Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour & Perlan Museum Tour

Discover the Highlights of Iceland’s Golden Circle and Perlan Museum in a Full-Day Tour

This $120 per person tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders, all within a 10-hour experience. Starting from Reykjavík, the tour takes you to dramatic waterfalls, volcanic craters, geysers, and the unique tectonic landscape of Þingvellir National Park. After exploring these spectacular sites, you’ll visit the Perlan Museum, which features an ice cave, a planetarium, and immersive exhibits about Iceland’s natural forces. The tour is designed for those wanting a full day of scenic beauty combined with engaging educational experiences, all led by knowledgeable guides who bring Iceland’s natural history to life.

While the tour includes many highlights, it’s worth noting that meals and drinks are not included, and the drop-off occurs at the Perlan Museum only, so planning your evening after the visit is advisable. The small group size and detailed stops make this tour a well-rounded choice for travelers eager to see both natural and cultural highlights of Iceland in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $120, with a 10-hour schedule that starts in the morning.
• Tour Highlights: Visits to Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, Þingvellir National Park, and the Kerið volcanic crater.
• Unique Experiences: Access to a real ice cave at Perlan, Northern Lights Planetarium, and interactive exhibits at Perlan Museum.
• Guide Quality: Guides are noted for their knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and humorous approach, enhancing the experience.
• Transport and Comfort: WiFi is available on the coach, and pickups are from multiple centrally-located Reykjavik spots.
• Limitations: No meals or drinks included; drop-off is only at Perlan, so plan accordingly.

Starting the Day with a Convenient Pickup in Reykjavík

The tour begins with a pick-up from over 20 designated locations around Reykjavík, including popular spots like Harpa concert hall, Höfðatorg, and Reykjavík Airport. The pickup process can take up to 30 minutes, so arriving on time is essential for a smooth start. Once everyone is aboard, the coach ride sets the tone for the day, with WiFi provided for browsing or sharing photos during transit.

This flexible pickup system allows travelers staying in different parts of the city to join easily. The comfort of the coach and the scenic drive prepare you for the day ahead, making the journey part of your Iceland adventure.

Visiting the Famous Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall

The Geysir geothermal area is one of the tour’s main highlights, where Strokkur geyser erupts approximately every 8 minutes, spouting steaming water up to 30 meters into the air. This active geothermal site offers fantastic photo opportunities and insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity. Afterward, the tour continues to the Gullfoss Waterfall, which tumbles 32 meters into a deep canyon, creating a dramatic spectacle.

You’ll have about 45 minutes at each site to walk, take photos, and appreciate the power of Iceland’s natural forces. The proximity of these sites makes it easy to experience both in a comfortable timeframe, avoiding long waits or crowded areas.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park’s Tectonic Landscape

The UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park is a place where Iceland’s geological activity is vividly on display. Standing on the rift valley, you can see the visible tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia diverging. This location also holds historical significance, as it was the site of Iceland’s national parliament from 930 AD.

The stop here lasts about 40 minutes, giving ample time for walking and sightseeing. Guides often share stories about Iceland’s history and geology, making this stop both educational and breathtaking.

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Visiting Kerid Crater and Its Photogenic Lava Lake

The Kerið volcanic crater is a colorful, eye-catching sight, with steep sides and a crimson lake at its base. The 30-minute stop provides a chance to take photos of the crater’s vivid hues and walk along the rim. The crater’s striking appearance makes it a favorite for visitors and photographers alike, offering a different kind of volcanic scenery compared to the other stops.

Access is straightforward, and the short walk allows for a relaxed visit without rushing through the volcanic landscape.

The Perlan Museum: Ice Cave, Planetarium, and Icelandic Exhibits

The Perlan Museum is the final destination of the tour, where you spend about 2 hours exploring a variety of attractions. The highlight is the real ice cave, a 100-meter-long tunnel where visitors can see ice formations up close. The museum also features an interactive glacier exhibition and the Wonders of Iceland exhibit, which covers the forces shaping the island.

A standout feature is the Áróra Northern Lights Planetarium, offering an immersive experience with a 360° viewing deck. Visitors learn about Iceland’s geological history through detailed panels and samples, making it an engaging and informative conclusion to the day.

The Experience of Guides and Transportation

The guides are praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and extensive knowledge, making each stop more engaging and insightful. The driver also receives positive remarks for their safe, smooth riding, ensuring comfort throughout the long day. WiFi on board allows for easy sharing of photos or quick notes during the trip.

Although the tour does not include lunch or drinks, the 80-minute stop at Geysir includes an opportunity for a quick meal. The drop-off only at Perlan simplifies logistics for travelers, who can explore the museum at their leisure afterward.

Pacing and Physical Considerations

The tour balances longer stops at key sites with shorter visits, allowing for comfortable walking and photography. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrains, such as at Kerið and Þingvellir. The timed stops are generally well-paced, but travelers should be aware that the day involves a fair amount of walking and standing.

Since the tour operates in winter, the dark hours and cold weather are considerations, but experienced guides and driver help keep the group safe and comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This full-day experience suits travelers interested in both natural scenery and cultural history. It’s ideal for those wanting a rundown of the Golden Circle and the Perlan Museum’s exhibits. The guided format and included transportation make it accessible for all levels of mobility, provided you are comfortable walking outdoors.

The tour’s educational focus and multiple stops make it perfect for first-time visitors to Iceland or those short on time but eager to see multiple highlights in one day.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Icelandic Day Trip

This tour combines Iceland’s most famous natural sites with immersive experiences at the Perlan Museum, offering a balanced, engaging day. The guides’ expertise and the variety of stops provide both scenic beauty and educational insights, making it a valuable choice for curious travelers.

While meals are not included and the drop-off is limited to the museum, the comfortable coach, WiFi, and well-organized itinerary make this a convenient way to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate learning about Iceland’s geology and culture while enjoying stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch or drinks?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is an 80-minute stop at Geysir where you can find options for a quick meal.

What is included in the tour price?
The entry fees to Kerið Crater and the Wonders of Iceland exhibition at Perlan are included, along with guide services, WiFi on the coach, and hotel pickup.

How long is the stop at Perlan Museum?
You spend approximately 2 hours exploring the ice cave, planetarium, and other exhibits at Perlan.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the moderate walking and outdoor stops make it suitable for most visitors, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I join the tour if I am staying outside Reykjavik?
Yes, the pickup locations are centrally located in Reykjavik, making it accessible for most city accommodations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby