How to plan your Golden Circle and South Coast Tour in Reykjavik

How to plan your Golden Circle and South Coast Tour in Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik, Iceland and want to see some of Iceland’s natural wonders, then the Golden Circle and South Coast Tour is the perfect opportunity. This private tour combines two of Iceland’s most popular day trips, the Golden Circle and South Coast tour, allowing you to see some of the country’s most stunning natural sights in one day. In this guide, we will walk you through the tour’s details and how to plan it for a hassle-free experience.

Overview of the tour

The Golden Circle and South Coast Tour is a private tour exclusively for your party, offering a personalized experience. The tour is perfect for those with limited time as it combines two top Iceland day tours in one. During the tour, you will visit some of Iceland’s most stunning natural sights, including the historical and geological wonder Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the waterfalls of Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss.

What’s included?

The tour includes pickup transportation, which can either be from your Reykjavik hotel or the meeting point Harpan. The tour starts at 8:30 am and lasts approximately 10 hours. During the tour, you will visit all of the sites mentioned above, and admission tickets are free for Thingvellir National Park.

Meeting and pickup points

The tour offers hassle-free pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or you can head directly to the meeting point at Harpan, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. If you opt for pickup at your hotel, make sure to provide the correct details when booking the tour. The pickup service is available from selected hotels in Reykjavik, and the tour ends back at the meeting point, Harpan.

What to expect

The first stop of the tour is Thingvellir National Park, and you will have 30 minutes to explore the site. This place is a historical and geological wonder as it was the site of Iceland’s first parliament and also marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It’s a must-visit place in Iceland, and if you love hiking, you can explore the park on one of its many trails. Next up is the Geysir geothermal area, a place where you’ll see hot springs, steaming vents, and geysers, including the famous Strokkur Geyser. The geyser erupts every 5-7 minutes, shooting water up to 20 meters high, making it an incredible sight to behold. After Geysir, the tour takes you to the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, which is known as the Golden Waterfall. The waterfall cascades down two tiers, each one bending at a 90-degree angle, creating a dramatic sight. You’ll have time to take photos, relax, and breathe in the fresh Icelandic air before heading to the next destination. The fourth stop is at the Skógafoss waterfall, which is one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls. It drops 60 meters into a canyon, and on sunny days, you’ll often see a beautiful rainbow framing the waterfall. Along with viewing the waterfall, you can also climb up to the top to enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. The last stop is at the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, known for its unique basalt columns and stunning sea stacks. You’ll walk along the beach, taking in the incredible scenery before heading back to Reykjavik. It’s an excellent end to a day filled with unforgettable natural wonders.

Booking the tour

If you’re interested in booking this tour, you can do so through Viator, using the following link: book the tour here. Make sure to provide your details, including pickup location and any dietary restrictions. If you book through the link provided, you’ll receive confirmation, and all you need to do is show up at the designated pickup location or your Reykjavik hotel.

Book Your Tour Now

The Golden Circle and South Coast Tour is an excellent way to see Iceland’s natural wonders without spending too much time on your trip. During the tour, you’ll visit some of Iceland’s most stunning natural sites including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. With hassle-free pickup and a personalized experience, the tour is one of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reykjavik

1. What is Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It is located in the southwestern part of the country, and it is the center of culture, politics, and economy in Iceland.

2. What is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

The best time to visit Reykjavik is during summer, between June and August. During this time, the weather is mild and the city experiences almost 24 hours of daylight. However, if you want to see the Northern Lights, it is better to visit during winter, which is between December and February.

3. What are the top attractions in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has numerous tourist attractions, including:

  • The Hallgrimskirkja Church
  • The Perlan Museum
  • The Harpa Concert Hall
  • The Reykjavik Art Museum
  • The National Museum of Iceland
  • The Reykjavik City Museum
  • The Sun Voyager sculpture
  • The Laugavegur shopping district

4. What are the best day trips from Reykjavik?

There are many day trips you can take from Reykjavik, including:

  • The Golden Circle tour, which includes Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park
  • The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa
  • The South Coast tour, which includes Skogafoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and the black sand beach at Reynisfjara
  • The Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour, which includes the glacier Snæfellsjökull and the Kirkjufell mountain

5. What is the currency in Reykjavik?

The currency used in Reykjavik is the Icelandic króna (ISK). Most places in the city accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and to use at outdoor markets.

6. What is the language spoken in Reykjavik?

The official language of Reykjavik is Icelandic. However, most people in the city speak English, and it is widely used in tourist areas and by service industry workers.

7. What is the nightlife like in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. The city has a reputation for being a party destination, especially during the weekends.

8. Is Reykjavik expensive?

Reykjavik is known for being an expensive city, especially when it comes to food and drinks. However, there are ways to save money, such as shopping at supermarkets and using the Reykjavik City Card for discounts on attractions and public transport.

9. How do I get around Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, the city is small and walkable, so it is easy to explore on foot. You can also rent a bike to get around the city.

10. What are the local delicacies in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a unique culinary scene, with many traditional dishes to try. Some local delicacies include:

  • Hákarl: fermented shark meat
  • Plokkfiskur: fish stew with potatoes and onions
  • Lamb: Icelandic lamb is known for its quality and flavor
  • Rúgbrauð: traditional Icelandic rye bread
  • Skyr: a type of yogurt that is high in protein and low in fat

11. What should I pack when visiting Reykjavik?

When visiting Reykjavik, it’s important to pack for the weather. Even during summer, temperatures can be cool, and it can rain or be windy. Here are some items to pack:

  • Layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket and warm fleece
  • Sturdy walking shoes and rain boots
  • A hat, gloves, and scarf for colder days
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days

12. What are the best accommodations in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has many types of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • The Ion Adventure Hotel
  • The Reykjavik Marina Hotel
  • The Loft Hostel
  • The Kex Hostel

Book Your Tour Now

Reykjavik is a beautiful and unique city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are interested in nature, history, culture, or food, Reykjavik has something to offer. Follow the tips and advice in this FAQ to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and is one of the most visited destinations in the country. It’s a beautiful city that has many attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. If you are planning to visit Reykjavik, there are many things you can do to make your trip memorable. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best things to do in Reykjavik, so you can have a great time.

1. Visit the Hallgrimskirkja Church

The Hallgrimskirkja Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in Reykjavik. It’s a Lutheran church that stands at 73 meters tall, making it the tallest church in Iceland. The church has a beautiful design that was inspired by the Icelandic nature, and its observation deck offers an amazing view of the city. It’s definitely worth visiting, especially if you are interested in architecture or history.

2. Explore the Reykjavik Maritime Museum

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum is a great place to go if you are interested in learning about Icelandic history, especially the country’s relationship with the sea. The museum has many exhibits that showcase the fishing industry, including tools used by fishermen and boats. You can also learn about the Icelandic coast guard and the importance of the sea to Icelandic culture. It’s a fascinating museum to visit, and it’s suitable for both adults and children.

3. Take a Walk through the City Center

The city center of Reykjavik is beautiful and has a lot of charm. You can take a leisurely walk down Laugavegur, which is the main shopping street in Reykjavik. You’ll find many shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars along this street. It’s also home to some of Reykjavik’s most popular nightlife spots, so if you’re looking for a night out, this is the place to be.

4. Relax at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a geothermal spa that is located just outside of Reykjavik. The water is rich in minerals, such as silica and sulfur, which are said to have healing properties. The Blue Lagoon is a great place to relax and unwind, and it’s suitable for people of all ages. Just be sure to book in advance to secure your spot, as it can get busy.

5. Visit the National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland is a great place to learn about the history of Iceland, from the settlement period to modern times. The museum has many exhibits that showcase Icelandic culture and heritage, including artifacts and photos. You can also learn about the Icelandic language, literature, and art. It’s a fascinating museum that’s worth a visit.

6. Experience the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs in Iceland during the winter months. It’s a beautiful display of green and pink lights that dance across the night sky. There are many tours available that will take you to some of the best spots to see the Northern Lights. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t soon forget.

7. Take a Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching is a popular activity in Iceland, especially in Reykjavik. There are many tours available that will take you out to sea to see these majestic creatures up close. You’ll have the chance to see many different types of whales, including humpback, minke, and orcas. It’s a great experience for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys being on the water.

8. Try Icelandic Cuisine

Icelandic cuisine is unique and has a lot to offer. Some of the popular dishes in Iceland include seafood, lamb, and skyr, which is a type of Icelandic yogurt. There are many restaurants in Reykjavik that serve traditional Icelandic cuisine, so be sure to give it a try. You can also try some of Iceland’s famous hot dogs or visit a bakery for a taste of Icelandic pastries.

9. Go on a Helicopter Tour

If you want to see Reykjavik from a different perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour. These tours will take you up into the sky for a bird’s eye view of the city and the surrounding landscapes. It’s a great way to see the city in a unique and memorable way.

10. Visit the Harpa Concert Hall

The Harpa Concert Hall is a stunning building that is located along the waterfront in Reykjavik. It’s home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and hosts many concerts and events throughout the year. The building itself is a work of art, and it’s worth a visit even if you aren’t attending a concert.

Book Your Tour Now

Reykjavik is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer tourists. From its iconic landmarks to its unique cuisine, there is something for everyone in this city. By following this guide, you should be able to make the most of your time in Reykjavik and create some unforgettable memories. Just be sure to plan ahead and book any tours or activities in advance to ensure that you have the best possible experience.

How to plan your Golden Circle and South Coast Tour in Reykjavik