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  • obrázek: , Název: Reykjavík, capital of Iceland, Popis: View of Reykjavík, capital of Iceland, Geolokace: Reykjavik, Iceland

REYKJAVÍK - TOURS AND EXPERIENCES IN THE CAPITAL OF ICELAND

Are you looking for the best activities and outings in the northernmost capital of the world? Keep reading and you will find the best tours and experiences in the capital of Iceland. From whale watching tours to the ultimate virtual flying ride around Iceland, there is always something to do in Reykjavík. Try the best food from Icelandic cuisine, visit the most interesting museums and see the vibrance of the capital of Iceland. In the end you will live and feel Reykjavík like a local.

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What is Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, like?

If we have to describe Reykjavík in a few words, we would say it is green, modern, welcoming and different from other capital cities. Reykjavík is relatively small (although not in Icelandic terms) with about 180.000 inhabitants, but it hides many incredible places that you should know in advance. Here you will not find spectacular buildings, historical monuments or a classic old city center in the style of central Europe but you will see a city full of life, clean, safe and very close to nature wonders. Reykjavík's houses, low and very colorful, give the city a special charm. Some of these little houses, with their elf and flower decorations, remind us of the fairy tales of our childhood. Getting lost in this capital is almost impossible. Two points stand out above the rest: one of them is the Hallgrímskirkja church and the other, the Öskjuhlíð hill, with the spectacular Perlan building that hosts the museum of the same name, a must see attraction in Iceland, and which has the best views over the city. The city is surrounded by the sea on three sides and has many open spaces and green areas. There are parks, pedestrian zones, a lake in the very center of town and a thermal beach, Nauthólsvik, about a 15-minute walk from the center. The locals aim to mantain its reputation as the cleanest capital in the world. In fact, on a day with good visibility, you can even see the Snafellsness glacier, which is located about 3 hours away by car.      

How many days should I spend in Reykjavík?

Well, that's up to your travel plans and the amount of time you will have on Iceland. Some people rent a car and travel all around the island by themselves, while others stay in Reykjavik and take guided tours to other places in Iceland. If you are planning to just do some sightseeing, one day could be enough but if you really want to know and experience the capital of Iceland, give it a couple of days. This way you will have time to do some exciting tours and visits, like joining a whale watching tour from the old port or entering an artificial ice cave at the Wonders of Iceland exhibition at Perlan Museum. You will also find in Reykjavík the best restaurants to try the Icelandic cuisine, thermal pools, cultural events and many more things. If you come in winter, keep in mind the hours of daylights that you will have. Maybe there are not enough, but during the night you can join a Northern Lights tour to go outside the city and look for this amazing natural phenomenon.   

What are the best things I can do in Reykjavík?

The possibilities are endless but this is our top list of the best things you can do in Reykjavík:  

Take a whale watching tour: Go to the old port of Reykjavík and instead of staying on shore, join the famous whale watching tour, there is no better place than Iceland for that. You will also get views from the city and an amazing experience. If you come in summer, don't hesitate to join the zodiac tour and you will be able to see our favourite birds, the puffins. After an exciting adventure looking for whales and puffins, you can enjoy a walk around the harbor and warm up with a coffee in the cozy café "Rost". Make sure to try one of their kleinur, the authentic Icelandic bun!

Visit the Perlan museum: Located on on the famous Öskjuhlíð hill, the building features a 360º platform with views of all of Reykjavík and the surrounding area. Inside it houses the exhibition "Wonders of Iceland", with an authentic ice cave, and a new planetarium to learn about the northern lights. To book your ticket and learn more about this spectacular museum, visit our page about the Perlan museum. It is, without a doubt, one of our favorite places in the capital of Iceland and we recommend booking the full experience. If you are in Iceland during New Year's Eve, you should give yourself the pleasure of joining the exclusive 4 course dinner with wine and party at the panoramic restaurant, located under the glass dome at Perlan. 

Sightseeing at the center and at the sea: Our favorite place in the center of Reykjavík is the lake Tjörnin. You can take a walk in the surroundings and enter some of the streets in the center of the capital, with its beautiful and characteristic colored houses. In addition, here you will find the town hall and tourist information point, and very close, the National Gallery of Iceland. Take the opportunity to do some shopping. Then you can continue with a beautiful walk next to the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy the cleanest and purest air on the planet. The promenade around the capital is unique and has three very special places. The first is one of the new icons of the capital of Iceland, the Harpa concert hall, a modern building that functions as the social and cultural center of Reykjavík and where you can attend operas, concerts or other events. If you continue along the walk (in good weather you can rent a bike or some skates), you will meet the "Sun Traveler", the most photographed sculpture in the city representing a Viking ship. Finally, if you are a history lover, surely you are interested in getting to the Höfdi house. Did you know that a key meeting for the end of the Cold War took place there between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachov?

Fly around Iceland (real or virtual): If you want a better view of Reykjavík that the ones from Perlan or Hallgrímskirkja, give yourself a treat and book the helicopter tour around Reykjavík (or even better, one of the helicopters tours to see the glaciers or volcanos). As you take off from the airport, you will see the city getting smaller and smaller and enjoy the incredible views from the Reykjavík and the surroundings. But if you are not a fan of it, check the new virtual attraction FlyOver Iceland in the old port of Reykjavík. This way you will experience a spectacular virtual flight through the most impressive places in Iceland. FlyOver Iceland uses state-of-the-art technology to offer the sensation of flight and leave you suspended, with your feet dangling, in front of a 20-meter spherical screen.

Try real Icelandic food: Being an island in northern Europe, you can already imagine what type of food has the best reputation in Iceland, the fish! In Reykjavík you will find some of the best fish in the world, such as cod or arctic trout. Of course, eating in a restaurant in Iceland is not the cheapest activity in the world and that's why we offer the amazing buffet lunch or dinner at Reykjavík Restaurant, located in the very center of the capital. Make a reservation will allows you an “all-you-can-eat” experience from their extensive menu, including a wide variety of fish, duck, seafood, salads, soups, delectable desserts and even a surprise typical of any Icelandic meal.

Go up the tower at Hallgrímskirkja church: Although it is not a cathedral, it is the tallest building in the city and an icon of Reykjavík. Its curious façade, designed by the architect Guðjón Samúelsson, is thought to be based on the basalt lava columns that you can find in some parts of Iceland nature. Don't remain at the entrance, but climb the tower of this magnificent Lutheran church to see one of the best views of Reykjavík.

Relax in a thermal lagoon or swimming pool: Everyone who comes to Iceland knows the Blue Lagoon, the fabulous geothermal spa that is about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. If you want to go, remember to book the tickets and transfers in our web in advance. If you have already visited it or you just want to relax or swim in a cheaper place, go to one of the thermal pools in the capital. Our favorites are the traditional Laugardalslaug or the new Árbæjarlaug. Do not think that you are going to any typical pool, the pools in Iceland are much more. It's one of Icelanders' favorite hobbies and they have a temperature between 25 and 45 degrees, so you can swim outdoors all year round. They also have sauna, jacuzzis and other services. If you want to feel like another Icelander and not spend all your savings, come to a swimming pool in Reykjavík.

Which museums should I visit in Reykjavík?

Perlan museum, with an ice cave inside, a Northern Lights planetarium and a 360º observation deck with views of all Reykjavík is our #1 but there many other interesting museums in Reykjavík. The Whale museum shows the largest exhibition in Europe on these magnificent mammals, with up to 23 species of whales. In the National Museum of Iceland, the tools of the first Viking settlers are what really stand out, such as the Statuette of Thor of Evrarland, the most famous object in the museum. Reykjavík 871 ± 2 museum is about the Reykjavík settlement and Saga museum recreates key moments in Icelandic history from the time of the first settlers. If you are into art, the Reykjavík Museum of Art is Iceland's leading art museum and is located in three different buildings in the center of the Icelandic capital: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn. The Museum regularly exhibits works by three of Iceland's most famous artists: Erró, Kjarval and Ásmundur Sveinsson. The National Gallery of Iceland focuses on the collection on Icelandic art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

How is the food in Reykjavík? 
In Reykjavík you will find a lot places where to try Icelandic food for all budgets. We recommend the “all-you-can-eat” experience at Reykjavík Restaurant to taste a wide variety of fish, duck, seafood, salads, soups, etc. Some interesting fish dishes you should try in the city are the famous Hardfiskur and Plokkfiskur. But Icelanders do not live only on fish, as you can see around the entire Island, lamb is another of its emblems, and if you like meat, without a doubt the lamb dishes will be delicious. If you are cold (and who is not cold in Iceland?), try the typical Icelandic lamb soup, Kjotsupa, and you will feel much better. The Messinn restaurant, right in the center, or Sjavarbarinn near the old port of Reykjavík, are good choices to give yourself a treat. What if you don't want to dive deep into your pockets? You can buy the cheapest food at Bonús supermarkets (C / Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavik) or supermarkets 10/11 (C Austurstræti 17, 101 Reykjavík). Do not miss in Iceland the famous skyr, a kind of creamy yogurt classified as cheese and that will fill you with energy during the trip. They come in different flavors and they are great, cheap and healthy, what more can you ask for? The best kebab is on the corner of Austurstraeti and Laekjargata streets, but our favorite budget spot is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the street stall where you'll find the best hot dog in town. At 1 Tryggvagata Street, you will normally see long lines of all kinds of people but the line moves quickly and you will not have to wait long to try this delicious hot dog that has already been admired by personalities such as Bill Clinton, Ben Stiller, the members of Metallica or Game of Thrones actors.

Can I see the Northern Lights from Reykjavík?  
Well, it could be possible from some places if the activity is really high but why should you stay in the capital with the artificial lights when you can take a Northern Lights tour and go to the best places to hunt for the Northern Lights? Check our Northern Lights tours and choose the one that fits you more, all of them depart from Reykjavík at night and take around 3 hours. 

When is the best time to visit Reykjavík? 
If you want to enjoy better weather and more daylight hours come during summer, in June you can even experience the midnight sun. But if you want to have a chance to see the Northern Lights you have to come during winter time, better between November and March. Any time is good to come to Iceland and stay in the fabulous city of Reykjavík.

OUR ISLANDICA STORY

At ISLANDICA, it is our professional pride as well as our deep love for Iceland and travel that motivates us to help our clients fulfill their dreams of experiencing a place unlike any other on this planet.
Since our founder- Zuzana Ruzickova- first touched down on Iceland in 1997, she has built a company which offers travelers only the most skilled and knowledgeable guides, the most tried and tested trips and the most professional and verified tour providers. 
Let us find, facilitate, create and manage your best trip ever, on Iceland.

 

What is the Icelandic Pledge?

ISLANDICA s.r.o. is dedicated to an Iceland where locals and travelers can all enjoy and benefit from their time on the island, whether it is a short time or a lifetime. In order to do so, we all need to do our part. We subscribe to and adhere to the Icelandic Pledge.

It asks that each and everyone one of us who lives in or travels to Iceland do their part to help preserve this beautiful island country for all those who follow in our footsteps.

How do I get involved?

If you are interested in joining us by taking the Icelandic Pledge or you would like more information regarding sustainable travel on Iceland, click here. 

 

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLANDICA S.R.O.

OUR PARTNERS:  ISLANDICA s.r.o. has partnered with proven partners who operate quality services and have the highest customer satisfaction rating.

OUR CLIENTS: We have helped and served travelers, corporations, families and friends visit and enjoy Iceland for over 20 years. Our clients are people like YOU! 

OUR EXPERTISE: We've been in this game for over 20 years, before Iceland shot to stardom several years ago. This time has allowed us to truly get to know the island, all of it's wonder, beauty, secrets and traditions. We have spent this time forming and cultivating relationships with local tour guides, tour providers and hotels so that we know we are offering our clients the best options for the best prices.

 

OUR TEAM

Who are we? We're travel professionals, travel enthusiasts, globetrotters, and adventurers with an immense wanderlust and love of discovery and learning. It is our wish and desire to help you create experiences that will leave you feeling in awe, inspired and amazed by your time in Iceland.

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ISLANDICA founder Zuzana with Iceland's president Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson and his wife Dorrit Moussaieff, May, 2012.

ISLANDICA s.r.o. (Ltd.) is a business, enrolled in the Commercial Registry under the identification number: ICO: 24668974.

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 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND

Our founder and CEO of ISLANDICA and viajesislandia.com arrived to Iceland for the first time in 1997 and immediately fell in love with the country, the people, its nature and its culture. Despite the fact that over these 20+ years there have been numerous changes within Iceland regarding tourism, her top 10 best things to do in Iceland remain the same.
This is due in large part to the fact that Iceland has maintained its magic through the years. Its beauty is so extraordinary that it is difficult to put into words sometimes. They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but thousands of photos and videos do not do the country justice in showing the pure magnitude of this wondrous place. It is a destination that you have to see for yourself, not on Instagram or youtube or any other outlet. You need to feel the wind on your face, enjoy the purity of the water and experience the true force of nature. Only then will you appreciate the truth of the island of “Ice and Fire.”
See our CEO’s top 10 list below and then go see them for yourself and let us know if you agree!

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Top 10 Best Things to Do in Iceland:

1. Volcano eruption helicopter tour from Reykjavík-enjoy unforgettable helicopter tour over the volcano.

2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lake with floating icebergs and Diamond Beach

3. Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Waterfall) in the Golden Circle

4. Summer whale watching expedition in a classic wooden boat from Húsavík (northern Iceland)

5. Geysir geothermal zone with Strokkur Geyser

6. Blue Lagoon - geothermal heated pools with healing properties

7. Skógafoss Waterfall - with equally beautiful views from the foot of the falls, as from the top

8. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall - walk behind the curtain of water for the ultimate experience 

9. Landmannalaugar Colored Mountains - walk amidst the massive and expansive range surrounded by colors

10. Vatnajökull Glacier - precious ice formations seen while walking upon the glacier

1. Jokulsarlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

When pressed to pick the number one best place to see in Iceland, it would have to be Jökulsarlón Glacier Lake. It is a truly unique and stunning view from the water’s edge as you gaze out on the lake in which the tips of icebergs dance across the surface while the mass cruises along just under the water. The lake is beautiful in itself, but in addition, it is positioned in front of Breiðamerkurjökull, a glacier tongue of the largest glacier in Europe, the Vatnajökull Glacier.
You can even hop aboard an amphibian boat and move from the shore to the water and glide around and among the icebergs. (But be sure to make a reservation ahead of time as this is a popular tour and fills up quickly.)
Just in front of the glacier lagoon there is a black beach which was in recent times named “Diamond Beach’ because of the natural spectacle in which the crystal ice of icebergs which have been washed up on the beach contrasts with the black volcanic sand on the beach, leaving the visitors absolutely dazzled. Whether or not the ice washes ashore each day is nature’s whim, adding to the mystic and supernatural feeling most get while taking in the views.

2. Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Waterfall)

There are so many beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, and our CEO did her best to not list them all here. But without a double, the one to top them all is Gullfoss or ‘Golden’ Waterfall. Found within the Golden Circle, these golden hued falls are a spectacular sight to behold for the scene that plays out in front of your eyes, the deafening roar of the water, the rainbow that arches across the sky, and the splendid canyon where the falling water comes to rest. A trip to Iceland would not be the same without a visit to this magnificent site.
When you arrive, you will see the path that brings you so close to the falls that you surely will need a waterproof jacket.

3. Whale Watching in Húsavík

To be completely honest, you can see whales from so many places around the island, from Reykjavík, Akureyri, Hauganes...pretty much anywhere along the coast. So why, you might ask, have we chosen Húsavík, in the very north of Iceland? The answer is quite simple, because the whales have chosen this location.
Did you know that Húsavík is known as the ‘capital of the whales”? This beautiful fishing village in the north of Iceland has amazing luck in that there is a 97-99% chance of seeing the whales during the summer months. And in March and November, visitors have the chance to take the tour from within a traditional wooden boat. These old wooden fishing vessels have 2 to 3 masts and large sails that create a magical atmosphere once on board. There is also a wonderful combo tour that included whale sightings and a visit to an island full of puffins!
And since you’ll already be in Húsavík, you might as well take advantage of your time there and go see its beautiful church which was built in 1907, the traditional fishing port and enjoy the view from the city of the surrounding landscape, in which rolling green mountains stretch out in all directions.

4. Strokkur Geyser

The amazing thing about Iceland is that in such a small area, you can experience and witness so many natural wonders, one of them being the Strokkur Geyser. Thanks so the geothermal activity underground, this geyser is guaranteed to erupt in spectacular form every 4-8 minutes and can reach heights of 30 meters!
Strokkur is found in the Haukadalur Valley, which is also home to the Great Geysir, which was the very first hot spring to be named by Europeans, taken from the Icelandic word meaning ‘to gush’. Since then, all other hot water that gushes from the earth’s center, have been named ‘geysers’ as well.
The Great Geyser is now inactive, but guests can still see the opening, only about 50 meters from its little brother, Strokkur. Walking through this steamy area gives visitors a sense of the awesome power that lies below our feet and down hundreds of meters. And it leaves no doubt as to why Iceland has earned the name, “Island of Ice and Fire" or why there are so many wonderful thermal spas in the area. 

5. Geothermal spa at the Blue Lagoon

Near the Keflavík International Airport and not so far from Reykjavík, one finds THE most popular and visited location on the island, and with good reason. These world-famous geothermal bathing pools might not be a work of Mother Nature per se, but they are nonetheless beautiful. The name was bestowed on the lagoon because of the crisp blue color that is due in part to the minerals and algae that are found in the water. These also give the Blue Lagoon its naturally healing properties and self-sterilizing ability.
And while the cost can be considered a bit on the high end, the experience is worth it. How often do you get to bath in the warm, curative waters of a world class lagoon among lava fields? In addition, the architecture of the surrounding bath house is of the minimalistic design and has won numerous international awards.
If you are leaving Iceland towards the end of the day, we highly recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon on the way to the airport, as it is located between Reykjavík and KEF. It’s the perfect, relaxing way to end your time in Iceland.

6. Skógafoss Waterfall

Another waterfall that you cannot miss is Skógafoss, which has one of the best views of all the waterfalls in Iceland. Found on the South Coast of Iceland, directly off the Ring Road (Highway 1), this is one of the ‘must-see’ spots in Iceland, without a doubt. The falls span 25 meters in width and 60 meters in height, allowing visitors to view it from afar and gain a truly spectacular respect for its magnitude, we suggest you get as close as possible to feel the power of this falls as you gaze upward at the plummeting waters. In addition, there is a staircase to the right of the falls that allow guests to ascend and have a magnificent view from above as well.
This is where some of the best and most famous hikes start that continue on to Fimmvörðuháls, between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull Glaciers, and further on to Landmannalaugar.

7. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Not far from Skógafoss (only 30 kilometers or 18 miles), you’ll find the spectacular Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. This is another highlight of any South Coast trip and for very good reason. The waterfall is another natural wonder which all must experience for themselves. The waterfall may appear as most waterfalls as one approaches it, however for those who have arrived prepared with waterproof clothing should definitely venture behind the waterfall and enter the cave that is found there. To stand behind a cascading fall and feel the mist that arises from it and gaze outward gives one the sensation that they are in paradise.
For those with some more time, they should absolutely continue the hike another 10 minutes or so to find a place that so many visitors do not know of, hence why it is called the Hidden Falls (Gljúfrafoss). This magical waterfall cannot be seen right away, as you have to enter through a small opening in the cliff, which only adds to the mystery and sacredness of this place. Everyone should walk carefully on these slippery rocks through this area, and after several meters, the view of the waterfall will leave each person without words.

8. Landmannalaugar

Mountains of brilliant colors, natural springs ideal for bathing, remote landscapes that have not been altered by man…. Landmannalaugar, is a paradise that any hiker or nature lover will appreciate and immediately fall in love with. Situated in the interior of Iceland, it is difficult to access, meaning that there are far less tourists and visitors than in other sites found on the Ring Road. Only the most adventurous of travelers dare to enter this section of the Island, but those that do are rewarded heavily. The famous Laugavegur trek is listed within the top 20 hikes in the world by National Geographic. This hike requires a minimum of 4 days in order to complete the whole trek.
However, for those who do not have the time or desire to spend that much time are still able to enjoy part of the hike by taking a day hike or even a day bus trip from either Reykjavík or from the South Coast, or if you have access to a vehicle, you can arrive by yourself and complete part in one of the abbreviated tours in order to appreciate the beautiful interior that so few tourists take the time to see. Or try out the Super Jeep trip to add a whole new way of seeing this painted paradise. 
It is possible to take a short 2-hour hike and take in the Laugahraun lava fields and Brenninsteinsalda Mountain; a 1-hour walk to Bláhnjúkur Mountain, or a 4-hour hike to Ljótipollur Crater. And do not hesitate or dare to miss the experience of taking a bath in one of the springs, which are found in pure, utter nature.

9. Vatnajökull Glacier 
The Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest glacier in Europe and therefore cannot be missed. We already listed the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in our top 10, which is found within the Vatnajökull Glacier. However, for those who wish to venture a bit more from the outskirts of the glacier, Vatnajökull Glacier covers 8% of the entire surface of Iceland and 3 national parks. The fascinating ice-covered landscape covers the Hvannadalshnjúkur and Öræfajökull volcanoes, offering impressive ice formations, glacier lagoons, naturally formed ice caves and much more.
Skaftafell National Park has so many spectacular walks and hikes, including ones which direct you to Svartifoss Waterfall, which is famous for this hexagon-shaped basalt columns, which appear so perfect, as if they were carved by an artisan instead of having been formed naturally.
Also, one should not leave without taking a hiking tour on the glacier. You can walk upon the ice and explore the ends of the glacier. If you come between November and March, you should absolutely complete the experience with an ice cave excursion. 

10. Western Fjords
The Western Fjords to not tend to be on most travelers’ lists itineraries due to the fact that they are quite far from much of the rest of the more popular attractions. It would be necessary to take one of the 14-day classic tours that covers the whole perimeter of the island, in order to see the Western Fjords Therefore, they are much less visited which makes them an even better stop to add to your schedule. While Iceland is by no means crowded, here there are even far less people on the roads and at the sites, that you truly get the sensation that you are in the middle of paradise and have a wonderful opportunity to feel that you have the whole island to yourself.
It is possible to travel there in a normal car, but we do recommend an all-terrain vehicle for your comfort, as the roads are not so wide and there are sections of gravel, as opposed to pavement.
In Isafjordur, you’ll find the ‘largest’ settlement with 2,000 inhabitants and from there you can find exciting tours such as kayak trips, visits to other fjords and natural wonders such as the Dynjandi Waterfall. If you want to experience something that so few travelers ever set eyes on, head to the Western Fjords and you will pity those who have missed out. 

Top 25 Things to Do in Iceland

1. Relax in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa.

2. Discover Reykjavík – explore the capital’s culture, history, and vibrant food scene.

3. Drive the Golden Circle – see Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir in one iconic route.

4. Hike on a glacier – experience the thrill of walking on ancient ice.

5. Chase the Northern Lights – witness the aurora borealis dancing in the sky.

6. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – admire floating icebergs and nearby Diamond Beach.

7. Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – often called “Iceland in Miniature.”

8. See puffins in the wild – Iceland is one of the best places in the world to spot them.

9. Go whale watching – encounter humpbacks, orcas, and other marine giants.

10. Venture into the Westfjords – dramatic cliffs, remote villages, and untouched wilderness.

11. Discover Vatnajökull National Park – home to Europe’s largest glacier.

12. Hike to a volcano – feel the power of Iceland’s fiery landscape.

13. Descend into Þríhnúkagígur Volcano – explore a dormant magma chamber.

14. Marvel at Gullfoss Waterfall – one of Iceland’s most iconic cascades.

15. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – a unique and magical perspective.

16. Climb the steps at Skógafoss Waterfall – breathtaking views from the top.

17. Wander in Skaftafell Nature Reserve – glaciers, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

18. Experience the Hverir Geothermal Area – bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.

19. Visit Dettifoss – Europe’s most powerful waterfall.

20. Explore the Askja Caldera – a remote volcanic wonder in the highlands.

21. Tour the Reykjanes Peninsula – dramatic coastlines and geothermal activity.

22. Photograph Kirkjufell Mountain – one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

23. Trek the Laugavegur Trail – a world-famous multi-day hike through colorful landscapes.

24. Discover the Hengill Geothermal Area – hot springs and rugged mountains.

25. Visit Lake Mývatn – a volcanic region full of craters, caves, and birdlife.

Note: TOP 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND - Code ID749.

• Obrázky:
  • obrázek: , Název: Geysir eruption, Golden Circle of Iceland, Popis: Strokkur geiser eruption, Golden Circle of Iceland, Geolokace: Geysir, Iceland

            GOLDEN CIRCLE IN ICELAND

The Golden Circle is the most popular route in Iceland and the nearest to Reykjavík. The reputation is well earned as it includes some of the most fascinating natural monuments in Iceland. This circular tour includes Thingvellir National Park, where you can find the area where the division of the tectonic plates of Europe and North America is visible, the impressive golden waterfall of Gullfoss; and the geothermal area of Geysir and Strokkur, where you will spot a geyser erupting up to 35 metres high. There is no better way to start your trip around Iceland.

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What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle is a circular tourist route you can complete in one day departing from Reykjavík, along which you will discover three of the most important attractions in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area of Geysir and Strokkur and the impressive Gullfoss waterfall. It is a great tour to take on your first or second day in Iceland as it is a great presentation of what Iceland can offer and it is also a great area to spot the Northern Lights on winter nights. 
     

How can I explore the Golden Circle in Iceland?

There are different ways of exploring the Golden Circle. You can rent a car and do it in one day returning to Reykjavík at the end or you can join one of our one-day tours, which includes different experiences apart from the main attractions, such us the Secret Lagoon, sustainable farms or snorkeling in Silfra. You can also join to one of our multi-day trips that includes this area or you can add it to your itinerary in your fly and drive package. After that you can continue along to the South Coast of Iceland on your own.   

Which places can I see in the Golden Circle area?

Here is the list we have compiled with the best places within the Golden Circle area: 

Thingvellir National Park: Designated a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 2004 due to its historical and geological importance. Here the first Icelandic Althing parliament was founded in 930. But it is not only for its history or natural beauty that the Thingvellir National Park stands out but also for its geological characteristics. Here is the division between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. This division is visible in the faults that run through the region, some of which are filled with clear water.

Geysir and Strokkur geothermal area: Have you ever wondered where the word geyser comes from? The term derives from the Icelandic verb "gjósa", which means to erupt, and comes from no less than "the great Geysir", one of the most impressive examples of this phenomenon in the entire world. Unfortunately, "the great Geysir" has been inactive since the beginning of the 21st century, although at any moment it may surprise us again. That is why, today, his little brother Strokkur is the great attraction in the area, erupting every 6-9 minutes and reaching heights of 35 meters.

Gullfoss Waterfall: With a drop of 32 meters in height and a flow of 140 cubic meters per second in summer, the water descends on the canyon of the Hvitá River with a brutal force, forming a great roar. A very safe path passes very close to the waterfall, allowing you to witness a spectacle suitable for a movie. The water plummets in two falls (11 and 21 meters) into a 32-meter deep crevice, which is about 20 meters wide and 2.5 kilometers long. On many occasions, the great curtain of water causes a huge rainbow to form over the waterfall, creating a dreamy postcard. Do not forget to bring a raincoat since sometimes the water can reach you.

Kerid Volcanic Crater: A volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area of ​​southern Iceland. Kerið is believed to have been a cone volcano that erupted and emptied its magma reservoir. Once the magma was depleted, the weight of the cone collapsed into the empty magma chamber.

Skálholt Church: It is a Lutheran church belonging to the Church of Iceland and which commemorates the Christianization of Iceland. Its sober design, inspired by traditional churches, incorporates modern elements.

Secret Lagoon: The Secret Lagoon is located in the small town called Fludir, about a half hour drive from the famous Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. Known as the oldest swimming pool in Iceland, you can enjoy a fabulous thermal bath in the middle of nature and live a purely Icelandic experience. The natural environment of the pool and the steam that rises in the air creates a magical feeling. The warm water is kept at 38-40 degrees all year round. Throughout the area there are several geothermal points and a small geyser that erupts every 5 minutes.

Fontana geothermal spa: Geothermal baths located between the Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. You can soak in a natural pool, listen to the bubbling hot springs in the steam rooms, or take a dip in the refreshing lake.

What activities can I do in the Golden Circle?

Of course the first thing you have to do is sightseeing, you cannot leave the Golden Circle without bearing witness to the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir and Strokkur geothermal or Gullfoss waterfall, but the Golden Circle has more to offer. In the Thingvellir National Park you can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience of snorkeling in Silfra (the clearest waters of the world!). There is also a snowmobile tour that departs from Gullfoss to explore Langjökull glacier, in West Iceland. And you can have a relaxing geothermal bath in the nature in two of the most famous places in Iceland for that: the Secret Lagoon or Fontana geothermal Spa.  

What kind of tours can I join to see the Golden Circle?
If you are staying in Reykjavík, you can simply join to one of our one-day tour to see the Golden Circle. If you want to make the experience even more amazing choose the tour with snorkeling or the one with the Secret Lagoon. If you are travelling on your own, don't forget to book your entrance tickets to Secret Lagoon or Fontana in advance and, if you are more adventurous check the Snorkel or Diving at Silfra or the snowmobile at Langjökull glacier, which departs from Gullfoss. You can also book one of our multi-days trips to explore Iceland further so you don't have to worry about where to go next.

How many days do I need to explore the Golden Circle?  
Only one day is enough but if you prefer to experience it in a more relaxing way, why not spending a couple of days in this amazing area? You can find nice walks, take a comforting warm bath in the nature and much more! Moreover, if you come in winter you will have great chances to see the Northern Lights so don't rush and enjoy your time in Iceland.

Should I stay overnight in the Golden Circle? 
Although it is not necessary as you can see it from Reykjavík, there are really nice accommodations in this area with perfect locations to spot the Northern Lights on winter nights. Contact us and we will arrange if for you. If you are travelling on your own around Iceland consider this area to stay instead of Reykjavík and check Hveragerdi as the place to stay between the Golden Circle and  the South Coast.

When should I visit the Golden Circle?
You can visit the Golden Circle during the whole year. Just don't forget your camera and come well dressed. It doesn't matter if it's winter or summer, the attractions of the Golden Circle will be there awaiting for you.

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland that includes three major attractions:

1. Thingvellir National Park: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are slowly drifting apart.

2. Geysir geothermal area: This is a geothermal field where visitors can see Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air.

3. Gullfoss waterfall: This is a spectacular two-tiered waterfall that drops 32 meters into a narrow canyon.

In addition to these three main attractions, there are other places to visit along the Golden Circle route, such as the Kerið volcanic crater, the Secret Lagoon hot spring, and the Friðheimar greenhouse, where visitors can see how tomatoes are grown using geothermal heat.

The entire route is approximately 300 kilometers, and it's recommended to plan for a full day to visit all the attractions and take in the scenery.

Pictures from the Golden Circle tours in Iceland:

Golden Circle in Iceland