Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with optional Blue Lagoon

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, a tour of the Golden Circle is often high on the list. It’s a classic route that packs in some of the country’s most iconic sights, and there are plenty of options to choose from. We’ve looked into one popular choice — the Golden Circle Day Tour offered by Rvk Sightseeing — to see if it’s the right fit for your Iceland adventure.

What immediately caught our attention is how highly rated this tour is, with a ratings score of 4.6 from over 800 reviews. That kind of feedback suggests most travelers get their money’s worth. We love that it includes admission to key sights like Geysir and Gullfoss, plus a visit to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oh, and for those wanting to unwind after the sightseeing, there’s an option to include the Blue Lagoon — a real treat.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day experience, lasting between 7.5 to 13 hours depending on your pickup and stops. That’s quite a stretch if you’re not used to long tours, but if you like packed days and comfortable transportation, it could be perfect. Some travelers mention that the timing at each stop is well-managed, but others note it can feel a little rushed — so if you’re someone who prefers slow, unhurried exploration, plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning, especially if you prefer guided experiences with informative commentary. It’s also a good choice if you value comfort, as the bus is equipped with WiFi, USB chargers, and an audio guide in multiple languages, making the long day a little easier.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss with optional Blue Lagoon.
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi, USB chargers, and audio guides in several languages.
• Excellent value for money at $76 per person, including entry fees to major sights.
• Highly rated experience with genuine positive reviews praising guides and scenery.
• Timing and pace vary, so be prepared for a full, possibly rushed, day.
• Good for those wanting educational and scenic highlights without heavy planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Golden Circle Tour

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins with a pick-up from your Reykjavik accommodation or designated meeting point. From there, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus that whisks you away to Iceland’s natural wonders. The entire day is structured with several key stops, each offering its own unique appeal.

First Stop: Þingvellir National Park
This UNESCO site is more than just a pretty view. It’s the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, and it sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The rift valley is visible and creates dramatic landscapes. Travelers find this area fascinating, with many appreciating the opportunity to walk through history and geology alike. One review noted that they loved the time dedicated to taking photos and exploring this site, which makes it feel less rushed.

Next: Geysir Hot Springs Area
Here, Geysir itself is often dormant, but the star of the show is Strokkur Geyser, which erupts regularly every few minutes, shooting steaming water up to 30 meters high. The tour usually allows about an hour for this stop, giving ample time for photos and watching the natural spectacle. Reviewers appreciated the spectacular eruptions and the informative commentary from guides. Families and those interested in geology tend to enjoy this stop especially.

Then: Gullfoss Waterfall
This powerful cascade drops 32 meters in two tiers, creating a thunderous roar and a mist that adds to the magic. Visitors often say they’re blown away by its scale and beauty. With about an hour allocated here, you’ll have enough time to walk around and soak in the views. One reviewer called it “the most spectacular waterfall,” and many mention the great photo opportunities.

The Long Drive Back & Optional Blue Lagoon
The tour concludes with a long drive back to Reykjavík, but there’s an option to add a visit to the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s famous geothermal spa. This is a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing, especially if you choose the package that includes it. Keep in mind, the Blue Lagoon is not included in the base price, so you’ll pay extra if you want to unwind in the warm waters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The transportation experience is a highlight, especially since each seat is equipped with a USB port, WiFi, and an audio guide. Several reviews mention the comfort of the bus and the helpfulness of the guides, which can make a long day much more pleasant.

The guides seem to be well-informed and engaging, with one review praising a guide for being “a walking encyclopedia of Iceland.” Many mention that the narration added depth and context to each location, making the experience more enriching.

How Good is the Value?

At $76 per person, considering it includes transportation, entry fees, WiFi, and audio guides, this tour offers solid value. Travelers often find it to be worth the price, especially as it covers the main attractions in a single, well-organized day. Reviews frequently highlight the quality of the stops and the guides, and many say it exceeds their expectations for the price.

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Potential Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, a few guests mention that the timing can be tight, especially at Geysir and Gullfoss. One visitor pointed out that lunch was somewhat brief, which might be a concern if you’re eager to explore at your own pace or want a more relaxed experience.

Another consideration is that the tour lasts up to 13 hours, which can be tiring if you’re not used to long days on your feet or sitting in a bus. Also, the Blue Lagoon is an optional add-on, so if relaxing in a hot spring is a priority, you’ll need to budget extra and plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a great fit for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of independent planning. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those with limited time but eager to see the highlights.

If you appreciate guided commentary, comfortable transport, and a schedule that covers major sights efficiently, this is a solid choice. It’s also attractive for those who want a good balance of sightseeing and comfort, with WiFi and USB ports making the long bus ride more enjoyable.

While not the best for those seeking a slow, unhurried experience or wanting to explore each location extensively at their own pace, it’s ideal for visitors who enjoy a structured, educational, and scenic day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children up to 11 years old can join for free, and ages 12-15 receive a 50% discount, making it family-friendly. Keep in mind the full-day length might be tiring for very young kids.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers admission to Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, round-trip transportation, WiFi, USB chargers, and an audio guide in multiple languages. If you choose the Blue Lagoon option, that’s extra.

How long does the tour last?
It runs between 7.5 and 13 hours, depending on the starting time and stops. Expect a full day with multiple sightseeing pauses and a long bus ride.

Can I join the tour if I don’t stay in Reykjavik?
Pickup is available from most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses within the city. It’s best to select the nearest bus stop or hotel if your accommodation isn’t directly served, as pickups aren’t available from Airbnbs or private residences.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. There are shops at Geysir and Gullfoss where you can buy snacks or drinks, but you may want to bring your own if you prefer a specific kind of food.

What if I miss the pickup?
If you don’t see the bus at your pickup point, the tour provider recommends contacting them for assistance. In case of missing your scheduled pickup, they mention that you can usually be rescheduled for the next available trip, but it’s best to coordinate early.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Golden Circle Day Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, history, and geothermal activity. It’s a reliable choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without worrying about logistics, and many seem to agree the experience is worth the price.

Expect a well-organized day with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport, making it easier to focus on the scenery. The stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss are all picture-perfect moments that will stick with you long after your trip. The optional Blue Lagoon adds a relaxing end to a busy day, if you’re up for it.

While the tour can feel a bit rushed at times, especially if you love to linger, it’s an excellent way to tick off Iceland’s must-see sights in one go. Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience.

If you’re okay with a full schedule and want to maximize your sightseeing, this tour could be just what you need to make your Iceland trip memorable — with plenty of great reviews backing it up.

You can check availability for your dates here: