From Reykjavík: Best of Iceland 6-Day Stopover Tour

If you’re considering a quick but comprehensive introduction to Iceland, this 6-day stopover tour offers a solid mix of major highlights and optional experiences. While I haven’t personally done this exact trip, I’ve reviewed many similar Iceland itineraries and can tell you that it’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of everything without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the central location of the hotel in Reykjavík means you’re close to the city’s cafes, arts scene, and lively streets. Second, the option to chase the Northern Lights adds that extra magic for winter visitors. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some stops can be brief—around 30-40 minutes—which might leave you wishing for more time at certain sights.

This tour is best for those who want a flexible, well-rounded Iceland experience with options for relaxation (like the Blue Lagoon) and adventure (like the South Coast). If you’re after a guided overview that balances sightseeing and personal exploration, it could be just right.

Key Points

• Central Reykjavík hotel: Perfect for easy access to city sights and dining options.
• Golden Circle tour: A must-see route with Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss.
• Optional Northern Lights: Available in darker months, with expert guides finding the best spots.
• Flexible optional activities: Blue Lagoon, South Coast tour, Reykjavík Food Tour—choose what suits your interest and schedule.
• Short stop durations: Be prepared for quick visits—mostly 30-40 minutes at each site.
• Balanced approach: Combines cultural highlights and natural wonders for a well-rounded trip.
• Family-friendly considerations: Blue Lagoon now allows children under 2, but check individual activity requirements.
• Group size & comfort: Accommodation is shared based on your booking, with options for singles and triples.
• Flexible booking & cancellations: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Arrival & First Night in Reykjavík

Landing in Iceland, you’ll make your way to your hotel in Reykjavík, which is centrally located. The hotel details are provided after booking, and because city regulations restrict direct hotel pickups in some cases, you might need to meet nearby at a bus stop. This isn’t a big deal, but it’s good to be aware of.

Staying in the heart of Reykjavík means you can kick off your trip with some spontaneous exploring—maybe a cozy café or a stroll through the colorful streets. The hotel’s location really helps set the tone for a relaxed start.

Day 2: Golden Circle & Northern Lights (Optional)

The classic Golden Circle is the big draw here. This guided tour takes you through Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site where you can walk between tectonic plates—something you’ll remember. Then to Geysir, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes, giving you plenty of photo opportunities. Finally, the stunning Gullfoss waterfall offers a thunderous display of nature’s power.

A key feature: if you’re visiting in winter, there’s an optional Northern Lights trip. Guides monitor weather and aurora activity, leading you away from city lights for the best chance to see the dancing skies. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was “funny, nice, and interesting,” adding a personal touch to an already memorable route.

Day 3: Blue Lagoon or Free Day

The Blue Lagoon is an option you might love if you’re after relaxation. Included in the upgrade, it features a return transfer, a mud mask, towel, and a drink—perfect for unwinding after travel or sightseeing. However, since this is an optional add-on, you could skip it if you’re more eager to move on or spend your time elsewhere.

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Day 4: South Coast Adventure (Optional)

For those who want to see more of Iceland’s rugged beauty, the South Coast tour is a highlight. It covers Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, both dramatic and photogenic. You’ll also visit the black sands of Reynisfjara, famous for its basalt columns and crashing waves. Glaciers and volcanoes line the route, offering breathtaking views.

One traveler mentioned that this day trip showcases “glaciers, waterfalls, and black beaches,” which are some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. The downside? It’s a full day, so expect a long bus ride, and be prepared for brief stops—about 30-40 minutes at each site.

Day 5: Reykjavík Food Tour or Free Exploration

Food lovers will enjoy the Reykjavík Food Tour, a walking experience where you taste local dishes like lamb soup, skyr, and fermented shark. It’s a flavorful way to learn about Icelandic cuisine from knowledgeable guides. If food isn’t your thing, or if you’re eager to explore more on your own, you can spend the day wandering the city or visiting other sites.

Day 6: Departure

Time to pack up and head to Keflavík International Airport. Simple, straightforward, and time to start planning your next trip!

What Reviewers Say

One guest from Latvia appreciated their guide Gunnar R., calling him “funny, nice, and interesting,” which hints at the value of good local guides. However, the same reviewer pointed out that the short stops—around 30-40 minutes—could make it tough to fully enjoy each site, especially with a larger group. They also mentioned skipping certain excursions like the Sunhnukur volcano and Kerið crater due to time constraints and cloudy weather preventing the Northern Lights.

Another reviewer from the US loved the timeliness and clarity of communication, making the experience smooth. Despite a few missed opportunities, overall they called it a “great experience,” which speaks to the reliability of the tour.

The Value for Money

Considering the included attractions and optional upgrades, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see Iceland’s highlights with a guided touch. The flexibility to add experiences like the Blue Lagoon or South Coast tour means you can tailor your trip to your preferences, though you’ll want to consider the extra costs.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

The tour uses group transport, which keeps things communal but also means you’ll want to be comfortable with bus travel. The duration varies, but expect full days—especially if you add optional tours like the South Coast or Blue Lagoon. The hotel options are centrally located, which is a big plus for easy city access.

Since the tour operates on specific days (e.g., Golden Circle on Tuesdays and Saturdays), your schedule might need some flexibility. The option to reserve now and pay later adds an extra layer of convenience, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before ensures you can adjust if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a balanced overview of Iceland without too much planning or hassle, this tour hits the mark. It’s good for first-timers or those with limited time who still want to see major sights. The flexible options make it suitable for adventure seekers and food lovers alike.

Travelers who value guides with local knowledge and organized logistics will find this arrangement stress-free. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace at each site or want to spend hours exploring one landmark, you might feel a bit rushed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
The Blue Lagoon now allows children under 2, so families with very young kids could consider it. However, the itinerary’s full-day excursions and bus rides might be better suited for older children and teens.

Are the optional tours included in the price?
No, they are upgrades you can book in advance, like the Blue Lagoon or South Coast tour. You’ll want to factor these into your budget.

How does the Northern Lights tour work?
It’s available only in certain months (from September 1 to April 15). Guides monitor weather and aurora forecasts and lead you to the best viewing spots away from city lights.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most stops are around 30-40 minutes, which is enough for photos and quick exploration but not for in-depth visits. If you’re hoping to spend hours at one site, this might not be ideal.

Can I customize my experience?
Yes, by choosing which optional activities to add, you can tailor your trip to what interests you most.

What if I cancel last minute?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation comfortable?
It’s group transport, typically with a guide, but specifics about bus comfort aren’t detailed. Expect standard group tour conditions.

What time does the tour usually start?
Check availability for starting times; the tour duration is 6 days, and each day has a set schedule.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Swimwear is recommended for the Blue Lagoon, and if you’re visiting in winter, warm clothing is essential for colder outdoor stops.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Iceland tour offers a practical way to see the country’s highlights, blending guided excursions with optional personalized experiences. The focus on major sights like the Golden Circle and the chance to see the Northern Lights makes it appealing for those new to Iceland or travelers with limited time.

We loved the way it balances cultural and natural wonders, offering flexibility in how you spend your days. The guided aspect ensures you’ll get insights from knowledgeable locals, which can make a big difference in understanding and appreciating the landscape and history.

That said, keep in mind the brief stop durations—if you’re someone who likes to linger at each site or take detailed photos, you might find yourself wanting more time. It’s also worth considering your budget for the optional extras—while Blue Lagoon and South Coast tours are great additions, they do add to the total cost.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy structured days with some room for exploration and are comfortable with group travel. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or soaking in the Blue Lagoon, you’ll come away with a memorable snapshot of Iceland’s diverse beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: