Golden Circle & Lunch at Fridheimar Tomato Farm- with photos

If you’re planning your Iceland adventure, the Golden Circle remains a must-see route—and this tour combines the classic sights with a flavorful twist at Friðheimar Tomato Farm. For $180 a person, you get around 7 hours of sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and sampling some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions. Your guide, whose knowledge is often praised, will lead you through volcanic landscapes, geysers, waterfalls, and a charming farm where you can enjoy a late lunch that highlights Icelandic ingenuity.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the small-group setting—limiting it to 12 participants means more personal attention—and the midday meal at the Tomato Farm, which is both delicious and quite unique in its setting. The farm’s fresh tomato-based dishes are a highlight, offering a cozy, farm-to-table experience that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, one potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include some of the more adventurous extras like Sky Lagoon or horse-riding, so if you’re craving those, you’ll need to arrange additional activities.

This experience suits travelers who love natural beauty but also value good food and engaging guides. It’s especially ideal for those who want a well-rounded day, mixing awe-inspiring scenery with authentic Icelandic hospitality.

• Comprehensive Golden Circle experience with iconic stops like Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss.
• Delicious late lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm, offering unlimited tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza.
• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention.
• Experienced guides provide insightful commentary and friendly service.
• Duration of 7 hours offers a thorough yet manageable day for most travelers.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users.

The Golden Circle is the backbone of many Iceland itineraries, and for good reason. It packs in some of the country’s most captivating sights, all within a manageable distance from Reykjavik. This tour, priced at $180, balances value with quality, especially considering the inclusion of a hearty farm lunch. We found the experience very accessible, with pickup from centrally located Reykjavik bus stops between 9:30 and 10:00, making it easy to plan your morning.

Starting at Þingvellir National Park

We loved the way the tour begins at Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s expansive landscapes and moss-covered rocks make for a stunning backdrop. More than just scenery, this site is the historical birthplace of Iceland’s parliament and sits right between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Walking the rift valley felt like stepping onto a living map of Earth’s geologic activity.

Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere here—probably because it’s an area that’s preserved and cared for. We appreciated the guide’s insights into the park’s significance, making it more than just a pretty view. Expect to see the Oxararfoss Waterfall and the Silfra Fissure—both photogenic highlights that showcase Iceland’s volcanic roots.

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Witnessing Geysir and Geothermal Activity

Next, the tour takes you to the Haukadalur Valley, home to Geysir and the active Strokkur geyser. You’ll see fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and the main attraction—Geysir, which, though less active today, gave its name to geysers worldwide. Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters in the air. Watching this natural spectacle is both fascinating and slightly hypnotic—this is Iceland’s geothermal energy in action.

The guide’s explanations help you understand why this area is such a geothermal hotspot, and many travelers find the timing of eruptions to be a highlight. Just be prepared for the crowds during peak times; this is one of the most visited spots on the route.

The Power of Gullfoss Waterfall

From Geysir, the tour heads to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The name means “Golden Falls,” and it’s easy to see why. The water plunges into a deep fissure from the Langjökull glacier, creating a spectacular display of power and spray. Many reviews mention the awe of standing at the edge and watching the water thunder down.

You’ll appreciate the varied viewpoints, and the guide often shares stories about the history of Gullfoss, including its role in Icelandic culture and conservation efforts. If you’re lucky, you’ll see rainbows forming in the mist—a magical sight.

The Hidden Gem: Friðheimar Tomato Farm

Perhaps the most unexpected highlight of this tour is the lunch at Friðheimar. Instead of grabbing a quick snack, you’ll sit down for a late lunch in a greenhouse filled with tomato plants. The farm is famous worldwide for its innovative use of geothermal energy to grow tomatoes year-round.

The menu offers unlimited tomato soup, ravioli, or a grilled tortilla pizza—all served with fresh, homemade bread, water, tea, and coffee. Many reviewers rave about the quality and flavor. One said, “The food was delicious, and the dining area was so unique.” It’s a cozy, warm setting that feels like a farm-to-table experience, far removed from typical tourist fare.

While you’re here, you can also meet the friendly Icelandic horses and enjoy the farm’s charming atmosphere. This stop isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing Icelandic ingenuity and hospitality in a relaxed, inviting setting.

Final Stop: A Powerhouse Waterfall

On your way back to Reykjavík, the tour makes a final stop at Gullfoss or another scenic spot, giving more chances for photos or just soaking in the landscape.

The tour operates year-round, starting at 9:30 am, with pickup from centrally located Reykjavik stops. It’s important to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes—there’s plenty of walking, and Iceland weather can change quickly. The group size is limited to 12, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

The guided narrative is in English, with guides often sharing interesting facts that make the stops more meaningful. Food-wise, the included lunch at Friðheimar is quite generous, and the overall value is good considering the sights, transportation, and meals.

Note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, given the nature of the stops and terrain.

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Cost and Value

At $180, this tour offers a solid balance between price and experience. You’re paying for a well-organized day with expert guidance, plenty of time at each spectacle, and a memorable farm meal. Many travelers mention how the lunch at the Tomato Farm stands out as a highlight, often praised for its deliciousness and uniqueness.

Compare to Other Tours

If you’re considering similar excursions, there are options that include additional features like Sky Lagoon or horse riding; however, this tour’s focus on the core Golden Circle sights and the farm lunch makes it a great choice for those wanting a relaxed, immersive experience without feeling rushed.

This guided tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy natural beauty combined with good food and personal interaction. It suits those who prefer a small-group setting for more personalized attention, and those who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. It’s especially recommended if you’re interested in Iceland’s geothermal energy and want a taste of local hospitality at Friðheimar.

If you love stories behind the sights and want a guide who explains the geology and history, this is a good fit. It’s less ideal if you have mobility concerns or are seeking adventure beyond the classic sights.

The Golden Circle & Lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm tour offers a balanced blend of Iceland’s best-known natural landmarks and a uniquely Icelandic culinary experience. It provides a chance to witness the raw power of waterfalls and geysers, walk through a UNESCO site, and then unwind in a greenhouse filled with fresh tomatoes.

The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and included meal make it a worthwhile way to explore without feeling like you’re just ticking boxes. If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic, and delicious Icelandic day trip, this tour hits all those marks.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, good stories, and local flavor, making it one of the more memorable ways to experience the Golden Circle.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It generally is, especially if children enjoy walking and nature. However, consider the age and mobility of your kids, as some walking and standing are involved.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes, waterproof outer layers, and sturdy shoes. Iceland weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.

Does the tour operate year-round?
Yes, it runs 7 days a week, at 9:30 am, throughout the year.

How long is the lunch at Friðheimar?
The lunch is a late meal, and many reviews mention it as a generous, all-you-can-eat experience lasting at least an hour.

Are the stops brief or do we spend a lot of time there?
Most stops have enough time for photos, exploring, and learning—generally enough for a meaningful visit without feeling rushed.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently praise the guides for their friendliness and wealth of information.

Are there options to include Sky Lagoon or horseback riding?
While not included, you can inquire about additional options, but this tour focuses on the Golden Circle and the farm lunch.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transportation is in a small, comfortable minivan, making for a more personal experience.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants for better interaction and a less crowded atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Golden Circle tour with a farm lunch strikes a fine balance between Iceland’s natural grandeur and local charm. It offers a practical, enriching, and tasty way to spend a day, especially if you prefer small groups and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: