensive view of the crater’s beauty, a well-maintained trail winds around its rim, providing panoramic vistas. 

Additionally, there’s a path that descends to the crater floor, allowing for exploration around the lake’s perimeter—an experience well worth undertaking.

Why Join Us to Visit the Wonderful Golden Circle of Iceland

BusTravel Iceland, a Reykjavik-based tour operator, has been showing visitors around Iceland for over 60 years. We’re proud of our long history and our reputation for offering outstanding tours led by our exceptional guides, taking you to all of Iceland’s top attractions

A 8-hour Golden Circle tour is the most popular one. For those seeking an extended adventure lasting up to 11 hours, these tours often incorporate visits to lesser-known attractions along the way or offer a delightful complement to a trip to the renowned Blue Lagoon in Reykjanes, Southwest Iceland.

Regardless of the tour duration, all tours have stops at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Additionally, we ensure you have the opportunity to witness the rising star of Kerid crater, a destination garnering increasing acclaim in recent years.

Discover the very best of Iceland’s attractions by joining us on an unforgettable Iceland tour departing from Reykjavik. Secure your spot today and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!