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Reykjavik is a perfect base for exploring Iceland’s incredible landscapes, and its proximity to some of the country’s most famous sights makes it a hub for full-day tours. Whether you’re interested in seeing geysers explode, hiking on glaciers, or driving through volcanic scenery, Reykjavik offers a variety of options to suit your interests. We especially love the Golden Circle tours for their rich mix of geology and history, and the South Coast trips for waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers that feel like they’re from another planet. Many tours include stops at the Þingvellir National Park, where the continental plates meet, or the Gullfoss waterfall, which truly roars with power. If you’re eager to get the most out of your trip, some tours even include visits to geothermal greenhouses or secret spots for photography.
Quick Overview
Reykjavik’s full-day tour options range from classic sightseeing excursions like the Golden Circle, which visits Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss (see Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour), to more adventurous experiences like glacier hikes on Sólheimajökull (Iconic Glacier Hike, South Coast & Waterfalls). Other popular options include scenic drives along Iceland’s southern coast, visiting black sand beaches and waterfalls (Iceland’s South Coast Full Day), or private tours for those seeking a personalized experience (Private Secret Spots of Iceland). Each offers a different way to experience Iceland’s stunning natural beauty, and we’ll break down the best choices for different types of travelers below.
1. Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
Taking the top spot, this 7 to 8.5-hour tour covers Iceland’s flagship sights: the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park. What makes this tour stand out is the visit to Kerid Crater, a vivid volcanic caldera with a striking blue lake at the bottom. With a 4.7-star rating from over 20,000 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip worth every penny at just $79 per person. The itinerary includes stops for photos at Gullfoss, Geysir, and a walk through Þingvellir, where the tectonic plates meet—an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Guides are generally knowledgeable, and the itinerary is well-paced, allowing plenty of time for photos and exploration. The tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive yet affordable day tour with iconic sights.
Bottom line: A fantastic introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders, perfect for first-timers and budget-conscious travelers seeking a full day of scenery.
2. From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip
For those looking to experience diverse landscapes in a single day, this 10-hour tour offers waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier views for $121 per person. It’s a favorite among travelers, with a 4.8-star rating from over 9,000 reviews. Highlights include walking behind Seljalandsfoss, visiting the glacier snout at Sólheimajökull, and exploring Vik, a charming village. The tour’s strength lies in its variety—each stop showcases a different face of Iceland, from volcanic beaches to icy glaciers. The itinerary allows sufficient time at each location, ensuring you’re not rushed. Tour guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making it suitable for lovers of nature photography or just scenic sightseeing.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want a broad overview of Iceland’s south coast with plenty of photo opportunities and manageable pacing.
3. From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour
This 7.5-hour guided tour is a slightly shorter, more streamlined version of the classic Golden Circle experience, priced at $82 per person. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time but still eager to see Iceland’s most famous sites: Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. The itinerary emphasizes comfort and efficiency, with stops that include scenic walks and photo opportunities. With a 4.6-star rating based on 2,238 reviews, this tour is well-liked for its smooth organization and knowledgeable guides. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in a shorter but still comprehensive introduction to Icelandic geology and history.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a shorter day trip that hits all the major Golden Circle highlights without rushing.
4. Iconic Glacier Hike, South Coast & Waterfalls
At around $192 per person, this 12-hour tour appeals to adventure lovers. It’s the only tour on our list that includes a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, with all necessary gear provided. The journey also covers Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, plus a walk on the black sand beaches of Vik. The small group size means more personalized attention, and the Wi-Fi onboard keeps you connected. Travelers rave about the glacier hike as the tour’s highlight, with reviews mentioning guides like Adonis who are patient and knowledgeable. Be prepared for some physical activity—this isn’t a sightseeing bus tour but a full-day adventure with immersion in Iceland’s wild side.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a mix of scenery and glacier exploration, with the bonus of small-group intimacy.
5. Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour
For $117, this 10.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s southern landscapes. Highlights include walks behind Seljalandsfoss, visits to Skógafoss, and the Reynisfjara black sand beach. The itinerary balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each location, including a stop at Vík. Reviewers praise the tour for its well-organized schedule and scenic diversity. The guide’s commentary helps bring the landscape to life, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling along with their photos.
Bottom line: A good option for travelers who want a well-rounded South Coast experience with time for photos and exploration.
6. Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Full-Day Tour
This 6.5 to 7-hour tour priced at $82 per person emphasizes the geothermal and glacial features of Iceland. Highlights include Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir, with the added bonus of Wi-Fi tablets and GPS guides. It’s praised for its comfortable transport and rich commentary, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling without a full-day commitment. The reviews note that the guide, Gunnar, is terrific and handles the conditions well, even in windy weather.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a shorter, informative tour with a tech twist, perfect if time is tight but you still want quality.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal full-day tour in Reykjavik, think about your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a classic introduction to Iceland, the Golden Circle tours like the Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater provide iconic sights at an affordable price. If you’re after adventure and glacier views, the Iconic Glacier Hike offers a more active experience that’s hard to beat. For a more personalized touch, the private Secret Spots tour can be a memorable choice, especially for those with a keen eye for photography.
Consider travel logistics—some tours include hotel transfers, others are self-contained day trips. Also, weather conditions can influence your choice; shorter tours may be better during unpredictable weather, while full-day excursions give you more flexibility. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours during peak season from June to August.
To sum it up, Reykjavik offers an impressive range of full-day tours that suit nearly every traveler. For those who want a cost-effective introduction to Iceland’s highlights, the Golden Circle tours are unbeatable. Adventure seekers will appreciate the glacier hikes and small-group explorations. And if you’re traveling with family, a comfortable, well-organized trip like the South Coast or Golden Circle with geothermal greenhouses might be the best fit. Whichever you choose, early booking guarantees you won’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences.