15 Best Excursions from Reykjavik, Iceland

Thanks to the numerous trips available from the capital city of Reykjavik, visiting the most significant regions of Iceland is perfectly feasible without personal transportation. As a popular tourist destination, Reykjavik provides convenient access to the primary attractions on the island through organized outings. Therefore, there is no valid reason for failing to enjoy this incredible country.

While renting a car is our usual method of transportation when visiting Iceland, we have signed up for guided explorations of Reykjavik during some trips there, and it has consistently resulted in an exceptional experience. Moreover, having an expert lead our journey allowed us to discover aspects of the region and places we toured that would have remained unknown if traveling independently.

To assist with planning your route if you have no plans to rent a vehicle in Iceland, this guide will reveal the 15 top excursions in Reykjavik. All that needs to be done is booking this transfer connecting from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavik and then scheduling the tours that are wanted during the trip. Additionally, if exploring free tours in Reykjavik is desired, obtaining the City Card for unlimited access to public transportation is recommended. Who said exploring through Iceland without a vehicle is not possible?”

1. The Blue Lagoon, the most popular excursion from Reykjavik

The Blue Lagoon represents one of the must-visit locations near Reykjavik. This constitutes one of the most popular hot springs in Iceland, and it is situated just 40-45 minutes from the capital city.

As we discuss in our guide about the popular Blue Lagoon in Iceland, the body of water contains high mineral levels associated with healing some skin conditions. However, most visitors do not come for health reasons, but to unwind with a relaxing dip in its milky blue waters. Furthermore, with temperatures ranging from 98 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, this is one excellent day trip from Reykjavik in winter to say goodbye to Iceland`s cold. Additionally, soaking in the waters during winter allows one to simultaneously enjoy a spectacular snowy landscape.

If visiting the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik without a vehicle, one option is to hire round-trip transportation from the capital city. However, based on my experience, I`ll mention that tickets often sell out instantly and if not purchased in advance, chances are missed. Therefore, I propose reserving your Reykjavik tour ticket together with the transportation here. This excursion includes shuttle service, the Comfort ticket and a beverage, as well as a towel and a silica mask.

There are other available options, such as booking this tour which features Iceland`s famed Golden Circle sightseeing route and transportation to the famed Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, all packed into a single day. This allows maximizing time on the island. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the most pleasant day trips from Reykjavik.

Moreover, if you intend to visit the Blue Lagoon and take an excursion from Reykjavik to witness the Northern Lights,this excursion is also obtainable. It involves a relaxing bath followed by an expert-led Reykjavik tour to see the spectacular Aurora Borealis.

2. Golden Circle, one of the best day trips in Reykjavik

The Golden Circle in Iceland is one of the most popular routes in the nation. There are endless excursions from Reykjavik following this route because the capital city is the ideal starting point.

The route is a total of 190 miles and runs through a very touristy area located inland where you will pass through all kinds of places: volcanic craters, waterfalls, geysers, thermal lakes, and much more. In fact, if you are going to be there for a short time, taking a Golden Circle Iceland tour will give you a general idea of what this country is like. Hence it is one of the best tours in Reykjavik.

While you can examine this other guide covering the top attractions along Iceland`s Golden Circle, if you are seeking a full-day trip from Reykjavík that incorporates all the fundamental aspects of the region, this is the best choice. It lasts around 8 hours and you will visit the four essential locations along the route. These include the Geysir geothermal region, the Gullfoss waterfall, the Thingvellir National Park, and the Kerid crater.

Another option available is purchasing an excursion from Reykjavík that combines visiting some of the famed attractions along the Golden Circle route with a stop at the Blue Lagoon. This choice works well if you want to unwind in the beautiful lagoon after exploring iconic places in the area. Alternatively, one can opt for a Reykjavik touring package combining visits to attractions along the Golden Circle as well as the Secret Lagoon. The latter destination sees fewer tourists but also offers fabulous thermal bathing opportunities.

Another one of the top excursions in Reykjavík is this tour, which includes the standard Golden Circle route in addition to a trip to view the northern lights. Or consider this excursion where you can take a whale watching trip before starting your route through the Golden Circle

3. South Iceland, one of the top-rated tours in Reykjavík

The sceneries of southern Iceland are spectacular, so it’s not surprising that it is one of Iceland`s most popular regions. Although it’s difficult to experience everything with a tour from Reykjavik, the south has numerous experiences, so you can get an idea of its unique landscapes while visiting some of the most memorable natural attractions.

Without doubt, that tour is among the premiere day trips from Reykjavík accessing southern Iceland you can take. You will explore the charming town of Hvolsvöllur, walk behind the well-known Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and discover the famed Skógafoss waterfall, the Sólheimajökull glacier, and the southern city of Vík, renowned for its black sand shoreline. Undoubtedly, this day trip in Reykjavik is among the top choices if you want to gain insights into what southern region it`s like with limited time.

However, if you have spare time, I advise reserving this two-day tour with accommodation. Taking part will allow you to experience other worthwhile destinations that I deem essential, like the Skaftafell National Park and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

4. Northern Lights tour in Reykjavik

A northern lights viewing experience is among the top things to do in Reykjavik, especially for those who have never seen this fascinating natural show before. Thankfully, there are several excursions from Reykjavik to observe the aurora borealis so you can enjoy the glowing night sky however you prefer.

While this guide offers my endorsement for the premium Northern Lights sightseeing excursions from Reykjavik, this represents the most elemental trip. Escorted by an expert on auroras, you will travel to a region with prime vantage points that evening. If you opt for this Reykjavik excursion, I advise taking it during the initial few days of your journey since you can repeat it at no cost if you don`t observe any lights. This represents one of the premier activities in Reykjavík if witnessing this phenomenon is your goal.

You can also take this same tour in a small group if you want a more relaxed pace. Alternatively, you can exclude the hotel pickup if you prefer low-cost tours. Just keep in mind that you can only repeat the tour once if you don‘t see the northern lights the first night.

In addition to the options I’ve referenced, which usually tend to be the most typical, you can also view the northern lights by watercraft. Or, you could combine the activity with one of the most popular tours departing from Reykjavík, such as a whale watching excursion, the South route including a stroll on the Sólheimajökull glacier, a Golden Circle sightseeing adventure, or a visit to the Blue Lagoon.

5. Whale and puffin tours in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, together with Husavik, it’s one of the best places for whale watching tours in Iceland. The best thing about doing a whale watching excursion in Reykjavík is that it doesn’t matter what time of year you travel because there are always possibilities to see them, even in winter. Of course, if you do it in summer, you’ll also be able to see puffins.

Of all the tours from Reykjavik aimed at seeing whales, this one is undoubtedly the best as they allow you to repeat it if you don’t see any whales. Keep in mind that even though the chances are high, they are wild animals that can sometimes act unpredictably, so you may not always see them. For this reason, I suggest not leaving this tour until the last day of your trip, in case you need to repeat it. To be fair, we have always seen them the first time, but you never know.

If you travel between the middle of May and middle of August, you can join a whale and puffin tour such as this one. Or, if you travel during the summer solstice near the end of June, you can experience whale watching at the same time as a midnight sun tour through booking this tour.

6. Horseback riding in Iceland, one of the best activities in Reykjavik

If you wish to experience Iceland from another perspective, a horseback riding excursion originating from Reykjavik is ideal. I highly recommend this tour because the horses receive excellent care and the facilities are kept clean and in good repair.

You will have the chance to appreciate astonishing landscapes varying from moss-covered lava fields in summer to snowy vistas in winter. I highly recommend this activity for anyone seeking a relaxing Icelandic horseback riding experience amid the island`s beautiful scenery.

The activity commences at the Íshestar stables in Hafnarfjörður, 10 minutes by car from the capital, but the tour I`ve previously advised includes the transportation from Reykjavik, as well as warm clothing, rain gear, riding boots, and a helmet.

7. Snæfellsnes, an excursion in Reykjavik that you shouldn’t miss

The Snæfellsnes peninsula is deemed the finest locale in Iceland where some of the most amazing natural scenery can be found. Indeed, it is said the Snæfellsnes encapsulates everything representing the country, so I advise booking a day to appreciate this excursion from Reykjavík.

On this tour you will have the chance to discover beautiful natural landscapes full of volcanic peaks, cliffs, beaches, fjords, waterfalls, and basaltic columns. You’ll also journey to some of the top Icelandic fishing towns, such as Hellnar, Grundarfjordur, and Arnarstapi. You can also visit Kirkjufell, the volcanic mountain situated in Grundarfjörður that became globally famous for appearing in the Game of Thrones series. This day tour in Reykjavik will also take you to the volcanic fissures of Ljósufjöll, the cliffs of Arnarstapi, and the black beach of Djúpalónssandur. This is one of the few day trips in Reykjavik that includes sights of the striking lava fields.

Here is a rephrased promotional button for excursion availability checks: “

If you decide to take this excursion from Reykjavik, you will see that words really don’t do justice to the spectacular landscapes. There is no doubt that it’s one of the best excursions from Reykjavík.

8. Landmannalaugar, one of the best excursions from Reykjavik

Visiting the Landmannalaugar region is one of the finest day trips from Reykjavík one can embark on. This mountainous territory in the core of the Highlands of Iceland is a genuine paradise. It remains one of the last pristine areas of Iceland, owing to its isolated setting. Therefore, you can envision what it`s like to explore this unspoiled place, which hosts one of the preferred hiking and rambling routes near Reykjavik. I sincerely hope that it will continue to be like this for a long time.

In this place, you can enjoy beautiful colored mountains made of rhyolite and swim in natural hot springs. The scenery of this location seems to come from another world.

If you wish to witness it yourself, I strongly advise this excursion to Landmannalaugar. Only a few hours outside Reykjavik, you will be able to see the colorful mountains of Landmannalaugar, which developed over centuries due to volcanic activity. Afterwards, you can relax in the local hot springs there; I assure you it is an amazing experience. You can also check out the famous Hekla volcano, which is the most active volcano in Iceland. As you can observe, this excursion from Reykjavik is entirely worth it

9. Kerlingarfjöll, one of the best day tours in Reykjavik

If Landmannalaugar seemed remotely located, Kerlingarfjöll is even more distant. Nonetheless, it remains one of the top recommended day trips from Reykjavik owing to its beautifully varied terrain including valleys, glaciers, and natural hot springs.

To travel securely to the Kerlingarfjöll region, I suggest this tour that passes through the most remote part of the Highlands followed by the primary attractions of the Golden Circle in Iceland. Tours to this area are restricted to 6 participants, so if you want to experience this adrenaline-filled tour from Reykjavik, you must book in advance.

You will embark on a remarkable journey along the well-known Kjölur route in a four-wheel drive vehicle, exploring one of Europe`s last desert areas. On the trip, you will pass through glaciers and lakes surrounded by volcanically colorful mountains. Later, you will discover some of Iceland`s most iconic locales like Thingvellir National Park, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and the erupting Geysir hot springs. I can guarantee you will be completely amazed by the scenery.

10. Katla ice cave, one of the most original excursions from Reykjavik

I admit that visiting the Katla Ice Cave is not generally one of the options travelers initially choose. This is understandable since there are so many day trips in Reykjavík. However, this is one of the most unique excursions that you can take and, simultaneously, this ice cave is extremely impressive.

You can visit the Katla Ice Cave at any time throughout the year, making it the sole cave of this kind that can be toured in the summer. The cave is situated at the foot of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, specifically on the Kötlujökull glacier tongue. The glacier’s hues range between whites, blues, and grays. You’ll begin by hiking through the glacier and once inside the cave, you can feel the aura of centuries past. For me, it’s one of the most fascinating sensations.

If you choose to purchase this tour, you will go with a specialized guide who will give you everything necessary to stay safe and see it all.

11. South coast & glacier hike, one of the most popular day trips in Reykjavik

Traversing on a glacier is quite an encounter, particularly since you don’t always have the opportunity to visit spectacular icy landscapes. However, this action is one of the premier attractions of Iceland, and there are several day trips in Reykjavik focused on this area. In my view, there is none comparable to this southern coast tour in which you will discover the Sólheimajökull Glacier.

In addition to seeing the glacial tongue encircled by lush vistas on a guided tour from Reykjavík, visitors will gain knowledge about how glaciers came to be and why they are shrinking. Along the route, stops will also be made to several of Iceland`s most beautiful cascades. These include Seljalandsfoss, which can be walked behind, and the imposing Skógafoss waterfall. Reynisfjara, Iceland’s black sand shore, will also be visited, where its rock columns will be filled with puffins if traveling between June and August.

It is unquestionably one of the ideal trips from Reykjavik if you’re looking for a South coast Iceland scenic route.

12. Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, one of the best family-friendly tours from Reykjavik

The Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel located about a 30 minute drive from the capital makes for a perfect half-day excursion from Reykjavik.

It is 0.9 miles in length, 32 feet in height, and 100 feet wide, making it one of the most extensive lava tunnels found in Iceland. This tunnel was formed during the eruption of the Leitahraun volcano, 5,200 years ago.

Regrettably, once tourism increased greatly, some spotlights were installed which changed the internal temperature and caused the stalactites to disappear. That said, the striking reddish hues still remain, so it remains worthwhile to visit.

Interestingly, inside the cavity, you won’t detect any type of creature or bug because they find the interior atmosphere uncomfortable.

Walking through the tunnel is very easy and poses no dangers at all, so you can even go with children. So, if you’re seeking a family-friendly excursion from Reykjavik, I would unequivocally recommend visiting this lava channel.

If you need any additional queries about how to interpret a histogram in photography, feel free to leave a comment! Finally, don’t forget to download our beginner’s PDF guide if you want to gain more knowledge about photography.

13. Thorsmork, the best small group tour from Reykjavik

Thorsmork, or the Thor Valley, is a beautiful mountain range in southern Iceland, ideal for enjoying the island’s nature. Here you can find some of the best Iceland hiking routes.

For those wishing to explore this natural paradise and its unique landscapes, I would suggest this combination of Jeep riding and hiking. After taking in the famous waterfall Seljalandsfoss and Gígjökull glacier lagoon, visitors will arrive at the remote area of Thorsmork, so isolated that independent travel is not possible and a specially equipped vehicle is necessary to cross the sizable rivers found there.

In this remote area, you will find one of the most challenging but rewarding hiking trails in the country, the Fimmvörðuháls route. The path is quite lengthy and uneven, so it usually requires two days to complete.

With this excursion starting in Reykjavik you will begin hiking the initial portion of the trail, which is fascinating on its own. During this 10-mile route, you will pass some of the most interesting spots, such as the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and the Magni and Modi craters. Undoubtedly, if you enjoy hiking and are physically capable, this is a must experience trip from Reykjavík.

14. Thrihnukagigur volcano, a fascinating tour from Reykjavik

Viewing several intriguing volcanoes, you may want to explore some in more depth, so I highly recommend the excursion from Reykjavik that will take you inside the dormant volcano Thrihnukagigur. I assure you that it is one of the most spectacular Reykjavik day trips.

This volcano didn’t always welcome visitors through its gates. It first opened to the wider public in 2012, which was when guided tours such as this particular experience started being made available.

The volcanic mountain takes up 8 acres and descends 700 feet deep, though visitors can only go down to the initial 400 feet. Still, you`re sure to get a respectable notion of what the internal structure of a volcano is like. I never imagined that I would delight in this excursion so greatly! And before entering the crater, you will need to walk through stunning lava fields for 40 minutes, which renders this tour starting in Reykjavik highly worthwhile.

15. Reykjanes peninsula, another excursion from Reykjavik that you shouldn’t miss

The Reykjanes peninsula is located in southwest Iceland, very near to the capital city, making it one of the most convenient excursions from Reykjavík to undertake.

Another reason for visiting Landmannalaugar is that it houses some of the finest hot springs in Iceland as well as the Hekla volcano, the most energetic volcanic feature on the island.

If touring this region of Iceland, I suggest reserving a panoramic drive through the peninsula in an all-terrain vehicle. This guided tour by four-wheel drive lasts approximately six hours and covers all major attractions, such as the geothermal area of Krýsuvík and the oldest home in Grindavik called Flagg house. The tour makes a stop at the Blue Lagoon but booking entry separately a few days in advance is necessary if wishing to go inside.

In summary, these represent the best day trips from Reykjavík that you can take if renting a vehicle during your trip is not an option. As is evident, there are a lot of activities available in Iceland, and if you only visit Reykjavík, you won’t be able to truly experience this country. Don`t worry though, because traveling without a car in Iceland is not a problem thanks to the range of guided tours departing from Reykjavik.

If you favor, there are also many Iceland vacation deals that allow you to see the entire island without having to return to Reykjavik every night. I highly advise looking into these options if you want to maximize your time on the island but prefer not driving or scheduling your own route.

If you wish to craft your own itinerary, then you merely need to choose your lodging in Reykjavik, book the transportation from the airport to the city center, and opt for which excursions from Reykjavik to reserve. It’s a complex determination, however I’m certain that whichever ones you choose, you will fully appreciate them.