Reykjavik is an excellent starting point for day trips in Iceland. Here are some top recommendations for unforgettable excursions around this vibrant city:
- A Day at the Blue Lagoon
- The Golden Circle Classic Tour
- A Day Trip to the Volcanoes
- A Day Trip Along Iceland’s South Coast
- A Day on Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Ride Viking Horses to Gullfoss and Geysir
- Blue Lagoon + Gullfoss Waterfall + Geysir
- A Day Trip from Reykjavik to Grímsey Island
- A Day at the Blue Lagoon & Lava Caves
A Day at the Blue Lagoon
Address
Norëurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland
Phone: +354 420 8800
The Blue Lagoon is perhaps the most iconic day trip destination from Reykjavik. For visitors seeking relaxation, soaking in the warm, geothermally heated waters is a must. Transportation options to the lagoon include bus services from the main station or a scenic drive by car.
This remarkable location operates year-round, making it a flexible choice for your itinerary, especially for adult travelers looking to unwind.
The Golden Circle Classic Tour
The Golden Circle Classic Tour is a comprehensive, full-day guided excursion that showcases some of Iceland’s most stunning sights. This itinerary often includes stops at Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the famous Geysir geothermal area, among others.
Daily departures make this tour accessible year-round, with complimentary pickup available from your Reykjavik accommodation.
A Day Trip to the Volcanoes
Exploring Icelandic volcanoes has become increasingly popular as a day trip option. With numerous adventurous sites to choose from, you can tailor your adventure according to your preferences. Use a map to identify volcano locations and plan your thrilling itinerary.
Safety should be your priority; maintain a safe distance from active sites and remember to follow guidelines provided by your guides.
A Day Trip Along Iceland’s South Coast
Running from May to September, this all-day guided tour emphasizes the beauty of Iceland’s South Coast. Highlights often include the breathtaking Skogafoss waterfall, Skaftafell National Park, and a boat ride on Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, along with famous filming locations from popular movies.
This full-day adventure departs multiple times a week, with convenient pickup services from major hotels in Reykjavik.
A Day on Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a coveted area for visitors to Iceland, replete with stunning lava caves, hot springs, and majestic waterfalls. The peninsula features the prominent Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to a glacier-volcano rising 1,446 meters (4,744 ft).
Traveling from Reykjavik takes about 2 hours via Iceland’s Ring Road (Highway 1) through Hvalfjörður Tunnel, offering picturesque views throughout.
Ride Viking Horses to Gullfoss and Geysir
This engaging guided horseback riding tour is suitable for individuals of all ages, making it a fantastic option for families. Enjoy riding on Icelandic horses, descendants of those bred by Vikings, and after a delightful lunch, travel to the stunning Gullfoss Waterfalls and the Geysir geothermal area.
The tour operates daily year-round with convenient pickup from Reykjavik hotels around 10 am.
Blue Lagoon + Gullfoss Waterfall + Geysir
This comprehensive full-day tour presents the opportunity to immerse yourself in Iceland’s awe-inspiring nature. Visit the enchanting Blue Lagoon, view the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and explore the Geysir geothermal area. It’s essential to also take the time to discover the local greenhouse community of Hveragerdi.
This day trip begins and concludes in Reykjavik, with an overall duration of approximately 10.5 hours.
A Day Trip from Reykjavik to Grímsey Island
Grímsey offers breathtaking landscapes with colorful marshlands, towering cliffs, and diverse birdlife. Surprisingly, Grímsey is also on the Arctic Circle, yet the North Atlantic Current keeps it warmer than you might expect, providing a mild climate ideal for birdwatching. Occasionally, polar bears from Greenland can be spotted on drift ice in the area.
Accessing Grímsey requires utilizing both air and ferry connections from the mainland. The 3-hour Saefari Ferry departs from Dalvik (which you can reach via bus from Akureyri) at 9:00 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, returning at 4:00 pm.
A Day at the Blue Lagoon & Lava Caves
This captivating 7-hour combo tour allows you to experience two remarkable Icelandic attractions. The journey takes you to some of the most stunning lava tube caves and craters, followed by a visit to the Blue Lagoon for some well-deserved relaxation and pampering.
The tour is available on weekends, departing from Reykjavik.
