Choosing to base yourself in Reykjavik during your Iceland holiday makes a lot of sense. After all, the city is where you’ll find the largest concentration of visitor attractions, shops and eateries. But opting for a hotel, guesthouse or apartment in the capital doesn’t mean you have to stay within it for the duration of your visit. If you’re thinking about taking one of our day trips from Reykjavik – and you should – then here’s your ultimate guide.

Whether you choose to self-drive or book a tour is up to you; each have their advantages. Some tourists choose to rent their own vehicle; roads are well-maintained and attractions are clearly signed. Others prefer to sit back and relax on comfortable coaches as they let others take care of the driving, leaving them free to gaze out of the window and concentrate fully on the incredible landscapes that they’re passing.

When it comes to Iceland day tours, you’ll find the greatest variety if you plan to depart from and return to Reykjavik. In this useful Iceland travel guide, we’ll take a look at what you might do if you travel north, south and east from the capital. We’ll curate key attractions and activities, while offering practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.

The Golden Circle

We offer a wide range of tours that incorporate the landmark attractions of the Golden Circle, Iceland’s premier sightseeing route. It’s best known for three major sights – Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss waterfall. The closest part of the loop, Thingvellir National Park, is typically reachable in less than an hour from Reykjavik, while Gullfoss waterfall, the most distant, is about 45 minutes further inland.

Our Golden Circle Direct tour from Reykjavik Excursions is achievable with 6 to 7 hours to spare. You’ll concentrate on the area’s main highlights before returning to Reykjavik mid-afternoon. Keen to see a little more? We’ll help you understand a little more about the benefits of geothermal energy by calling in at Friðheimar , where it’s possible to grow tomatoes under glass year-round.

With a whole day at your disposal, it’s well worth combining your Golden Circle sightseeing with an activity. For example, a popular option is to add on a soak at Laugarvatn Fontana, a lakeshore geothermal spa where you can also learn about how bread is baked using underground heat and taste the results. Tours that team the Golden Circle with the iconic Blue Lagoon or with luxurious Sky Lagoon are also available.

If you can spare the time, consider stopping off at Hvammsvik Hot Springs, about half an hour north west of Thingvellir National Park. Overlooking tranquil Hvalfjörður and off the beaten track in comparison to some of the other geothermal baths, it’s more rustic with pools clustered on a black sand beach, but the fjordside setting is delightful.

If you love being active, why not consider descending into a lava tunnel? At Raufarhólshellir cave , you’ll walk where lava flowed thousands of years ago. It’s surprisingly spacious, measuring 30 metres across and 10 metres high in places. Near the entrance, the ceiling has collapsed, flooding the space with light and enabling visitors to appreciate its colourful geology. There’ll be a chance to mull over what you’ve seen as you continue on to the Golden Circle.

Other adrenaline-fuelled possibilities to consider pairing with the Golden Circle include glacier super jeep and snowmobiling tours, riding an ATV buggy and horseback adventures. We also offer the option of a visit to Thingvellir National Park independently. The Silfra underwater rift is popular with snorkellers and divers for its crystal clear water.

Arguably the most memorable tour that incorporates the Golden Circle is one that marries the sightseeing with the chance to see the Northern Lights later that evening . There’s plenty of time for dinner in between, at one of Reykjavik’s many excellent restaurants or food halls. Offered in all seasons except summer, catching a glimpse of the aurora is a magical experience.

The South Coast of Iceland

If you’ve read our South Iceland guide then you’ll already known that it boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery anywhere in Iceland . Many of the must-sees are conveniently close to the main ring road. South Coastt day tours typically include a stop at Seljalandsfoss, where it’s possible to walk behind the waterfall, before moving on to Skógafoss, a wider cascade that’s often topped by a rainbow.

Continuing east towards Vik, Reynisfjara black sand beach boasts an impressive basalt cave and views of Reynisdrangar sea stacks, though take no chances with the dangerous sneaker waves while you’re by the shore. Our South Coast Wonders tour also call in at Sólheimajökull glacier to admire its pretty lagoon.

Further east, the blue ice caves close to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are only safe to visit during the winter, but their translucent nature and vivid colouration are a jaw-droppingly beautiful sight. It’s possible to reach the iceberg-strewn lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach in a single (long) day, but in winter, it’s more practical to book our two-day tour with an overnight stop near Skaftafell.

As with the Golden Circle, it’s easily possible to customise your tour to incorporate another activity. Our tour of the once-notorious Eyjafjallajökull might appeal. Its eruption back in 2010 caused air traffic chaos but for now the giant slumbers, making this the ideal spot to experience off-roading in a super jeep to get better acquainted with the Gígjökull glacier tongue and its surroundings.

Exploring Iceland Responsibly with Carbon-Neutral Iceland Tours

To address the growing number of tourists while safeguarding Iceland's stunning landscapes, we offer carbon-neutral tours as a sustainable solution. These eco-friendly adventures not only allow visitors to experience Iceland's unique beauty but also ensure the preservation of its natural environment for future generations. By choosing our carbon-neutral tours, we can enjoy the best of Iceland while minimizing our ecological footprint.

Learn about how to discover Iceland's beauty with eco-friendly tours.

South Coast Tours with a thrilling twist: the Adventure Bus

The Adventure Bus offers an ideal way to explore Iceland's South Coast. Our service combines enjoyable sightseeing with thrilling adventures, providing comfortable bus transport and exciting activities for a unique blend of relaxation and excitement.

Departing from Reykjavík, the Adventure Bus takes you through Iceland’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes, with stops at two iconic waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.

In addition to admiring the stunning scenery, you can choose from a variety of exciting activities to enhance your day. The bus drops you off at the base camp where your adventure guides are ready to begin the fun. After your activity, you'll return to the bus and rejoin your fellow travelers for the journey back to Reykjavík on the same day.

Glacier Activities on the Sout Coast: ice caving, glacier hiking and glacier lagoon kayaking

Ice cave tours are a popular south coast attraction. Mýrdalsjökull glacier’s ice caves are located close to Vik. These are the closest to Reykjavik – less than three hours by road – and can be accessed year-round.

You’ll hop on a mountain truck, buggy, snowmobile or super jeep to Askur ice cave and then don helmet and crampons to hike the last leg. This tour has several variations for cater to all type of interests and a wider range of age groups.

What to do in Iceland- Your Top Adventures Guide

It may be a compact nation, but the little island of Iceland is awash with activities and experiences to bring you closer to nature. From the rugged mountains of the interior to the black-sanded beaches of the Atlantic shore, Iceland’s scenery is set up for outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for adventure or prefer a more sedate session of horse riding, hiking and sightseeing, we have rounded up Iceland’s best activities to help you curate the ideal break to this beautiful island.

Learn about the best adventures and activities in Iceland.

Perhaps you’re keen to get a closer look at Sólheimajökull, the tongue of ice that extends from Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland’s fourth largest glacier. Strap on crampons to explore a fantastic array of ice sculptures, ridges and plunging crevasses as you learn about the processes that create and threaten these remarkable geographical features. This tour departs year-round so long as the weather is cooperating.

The Sólheimasandur plane wreck is one of the most enigmatic destinations along Iceland’s south coast. In the early 1970s, a US Navy DC-3 came down in bad weather onto black sand. All members of the crew escaped unscathed, but the plane was left where it landed. Today it’s a fascinating and photogenic magnet for travellers. Our tours combine an ATV ride out to the wreck with other nearby sights including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.

Myrdalsjökull ice cap provides a year-round playground for adventure enthusiasts, with snowmobile tours available in all seasons. Another fantastic option is kayaking on the glacial lagoon of Sólheimajökull, though this activity is only offered from late spring to early autumn, when the water is not frozen.

All these activities are available at the Adventure Ground and are easily accessible via our South Coast Adventure Bus.

The Highlands: Landmannalaugar and Þórsmork

Summer opens up the possibility of visiting Iceland’s Highlands region. Effectively this part of the country is closed in winter to all but super jeeps and similarly modified vehicles. There are a few huts and hotels, but in general it’s an unspoilt wilderness that’s irresistible to hikers seeking solitude amidst extraordinary scenery.

This part of the country is criss-crossed by F-roads; they’re characterised by gravel surfaces and, often, crater-like potholes. Some also ford streams and rivers, so driving on these roads can be extremely challenging even if you’ve rented a high clearance 4x4. It’s no understatement to say that you’ll need to be confident behind the wheel for this not to be a stressful way to spend your holiday.

However in summer, we operate a Highland bus service that shuttles between the capital and Landmannalaugar . Typically during the summer months there’s one departure in each direction per day, giving travellers around 4 hours to hike nearby to see the colourful rhyolite mountains and take a dip in the geothermal People’s Pool.

A separate bus connects the city to Þórsmork . This place is a wonderful, verdant oasis with its own microclimate. Hikers love its pretty gorges and valleys; locals sometimes bring a picnic. From May to September our bus leaves early in the morning, but in peak season we offer a second departure which potentially stretches your time here so you can adopt a more relaxed pace.

For a more comfortable and exclusive experience, consider booking a Super Jeep tour or Private tour. Unlike the Highland bus, which serves as a transfer, these tours are comprehensive, featuring multiple stops, guided hikes, and a flexible itinerary to maximize the enjoyment of all guests.

Short Trip to Iceland: Essential Tips & 3-Day Itinerary to Maximize Your Adventure

If you’ve been putting off coming to Iceland because you’re short on holiday leave, we have good news. You can still have a vacation packed with activities and memorable experiences even if you’re only able to spare a few days. In this Iceland travel guide, we’ll show you how, with advice on what tours to book , what not to miss and how to streamline your plans to ensure that you’ll be getting the most out of a short trip to Iceland.

Learn about how maximise your travel experience on a short trip to Iceland

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Like the Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is sometimes dubbed Iceland in a Nutshell. This scenic region of West Iceland crams a lot into a relatively small area; its diverse landscapes comprise mountains, glaciers and spectacular coastal scenery. While it’s a popular diversion from the ring road or a stepping stone to the Westfjords via ferry, it’s possible to take a day tour from Reykjavik and see the highlights.

We offer our Wonders of Snæfellsnes National Park tour year-round. The stops have been carefully curated to showcase the area’s beauty. Its striking coast has been sculpted by the sea into arches, stacks and stumps, while the black sand of Djúpalónssandur is a match for anything you’ll see along the South Coast.

To the west you’ll discover Snæfellsjökull National Park, boasting a breathtaking glacier. If you’re fit enough, it’s possible to summit Snæfellsjökull. Climbing up this glacier-clad dormant volcano is a formidable challenge, but the sense of achievement if you can complete this hike, not to mention the views from the top, make it worth the effort.

This part of Iceland was the setting for the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth and much of it still retains a mysterious quality deeply rooted in folklore. One of the advantages of taking a tour over driving yourself is the opportunity to learn about this aspect of the Icelandic culture along the way.

Come in summer especially and wildlife-spotting opportunities abound. Sea birds migrate here to best and rear their chicks. Depending on the season, there’s also a chance you’ll witness seals hauled out on the beaches, whales swimming offshore or even an Arctic fox scurrying about. Perhaps the most highly anticipated stop on the tour is at Kirkjufell. This iconic mountain is said to be the most photographed in Iceland. Certainly, with the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall tumbling down in front of it, you’ll easily see its appeal to snappers and selfie-takers.

The Reykjanes Peninsula

Perhaps the easiest day trip from Reykjavik is to nearby Reykjanes. Even at its furthest point, the wild south western tip of the peninsula is barely an hour’s drive from the capital. Until relatively recently, this part of Iceland has been surprisingly overlooked by visitors keen to get to Reykjavik and beyond, with the notable exception of visits to the legendary Blue Lagoon , the peninsula’s luxury geothermal spa.

The 2021 eruption of Fagradalsfjall – and the ongoing volcanic activity that’s intermittently kicked off ever since – has changed all that, capturing media attention worldwide with its dazzling magma fountains and rivers of lava. As this is an ongoing eruption, the situation changes frequently, but generally speaking, tourists can access previous flows to get a sense of the scale of this event.

If you have a keen interest in geography and geology, then consider our Volcanic Wonders of Reykjanes Geopark tour . This day trip from Reykjavik concentrates on the landforms that are found as a result of being so close to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, beginning with Fagradalsfjall before moving on to the Bridge between Continents where the two plate boundaries are pulling apart, leaving a tear in the earth. You’ll see how the tectonic and geothermal processes continue as you admire Gunnuhver, Iceland’s largest mud pool, and (when accessible) the solfataras and fumaroles of Seltún.

Practical Tips to Consider When Planning Day Trips from Reykjavik

Plan to mix sightseeing with experiences

With so many extraordinary places to see within easy reach of Reykjavik, choosing which to leave out of a crowded itinerary can be the tricky part. So that you don’t overload yourself with sightseeing, try to balance the time you spend seeing things with time doing things. We offer a plethora of activities, so you should easily be able to find some that you’ll really enjoy.

Factor in time for weather-related issues

Though Iceland’s weather can be changeable year-round, at times it can cause a headache for travel planning, especially during the winter months. All reputable tour companies will be fully aware of road closures that might impact your itinerary, but if you’ve chosen to self-drive it’s really important that you stay abreast of the current situation as regards the weather and the condition of the roads.

You can be more ambitious with distances in summer

During the Icelandic summer, days are long and there’s plenty of light. That means you can cover a bit more ground when it comes to sightseeing, particularly if you choose to book one of our carbon neutral coach tours so that you don’t have to factor in driver fatigue. In practice, this opens up more of the south coast for day trips from Reykjavik so long as you have the stamina to keep going.

Dress for the weather

Even on a day tour, it’s really important to dress for the conditions. Layers are your friend, as they can be pulled on or off as the temperature rises or falls. Wind chill can also have quite an effect, so a close-fitting hat and windproof jacket is also advisable. If it rains, stay dry with a waterproof jacket and trousers rather than relying on an umbrella. Decent footwear with a thick tread will help you stay sure-footed in the countryside. And perhaps most important of all: pack a swimsuit for Iceland’s amazing geothermal pools and lagoons.

Work out where you’re going to eat

If you’re heading out into the Icelandic countryside on an organised tour from Reykjavik, the stops will have been planned to include a lunch break. If you’re travelling independently, you’ll want to research your options, but if all else fails gas stations often sell decent food. Here are some suggestions for three major areas popular with day-trippers:

• If you’re tackling the Golden Circle, possibilities include the café beside Geysir Geothermal Area, the tomato-centric menu from Friðheimar’s greenhouse restaurant and freshly baked bread topped with smoked trout from Laugarvatn Fontana.

• Vik, midway along the South Coast, is where you’ll find the densest concentrations of eateries including a black crust pizzeria and characterful pub. Street food carts operate from the car park at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, while there’s a characterful food hall in downtown Selfoss. If you’re a fan of langoustines, it’s worth the detour to Stokkseyri.

• For those planning to explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula, Geirabakarí Kaffihús on the outskirts of Borgarnes makes a convenient pitstop for coffee and pastries. A number of good eateries can be found in Stykkisholmur, while Arnarstapi and Hellnar are probably your best bets on the opposite side of the peninsula.

Whether you plan to take one of our carbon-neutral tours or opt for a more flexible self-drive itinerary, don’t miss out on the chance of seeing some of the Icelandic countryside beyond the capital. With such a huge choice of day trips from Reykjavik, we hope this travel guide has given you plenty of food for thought.

Top 10 Attractions in Iceland: Your Complete Guide

In this article, discover the very best of Iceland. You’ll learn about the national parks and the waterfalls that offer some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, as well as the cities and spas that shouldn’t be missed.

While we’re here, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions visitors have when planning their Iceland trip. Get ready to be inspired.

Read our blog post about the top 10 attractions in Iceland

Questions and Answers about Day Tours from Reykjavík

What are the best day trips in Iceland?

Some of the best day trips from Reykjavik include:

• The Golden Circle: Featuring Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• The South Coast: Highlights include Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Sólheimajökull glacier.
• The Highlands: Landmannalaugar and Þórsmork, accessible mainly in summer.
• The Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Known for its diverse landscapes, including Snæfellsjökull glacier and Kirkjufell mountain.
• The Reykjanes Peninsula: Famous for the Blue Lagoon and the volcanic wonders of Reykjanes Geopark.

Can you do a day trip from Reykjavík? Yes, you can easily do day trips from Reykjavík. The city is well-positioned for various excursions, whether you prefer to self-drive or book a guided tour. Many attractions are within a few hours' drive, making it convenient to explore different parts of Iceland and return to Reykjavik by evening.

Are guided tours in Iceland worth it? Guided tours in Iceland are often worth it for several reasons:

• Convenience: They handle all the logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights.
• Expert Knowledge: Guides provide valuable insights into the geology, history, and culture of Iceland.
• Safety: Especially in winter, guided tours ensure you travel safely on potentially hazardous roads.
• Access to Remote Areas: Some tours use specialized vehicles to access areas that might be difficult to reach on your own.

How many days is enough for Reykjavík? While you can get a taste of Reykjavik in a day or two, staying for 3-4 days allows you to explore the city and take several day trips to see the surrounding natural wonders. For a more comprehensive Iceland experience, consider staying a week, which provides ample time to enjoy Reykjavik and venture out on multiple excursions.

Should I base myself in Reykjavik for my Iceland holiday? Reykjavik offers the largest concentration of visitor attractions, shops, and eateries. It's a convenient base for day trips to explore various regions of Iceland.

Should I rent a car or book a tour for day trips from Reykjavik? Both options have advantages. Renting a car offers flexibility, while tours provide convenience and allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long does a typical Golden Circle tour take? A direct tour can be completed in 6 to 7 hours. Adding extra activities can extend the duration.

What additional activities can I combine with a Golden Circle tour? Popular add-ons include visiting geothermal spas like Laugarvatn Fontana, Blue Lagoon, or Sky Lagoon, and exploring Hvammsvik Hot Springs or Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel.

Can I see the Northern Lights on a Golden Circle tour? Yes, some tours combine Golden Circle sightseeing with a Northern Lights tour in the evening.

Are ice cave tours available on the South Coast? Yes, tours to Mýrdalsjökull glacier's ice caves and the blue ice caves near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are popular options.

What activities can I pair with a South Coast tour? Options include visiting Eyjafjallajökull, exploring Sólheimajökull glacier, and taking an ATV ride to the Sólheimasandur plane wreck.

How can I reach the Highlands from Reykjavik? In summer, you can take a Highland bus service to Landmannalaugar or Þórsmork.

Can I take a day tour to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik? Yes, there are year-round day tours available.

How should I dress for day trips from Reykjavik? Dress in layers, wear a windproof jacket, waterproof trousers, and decent footwear. Don't forget a swimsuit for geothermal pools and lagoons.

What should I consider when planning meals during day trips? Research dining options in advance, especially if traveling independently. Some tours include planned lunch breaks at local eateries.

How can I prepare for weather-related issues? Stay informed about weather conditions and road closures, especially in winter. Tour companies typically monitor these factors, but self-drivers should be vigilant.