Golden Circle and Lunch at Fridheimar Tomato Farm – with photos

If you’re planning a visit to Iceland, the Golden Circle is pretty much a must-see. This tour, offered by Adventure Vikings, promises a cozy, small-group experience hitting all the main sights—Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss—with a tasty twist: a lunch at the famous Fridheimar tomato farm. We’ve looked into this experience, and it seems like a solid choice for those who want to skip the hassle of driving and prefer to relax and soak in the sights with a guided touch.

What really catches the eye is that this tour limits groups to just 12 travelers, which means fewer crowds, more personal attention, and plenty of time to take photos and ask questions. Plus, the included lunch at Fridheimar, where you can enjoy everything from tomato soup to homemade bread, is often praised for its freshness and flavor. A convenient pickup from many points in Reykjavik makes getting started easy, especially if you’re staying downtown.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s a full-day tour, lasting around 7 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy itinerary and don’t mind being on the move. Also, the tour doesn’t include specific clothing or shoes, so sensible outdoor wear is a good idea. This tour seems like a balanced mix of sightseeing, education, and local flavor—ideal if you want a guided experience that covers the highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’re interested in a well-organized, small-group trip that packs in the key sights and delicious food, this could be right up your alley. Let’s break down what makes it a worthwhile choice—and where it might fall short.

• Small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Includes transportation and lunch, simplifying your day and ensuring good value.
• Focuses on iconic sites like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, perfect for first-timers.
• Delicious, farm-fresh lunch at Fridheimar, with options like tomato soup or pizza.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind if your plans change.
• Good for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without driving or planning every detail.

Starting in Reykjavik: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off around 10:01 am with pickup from various points in Reykjavik, including hotels. This is a big plus—no fussing with rental cars or complicated public transit. The transportation is comfortable, and with just 12 travelers max, the vibe stays intimate. The group size is ideal for asking questions, taking photos, or just enjoying the scenery without feeling like a herd.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park

Our first stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO site where history and geology intertwine. Here, the Althing, the oldest parliament in the world, was established around the year 930. But what truly makes this spot special is that it’s where the North American and European tectonic plates meet, visibly pulling apart and creating dramatic landscapes.

We love the way this site combines natural beauty with a sense of history. The 45-minute stop gives you enough time to walk around, snap photos, and absorb the atmosphere. The included admission ensures no extra costs here, and guides often share interesting stories about the area’s significance.

Witnessing Geysir’s Eruption

Next, we head to Haukadalur, home to the famous Geysir and Strokkur. Here, you’ll get a front-row seat to hot springs erupting and bubbling—the perfect moment for those iconic photos. With about 45 minutes at this geothermal area, you can stroll around, enjoy a coffee or snack, and watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes.

The fact that the admission is free makes this stop not only exciting but also budget-friendly. You’ll appreciate having a guide who can tell you about the geothermal activity and Iceland’s volcanic landscape, giving context to the natural spectacle.

The Power of Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, often called Iceland’s most famous waterfall, is next. The two-tiered cascade plunges into the Hvítá River, creating a thunderous, awe-inspiring sight. We love how the waterfall looks equally impressive whether it’s summer or winter—nature’s drama at its finest.

The stop here lasts around 25 minutes, enough for a quick walk, some photos, and a sense of the raw power of Iceland’s landscapes. The included admission makes this straightforward, and guides often share insights about the geology and history of Gullfoss.

Lunch at Fridheimar: A Tomato-Filled Feast

After soaking in the sights, it’s time for a highlight: lunch at Fridheimar, a renowned greenhouse farm powered by renewable energy. The farm’s tomato crop is sustainably farmed, and the restaurant offers a range of delicious options like tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza.

Guests rave about the freshness and flavor of the food, often calling it one of the best meals in Iceland. The bread is homemade, and you can buy local desserts and drinks to finish off your meal. If you’re lucky, you might even meet and pet an Icelandic horse on your way out—an adorable bonus.

The 1 hour 15 minutes allocated for lunch strikes a good balance between sitting down to enjoy the meal and getting back on the road. The included admission here means you can relax without worrying about extra costs.

Optional Icelandic Horse Encounter

While not guaranteed, many travelers mention encountering and petting the adorable Icelandic horses on their way out of Fridheimar. These horses are a symbol of Icelandic culture, and if you love animals, it’s a nice added touch.

Wrapping Up the Day

The tour concludes with a drop-off in Reykjavik. The entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, is designed to be as smooth as possible, which is especially appreciated after a full day of sightseeing.

This experience is especially suited for those who want to see the highlights of the Golden Circle without the stress of driving or planning. The small-group setting means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, while the included transportation makes logistics a breeze. Plus, the lunch at Fridheimar adds a unique flavor to your trip, offering a taste of local sustainable farming.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who appreciate a mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences—combining iconic sights with local food and a bit of Icelandic charm. The tour’s price, at $179 per person, is quite reasonable considering the inclusions, especially when compared to the cost of separate tickets or self-guided options.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The full-day duration requires some stamina, but the pace is relaxed.
• This tour suits those who enjoy guided experiences and minimal planning.
• You’ll want comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the stops involve walking outdoors.
• The tour is operated by Adventure Vikings, a reputable provider with positive reviews, including a standout 5-star rating.

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, this experience offers a lot of value. The small group size makes it more personal, while the key stops—Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss—are classic for a reason. The lunch at Fridheimar adds a special local touch that’s often praised for its quality and ambiance.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to do a lot in one day without the hassle of getting around alone. It’s perfect if you’re keen on memorable photos, learning from knowledgeable guides, and enjoying Icelandic flavors. While it might not be suited for those seeking a very relaxed or unstructured day, it hits just the right notes for most visitors.

This experience balances sightseeing, cultural insight, and delicious food—making it a solid choice that many travelers seem to genuinely enjoy.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides two-way transportation from many points in Reykjavik, including hotels, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Do I need to bring my own food or tickets?
No, all tickets for Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir are included, as well as the lunch at Fridheimar. Just bring your camera, some weather-appropriate clothing, and a positive attitude.

What kind of lunch is served?
The included late lunch features options like tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza, all made with fresh, farm-grown tomatoes. You can also buy local desserts and drinks.

Can I expect to pet animals?
While not guaranteed, many travelers report the chance to pet and meet Icelandic horses on their way out of Fridheimar.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the stops and activities are generally suitable for most travelers, including those traveling with children who enjoy outdoor sights and animals.

Do I need special shoes or clothing?
No specific gear is included, so wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather, as the stops involve outdoor walking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 91 days ahead, so it’s a good idea to reserve early to secure your spot.

If this sounds like the kind of Iceland adventure you want—focused on iconic sights, cozy group size, and delicious local flavors—this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural charm, all in one day.