Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater

Experience the Best of Iceland in One Day: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and Blue Lagoon

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. For $229 per person, you’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; witness the explosive activity of Geysir and its lively neighbor Strokkur; marvel at the thunderous Gullfoss Waterfall; explore the striking Kerid Volcanic Crater; and end your day soaking in the otherworldly waters of the Blue Lagoon—all in approximately 11 hours. The tour, operated by Nicetravel, includes hotel pickup, Wi-Fi on board, and admission tickets to all major sites, making it a seamless and hassle-free way to see these highlights.

Two things we really like about this tour are the balanced itinerary and the small-group experience. Having the flexibility of a small group (maximum 19 travelers) means more personal attention from guides like Nikola or Axel, who are praised for their friendliness, humor, and deep knowledge of Iceland. Plus, the tour includes admission to sites—important for avoiding lineups and ensuring you get the full experience, especially at Kerid Crater and Blue Lagoon.

One consideration is that this is a long day with many stops, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule and don’t mind travel time. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent (particularly for outdoor stops), a clear day can make all the difference. If your time is tight or you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider a more specialized or private tour.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to tick off Iceland’s top sights, adventurers keen on a comprehensive day of exploration, or anyone wanting to combine nature, history, and relaxation without the hassle of planning. Keep in mind, it’s a good value considering the included admissions, transportation, and guide expertise.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Tickets to Þingvellir, Kerid Crater, and Blue Lagoon make planning simpler.
• Expert guides: Highly praised guides like Nikola and Axel enhance the trip with humor and knowledge.
• Efficient itinerary: Visits to major sites in one day save time and maximize sightseeing.
• Comfortable transport: Climate-controlled vehicle with Wi-Fi keeps you connected and comfortable.
• Excellent reviews: With a 5.0 rating from over 4,400 travelers, it’s a trusted choice.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance add peace of mind.

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s in Store?

Þingvellir National Park

Your adventure kicks off here, where you’ll explore the site of the world’s first parliament and witness the dramatic geology of the rift valley. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a good reason—standing on the tectonic boundary, you can see the clear lines where North American and Eurasian plates are pulling apart. As one reviewer put it, “the amazing nature and history” make this a must-see. Expect about 45 minutes to walk around, take photos, and soak in the significance.

Laugarvatn & Geothermal Baking

While not a formal stop, the tour passes Laugarvatn, famous for locals baking rye bread in the ground using geothermal heat. Though you may not get to try it firsthand, this detail hints at Iceland’s practical use of geothermal energy—something you’ll notice as you traverse the landscape.

Geysir & Strokkur

Next is Geysir and its lively neighbor, Strokkur, erupting every few minutes with jets of boiling water reaching up to 30 meters. This is a highlight for many travelers, and the energy of the eruptions is contagious. You’ll have about 1 hour and 20 minutes here—more than enough to watch the geysers, explore the visitor center, and perhaps grab a snack or full lunch if you wish. The reviews speak highly of this stop, with many noting the “amazing views” and “great photo opportunities.”

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is a breathtaking cascade that plunges into a rugged canyon. The power of the water and the constant mist make this a sight to remember. Travelers describe it as “amazing” and “thunderous,” with about 40 minutes to walk around and take it all in. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small against nature’s grandeur.

Kerid Crater

One of the tour’s unique features is the Kerid Volcanic Crater, a 3,000-year-old caldera with a vibrant red volcanic rock and a bright blue lake inside. It’s visually striking and a highlight not always included in other Golden Circle tours. Expect around 30 minutes at Kerid, which many travelers find worth the detour. The included ticket makes this visit accessible without extra cost, and reviews often mention how beautiful and photogenic it is.

Reykjanes Peninsula & Blue Lagoon

After a scenic drive through lava fields and cone volcanoes on the Reykjanes Peninsula, you arrive at Blue Lagoon—Iceland’s most famous thermal spa. Your included Comfort Admission ticket grants access to the silica mud masks, towel, and a drink of your choice. You’ll have about 2 hours here to relax, unwind, and reflect on your day. Travelers love ending their tour with this soothing soak; one reviewer called it “beyond expectations,” and many mention how perfect it is for muscle relaxation after a long day of sightseeing.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour begins early with hotel pickup, making logistics painless. The vehicle is climate-controlled and equipped with Wi-Fi, so you can share your photos or look up more info during transit. The small group size means guides can offer personalized insights, humor, and handle questions comfortably—something many reviews praise highly.

Throughout the day, you’ll encounter a mix of outdoor walking (at Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Kerid), standing and viewing (at Geysir eruptions), and relaxation (at Blue Lagoon). The timing is well-paced, with enough flexibility to take photos, enjoy the scenery, or grab a snack. The included tickets ensure smooth entry and save time queuing.

The Sites’ Unique Charm

Þingvellir combines history and geology—imagine walking where the Icelandic parliament was born and standing between two tectonic plates. The significance adds depth to the stunning landscape.

Geysir and Strokkur are lively examples of geothermal activity, and the erupting geysers provide perfect photo moments, especially with the crowd’s excitement.

Gullfoss impresses with its raw power, often described as “thundering,” and the mist created by the falls keeps the experience visceral.

Kerid Crater offers a splash of color—red volcanic rocks contrasting with blue lake water—that’s quite different from the other stops.

Blue Lagoon provides a luxurious end to a busy day. The silica mud masks and warm waters turn the soak into a therapeutic experience, praised for its “beyond expectations” quality.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, guides like Nikola, Axel, Mika, Thor, and Filip are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and timely punctuality. Travelers appreciate guides who make the experience engaging and informative—one even noted how their guide’s music selection complemented the journey perfectly.

The value for money is often highlighted since the ticket prices include entry to major sites and the Blue Lagoon, which can be costly if booked separately. The comfort of the vehicle and Wi-Fi also enhance the overall experience, making long drives more enjoyable.

Many reviewers mention that the long day is balanced by the variety of stops, with some calling it “a great way to see many of Iceland’s top sights in one go.” However, others note the importance of being prepared for weather changes and the full schedule, especially if you’re not used to long travel days.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent balance of sightseeing, comfort, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of organizing each stop. The included tickets, small-group size, and professional guides ensure a memorable, smoothly run experience.

While it’s a long day, the carefully curated stops and the opportunity to relax at Blue Lagoon make it worth the effort. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, couples, or families eager for a comprehensive Icelandic adventure in one day.

If you value authentic insights, beautiful landscapes, and convenience, this tour is a reliable choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, pack layers, and bring your camera—trust us, you’ll want to capture these sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup directly from your central Reykjavik hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long do we spend at each site?
Expect around 45 minutes at Þingvellir, 1 hour 20 minutes at Geysir, 40 minutes at Gullfoss, 30 minutes at Kerid, and 2 hours at Blue Lagoon, allowing ample time for sightseeing and relaxation.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Yes, all admission tickets to Kerid and Blue Lagoon are included, ensuring quick access and smooth transitions.

What should I bring?
Bring layers, waterproof clothing if needed, comfortable walking shoes, and your camera. For the Blue Lagoon, a hair tie or cap for long hair is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and outdoor activities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy nature and don’t mind a long day.

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

To sum it up, this full-day Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Iceland experience that balances iconic sights with relaxation. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to maximize their time and see the best of the south Iceland landscape without the stress of planning every detail. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and all major entry fees included, you’re set for a memorable adventure.