Golden Circle with Lunch & Blue Lagoon Transfer (Up to 8 p.)

Discovering Iceland’s Golden Circle with a Comfortable, All-Inclusive Day Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Reykjavik to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, a Golden Circle tour with lunch and Blue Lagoon transfer could very well be your best bet. I’ve looked into this experience, and it sounds like a well-rounded way to tick off the must-see landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. What caught my eye? The promise of unlimited time at each stop—so you can really soak in the scenery—and the inclusion of a delicious homemade tomato soup at a greenhouse farm, which adds a cozy, local flavor.

One of the things we especially appreciate about this tour is the comfortable private van with WiFi and snacks onboard. Long drives can drag, but having WiFi means you can share moments or just catch up on some music. Plus, the carefully curated itinerary covers all the highlights—Geysir, Gullfoss, Thingvellir, Kerid crater, and more—and ends with a soothing soak in the Blue Lagoon, giving you a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this experience is quite full, clocking in around 11 hours including transportation and activities. If you’re not the type to enjoy a packed schedule or prefer to take things slower, it might feel a bit rushed, especially at some stops. But for those who want to see a lot in one day without sacrificing comfort, this tour is a solid choice.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day that hits all the Icelandic highlights and includes a luxurious end to the day. It’s especially good if you prefer a more intimate, private experience rather than a crowded group tour.

Key Points

• Private, comfortable transportation with WiFi makes the long day easier and more enjoyable.
• Inclusive lunch at Fridheimar tomato greenhouse offers a tasty, unique meal—try the tomato soup.
• Flexible timing at each attraction lets you explore without feeling rushed.
• Coverage of all major sights like Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir ensures you see the best of the Golden Circle.
• Blue Lagoon entry not included in the price, so budget for that separately.
• The tour runs around 11 hours, fitting in transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Golden Circle Day

This tour kicks off early from Reykjavik, with a pickup at your hotel. From there, the journey begins in a luxurious van equipped with WiFi, snacks, and bottled water—a small but thoughtful touch that keeps everyone comfortable and connected. We loved how the onboard amenities make the day feel more like a leisurely adventure rather than a hurried bus trip.

First Stop: Kerid Crater

Your first official sightseeing stop is the Kerid volcanic crater. This striking, vividly colored caldera is a favorite for many travelers. You get about 30 minutes here, enough to walk around and snap some photos, but don’t expect to spend hours—it’s a quick stop that gives a real sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity. I’ve read reviews where visitors appreciated the opportunity to take in the vivid reds and greens of the crater, and some said it’s a nice, less crowded alternative to the more popular sites.

Second Stop: Fridheimar Tomato Farm

Next, you’ll visit Fridheimar, a famous tomato greenhouse. Here, you’re invited inside for a 40-minute tour and a chance to try the homemade tomato soup with fresh baguette—a highlight for many. We find that tasting local, farm-to-table food like this really enhances the experience and makes it more memorable. The farm is also quite picturesque, with rows of tomato plants and a cozy vibe. Some reviews mention that the soup is simple but very flavorful, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Then it’s off to Geysir, the area that gave all geysers their name. You’ll have around 45 minutes here to walk, watch the eruptions, and soak in the bubbling geothermal activity. The famous Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water into the air—spectacular and fun to watch. Travelers highlight the impressive natural force, but note that it can get crowded, especially during peak times.

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Gullfoss Waterfall

From Geysir, it’s a short drive to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. With about 45 minutes here, you can get close to the falls, take in the roaring water, and capture some stunning photos. Many visitors find the power of Gullfoss awe-inspiring, and its position within the canyon makes for some dramatic views. Some reviews mention that the walkways can be slippery if it’s wet, so sturdy shoes are advised.

Thingvellir National Park

Next, you’re off to Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk around the rift valley—the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Spending about 45 minutes here allows for a good look around, with some walking involved. It’s both scenic and historically important, and many find it a meaningful stop. The view of the Almannagjá gorge is particularly striking.

Transfer and Relaxation

After these busy sightseeing stops, it’s time to head toward the Blue Lagoon for a two-hour swim. The transfer from the Golden Circle to the Blue Lagoon takes around 100 minutes, giving you a chance to relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters and unwind after a day of exploring. Many reviews mention how soothing the Blue Lagoon is, especially after a full day of sightseeing. Keep in mind, though, that entry to the Blue Lagoon is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to book your ticket separately.

Return to Reykjavik

Following the lagoon, the journey back to Reykjavik is approximately 1.5 hours, wrapping up your full-day adventure. We appreciate that this schedule maximizes your time and minimizes waiting, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free.

The Value in the Details

When considering the $1,481 price per group of up to three people, it’s worth noting what’s included: private driver-guide, all entry tickets to Kerid and Thingvellir, parking fees, WiFi, snacks, and a delicious tomato soup lunch. The tour’s value lies in the convenience and comfort—no need to worry about navigating or waiting in line, and you get to do everything at your own pace.

However, the Blue Lagoon entry isn’t included, which could add to your costs, but many travelers find that pre-booking a ticket is worth it for a seamless experience. The full-day duration of about 11 hours means you’ll be out and about for most of the daylight hours, so packing comfortable shoes and layers is wise.

The Experience

Travelers have shared that the tour offers a nice balance of activity and downtime. The stops are well-spaced, allowing enough time to explore and enjoy each site without feeling overwhelmed. The onboard amenities—snacks, WiFi, water—are appreciated, especially on longer drives. The chance to try the tomato soup in a greenhouse adds a fun, local touch that makes the trip more than just sightseeing.

Some reviews mention that the tour is particularly suited for those wanting to see the best of Iceland in a day without the stress of organizing multiple bookings. The private aspect means it feels more exclusive and personal, ideal for couples or small groups.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are positive, the long driving hours might not suit everyone. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has mobility issues, the full schedule might feel a bit exhausting. Also, since the Blue Lagoon entry isn’t included, it’s something to plan ahead for.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable way to see Iceland’s highlights in one day. It’s especially valuable if you prefer a private, intimate setting over large bus groups. The tour’s flexibility at each site makes it enjoyable for those who like to take their time, and the inclusion of a good-quality meal at Fridheimar adds a unique touch.

It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a hassle-free, well-organized day that combines nature, history, and relaxation. If you’re okay with a full schedule and want to maximize your Iceland experience, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops—like Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir—are generally family-friendly. Just keep in mind the long hours and outdoor walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a guided driver, entry tickets to Kerid and Thingvellir, parking, WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and a homemade tomato soup lunch.

Do I need to pay extra for the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon entry is not included in the tour price, so you will need to book and pay for your ticket separately.

How long is the total tour?
The entire trip lasts about 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and the Blue Lagoon relaxation.

Can I customize the schedule?
The itinerary provides specific timings at each site, but the tour allows for unlimited time at each attraction, so you can explore at your own pace within the scheduled stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, a camera, and any personal items you might need during outdoor walks.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, the van is equipped with WiFi, so you can share photos or stay connected.

Are meals included?
Only the tomato soup with baguette at Fridheimar is included. Other meals, like dinner or additional snacks, are not covered.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot in advance through the provider, Iceland Odyssey, and it’s flexible—if plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

This Golden Circle tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, local flavor, and relaxation, tailored for those who want to get the most out of their Iceland day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you’re looking for a private, thoughtfully curated experience that hits all the highlights and ends with a soothing soak, this could be just the right choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: