day trip from iceland

14 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik, Iceland (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Check out our list of the best day trips from Reykjavik, Iceland!

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Iceland, Reykjavik is not just a city rich in culture and history but also the perfect launching pad for day trips around the country.

Whether you’re looking to explore the rugged coastlines, volcanic terrains, or quaint Icelandic villages, there are lots of amazing day trips from the city.

Each journey from Reykjavik leads to a unique destination, offering an intimate encounter with Iceland’s raw, unspoiled beauty.

From the awe-inspiring geysers and waterfalls of the Golden Circle to the tranquil beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, these day trips present the best of Iceland’s natural wonders.

The itineraries are diverse – whether it’s chasing the dance of the Northern Lights, soaking in the geothermal bliss of a natural hot spring, or hiking through scenic trails that tell tales of bygone volcanic eruptions.

So if you’re visiting Iceland’s capital city, here are some of the most unforgettable day trips from Reykjavik.

Find more amazing things to do in Iceland so you can embrace this beautiful country!

Table of Contents

1. The Golden Circle

2. the blue lagoon, 3. iceland south coast, 4. katla ice cave, 5. langjökull glacier, 6. sólheimajökull glacier hike, 7. snaefellsnes peninsula, 8. silfra fissure, 9. horseback riding in hafnarfjörður, 10. northern lights day trips, 11. landmannalaugar and the valley of tears tour, 12. reykjanes peninsula, 13. jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, 14. whale watching tour, 14 best day trips from reykjavik.

From seeing a black sand beach on a South Coast tour, to touring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park along the Golden Circle, there are so many epic day trips to take from Reykjavik, Iceland.

See the Northern Lights, go whale watching, snorkel between tectonic plates, hike a glacier, explore ice caves, and more.

There is a huge range of incredible tours that take you to the most popular attractions around Iceland and allow you to engage with the landscape. So while visiting Reykjavik, consider some of these popular day trips!

Distance from Reykjavik: 160km to the furthest point along the Golden Circle
Driving time: 3 hour loop

The Golden Circle Day Trip from Reykjavik is a quintessential Icelandic excursion, offering an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes.

This popular day trip covers three of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks: Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park), the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall, each site boasting its unique geological and historical importance.

Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is not only a place of stunning natural beauty but also a cornerstone of Icelandic history, being the original site of the world’s oldest parliament established in 930 AD.

The park is situated in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, offering a remarkable display of geological wonders.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is next, where visitors witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air.

This geothermal wonderland is a vivid demonstration of the Earth’s natural power.

Lastly, the tour visits Gullfoss, or the ‘Golden Waterfall’, an iconic waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge, creating a spectacular sight, especially on sunny days when rainbows often appear in the mist.

Golden Circle Tours typically last about 7 to 9 hours, making them an ideal full day trip from Reykjavik. These tours are available year-round, providing different but equally stunning experiences in each season.

While summer offers lush landscapes and extended daylight, winter reveals a magical, snowy wonderland, often with fewer tourists.

Departing from Reykjavik, Golden Circle Tours are available in various formats, from large bus tours to smaller, more personalized groups, and often include knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights into Icelandic culture, history, and geology.

The Golden Circle Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland, encapsulating the beauty, power, and history of this unique land in one memorable trip.

Distance from Reykjavik: 49km
Driving time: 45 minutes one way

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the best day trips when visiting Iceland. Located just 45 minutes away from Reykjavik, it’s super easy to venture out to this stunning natural wonder on a day trip from the city.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a mesmerizing natural wonder, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters set against a backdrop of rugged volcanic landscapes.

Located in the heart of a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this geothermal spa offers visitors a unique opportunity to rejuvenate in its mineral-rich waters, which are heated by underground volcanic activity.

Because the Blue Lagoon is like a spa, the most popular way to visit is by booking round trip transfers from Reykjavik with the entry ticket. You’ll be whisked out of the city in a comfortable bus or van and have the day to enjoy the Blue Lagoon however you choose.

Lounge in geothermal pools, smooth the white silica mud on your skin, or venture into the steam rooms. This day trip offers the opportunity to relax and renew, so enjoy it!

Distance from Reykjavik: 187km to the southernmost village of Vik on the South Coast
Driving time: 2.5 hours one way

The South Coast of Iceland is a stunning part of the country that makes an excellent day trip from the city. On this full day tour , you can see the highlights of Iceland’s south in one action-packed day.

Stroll along a gorgeous black sand beach, marvel at majestic waterfalls including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skógafoss Waterfall, and take in the glacial views.

At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall you may even be able to walk behind the waterfall if the weather permits!

Other highlights you may see on a South Coast day trip include Vik, the country’s southernmost village, and Sólheimajökull, a dramatic glacier snout, and the impressive basalt sea columns at Reynisfjara.

The South Coast of Iceland just has so much to see in terms of natural beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Reykjavik!

This region is not only a testament to Iceland’s geological wonders but also a playground for adventurers, offering amazing views of hiking trails, lava fields, glacier walks, waterfalls, and remote beaches.

Distance from Reykjavik: 207km
Driving time: 3 hours one way

Continue your exploration of Iceland’s South Coast with a visit to Katla Ice Cave. Located just inland from the coast, guided tours through Katla Ice Cave provide an unforgettable experience, allowing adventurers to navigate through narrow passages and expansive chambers adorned with dazzling ice formations.

Day trips to Katla Ice Cave usually depart from Reykjavik or Vik, and they bring you into the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier on Iceland’s South Coast.

Named after the mighty volcano beneath which it lies, Katla Ice Cave provides a unique opportunity to explore a world sculpted by centuries of glacial movement.

During your ice cave tour, you’ll be able to see the intricate patterns and textures of ice as you explore the inside of a glacier. Exploring the inside of ice caves is an unbelievable experience!

Your guides will supply crampons and helmets to ensure everyone stays safe during ice cave tours. This Katla Ice Cave Tour combines the cave with other highlights of South Iceland including waterfalls and the black sand beach.

Read next: The BEST Hiking in Switzerland – Trekking Guide

Distance from Reykjavik: 103km
Driving time: 3 hours one way (2 hours road driving and 1 hour driving up the glacier)

Here is another glacier day trip for those hoping to explore the icy wilderness outside Reykjavik! Langjökull Glacier , Iceland’s second-largest ice cap, is a vast expanse of shimmering ice in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands.

Langjökull, which translates to “Long Glacier,” is a marvel of nature, spanning approximately 953 square kilometers (368 square miles).

Its icy surface conceals a world of wonders, from hidden ice caves to mesmerizing blue ice formations, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape over millennia.

Guided tours across Langjökull’s icy plains provide adventurers with the opportunity to traverse this frozen wilderness, marveling at the sheer magnitude of the glacier and its surrounding snow-capped peaks.

You’ll drive from Reykjavik out to the glacier and actually drive across the glacier in a specialized vehicle.

Then explore the world’s largest ice tunnel and learn about the geology, history, and formation of glaciers from your expert guide. This sightseeing tour is an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers!

Distance from Reykjavik: 165km
Driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes one way

Adventurous travelers can also join a glacier hike on one of their day trips from Reykjavik. Sólheimajökull is one of the most accessible glaciers for day tours onto the ice.

Glacier hiking is something that should definitely be done with a reputable tour company, as you need the right gear and instruction. You also need to know exactly where to go! Arctic Adventures and TrollExpeditions are two top choices for booking a glacier hike from Reykjavik.

Another option is Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf , which includes the Sólheimajökull Glacier hike with other highlights of the South Coast including the black sand beach.

Once you’ve booked your day trip with one of the top-rated tour companies, get ready for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure through Iceland’s icy landscape!

Towering ice formations, crevasses, and crystal-clear blue ice create a surreal atmosphere on the glacier.

With expert guides and equipment to keep you stable, you can hike across the ancient glaciers and marvel at nature’s grandeur. You’ll gain insight into the glacier’s formation, its ecological significance, and the impacts of climate change.

If you’re an active traveler who loves hiking and unique outdoor challenges, glacier hiking is one of the best day trips to try in Iceland!

Find more epic hikes in Europe with our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking in Norway !

Distance from Reykjavik: 180km
Driving time: About 2.5 hours one way

Located on the coast of west Iceland, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic peaks. This peninsula offers a visual feast for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

At its heart lies the iconic Snaefellsjökull volcano, with its glacier-capped summit towering over the surrounding terrain.

From the charming fishing villages dotting the coastline to the windswept beaches teeming with birdlife, every corner of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula has something cool to see.

The Snæfellsjökull glacier, Saxhóll Crater, Kirkjufell and Berserkjahraun lava fields, small villages, and black sand beaches are among the most popular sites in the area.

Those interested in Icelandic history can also check out the mysterious Budakirkja , also known as the “Black Church” which has artifacts from the 19th century.

This is an easy day trip to do with a rental car if you just want to drive around the peninsula and visit the various landmarks. Or you can choose a guided tour with a knowledgeable local who will take you to all the best spots.

This Snaefellsnes Peninsula Full Day Tour or this Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip are both top-rated options!

Read next: 6 Adventure Activities In Svalbard Not To Be Missed

Distance from Reykjavik: 54km
Driving time: 55 minutes one way

One of the absolute coolest day trips to try in Iceland is snorkelling in between tectonic places! Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park is a geological wonder that mesmerizes visitors with its crystalline waters and otherworldly beauty.

Carved by the shifting tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia, this underwater chasm offers a unique opportunity for snorkelers and divers to traverse the gap between continents.

Its exceptionally clear, glacial-fed waters provide visibility of up to 100 meters, unveiling a unique underwater landscape with intricate rock formations.

Day tours to Silfra Fissure depart from Reykjavik so you can explore this underwater world with an experienced adventure guide.

Snorkelling between tectonic plates at Silfra Fissure is another one of those adventures that should not be attempted on your own without a guided tour! You need the right gear and the knowledge of a local to ensure you stay safe.

On this Silfra Fissure snorkelling tour , you are provided with hefty dry suits, snorkel gear, and a PADI-certified dive guide so you can stay dry and warm while you swim in glacial waters. This small-group activity is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik for adventurers!

Distance from Reykjavik: 13km
Driving time: 20 minutes one way

Another one of the best day trips around Reykjavik is horseback riding through the lava fields of Hafnarfjörður. If you’re looking for a fun adventure that’s a bit tamer than hiking a glacier or snorkeling between tectonic plates, a leisurely horse ride around the idyllic landscapes of Iceland is a great tour to choose.

This tour with Íshestar Stables provides visitors with an authentic Icelandic horse riding experience through the dramatic lava fields and beautiful green hillsides.

The tour guides provide warm overalls, rain gear, riding boots, and helmets that will keep you safe and dry as you explore the outdoors by horseback.

This is one of the best ways to connect with nature, escape the city, and marvel at the pristine natural beauty around Iceland. And it’s right outside Reykjavik, making it one of the easiest and closest day trips to town!

Distance from Reykjavik: Locations vary
Driving time: Most northern lights tours are around 3-4 hours

When venturing anywhere in the Earth’s far north, seeing the northern lights is a must (also called Aurora Borealis). Admiring the mystical northern lights is a bucket-list experience for many, and Iceland is one of the best places to watch this marvelous natural phenomenon.

You might not see the northern lights in Reykjavik, as there is a good amount of light pollution from the city. To see the northern lights while visiting Reykjavik, your best bet is to book guided day trips out into the remote wilderness of Iceland.

You can always look for the northern lights on your own if you have a rental car, but going with a local guide gives you a much better chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

The locals always know the best places to go at the right times, so it’s worth booking group tours for a once-in-a-lifetime experience like this.

Some of the top-rated Northern Lights tours are with Northern Lights Bus , Gray Line Iceland , or Rvk Sightseeing . The best chance of seeing the northern lights on your tour is during winter, and most tours offer a free return tour if you don’t see anything. Because we can never truly predict Mother Nature!

Distance from Reykjavik: 308km
Driving time: 5 hours

Landmannalaugar, nestled in the heart of Iceland’s Highlands, is a geological marvel and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unparalleled natural beauty.

Renowned for its colorful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs, and vast lava fields, this remote wilderness in Fjallabak Nature Reserve is another one of the best day trips to try from Reykjavik!

Here, hiking trails wind through the terrain, offering panoramic vistas of volcanic peaks, moss-covered valleys, and geothermal vents.

The lava fields and the rhyolite mountains were formed by ancient volcanic activity. In this area, you can admire lots of black obsidian volcanic rock which is known for its unique and smooth appearance.

The natural hot springs are another draw of Landmannalaugar, as is Sigöldugljúfur which is a dramatic canyon known as The Valley of Tears.

There are lots of incredible things to see and do, but the terrain is very rugged so the best option for travelers is booking a 4WD tour or a guided trek. Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf and Try Iceland Tours both offer action-packed, full-day tours of the area that include the best waterfalls, mountains, hot springs, lava fields, and more.

Love cold landscapes? Check out our complete Travel Guide to Antarctica !

Distance from Reykjavik: 68km
Driving time: 1 hour

The Reykjanes Peninsula, situated on the southwestern coast of Iceland, is a geological marvel teeming with dramatic landscapes and unique natural phenomena.

Renowned for its rugged volcanic terrain, Reykjanes is characterized by steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and expansive lava fields, making it a captivating day trip from Reykjavik.

A highlight of the peninsula is the Seltún Geothermal Area, a space filled with vivid hues of red, yellow, and green, steaming fumaroles, and hot springs.

Geldingadalir Valley is another hotspot here with cool walks and hiking trails. The valley gained worldwide attention in 2021 with the eruption of the Fagradalsfjall Volcano.

Visitors can also check out the Reykjanes Lighthouse and the Bridge Between Continents, the latter of which spans the narrow fissure where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge.

Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula by either renting a car and doing a road trip around the area, or joining a guided tour !

Distance from Reykjavik: 379km
Driving time: 4.5 hours

Another one of the coolest day trips from the city is Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon on the southeastern coast of Iceland.

Fed by the Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest ice cap, this otherworldly lagoon showcases a mesmerizing array of icebergs, sculpted by the relentless forces of nature.

A bit further along the coast from this stunning glacier is Diamond Beach, and most day trips combine the two natural attractions into one tour.

Named for the glistening icebergs that wash ashore from the nearby lagoon, Diamond Beach is covered in countless crystalline fragments, resembling diamonds strewn upon black volcanic sands.

Distance from Reykjavik:
Driving time:

Another fun day trip to try when you visit Reykjavik is whale watching! Anyone interested in animals and marine life should definitely book a whale watching cruise that takes you around the icy waters and gives you the chance to spot these majestic giants frolicking in the ocean.

April to late September or early October is the best time for whale watching tours from Reykjavik, with June, July and August being the absolute best months.

There is nothing quite as spectacular as touring the North Atlantic Ocean and admiring the humpback whales, minke whales, porpoises, and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Combine your whale watching tour with a visit to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition located in Reykjavik Harbour. This is a super cool place to learn more about whales in Iceland!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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26 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik Worth The Effort

July 30, 2021 // by Iceland Trippers // Leave a Comment

Looking for the best day trips from Reykjavik ? Look no further! This guide has every day trip from Reykjavik that is worth your time. If you have already done all of the best things to do in Reykjavik , this is what you are going to want to be looking for!

Planning your trip to Reykjavik last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Reykjavik!

Top Experiences And Tours In Reykjavik:

Golden Circle Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely To Sell Out!)
Northern Lights Bus Tour (Go with a local guide)
Whale Watching & Marine Life Cruise (Often sells out!)
Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)

Top Hotels In Reykjavik:

201 Hotel (Highly rated!)
Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel (Includes a kitchen)
Center Hotels Plaza (Central location in Old Town)
R13-A Townhouse Hotel (Great for families!)

As the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik is usually where visitors to this island set up their home base. Luckily, there are tons of amazing day trips from Reykjavik within just a couple of hours of driving. Don’t forget to check out Where To Stay In Reykjavik if you plan on making it your home base!

You can explore breathtaking glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and national parks without having to venture too far or book multiple accommodations.

Because public transportation in Iceland doesn’t extend very far, you’ll need to either take tours that include transportation or rent a car in Iceland. Be aware that driving in Iceland can be a little bit of a tricky task at times, so be sure to know what mistakes to avoid while driving in Iceland .

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private Iceland Facebook Group and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Reykjavik Day Trips Skogafoss Waterfall on a nice sunny day with no people in the image

Best 9 Reykjavik Day Trips Within 1 Hour

Blue lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular destinations in Iceland. This hot spring was actually created by accident in 1976 by the Svartsengi Power Plant next door. The water is heated by natural geothermal activity and stays around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The unique, milky hue is a result of a mixture of algae, silica, and minerals. As a matter of fact, the water is actually chalky white in color, but, somehow, the sun makes it look blue.

This stop is in a great area and is actually on our list of Best Places To Stay In Iceland . In this post, we offer suggestions for where to stay around the Ring Road!

If you plan on visiting the Blue Lagoon, be sure to pre-book your entry into this amazing attraction! It’ll save you a lot of time and effort. To get to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, you’ll either have to drive about 45 minutes or take a tour that includes transportation.

Book Here: Blue Lagoon Entry Day Trip From Reykjavik

The Blue Lagoon in iceland with silky blue water surrounded by rocks and a walking bridge above the water on a cloudy day

Valahnukamol

To get to Valahnukamol from Reykjavik, you’ll have to drive for about an hour southeast to the coast. Here, you will find awesome, jagged rock formations sticking out of the wild sea like monster teeth.

If you like unique coastal views or are looking for an amazing and eerie photography background, this is the place for you! Valahnukamol remains one of Iceland’s hidden gems even though it is so close to Reykjavik and even closer to the Keflavik International Airport.

Valahnukamol is not too far past the Blue Lagoon, so it is possible to combine these day trips into one and visit them on the same day to save time. You can also visit the nearby Reykjanes Lighthouse or the Gunnuhver hot spring.

This is one of the best stops around Iceland’s Ring Road . If you happen to be driving in Iceland , you will want to ensure that you make time to see it!

Valahnukamol with woman in cape in front

Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik and is just under an hour’s drive. It combines an active hike through Iceland’s beautiful nature and time for relaxation in one of the country’s best hot springs .

Unlike other hot springs in Iceland that look like a pool, Reykjadalur Hot Springs are completely natural and are just small flowing rivers! The perks of this hot spring don’t end there. You may also catch a glimpse of roaming herds of sheep or even a few of those famous Icelandic horses.

It would be helpful at times to have a tour guide on your trip to this relaxing location, as there are certain things you should know before visiting these Reykjadalur Hot Springs.

For example, there are certain pools that aren’t suitable for bathing, and the best pools to bathe in vary depending on what time of year you visit. It is one of the best places to see on your Iceland Itinerary!

Book Here: Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike From Reykjavik

woman sitting and looking away at Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Thingvellir National Park

To get to Thingvellir National Park from Reykjavik, it takes about 45 minutes by car. This relatively short journey is worth it for the amazing views you will be granted in this park. As far as the eye can see, you will find roaring rivers, cascading waterfalls, and rugged, alien landscapes. During winter, the area is transformed into a snowy wasteland where the Northern Lights can be viewed.

It is clear why Thingvellir National Park is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik as well as being one of the most popular destinations in Iceland in general.

The park draws people in who want to hike the twisting trails, photograph unique landscapes, fish for trout, go horseback riding, or enjoy any of the other outdoor activities popular here. Thingvellir National Park is also part of the Golden Circle and is usually the first stop on this Iceland road trip .

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Thingvellir National Park)

small waterfall at Thingvellir National park on a sunny day

Silfra Snorkeling

Snorkeling might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Iceland, but it is one of the noteworthy activities you can do in Thingvellir National Park. This location is one of the most popular places to go snorkeling in the entire world and with good reason.

At the Silfra rift, you can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and even touch both at the same time! The outstandingly clear, vibrant blue water paired with the prehistoric-looking geology will make for a dreamy and breath-taking swim.

You cannot dive here without a guide, so book a tour in order to get the proper training and equipment before enjoying this beautiful water and having a once in a lifetime experience!

Book Here: Silfra Snorkeling Tour

3 people snorkeling between two tectonic plates in iceland

Game Of Thrones Tour

Iceland has a landscape that easily could have been pulled from the pages of a fantasy novel. Because of this, it is no wonder those in charge of location scouting for the Game of Thrones TV show choose to film in so many places on the island.

As you travel around the country, you are guaranteed to see at least some sights that you might have seen on screen. If you are a huge fan of the show, consider taking a tour dedicated to Game of Thrones . You can do your own self-guided tour or if you want to avoid the research and stress, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Book Here: Game Of Thrones Tour

a small waterfall flowing into a raging river surrounded by large rocks at sunset

Kerid Crater

Kerid Crater is just under an hour from Reykjavik and is really a must-visit location for anyone searching out the best landscapes in Iceland. This 170-meter wide crater lake is created by the top of a volcano in Iceland’s typical fashion of making everything just a bit more epic. The bright blue-green color of the lake’s water pops in colorful contrast against the red volcanic rock and green moss that creates the rim of land around the water.

There is a very small fee to visit the area, but you won’t mind handing over the few dollars in order to stand in awe along the Kerid Crater’s rim. This location is part of the Golden Circle and can be visited as part of a Golded Circle tour if you don’t drive yourself.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Kerid Crater)

a crater filled with blue water in an open field on a sunny day

Whale Watching

Iceland is one of the best places for whale watching and you can book a tour right out of Reykjavik, so you do not need to travel far for this day trip. The ocean off the coast of Iceland is the perfect feeding ground for whales and draws in many species.

You can embark on a whale watching tour throughout the year, but the season does determine the number of whales and species you are likely to see. Consider going in the summer months to increase your chances of witnessing whales breaking the surface as well as for fairer weather and calmer seas.

While out on your boat, you can look forward to seeing minke whales, the most common in the area, as well as humpbacks and possibly a sperm whale. Along with whales, you might be able to spot orcas, harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, and a number of sea birds.

Book Here: Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavik

Raufarholshellir

The Raufarholshellir lava cave will leave you gasping from its beauty. Whether geology is your passion or you just love drop-dead gorgeous sights, this is a day trip from Reykjavik you need to take! With only a 40-minute drive to get to the cave, there is no excuse to not take a tour of this natural wonder.

The cave was formed over 5,000 years ago and is the fourth largest lava cave in Iceland at just under a mile long and ceilings that reach 10 meters. The tunnel is full of amazing pink and purple magma-formed walls and even giant ice crystals during certain times. Book a tour to get a guide and the proper safety equipment to explore the cave.

Book Here: Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel Day Trip From Reykjavik

a myriad of different colored rock formations and sediment in a cave

Best 7 Reykjavik Day Trips Under 2 Hours

Strokkur and geysir.

To get to Strokkur and Geysir from Reykjavik, you will have to drive for about an hour and forty minutes. If that drive is too long for your liking, you can also take a tour that includes transportation. However you get there, you will find a geyser ready to blast!

The Great Geysir is known as the first geyser described in modern literature and is where the name for geysers originated. The word comes from the Icelandic “geysa”, meaning “to gush.” While this old geyser almost never erupts anymore, it is still an interesting site due to its history.

A short walk from Geysir is Strokkur, which will not disappoint. This is the most active geyser in Iceland and will explode up to 20 feet into the sky every 4 to 10 minutes. Make this day trip from Reykjavik in order to watch this amazing natural wonder put on a show.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Trip From Reykjavik (Including Strokkur and Geysir)

Reykjavik Day Trips a geyser blasting water high into the sky on a sunny day

Gull foss Falls

Gullfoss Falls is not far from Strokkur and Geysir, so it is possible to visit all three in the same day. This magnificent waterfall is found on the Hvita River and is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland .

With a name that translates to “Golden Falls,” it is perfect that it is found on the Golden Circle route. Unlike many Iceland waterfalls, you will be able to view Gullfoss from the cliffs above it and watch as it cascades 105 feet down and over two tiers into a gorge.

With trails around it and multiple viewpoints, you will be able to see the 575-feet wide falls from many angles. You simply have to take the time to visit Gullfoss if you want to see the might of nature in Iceland and snap some amazing photographs.

Book Here: Golden Circle Day Tour From Reykjavik (Including Gullfoss Waterfall)

Gullfoss Waterfall from above on a sunny day

Hrunalaug Hot Spring

Hrunalaug Hot Spring is one of the hidden gems in Iceland as well as one of the best hot springs in the country, making it the perfect hot spring if you want to avoid huge crowds and find time for yourself to relax.

The spring is about an hour and a half from Reykjavik and after the long drive, you can look forward to laying back in the hot water with views of the rolling hills that surround it.

The pool is small, which is perfect for couples who want to soak together in an intimate setting and feel as if they are the only people in the world. A small donation for upkeep is appreciated but do your part as well by cleaning up after yourself.

girl in a red swimsuit soaking in a Hot Spring

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring

This hot spring is located just around the corner from Hrunalaug Hot Spring and despite the word secret being in its name, this spring is larger and more well known. It is also the oldest hot spring in Iceland and dates back to 1891. Unlike many of Iceland’s other hot springs, this one is big enough to swim in and offers modern facilities.

A couple of restaurants can be found right next door and there is a small geyser nearby as well. If you are really craving a spa day, you can easily visit both the Secret Lagoon and Hrunalaug on the same day. The entrance fee to the Secret Lagoon is $25.

Book Here: Secret Lagoon Tour From Reykjavik

mist rising from a hots spring with a small abandoned stone structure on land

Glymur Waterfall

Glymur Waterfall is just over an hour north of Reykjavik and is found in one of Iceland’s stunning canyons, Glymur Canyon. Make sure you wear your hiking boots because this area is a hiker’s dream. From the nearby parking lot, you will have a good four-hour round trip hike to conquer to get the best views of the 198-meter waterfall.

Beware that this is not a super easy hike, so go into it prepared. Not only is it lengthy, but you will also be required to wade through a river, climb through a cave, and walk along dangerous, mountain paths.

Sign markers will keep you from getting lost as you make your way along the unpaved trail. Once you reach the climax of the hike, you will be rewarded with gorgeous views, so do not hesitate to embark on this thrilling hike.

Book Here: Glymur Mountain Hike Day Trip From Reykjavik

fall colors at Glymur Waterfall in Iceland a day trip from Reykjavik

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

It will take you about an hour and forty-five minutes from Reykjavik to reach Seljalandsfoss, one of the most iconic and swoon-worthy waterfalls in Iceland . The waterfall is found just off of the Ring Road in the south of Iceland and is hard to miss since it can be spotted from the road. This nearly 200-foot waterfall is a mighty force to be reckoned with and will leave you in awe.

The water tumbles over the cliffside in a way that allows you to walk behind the powerful stream for spectacular views. If you are traveling in the summer, you will find the land around the falls lush with greenery and blooming flowers.

Do not be surprised to find many tourists at Seljalandsfoss when you visit, but do not let that turn you off, because this waterfall should be at the top of your list of places to see in Iceland.

Book Here: South Of Iceland Day Trip From Reykjavik (Including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall)

Best 7 Reykjavik Day Trips Over 2 Hours

Iceland south coast.

South Iceland has a great collection of beautiful sights close together, making it one of the most perfect day trips from Reykjavik if you want to see multiple things in one day.

Many of the locations can be found not far from Route 1, or the Ring Road, so finding them is not hard. If you drive as far as Vik, it will be about a 5-hour round trip of just driving, not including the time taken to see each place. Because of this, try leaving Reykjavik early in the morning and timing yourself appropriately.

Along the coast, you will find a multitude of waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfos and Skogafoss. Once you reach Vik, you will be greeted by a cute village adorned with a pretty church. Near Vik, you can find the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the picturesque Dyrholaey peninsula. There are also many hid den gems in the area if you have time to search them out.

Book Here: South Of Iceland Day Trip From Reykjavik

basalt rocks on a black sand beach in iceland with rock formations in the distance on a sunny day

Thorsmork , or Thor’s Valley, named for the Norse god of thunder, is a two and a half-hour drive from Reykjavik, but because the route there passes by many other popular stops, you can knock off multiple locations on your way.

The entrance to the nature reserve is near the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. If you are driving yourself, make sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle suitable for the f-roads, and you may want to read up on some tips for driving in Iceland . The best way to get around Thorsmork is to book a tour with a guide driving a super jeep, which will ensure you get through the rivers and offroad trails that crisscross the area.

If you want to enjoy your time at Thorsmork on foot, you can leave your car at the entrance to the valley and hike from there. One of the best trails in the area is the Valahnukur Hike.

This trek will take you about two hours to complete and will give you amazing views of the mountains sprawling in every direction. In the end, you will not regret embarking on this day tour from Reykjavik.

Book Here: Thorsmork Hike And Super Jeep Tour From Reykjavik

above view of thorsmork in iceland with winding rivers below and mountains in the distance

Haifoss Waterfall

Yet another amazing waterfall in Iceland is Haifoss, a more secluded waterfall that crashes into a gorge in the Fossardalur valley. Haifoss is just over two hours from Reykjavik and is well worth the drive. If you drive yourself, you will need a 4×4 vehicle. The falls can easily be included in a four day Iceland itinerary as well if you are interested in doing more than a Reykjavik day trip.

At 400 feet, Haifoss is Iceland’s third-largest waterfall. Nearby is another smaller waterfall named Granni, which appropriately translates to “neighbor.” As you hike along the top of the gorge, you will have great viewpoints of both waterfalls at the same time.

From this location, you can also spot the “Gates of Hell” volcano Hekla. These waterfalls could be called Iceland off the beaten path as most tourists do not go out of their way to visit. Because of this, you can expect to find time for yourself with nature.

Book Here: Landmannalaugar Super-Jeep Tour From Reykjavik

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands are another hidden gem in Iceland. Though they are only just under a three-hour journey from Reykjavik, including a ferry ride, most tourists do not know or care to visit. Like the rest of Iceland, these small islands are full of rugged, jaw-dropping landscapes and wildlife. The largest island is Heimaey, which is home to a population of about 4,300 locals.

The other islands are significantly smaller and are mostly uninhabited except for the occasional hunting cabin. While visiting the Westman Islands can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, you might want to consider staying at least one night there in order to have time to fully explore.

Your time on the island of Heimaey will be far from boring since there are plenty of fun and adventurous activities to fill your time. In the south of the island in Storhofdi you will find one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland with close to 700,000 birds nesting there in the summer.

You can also hike a few different trails, including the Eldfell volcano crater. Also, make sure to check out the pretty Heimaey Stave Chuch, the only completely black church in Iceland.

3 puffins standing on a rock on a cloudy day

Skogafoss Waterfall

Skogafoss is yet another really iconic waterfall in Iceland and at just over two hours from Reykjavik, it makes for a perfect day trip along the Ring Road. It is also not far from Thorsmork and Seljalandsfoss, so all three could be checked off your list on the same day. These locations could be part of your Iceland South Coast day trip.

Skogafoss is a mighty waterfall that will leave you breathless. The falls cascade straight down for 60 meters and the curtain of water is 25 meters across.

With so much mist generated by the falls, a rainbow is often formed if the light is right and can be photographed shooting out of the water for a magical memory. The position of this waterfall allows you to walk right up to it, but be prepared to get very, very wet! You can also hike to the top of the falls for a more unique angle.

Book Here: South Coast and Northern Lights Tour (Including Skogafoss Waterfall)

person standing in red jacket at Skogafoss Waterfall With Rainbow

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

To get to Snaefellsnes Peninsula , you will have to drive two hours, but with so many of Iceland’s top destinations, you cannot ignore this day trip from Reykjavik. This beautiful peninsula is north of Reykjavik and juts 55 miles into the ocean.

If you are able to stay in the area for more than a day you can really explore in-depth and spend more time at each location. But, if you do only have a day, try to prioritize what you want to see the most.

On the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you will discover the Kirkjufell mountain and the Kirkjufellafoss waterfall nearby. These two landscape features combine to create the classic postcard photo of Iceland and are an extremely popular shot for photographers. Kirkjufell translates to “Church Mountain” because of its shape and is just over 1,500 feet tall.

At the tip of the peninsula, there is the Snaefellsjokull National Park, where you can hike a glacier-topped mountain, explore the Vatnshellir Lava Cave, or walk along rugged beaches.

The peninsula is also home to several cute fishing villages, churches, and lighthouses to check out. No matter your interests, there is a ton of fun and epic activities to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!

Book Here: Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Trip From Reykjavik

Reykjavik Day Trips Kirkjufell Mountain on Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

With help from social media, the Solheimasandur plane wreck has become a hotspot for tourists, and it is no wonder why! This haunted-looking, skeleton of an airplane is so photogenic you will be drawn to it like a moth to a flame.

Unfortunately, you will not be the only person drawn to it, and you should not expect to have the site to yourself, especially in peak season. Either way, the plane is worth a look at and make sure to snap a photo while you are there, even if you have to edit out the other onlookers. Make sure to enjoy the sight of the plane from the ground since climbing on it is not allowed.

To find the plane wreck, drive on the Ring Road towards Vik for just over two hours, until you reach Solheimasandur Beach. From there, you will have to walk about two and a half miles to the site. Alternatively, you can book an ATV tour that will get you there faster and without tiring your feet.

Book Here: South Iceland ATV Adventure (Including Solheimasandur Plane Crash )

a plane wreck on a black sand beach at sunset

3 Optional Longer Reykjavik Day Trips

Langjokull glacier.

Visiting the Langjokull Glacier is one glacier tour in Iceland you should consider doing if you want to make a great memory! You must book a tour to get up and personal with this glacier. The tour will include the special transportation and equipment you will need.

There are manmade tunnels carved into the snow and ice of Langjokull that will allow you to descend directly into the glacier, which is not something you get to do every day! You will love exploring the twisting tunnels and their stark blue coloration.

You will want to take plenty of pictures to document your journey or your friends and family back home might not believe you did this crazy, awesome tour!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Langj0kull Glacier Ice Cave Tour

a view of long corridor of blue ice in an ice cave

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Getting to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon requires a bit of a drive – five hours to be exact! It might be best to book a tour out of Reykjavik if you are not up to driving so far.

However you decide to get there, you will find the long car ride totally worth it! Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of the most visited locations in Iceland, and as soon as you step foot on the beach, you will understand why.

This gorgeous lagoon is full of drifting icebergs and the beach will often have glassy ice waiting to be photographed. Of course, the amount of ice depends on the season you visit, but there will always be something to look forward to when you come here.

If you want, you can take a boat tour out onto the lagoon to get even closer to the cracking icebergs. If you come in the winter, you might glimpse seals on the ice or the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

Book Here: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Day Trip From Reykjavik

Reykjavik Day Trips Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with a lot of ice chunks in the water at sunset

Vatnajokull Ice Caves

Want your breath taken away? Then, visit the Vatnajokull Ice Caves! This is another fascinating Iceland glacier to visit if you love chilling in nature, and it is the largest glacier in Europe so you will want to say you’ve been there.

The only downside to visiting Vatnajokull is the five-hour drive to get there making it one of the longer day trip options. You will have to book a tour for the ice caves to go inside safely, but most likely, the tour will not include transportation from Reykjavik. Even so, this is clearly one of the best Reykjavik day trips worth the effort!

The ice caves here are a natural wonder you can’t find in most places, and you will not want to pass it up. In any of the many caves at Vatnajokull, you will be able to immerse yourself in a frozen, jewel-like world. These caves can only be accessed during the winter, so do not add them to your itinerary if you are in Iceland in the summer.

Book Here: Ice Cave Tour

blue ice from underwater with layers of sand beneath

Whether you are only in Iceland for a long layover or like the idea of keeping things simple with a home base in Reykjavik, there are plenty of day trips you can take from the Iceland capital.

Book a few of the many day tours from Reykjavik for an easy, stress-free time or rent a car to get to these amazing sights. If you love nature, adventure, or relaxing, there are a handful of day trips from Reykjavik perfect for you!

The garage apartments, one of the best places to stay in Iceland

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The Best Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 20 Comments

With airlines like Icelandair offering the opportunity to stopover in Iceland as part of a trip from the USA to Europe, we think there’s no better time for a short visit to this stunning country.

With that in mind we’ve put together what we think are some of the best day trips from Reykjavik, for visitors who want to just based themselves in Iceland’s capital city and explore from there.

This means you can find the perfect place to stay in the city, not have to re-pack every day, and then explore the highlights of Iceland every day for as long (or as short!) as you are stopping over.

Day Trips from Reykjavik - Diamond Beach Iceland

With the exception of the glacier / ice cave tours, all of the day trips we recommend can be done on your own with a hire car.

If you are looking for a hire car in Iceland, we recommend checking out Northbound here . They focus on Iceland and compare prices across a range of providers. They also give you the option to add on the Iceland specific insurances. Compare prices and book here ..

Of course, the majority of these trips can also be booked via a tour company.

If you decide to use a tour company, we have used and are happy to recommend GetYourGuide , Viator , and Iceland Travel .

We recommend tours from a range of operators in this post that we think are a good fit for each of these Reykjavik day trips. Always remember when comparing tours to check what is and what isn’t included on the tour, so you can understand the value.

For further planning, we’ve also written a number of posts about Iceland , including sharing some of our favourite photography locations in Iceland , our tips for planning a trip to Iceland , and detailed 3 day , 5 day and 7 day self drive Iceland Itineraries .

If you’re looking for a longer guided trip, see our guide to some of the best multi-day guided tours of Iceland to give you an idea of what’s available for everything from 2 days two weeks, across a variety of price points.

Finally, as you’re going to be based in Reykjavik don’t forget to spend some time exploring the city itself. There are a number of great museums and other attractions you can see in the city centre.

If you do plan on visiting some of the museums and sights in the city, consider a Reykjavik city card . Available for 1 to 3 days, these city cards offer great value and get you free access to many of the city’s top attractions, as well as free public transport on the city bus services.

Let’s take a look now at our favourite day trips from Reykjavik in Iceland.

Day Trips from Reykjavik

1. snaefellsnes peninsula..

Whilst these aren’t in any particular order, I would definitely put a visit to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula near the top of your Iceland wishlist. Situated about a two hour drive to the north-west of the capital, this is a very achievable destination to visit as a day trip from Reykjavik.

Day Trips from Reykjavik Kirkjufell Iceland

Here you will find the incredible and fantastically photogenic Kirkjufell mountain, which sits as the backdrop to the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. This is a unmissable photographic opportunity in Iceland, and made the top of my list of photography locations in Iceland .

There’s more to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula than Kirkjufell though. Other highlights include the incredible Snæfellsjökull Glacier, which can actually be hiked on in the right conditions. There’s the 19th century wooden Búðir Church. There are the Gerðuberg basalt columns – 14 metre high columns that just jut up out of the landscape. There’s also the opportunity to spot seals at Ytri-Tunga beach.

Day Trips from Reykjavik - Waterfall Iceland

And there’s lots more – including a landscape that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, more incredible waterfalls, fantastic golden beaches, the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum where you can try fermented shark meat – the list goes on!

You can easily drive here yourself with a hire car and tour around, and there’s certainly enough to do here to allocate two days if you have the time. Otherwise, there are a number of operators operating tours to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula which leaves from Reykjavik.

For example, take a look at this 10 hour tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , this 11 hour tour , and this tour option which includes a home cooked meal .

2. The Golden Circle

One of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle trip, which follows a route to the north east of the city and visits three of Iceland’s most popular attractions, Thingvellir, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysers.

Thingvellir National Park (Icelandic: Þingvellir national park), is a National Park (the first in Iceland in fact) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s interesting for a number of reasons. First, it was the site of Iceland’s first parliament, and meetings were held here as far back ago as 938. There’s a museum you can explore, and a number of sites you can visit on a self-guided walking tour.

Thingvellir is also interesting for its tectonic and volcanic activity, and you can clearly see the action of the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates here, which has resulted in huge rifts and cracks in the ground.

You can actually go snorkelling here in stunningly clear waters and see the continental divide from a unique perspective. This is one of the more popular activities in Thingvellir, so definitely worth booking in advance . Don’t worry – a dry suit is provided to keep you warm in the freezing waters!

There’s also a beautiful waterfall in Thingvellir, Öxarárfoss , which is worth the short ten-minute walk to visit.

After Thingvellir, the next stop on the Golden Circle tour is Geysir. This geothermal area is home to geysers, bubbling mud posts and steaming landscapes, and is in fact the home of the original “Geysir”, where the English word for geyser comes from.

Finally, your Golden Circle adventure will take you to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. With an average of almost 5,000 cubic feet of water tumbling over the two stage falls every second, it’s an incredible sight that you are not likely to forget.

As you can see, there’s good reason that the Golden Circle is a popular day excursion from Reykjavik. Again, you can drive yourself (check hire car prices here), or you can take a Golden Circle day tour. All the Golden Circle tours depart from Reykjavik.

There are a number of variants of this popular tour, including a private Golden Circle tour , a Golden Circle tour that includes Kerid Crater and a Golden Circle Express tour which is a quicker tour.

If you also want to do the Blue Lagoon, there are a number of tours that include the Blue Lagoon with the Golden Circle, such as this one .

For more on the Golden Circle, see our complete guide to visiting the Golden Circle , which has a map, suggested itinerary, and more.

3. The South Coast

Iceland’s South Coast is home to some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. It’s here you’ll find the sixty metre high waterfall you can walk behind (Seljalandsfoss), the absolutely spectacular Skogafoss waterfall, and the beautiful black sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara, near the picturesque town of Vik.

Continuing beyond Vik you’ll find the unusual Svartifoss Waterfall which tumbles over black columnar rock formations, the Svínafellsjökull Glacier that you can get so close as to almost touch, and the otherworldly Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

It is certainly possible to do the majority of the highlights of south Iceland as listed above as a day trip from Reykjavik, just be prepared for a very long day (it’s about five hours driving each way from one end to the other in a car, not counting any stops!). If you are keen on seeing the highlights of the south coast, then we would suggest trying to stretch it over two days if possible.

Of course, there are group day tours that offer the south coast in one day. We have a number of suggestions for you to consider, depending on your stamina and group size preferences.

First, the year round South Shore adventure tour. This takes around 10 hours, and covers all the highlights all the way out to Vik, including the main waterfalls and the black sand beach.

In the summer, you can do also a 14 hour tour which travels all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and which includes a boat ride on the lagoon itself, something that isn’t possible in winter.

4. The Blue Lagoon

If all of the exploring has taken it out of you (or just sounds like too much work), then a day trip to the Blue Lagoon might be exactly the cure for you.

Situated relatively close to Iceland’s main airport, this is a popular stopping point for visitors who are arriving or departing Iceland, but it also easily accessible from Reykjavik.

The Lagoon is a large complex, with the main draw of course being the huge, geothermally heated outdoor lagoon itself, which is a beautiful blue colour. Here you can relax all your cares away, enjoy a drink at the swim up bars (the smoothies are excellent!), and enjoy smearing mud on your face.

As well as the lagoon itself, there are spa facilities and on-site restaurants, so you could make a day of it, although we think about half a day would probably work for most people, with the average visit lasting a couple of hours.

Pre-booking your visit is required, with various packages available. We’d recommend the Comfort level as this includes a towel and a drink, which is definitely convenient. You can also arrange transport to the Blue Lagoon as part of the ticket booking, or you can drive yourself.

There are also a number of tour companies that offer transport to the Blue Lagoon , although you still need to book tickets to the Lagoon itself, which you can do online here .

If you really want to have a full day, you can combine a Golden Circle tour with a trip to the Secret Lagoon. This is a less visited spot than the Blue Lagoon, but will let you combine two adventures (the Golden Circle and a thermal bath) in one full day.

Another more recent hot spring option is the Sky Lagoon, which is much closer to the city centre. This offers a lovely hot spring experience on the edge of the ocean. You can book tickets for that here , and entry with transport here .

One last tip if you’re on a tight budget but still want to experience the wonders of the Icelandic thermal waters: why not visit one of the city pools in Reykjavik instead of the Blue Lagoon?

These have the same geothermally heated water as the Blue Lagoon, but are available at a fraction of the price. Plus, if you pick up a Reykjavík City Card while you’re in the city, these can be visited entirely for free!

5. Reykjavik Itself

We think it’s a shame that so many visitors come to Iceland and spend their time exploring Iceland but not really experiencing Reykjavik – a city which has plenty to offer.

We would definitely recommend that you spend at least half a day, if not a full day, seeing some of the many sights that the city has on offer.

We would definitely recommend taking in Hallgrimskirkja , Iceland’s tallest church and the beautiful Sun Voyager statue.

Then, depending on your interests, you may also want to visit the National Museum of Iceland , The Settlement Exhibition , The Saga Museum , The Árbaer Open Air Museum , to name but a few of the many worthwhile things to do in Reykjavik. There are also numerous shops, bars and restaurants, plus the city itself is picturesque for wandering in.

6. Game of Thrones locations

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, the chances are that you will have heard of the Game of Thrones TV show . What you might not know is that the fantasy land of Westeros, and in particular the snowy scenes shot “north of The Wall”, are actually filmed for the most part in Iceland.

This is excellent news for fans of the show, as it means you can visit many of the key locations from the show as a Reykjavik excursion, including one of the wildling camps and the pass to the Eyrie, both of which were filmed at Thingvellir national park.

For more ideas, see our guide to all the GoT filming locations in Iceland .

7. Into the Glacier

One of our favourite experiences in Iceland was a tour called “Into the Glacier”. This involves driving across Europe’s second highest glacier (Langjokull) on a monster 8 wheeler former NATO missile launch truck, followed by a walk inside the man-made Langjokull ice tunnel.

Even though the weather wasn’t fantastic when we did this, it was still a lot of fun.

In addition, if you do this as a day trip from Reykjavik, the tour also affords you the opportunity to visit other highlights of this less visited area, including the incredible Hraunfossar waterfalls, amd Europe’s largest hot spring area (Deildartunguhver).

Of course, you can also make your own way out here and book the tour with departure from Husafell , should you prefer to travel under your own steam.

It’s worth mentioning that this ice cave is a man made tunnel on the glacier. Whilst this means it can be visited whilst other ice caves cannot, it isn’t quite the same as visiting a natural ice cave. For those, see the entry further on in this guide under ice caves.

8. Northern Lights (autumn to Spring)

If you’re visiting Iceland outside of the summer months, a trip to see the Northern Lights should definitely be on your list. Ok, so calling this a day trip might be a stretch, as obviously you’re going to want to do this one at night!

Taking a guided tour to see the northern lights is going to give you the best chance to see them, as local guides will have the best idea of the local weather conditions as well as the best spots to see them without light pollution.

Northern Lights viewing is one of the most popular activities in Iceland, and as such there are a wide range of Northern Lights tours departing from Reykjavik, including these on GetYourGuide .

Some we suggest you include in your shortlist are this small group tour , or this well reviewed and good value coach option .

Obviously, all of these tours are offered subject to the weather, and can be cancelled if conditions are not good. They also usually come with a guarantee that if the tour goes ahead but no northern lights are seen, then you will be issued a free ticket for another attempt. So with that in mind, we highly recommend you book your tour as early in your trip as possible.

If you are planning on trying to see them, we suggest reading through our guide to how to photograph the northern lights , which has tips and ideas for all types of cameras and will ensure you are prepared!

9. Landmannalaugar

The day trip from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, and for good reason. Landmannalaugar is an otherworldly landscape of colourful mountains, smoking hillsides and bubbling mud pots, accessed across vast ash covered plains.

Here, you can see the splendour of the Icelandic Highlands, and take a trek through a truly fantastical landscape. The trek takes around an hour to ninety minutes and does require a bit of a climb through lava fields. It’s also really important to dress appropriately – we visited in June and we got snowed on, with temperatures just above freezing!

So layers and waterproof and windproof clothing is essential. See our guide to what to pack for Iceland for some tips.

Landmannalaugar is also relatively tricky to access, as the roads can be hard to drive, require a four wheel drive vehicle, and, depending on the time of year and weather conditions, a number of river crossings.

So whilst you can do this if you rent a four wheel drive vehicle, generally we’d suggest taking either a tour, or a bus. There are regular buses through the summer months out to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik, although these take around four hours each way, so do be prepared for a bit of a trek.

Our preferred option would be do the tour as a dedicated day trip. We did it as a super jeep tour, and whilst a super jeep isn’t strictly necessary, it is a lot of fun.

Various operators run super jeep tours to Landmannalaugar, which stop at different attractions, and so the tour you pick should depend on what you want to see. We’d suggest checking out this super jeep tour to Landmannalaugar as a good starting point.

Don’t forget to bring your swimming clothes – there are free hot tubs at Landmannalaugar if you want to soak a bit after the hike.

10. Þórsmörk (Thorsmork)

Þórsmörk, or the Valley of Thor (what a name!), is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland. In fact, you can hike from here all the way to Landmannalaugar on an epic multi-day hike , which is one of the most popular things to do in the area.

But, we’re talking about day trips here, and Thorsmork is very much worth visiting just for a day of hiking. It’s a beautiful green valley found under the glaciers of Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull, with the 14km hike up Fimmvorduhals volcano being a popular option.

Þórsmörk is one location that you should really consider taking a specific tour to visit. The reason for this is that getting to the Valley of Thor requires some serious river crossings – usually more than 10 – and no hire car in Iceland is ever covered for damage resulting from river crossings.

Alternatively, there are buses that run here, although, as with Landmannalaugar, these do take a while and will eat into your day.

11. Ice Cave Tour

If you are visiting Iceland in winter, one of the most popular things to do is to take a tour of an ice cave. These form inside and underneath glaciers, and the incredible hues of the ice make for a fantastic experience.

Note that this is different to the previously mentioned “into the glacier” tour, as that is a man-made tunnel inside a glacier, whilst these ice tours are of naturally formed ice, which is much clearer.

This is definitely a trip that you need to do as a guided tour. Glaciers are notoriously dangerous places, and you want to be in the hands of an expert when visiting an ice cave to minimise any risks.

There are a number of ice cave tours from Reykjavik such as this one or this one , plus some with departures from other areas that you might find yourself.

For example, there’s this one from Gullfoss to the Langjökull Glacier , this one to the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier from Vik and this one from Skaftafell .

So if you can get yourself to these locations under your own steam, you can save a bit of time and money by booking a tour that leaves from here.

Note, if you aren’t in Iceland in winter, you can get an idea of what an ice cave is like by visiting the Wonders of Iceland attraction at the Perlan in Reykjavik. Here they have a full ice cave recreation display that operates year round, with real ice. It’s very well done (although obviously not the same as the real thing), and is a good alternative.

12. Go Puffin or Whale Watching

Many visitors to Iceland want to see puffins and/or whales, two of the more popular wildlife viewing experience in Iceland.

You might be surprised to learn that you can see both of these on trips that depart from Reykjavik. For example, we took this hour long Puffin trip from Reykjavik and saw numerous puffins, making this an excellent value option for Puffin spotting.

There’s also a longer Whale Watching tour departing from the city centre.

If you are interested in seeing Puffins elsewhere in Iceland, check out our detailed guide to Puffins in Iceland , which has everything you need to know, including the best time of year to come to Iceland for puffin spotting.

13. Visit an Active Volcano

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice, and volcanic eruptions are a regular occurrence. Some of these are very dramatic, such as the one which caused worldwide travel chaos in 2010, whilst others are a bit more visitor friendly.

In 2021, volcanic activity began on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula, in the Fagradalsfjall fissure zone, which is found around 25 miles from Reykjavik. In 2022, another volcano in this fissure started erupting, and was given the name Merdalir as this is the name of the valley it is in.

Visiting the sites of these active volcanic eruptions has become a popular activity, although it should be noted that an active volcano site can be a dangerous and unpredictable location.

It’s also a fairly active trip, as you have to do at least a couple of hours of hiking each way on uneven and sometimes steep ground. So you will want to be fully prepared in terms of fitness and also clothing (the weather in Iceland can be fickle at any time of year).

You can take a guided tour to visit the volcano eruption sites like this one , or this one which includes the Blue Lagoon.

And that summarises some of our top suggestions for day trips from Reykjavik! If you’re interested in more day tours from Reykjavik, beyond the list above, then do check out more day tours in Iceland on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Iceland Travel .

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Since you’re going to be basing yourself in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, you’re going to want somewhere to stay. We’ve stayed at a number of hotels near the city centre which we are happy to recommend, the Grand Hotel, the Reyjkavik Natura Icelandair Hotel and Guesthouse Galtafell .

The latter is the closest to the center and also likely better for those on a tighter budget.

Icelandair2Bhotel2BReykjavik2BIceland_by_Laurence2BNorah-5

There are however lots more options for accommodation See more lodging options in Reykjavik on booking.com here . We recommend Booking.com as they have pretty much everything from hostels to hotels to apartments, and they offer very competitive pricing and usually a great cancellation policy.

We also spent a few days at an apartment rental in the city centre which was a good option.

When to Visit Iceland

Iceland is a country that you can visit year round, but there are various considerations to think about when visiting.

If you choose to visit in winter, you need to be aware that there is much less daylight, and wintry weather has the potential to adversely affect your plans, as it can cause road closures. It will also, obviously, be a lot colder in winter, and you’ll need to plan your Iceland packing list accordingly. Some tours are also not offered in winter.

However, winter does bring advantages. It is a much quieter time of year to visit the country, prices are generally lower, and it’s the only time of year for viewing the northern lights. So if a northern lights experience is on your list, you’ll definitely want to visit in winter.

Summer is a much busier time of year to visit, and offers warmer weather, long hours of daylight, and many more tour options. Prices also tend to be higher, and you’ll definitely want to book your tours and accommodation well in advance (ideally at least three – six months for accommodation, but the further in advance the better) to get something that suits what you want.

There are 20 comments on this post

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Louise says

26th January 2022 at 7:55 pm

Hi there, we plan to visit Iceland early March this year, not been before. Once we land on the Friday, we are heading straight for the Golden Circle. Can you advise best route please? And which way to go around the circle? Thanks in advance

Laurence Norah says

28th January 2022 at 5:12 pm

Hi Louise! Sure thing 😀 I cover all that in my detailed guide to the Golden Circle, which you can see here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/iceland-golden-circle/

Let me know if you still have questions!

Antonio Prikolov says

17th December 2020 at 1:58 pm

You described your trip to Iceland very accurately and I love these places. I remember the first time I got there and this country does not let me go to this day.

18th December 2020 at 12:11 pm

Thanks Antonio!

Rashmi says

4th January 2020 at 11:42 pm

This is so informative. We are planning a 10 nights trip to Iceland in August out of which 5 days I want to stay in Reykjavik as accommodation is free for me there. The remaining 5 days I am torn between doing 2 flying trips to the north and west fjords or just spend 4 days at one location. What would you recommend ?

5th January 2020 at 11:38 am

Both the north of Iceland and the West fjords are beautiful. However, the west fjords is quite unique in Iceland in that it takes a very long time to get anywhere as the roads have to loop around all the inlets. So even what looks like a short distance on the map can take a long time to cover. So I would instead recommend heading up to the north. Four days based somewhere like Lake Myvatn will let you explore a great many sights, so that is probably what I would do.

I hope this helps – let me know if I can be of any more assistance 😀

12th November 2019 at 3:39 am

This is an incredibly helpful blog. We will be on a small ship cruise into the northern arctic in August and have a three day stay in Iceland on the way back. On day one we will unwind at the blue lagoon. On day two we will do the golden circle. Would you recommend on day three the southern coast and an overnight in Vic or the Snaefelnes peninsula Or a different itinerary. Thanks. Steve.

12th November 2019 at 1:21 pm

Thanks very much! So personally I think the south coast would be my preference as the waterfalls along there are beautiful and some of the most well known in Iceland. So that is what I would do 🙂

Have an amazing time and let me know if you have any more questions!

9th April 2019 at 11:21 pm

My trip us next month and I will be doing mostly self driving tours. Did any of these areas where I can go myself absolutely require a 4×4 car? Thank you

10th April 2019 at 2:17 pm

Hey Emily – the only two that you would absolutely need a 4WD for (and even then, I’d probably still take a tour) are the Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork trips. The roads are 4WD only and there are river crossings. Note that no car insurance in Iceland covers river crossings, so we advise doing those two tours on a day trip rather than doing it yourself, as the cost for damaging your rental due to a river crossing is very high.

12th August 2018 at 11:07 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica Norah,

Great blog, one of the most comprehensive I’ve read on Iceland. Myself and my wife are planning a trip (without the kids) in October for 4 days (Fri-Mon). Just wondering if you would recommend anywhere outside of Reykjavik to base ourselves? My thinking was to hire a car, drive out of Reykjavik and make our way back over 3 days but i know the time is short so wanted your opinion. Many thanks Eric

15th August 2018 at 8:42 pm

Hey Eric! Thanks very much 🙂

It does depend on what you want to see of course. With four days, my suggestion would be the Golden Circle and South Coast, and perhaps if you have time the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. So you could do two days in Reykjavik and then two days somewhere like Vik. If you wanted to explore a region like the south coast more thoroughly of course you could do that, and move along slowly. It also depends on your planned transport and how you intend to do the trip, if it’s going to be self-guided with a hire car, or if you are looking more for guided trips, either multi-day or single day. So those decisions will also play a role, as the majority of day trips and group tours depart from Reykjavik.

I hope this helps a bit. If you are planning on heading as far east as the glacier lagoon, we do recommend breaking that journey up into a couple of day at least, just to save on the mammoth drive! We have a lot more Iceland content to help – maybe the five day itinerary would be something you could massage for your purposes?

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/5-day-iceland-itinerary/

Have a great trip!

Mom of three says

30th April 2018 at 7:24 pm

Thanks for the quick reply! I’m torn because while the car is more convenient, I’m not sure if we’d use it that much if we are taking guided day tours. The appeal of the guided tours is that way the person driving isn’t missing out on the great scenery. I really appreciate the insight. Right now I think we’re going to go with an Air BnB and a car but I’ve got to decide soon! Have a great trip.

30th April 2018 at 7:29 pm

My pleasure! Depending on where you find the AirBnB, you might find that local buses serve it, then if you wanted a car you could hire it for a part of your time and do both 😀 Whichever you decide, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

Momofthree says

30th April 2018 at 6:46 pm

Is it possible to get around Iceland without a car? I wanted to avoid renting a car and just go on guided day trips but we’re also considering AirBnB because I didn’t realize hotels booked up so early and there’s not a lot of choices even though we’re more than two months out. If we do find a hotel in the city, can we depend on shuttles/buses to get around? Or is having a car, just easier, even with the high cost of gas?

Thanks so much for the blog!

30th April 2018 at 6:52 pm

Hey there! Unfortunately at the busier times of year, especially July / August, Iceland does get quite busy – more people than rooms! For sight-seeing, you can certainly do lots of things on a tour, and it’s definitely easier in many ways, although a car will give you a bit more flexibility – so it’s up to you. If your plan is to base yourself in Reykjavik and you find a place to stay (we know how hard it is!) then you won’t need a car if you just want to do day trips. For longer journeys, you can either do multi-day group trips, or you can look into something like the bus passport, which lets you travel around various parts of the country. You can see those here: https://guidetoiceland.is/book-trips-holiday/bus-tours/bus-passports?a=133265 and I have a bit more information on them in my Iceland Planning Guide: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-planning-trip-to-iceland/

Good luck – we’ll be in Iceland for most of June, maybe we’ll run into you 😉 Have a great time!

27th April 2018 at 4:10 pm

Hello, Can we book when we get to Iceland instead of in advance? In case our internet isn’t working is there a phone number we can call to book and pay?

28th April 2018 at 10:58 am

For Iceland Travel, yes, you can book when you arrive and they have a phone number on their website: https://www.icelandtravel.is/?ref=findingtheuniverse

Leslie says

20th April 2018 at 12:30 am

This is one of the best travel blogs I have read – and I read a lot of them!!! Very well laid out, with all the right details, descriptions, and pictures. I feel confident planning a trip to Iceland. Thank you so much!

20th April 2018 at 12:55 pm

Thanks very much Leslie – have a wonderful trip to Iceland!

Day Tours in Iceland

Guided adventure trips & excursions in iceland.

We have an excellent selection of full or half day tours departing from Reykjavík, and many other locations around the country. These great value day tours and outdoor Iceland activities are designed to discover the best attractions around the country.

ABOUT ICELAND EXCURSIONS & DAY TOURS

We offer tours of varying lengths and difficulty , suitable for different ages. Whatever you have in mind for your time in Iceland, we will have the perfect tour for you. If you have any questions about our activities, please do not hesitate to contact us. Check out our tour selection to see more about duration and pick-up possibilities.

Can’t find what you're looking for? Customize your very own private tour with us to experience Iceland your own way.

We also offer meet-on-location and self-drive tour packages.

WHICH ACTIVITY OR EXCURSION IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Looking for a stress-free way to explore Iceland's stunning landscapes and cultural treasures? Our day tours are the perfect solution! With efficient itineraries designed to make the most of your limited time, you can choose from a wide variety of excursions, from quick half-day tours to full-day iconic sightseeing and exciting activities like snorkeling or glacier hiking.

Our knowledgeable guides will enhance your overall experience, providing context, stories, and insider tips.

Departures are available from various towns, including Reykjavik and Akureyri.

Staying in the capital? If you're craving a taste of the extraordinary in a short time, explore our excursions from Reykjavik .

Interested in iconic sights? Take on our classic Golden Circle Tours , featuring mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural stops.

Craving a mix of experiences? Opt for our versatile Combo Tours , blending different aspects of Iceland's beauty in one seamless journey

Want a more active adventure? Browse our range of popular activities in Iceland , including thrilling glacier hikes, snowmobiling, and more.

Have a free afternoon? If you're looking for unique experiences as the day unfolds, explore our Afternoon Tours .

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland

Day trips from iceland.

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Iceland to Haukadalur
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Up to 1 hour
1 to 4 hours
4 hours to 1 day
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4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

2. Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater

3. Golden Circle, Volcano Crater and Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour

4. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

5. Golden Circle Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

6. Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Tour

7. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

8. Golden Circle Small-Group Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

9. South Coast Fire and Ice Tour: Waterfalls, Glaciers & Lava Show

10. Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

11. Iceland's Golden Circle Shared Tour for 6 people maximum

12. Northern Lights Midnight Adventure from Reykjavík

13. Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik

14. Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Tomato Greenhouse Lunch Tour

15. Private South Coast Tour of Iceland Including 6+ Main Attractions

16. Katla Volcano Ice Cave Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

17. South Iceland, Glacier and Black Sand Beach Small Group Tour

18. Lake Myvatn Godafoss and Dettifoss Waterfalls Tour in Iceland

19. Golden Circle Small-Group Tour by Superjeep from Reykjavik

20. South Coast Adventure with Glacier Hike Day Tour from Reykjavik

21. Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

22. Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Hvammsvik Geothermal Hotspring

23. Snaefellsnes Peninsula, geothermal bakery & horse stable visit

24. Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater Small-Group Day Tour

25. Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Goddafoss Waterfalls Day Tour from Akureyri

26. Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour with Geothermal Lagoon Visit

27. Small-Group Snaefellsnes National Park Day Trip from Reykjavik

28. Iceland's South Coast Small-Group Full Day Tour from Reykjavik

29. The Ultimate Northern Lights Tour with All Inclusive

30. Golden Circle Day Tour in Mini Bus from Reykjavik with Fridheimar Tomato Farm

What travellers are saying.

Kate Abroad

The best Iceland day trips from Reykjavik

Day tours are by far the easiest way to see Iceland. You can get picked up from Reykjavik, the capital city, and whisked away to the South Coast or Golden Circle with no effort required. Day tours are a great option if you’re travelling Iceland on your own , don’t drive, or just want to outsource the admin.

Day tours are especially good in winter when Iceland gets an average of 5 hours of light a day because you get all the driving done before the sun comes up and spend the precious few daylight hours actually exploring.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Iceland, read these 3 reasons to (and not to) travel Iceland in winter .

What to know about booking day tours in Reykjavik

The tourism model in Iceland is very much centred around day trips. Every morning in Reykjavik, rows of buses will pull up to the designated collection points (there are about 5 in the city, close to the major hotels and the bus depot) to load up passengers.

It can get a bit chaotic at the pickup points because there are so many tours leaving for different parts of the island with different tour companies. Be sure to double-check beforehand what company you’ve booked and where you’re going that day to avoid getting on the wrong bus.

The major Iceland day tour operators include Grayline, Reykjavik Excursions, Arctic Adventures, and Reykjavik Sightseeing. I personally used the first three and heard great reviews of the latter from fellow travellers.

On a day tour, you will typically leave Reykjavik in the early/mid-morning around 9 am and return 6-8 hours later in the late afternoon. You can nap on the bus and by the time you arrive at your first stop, it is daybreak (around 10-11 am in January). All the activities and sightseeing are then done during the daylight hours before driving back to Reykjavik in time for a pre-dinner nap (which is totally justified in winter when it gets dark at 3 pm).

I booked all my Iceland day tours through Get Your Guide and Viator because the platforms make it easy to compare tour options and they often have good deals.

Golden Circle Day Tour

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s biggest attraction and thousands of people come through here every day. In winter you have less of the mass-market tourism vibe as your busload will usually be one of the only groups around.

The highlights of the Golden Circle are the Geysir geothermal geyser, the Gullfoss waterfalls and Thingvellir, the original site of the Icelandic parliament.

Reykjavik Excursions offer a huge range of tours in this area, I went for their shorter six hour Golden Circle tour which was pretty jam-packed but ticked off many of the places on my Iceland bucket list. I found their guides very knowledgeable, recounting the history of the Althing, the world’s oldest continuous Parliament and the medieval Gothic who gathered there.

Click here to compare prices for all the Golden Circe tours on Get Your Guide (one of the 60+ tours is sure to suit you).

Iceland’s South Shore Day Tour

The main attraction of the South Shore is the small town of Vik. It’s a postcard-perfect Icelandic village with colourful houses, on the coastline. It’s a great place to stop for lunch on a South Shore day trip, make sure to try the seafood!

Because this is Iceland, there are also several spectacular waterfalls to see on the South Shore, with the main ones being Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. The sheer volume and noise of these waterfalls are awe-inspiring, with tons of water crashing to the ground every second.

While the South Shore sounds (and is) coastal, it’s very different from many other shorelines. Instead of white or golden sand, much of Iceland’s Southern coastline hs striking black sand which makes for very dramatic photos, especially at Reynisfara beach, where most tours stop.

I did this South Shore tour with Reykjavik Excursions which hits all the highlights with a good amount of time in each spot so you can wander and take lots of photos.

Click here to compare prices on a whole lot of South Shore tours with Get Your Guide.

Glacier Day Tour

Visiting a glacier is another Iceland bucket list item. Particularly as climate change means the glaciers are melting away each year. There are several glaciers near Reykjavik that you can visit but I recommend Langjökull Glacier because of the ice caves there.

I did an Arctic Adventures tour involving a ride in a giant decommissioned NASA truck up onto the glacier. The wheels of this thing were almost as big as me! Being on top of a glacier is a surreal experience, everything is white as far as you can see and blindingly bright. From the top of the glacier, kitted out in full snowsuits that the company provides, you descend into the glacier itself via a series of man-made ice caves that even include a small ice church.

Another popular glacier day trip option is a snowmobiling tour . I spoke to several people at my hotel who had a fantastic day out snowmobiling. It’s definitely one of the best winter day tour options in Iceland if you are looking for adrenaline-filled adventure. However, the ice caves are a great alternative if like me, you don’t have a full driver’s licence or if you have kids with you.

Blue Lagoon Day Trip

The Blue Lagoon is not a standard day trip in that it’s a single destination. However, you’ll want to spend most of a day here, since it’s one of Iceland’s most popular attractions and there are plenty of activities to do in the Blue Lagoon complex.

You can arrange your own transport to the Blue Lagoon by taxi or private transfer and book your entry ticket separately (pre-bookings are a must!) but Blue Lagoon day tour packages are the easiest, and often the cheapest, way to organise your visit as the Blue Lagoon. To see prices for a Blue Lagoon tour (transport + entry) click here and click here for entry only .

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous of Iceland’s many geothermal hot springs and it has evolved into an established tourist destination. While the place can get crowded in the peak season (summer), it’s a must-visit in Iceland due to the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the indulgent spa experience (there’s a swim-up bar and an endless supply of face masks).

You can visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to or from the Keflavik airport but I don’t recommend this for two reasons.

First, the inevitable pre-flight stress/post-flight exhaustion can get in the way of the relaxing experience that the Blue lagoon should be.

Second, because flights to/from Keflavik airport usually run at either end of the day which means that, unless you’re visiting in the endless-daylight summer months, most of your time at Blue Lagoon will be in the dark so you won’t get to enjoy the full views (compare the below photos to the one above).

Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik

Not strictly a day tour, the tours that offer Northern Lights viewings are all run at night. This is convenient because you can do one of the other Iceland day tours during the day and then add on a Northern Lights tour at night.

The Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik are only available in the winter months (generally November to February) when the extended darkness makes sightings possible. I was lucky enough to spot the aurora on my trip in January, on a Northern Lights tour with Reykjavik Excursions .

Going on a Northern Lights tour does not guarantee that you will actually see the Northern Lights. Instead, the way these tours operate is that you drive out from Reykjavik in the dark, heading for the countryside where there’s no light pollution, and drive around between a few known viewing spots until you either see the Northern Lights or give up and head back to Reykjavik.

You will usually end up in a convoy of buses as each of the tour companies drives around the same spots chasing the lights. I found that this gives the experience an intrepid feel as hundreds of people venture out in the darkness seeking the Aurora. but it could be construed as ultra-commercial.

If you aren’t keen on the bus option (which is the cheapest way to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik), there are also several companies offering Northern Lights cruises by boat from Reykjavik which is a more premium alternative.

If the weather is bad, such as when there is heavy cloud cover, the tour company will often call off that night’s tour, letting you know the morning beforehand. Northern Lights tours generally don’t offer refunds if the tour is cancelled or you don’t see the lights but most companies will let you jump on the next tour for free until you get to see them.

Click here to compare prices for a whole range of Northern Lights trips on Get Your Guide.

The Wrap: Best Iceland Day Trips From Reykjavik

Hopefully, these Iceland day tours help you plan your Iceland trip, or inspire you to book one if you haven’t already!

Despite being a small island, Iceland can be hard to get around on your own, especially in winter when many roads are closed, so organised day trips are a great solution.

Happy travelling!

Europe Travel Resources

Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
Find awesome day tours on Get Your Guide
Book train tickets and buy cheap multi-trip passes from Rail Europe
Travel super cheaply across 28 countries with Flixbus
Save on attractions with a city pass from Go City (including Amsterdam, Paris and Rome)
Sort your Euros and other currencies with a Wise multi-currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK: GATEWAY TO INCREDIBLE NATURE & ADVENTURE

FOR SCENIC VIEWS, THE ELUSIVE NORTHERN LIGHTS AND UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE - ICELAND HAS IT ALL!

View all day tours from Reykjavik

See & Experience the most famous Icelandic sights!

Tour the Golden Circle in all its glory and see the Strokkur hot spring erupt at the original Geysir. Stand next to Gullfoss waterfall, the roaring queen of Icelandic Waterfalls and walk in the footsteps of the Vikings in Þingvellir National Park.

Explore the South Coast with its endless black beaches, towering volcanoes and rugged glaciers. Walk behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and hike up to the incredible Skógar Waterfall. Strap on crampons and step onto the glacier ice of Sólheimajökull with an expert guide.

Find these and other great tours in our selection of guided day tours from Reykjavík. Selected tours offer seats with a touch screen tablet complete with our unique "In Bus Audio Guide", and a USB charger.

GOLDEN CIRCLE & SKY LAGOON (Admission incl.)

Visit Iceland´s newest geothermal wonder after experiencing the Golden Circle.

ISK 22,490 10,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST, DIAMOND BEACH & JOKULSARLON TOUR

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most amazing natural wonders of Iceland. Experience a day full of glaciers, icebergs and waterfalls at Iceland´s jewel.

ISK 23,990 14 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND BLUE LAGOON (admission incl.)

Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Blue lagoon after seeing some of Iceland’s most famous sights.

ISK 30,490 13 Hours

South Coast, Diamond Beach & Glacier Lagoon

Guided tour of the Icelandic south coast, with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

ISK 24,580 14 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE CLASSIC

Visit Iceland´s most popular natural attractions including Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, expertly guided in 10 different languages!

ISK 10,490 7,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST CLASSIC

Experience the wonderful volcanic southern coastline of Iceland with its thundering waterfalls, endless black sand beaches and glacier coated volcanoes, available in 10 different languages!

ISK 13,990 10,5 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND GLACIER

Explore the Golden Circle and then drive a snowmobile on the second biggest glacier in Iceland.

ISK 34,990 11,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST AND GLACIER TOUR

Hike on a rugged glacier and explore the amazing cracks in the ice, visit two stunning and iconic waterfalls as well as Reynisfjara black sand beach.

ISK 24,990 11 Hours

NORTHERN LIGHTS AND STARGAZING

Guided in 10 languages. Search for the rare and elusive northern lights (Aurora Borealis) in the skies around Reykjavík on this all time winter bestseller!

ISK 7,590 3 Hours

THE BLUE LAGOON & NORTHERN LIGHTS (Admission incl.)

Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Blue lagoon and then head out into the night to search for Northern Lights.

ISK 26,990 10 Hours

OUR MOST POPULAR DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK!

kr 34,990 11,5 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND HORSES

On this tour you will explore the world famous Golden Circle & get to know the unique Icelandic horse.

kr 23,490 11 Hours

GOLDEN CIRCLE AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Iceland's most popular natural wonders in one day. Find the dancing northern lights after a joyful Golden Circle tour.

kr 15,490 10,5 Hours

SOUTH COAST AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Follow the North Atlantic coastline from Reykjavík into the south coast wonderland and become a Northern Light Hunter.

kr 20,990 13 Hours

Iceland Day Tours: Explore the Wonders of Reykjavik and Beyond

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Iceland? Look no further than our selection of Iceland day tours! From the famous Golden Circle to the breathtaking South Coast, we offer a range of guided tours that will take you to the most iconic sights and natural wonders in and around Reykjavik. With our state-of-the-art amenities, including in-bus audio guides and USB chargers, we ensure that your journey is not only informative but also convenient and comfortable.

The Golden Circle: A Journey Through Iceland's Natural Marvels

The Golden Circle is a must-visit destination for every traveler in Iceland. This 300-kilometer route takes you to three incredible attractions: the Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Þingvellir National Park.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness Nature's Fury

At the Geysir geothermal area, you'll have the opportunity to see the Strokkur hot spring in action. This impressive natural wonder erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high up into the air. The sight of this powerful display of nature's forces is truly awe-inspiring.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Roaring Queen of Icelandic Waterfalls

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer power and beauty of the Gullfoss waterfall. As one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks, it cascades down in two stages, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Stand next to the edge of the waterfall and feel the mist on your face as you admire its majestic grandeur.

Þingvellir National Park: Where History and Nature Converge

Step into the footsteps of the Vikings as you explore Þingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a place of historical significance but also a natural wonder. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, walk through the Almannagjá fissure, and learn about the historic events that took place here.

The South Coast: A Scenic Journey of Black Beaches, Volcanoes, and Glaciers

If you're craving for more natural beauty, our South Coast day tours will take you on a breathtaking journey. From black sand beaches to towering volcanoes and rugged glaciers, this region is a paradise for nature lovers.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Walk Behind the Cascades

Prepare to get up close and personal with nature at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Unlike many other waterfalls, you can actually walk behind the cascades and experience the thundering water from a unique perspective. Don't forget to bring your raincoat, as you might get wet from the mist!

Skógar Waterfall: A Picture-Perfect Setting

Another majestic waterfall awaits you at Skógar. With its 60-meter drop and stunning surroundings, it's no wonder that this waterfall is a favorite among photographers. Capture the beauty of the cascades and the lush greenery that surrounds it.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Step onto the Ice

For the ultimate adventure, strap on crampons and join our expert guides as you step onto the glacier ice of Sólheimajökull. Learn about the fascinating formations and features of glaciers while marveling at the icy landscapes. This is an experience like no other.

Discover More with Our Guided Day Tours from Reykjavik

In addition to the Golden Circle and the South Coast, we offer a variety of other guided day tours from Reykjavik that allow you to explore even more of Iceland's wonders. Whether you want to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, visit the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, or immerse yourself in the mystical world of the Northern Lights, we have the perfect tour for you.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula: A Land of Magic and Mystery

Embark on a journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature." This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including dramatic coastlines, lava fields, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano. Explore charming fishing villages, visit the famous Kirkjufell mountain, and feel the magic of this enchanting place.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A Frozen Wonderland

Witness the stunning beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs float peacefully in the crystal-clear water. Take a boat tour and get up close to the majestic ice formations or simply sit on the shore and listen to the sounds of cracking ice. This is a truly magical experience that will leave you in awe.

Northern Lights: Chase the Aurora Borealis

If you're lucky enough to visit Iceland during the winter months, don't miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Join our expert guides as they take you to the best spots to see this natural phenomenon. Dance with the colorful lights in the sky and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Ultimate Convenience: In-Bus Audio Guides and USB Chargers

To enhance your experience during our day tours, we offer in-bus audio guides and USB chargers. With our touch screen tablets, you can learn about the history, geology, and culture of each destination at your own pace. Stay connected with our USB chargers and never worry about running out of battery on your devices.

Book Your Iceland Day Tour Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of Iceland with our guided day tours from Reykjavik. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, we have the perfect tour for you. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and the thrill of discovery. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with us and create memories that will last forever.

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19 Best Day Trips from Reykjavík to Explore Iceland’s Natural Wonders

You really can’t go to Iceland without capturing as many waterfall photos as your camera will allow and marveling at massive glaciers, but if you’re basing yourself in Reykjavík, you might be worried about what is possible.

Worry no more!

While Reykjavík offers an abundance of culture and adventure, there are many other amazing things you should see and explore — all within a day from Reykjavík! Even if your time is limited in Iceland, don’t miss one or two of these fantastic day trips!

From soaking in geothermal pools to hiking across a frozen glacier, this guide features the best Reykjavik day trips that have been experienced by seasoned travel writers!

This article contains affiliate links (paid links) and Veggies Abroad is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associated Program. A t no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — this helps keep Veggies Abroad churning out free content! For an explanation of our advertising partnerships, please review our privacy policy.

reykjavik taken from the water with white and colorful town buildings in the background and a single swan in the foreground

The Best Day Trips from Reykjavík to Add to Your Itinerary

#1 discover the golden circle.

When you only have time to explore some of Iceland’s natural wonders, The Golden Circle is a great place to go and one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavík.

This 300-km (186-mile) loop takes you to Iceland’s big three — a bursting geyser, a powerful waterfall, and a National Park where you can walk between the tectonic plates that separate North America from Europe.

Depending on which way you start, your first stop will either be Thingvellir National Park (home of the tectonic plates) or the Geysir Geothermal Area — there’s no wrong way to start! The Thingvellir National Park is situated in a rift valley formed by the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The diverging plates have created deep cracks and fissures (you can snorkel in the Silfra Fissure ), resulting in stunning landscapes, including cliffs, canyons, and the picturesque Lake Thingvallavatn.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is known for its geothermal activity, including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. Here you can witness the Strokkur Geyser erupting every few minutes!

the erupting geysir on icelands golden circle on a day trip from Reykjavik

Just a short drive from the Geysir Geothermal Area is the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the “Golden Falls.” The name comes from the sediment in the water that gives a brown tint that can be seen on sunny days. Although it’s not the largest waterfall in Iceland, its power is still mesmerizing — no matter the season.

You can explore the Golden Circle in two ways — on an organized tour from Reykjavík or a self-driving adventure. Thingvellir National Park is only 47 km (25 miles) from Reykjavík, and although it’s not far in the distance, you should still plan for an all-day adventure.

the powerful gulfoss waterfall with high water spray on a cloudy day in iceland

#2 Snorkel Between Two Continents

Snorkeling in Silfra (located in the Thingvellir National Park) is an experience like no other. It’s absolutely worth going on a day trip from Reykjavík because it’s the only place in the world where you can snorkel between two continents . The water is crystal clear, and the visibility is incredible; you are only limited in visibility by your own sight, not because of water clarity. The water is so pure that you can even drink it! At least, this is what they say, but I’m not sure I would.

If possible, you should try to go during the summer when you have a better chance of sun; the visibility is even better. The underwater world of Silfra is simply breathtaking. You’ll see colorful algae and fascinating rock formations, but don’t expect exotic fish or a coral reef. The water temperature stays around 2°C all year round, but don’t worry; you’ll be provided a dry suit to keep you warm.

The drive from Reykjavík to Silfra takes around one hour, and you’ll be surrounded by stunning Icelandic scenery along the way. Snorkeling in Silfra is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss during your visit to Iceland — there’s nothing like this anywhere else in the world! Recommended by Honest Travel Stories

snorkeling in the silfra fissure in icelands national park on a day trip from Reykjavik

#3 Explore the Blue Diamond Circle in Reykjanes Peninsula

The Blue Diamond Circle is a driving route on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula filled with natural wonders and cultural sites. Located southwest of Reykjavík, this circular route spans approximately 180 kilometers and showcases the region’s unique landscapes. It includes the area around Keflavík Airport and the Blue Lagoon, making it a great extension when traveling in this area.

The Blue Diamond Circle allows you to see the dynamic forces of nature at work and includes geothermal areas similar to the much larger areas in the north of the country. Gunnuhver geothermal area, known for its steam vents and boiling hot springs, is located close to Reykjanesviti lighthouse, perched on the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views. The route also features volcanic craters, steaming new lava fields, and the famous Blue Lagoon. It is also possible to cross the Bridge Between the Continents, where you can cross the Mid-Atlantic ridge, one of the few places where it is not underwater.

The Blue Diamond Circle is easily accessible from Reykjavík, with a starting point roughly 50 kilometers southwest of the capital. Allowing a full day for the Blue Diamond Circle is recommended to thoroughly appreciate the attractions and experiences along the route. This ensures enough time for leisurely walks, exploration, and soaking up the unique sights. If you don’t have a car, check out this private tour which includes the active Fagradalsfjall volcano! Recommended by Meandering Wild

a bright orange light house in the middle of iceland's desolate landscape on a cloudy day

#4 Get Up Close to Massive Icebergs at The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

If you’ve never had the chance to get up close to massive icebergs, this is it! The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular and deepest lagoons (lakes).

The lagoon is formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier. As the glacier retreats, chunks of ice break off and float in the lagoon, creating a mesmerizing landscape of icy blue, white, and black-streaked icebergs of various sizes and shapes. The vivid blue color of the icebergs, particularly under sunlight, adds to the lagoon’s beauty and allure.

The best way to experience Jökulsárlón is on a Zodiac or Amphibian boat ride . The Zodiac excursion is longer, and because the boat is smaller, you can get much closer to the icebergs than the Amphibian boat. The boat rides are offered from April – October and range in time from 30 minutes – 1 hour and 15 minutes. Boat tours are 6300 ISK – 13900 ISK ($46 – $101 US).

Adjacent to Jökulsárlón is the Diamond Beach. This black volcanic sand beach is strewn with glistening ice chunks and icebergs that have washed ashore from the lagoon. The contrasting colors of the sparkling ice against the black sand make it a photographer’s paradise and a must-visit spot.

You can explore this area on an organized tour or on your own. The drive from Reykjavík will take just under 4 hours one way. On your way to Jökulsárlón, there are quite a few other gorgeous stops that you might want to make that include Reynisfjara Beach and the beautiful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, along with many others (tours generally make stops along the way too).

the jokulsarlon glacier lagoon filled with icebergs and a person standing at the waters edge in iceland

#5 Hike Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur Canyon is one of the most underrated day trips from Reykjavík! It is one of the best trails in Iceland and a must on any Iceland Ring Road Trip . You can’t beat the stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and the sea. This hike is 2.8 miles round trip and is difficult, but it is well worth it! The trail takes you up the canyon with gorgeous panoramic views. At the end of the trail is a fantastic view of Hangandifoss Falls. Hangandifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, and it pours into the canyon, feeding the river. Looking further down the canyon, you can see a volcano in the distance.

The canyon is located near Jökulsárlón Lagoon and Diamond Beach and is about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík. To get to Múlagljúfur Canyon trailhead, you will turn off Route 1 and drive down an unmarked gravel road for about 2 miles. This spot is not well marked, so save it on your maps ahead of time. Recommended by Voyages with Val

the Múlagljúfur Canyon with a river running through it on a hazy day at sunset in iceland

#6 Explore the South Coast

Whether you’re headed to Jökulsárlón or just making a road trip through Iceland’s South Coast, there is so much to see — you could honestly spend multiple days exploring. Along Route 1, you’ll find stunning coastline, black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque villages. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and the otherworldly landscape of the Sólheimajökull glacier.

Exploring the South Coast is one of the best day trips from Reykjavík, and here are some of the best stops to check out:

#7 Reynisfjara Beach

This black sand beach has been honored as one of the most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. The dramatic beach is famous for its dramatic scenery — towering cliffs of hexagonal basalt columns and large basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. According to local folklore, the stacks are said to be trolls who were turned to stone when caught by the rising sun.

A visit to this beach is solely to enjoy the scenery, never to swim, even if you’re an Olympic swimmer. The area is well-known for unpredictable currents (waves up to 120 feet have been measured), including Sneaker Waves, which are larger and stronger waves that can come ashore unexpectedly. Multiple tourist deaths have occurred over the years because they didn’t exercise caution.

When arriving at the beach, you’ll see a giant yellow sign with a flashing green, yellow, or red light. The colored zones change depending on the weather conditions and tell visitors if it is advisable to continue. It is important to note that the beach is not monitored, so you must manage all safety precautions.

The Reynisfjara Beach is approximately two and a half hours from Reykjavík via Route 1 and only 10 minutes from the small town of Vik.

the dangerous Reynisfjara Beach on a cloudy and windy day in iceland on a day trip from Reykjavik

#8 Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss is the prettiest waterfall in Iceland , and that is a bold statement in a country famous for its waterfalls.

As you walk up to Skógafoss, the 60-meter drop over the cliff is spectacular. To the right of the waterfall is a series of steps taking you to the top for a different perspective. You can watch the water flow over the edge from here. A hiking trail also follows the Skógá River for approximately 8 km (5 miles) one-way and features more stunning scenery peppered with waterfalls.

The drive time from Reykjavík is about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. There is no entrance fee, and the parking is free. Conveniently there are also free toilets next to the car park. There are a couple of places to eat in the area; the best is Freya Café in Skogar (they have a few vegan options ).

Depending on the wind, you might want to pack waterproof gear, as the spray from the waterfall can be intense. Recommended by Kristin from Scotland Less Ex plored

the skogafoss waterfall at the foot of the waterfall with water spraying at the ground

Short on Time? Or Just Can’t Decide? Check out These Popular & Highly Rated Day Trips from Reykjavík!

Golden Circle, Volcano Crater & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik South Coast Full Day Tour from Reykjavik

All of these spots are also highlighted below incase you need more information! Also, don’t forget to book your ticket with FlyBu s before you head to Iceland! It’s the most affordable ground transfer option from the airport to Reykjavik.

#9 Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Checking out the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of the best things to do in Iceland . The waterfall is part of the river Seljalandsá, which originates underneath the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. The cataract falls from a 60-meter-high cliff and features a wide cave behind the waterfall. There are circular trails that allow you to circle the waterfall and observe it from behind.

Bring a raincoat to avoid getting completely soaked if you plan to go behind the waterfall! Seljalandsfoss is the most photographed waterfall in Iceland. Use a wide-angle lens to get a full view of the waterfall and cave from behind.

Seljalandsfoss is located 130 Km from Reykjavik, and you can visit it on a self-driving or join a terrific tour that explores the area, including this gem. Recommended by Travel the World Pages

the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall taken from along a hiking trail that leads behind the waterfall in iceland

#10 Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

If you’re scouting for a secret spot in South Iceland , Gljúfrabúi Waterfall, or “Gljúfrafoss,” is where you need to go. It’s tucked away in a canyon, making it the chill cousin of the famous, nearby Seljalandsfoss.

The name Gljúfrabúi means “canyon dweller,” and boy, does it live up to that! It’s like this secret hideout surrounded by nature, as the waterfall is hidden behind cliffs and drops down about 40 meters. The mist it kicks up gives it a truly magical vibe.

To get there, you’ll hike a short trail and then wade through a stream to get into the canyon. It’s like your own mini–Indiana Jones adventure. Be ready to get wet, and make sure your shoes have a good grip.

And camera buffs, listen up! This place is a goldmine for amazing shots — make sure you climb up the right side of the waterfall for an epic view of it pouring into the canyon.

Getting to Gljúfrabúi is easy — take Route 1 from Reykjavík, follow signs for Seljalandsfoss, and park there. Gljúfrabúi is a 500-meter walk north of Seljalandsfoss. This place is a jackpot for anyone looking for a serene escape with a dash of adventure. Recommended by Seek Scandinavia

the gljufrabui waterfall taken from the base of the waterfall looking up to the sky on a day trip from Reykjavik

#11 Check out the DC-3 Plane Wreck

One of the best day trips from Reykjavík is visiting the DC-3 plane wreck in southern Iceland. Located approximately 160 kilometers from Reykjavík, the plane wreck is a captivating destination that attracts visitors worldwide.

To reach the DC-3 plane wreck, you embark on a scenic road trip from Reykjavík via rental car or with a group tour . The route along the Ring Road (Route 1) takes you through Iceland’s stunning countryside, with breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lava fields.

Once you arrive at the Sólheimasandur black sand beach, you’ll need to walk approximately 4 kilometers to reach the plane wreck. The walk offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw and untouched nature; it truly feels like you’re on another planet. As you approach the site, the eerie sight of the abandoned aircraft against the stark landscape creates a surreal atmosphere, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The plane crashed on the beach in 1973, and officials determined removing the aircraft was too much of a hassle. Miraculously, everyone on board survived. The plane has sat on the beach for 50 years! It’s important to note that climbing or touching the wreckage is prohibited to preserve its historical significance and for your safety. Recommended by The Directionally Challenged Traveler

the old and deserted plane wreckage from the dc 3 plane crash on a black sand beach in iceland

#12 Hike the Sólheimajökull Glacier

Sólheimajökull glacier, located 2 hours from Reykjavík, is an absolute must-visit destination in Iceland. Whether you plan to take a day trip from the city or add it to a comprehensive exploration of the South Coast, this glacier offers an unforgettable experience.

Hiking Sólheimajökull is a unique experience — the stark contrast between the white ice and the black volcanic ash is mesmerizing. As you traverse the glacier, you’ll see awe-inspiring landscapes, including striking ice formations that are constantly changing and deep crevasses where melting glacier water flows beneath you.

For your safety, you should never attempt to hike the glacier alone; you should always go with an experienced guide. There are hiking tours that include a guide and all the necessary equipment (hiking boots, crampons, and a helmet).

Also, take a refillable water bottle with you and enjoy the refreshing coolness of pure glacier water. It’s a refreshing way to connect with nature and savor a unique Iceland delight.

It’s important to note that the Sólheimajökull glacier is facing a concerning reality. This glacier is rapidly shrinking; experts predict it may be gone entirely within a few decades. Seizing the chance to experience this while you still can is crucial. Recommended by Our Vacationing Life

the white, icy blue and black streaked Solheimajokull glacier looking down into the glacier lagoon in iceland on a day trip from Reykjavik

#13 Explore the Dramatic Landscapes in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

For a day trip from Reykjavík lined with stunning landscapes, minus the typical crowds of the Golden Circle, head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula . Located in Iceland’s West, the 90 km long peninsula features only one major town (with 6,500 inhabitants) and is an absolute natural gem.

You won’t want to miss the Snæfellsjökull National Park, which features an active volcano — even Jules Verne was fascinated by it. At the Þúfubjarg cliffs, you can observe various types of birds and also get a first glimpse of the uniquely shaped Lóndrangar cliffs. You can even walk down to the black sand beach near them and admire the cliffs up close.

Next up is Church Mountain, with its specific cone-like shape and beautiful little waterfalls nearby. Capturing both in one frame makes for a stunning shot!

All these natural wonders are located close to the main road. It’s easy to hop out of the car or hike for a few hours. The shortest drive between Stykkishólmur and Reykjavík takes around 2 hours. You can also take a few detours and extend the trip.

If you’d rather not drive, check out this highly-rated day tour from Reykjavík. Recommended by Travel Geekery

the natural black stone and green moss covered stone bridge in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in iceland

#14 Relax in The Blue Lagoon

One of the best day trips from Reykjavík is a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. In fact, this place is so incredible that it was named one of the 25 “wonders of the world” by National Geographic.

Here you can bathe in the natural hot spring and spa’s milky blue, mineral-filled waters. Additionally, you’ll love that the Blue Lagoon is a short 45-minute drive from Reykjavík and a 15-minute drive from the airport (there are transportation options available from the airport if you don’t have a car).

However, you might not know that the Blue Lagoon is not natural. Instead, it was created accidentally by the Svartsengi Power Plant in 1972. And the stunning color of the 102 (F) degrees water is from a combination of sun, silica, algae, silica, and minerals.

Now, depending on the type of ticket you purchase, you can enjoy a wide array of luxury services, like facials and massages.

Just be sure to make a reservation in advance (reservations are required), and time slots fill up quickly. Recommended by Iceland Trippers

a single person standing on a bridge over a bright blue geothermal pool at the blue lagoon in iceland

#15 Check out The Lava Falls (Hraunfossar)

Hraunfossar, or “Lava Falls,” is an incredible natural wonder in the west of Iceland. It is a series of waterfalls formed by rivulets streaming out of a lava field into river Hvítá. The spectacular site has been created over time from the slow erosion of volcanic rock, and it is a sight that will take your breath away.

The array of colors created by the mix of rocks, green moss, blue sky, and white rapids make for a truly unique experience. The lava mounds, jagged rocks, and naturally occurring steam vents enhance the landscape and create a dramatic setting.

Hraunfossar is an excellent alternative to add to your itinerary instead of the popular waterfalls on Iceland’s south coast.

From Reykjavík, it is about an hour and 40 minutes, and there are several car parks nearby. If you don’t have a car, there are day tours that include checking out the Lava Falls.

The falls are open year-round, although some areas may be closed off during periods of extreme weather. Due to the landscape, it is recommended that you wear proper shoes and pack hiking gear . Recommended by BeyOfTravel

waterfalls cascading over lava rock called the lava falls in iceland on a partly cloudy day

#16 Enjoy the Beauty of Húsafell Canyon (West Iceland)

Located on the Silver Circle in Iceland is the stunning Húsafell Canyon, known for its rugged landscape, hiking trails, and offbeat bathing experiences — a gorgeous place you won’t want to miss.

If you’re interested in a geothermal bath experience, check out the Canyon Baths . It is a unique, private experience; reservations are required. In addition to the baths, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, and a resort. Hotel Húsafell provides accommodation and can offer a private guide and driver to take you to the Canyon or Krauma Baths (the hotel also offers other activities).

The beauty of Húsafell Canyon is truly breathtaking. As you stand at the bottom of the canyon, you’ll be able to look up and admire its sheer size and beauty while soaking in the warm waters.

There are several ways to explore Húsafell Canyon. The most popular is following hiking trails that lead through the canyon and around the perimeter. This gives hikers a great view of the canyon walls and allows them to appreciate its beauty from all angles.

The Langifoss (a two-tiered) waterfall is also located by the Canyon Baths.

Additionally, there are lava-caving tours nearby. From Reykjavík, it is about a 2-hour drive. Roads are accessible by private vehicles and tours. Here is a day tour that includes sightseeing in the Húsafell area. Recommended by ToSomePlaceNew

geothermal pools in the Húsafell Canyon in iceland

#17 Hike the Vatnajokull Glacier

Visiting the Vatnajokull Glacier from Reykjavik is a long day trip, but it’s also one of the most epic things you can do in Iceland . Vatnajokull National Park, where the glacier is located, is about a 4-hour drive from Reykjavik.

The Vatnajokull glacier covers 8% of Iceland and is the largest in Europe. While hiking the Vatnajokull glacier in Iceland , you’ll have the chance to hike ice crags, admire the blue-ish tinted ice, climb through ice canyons, discover the little caves, fissures, and streams in the ice, and marvel at the massive ice fall that towers over you higher on the glacier.

Iceland is known as a land of fire and ice. While you can’t control the fire part – as volcanoes erupt when they want to – you should take the chance to experience the ice. The glaciers of Iceland are such a dominant feature of the country and create an otherworldly landscape that you need to explore.

When you go, bring good hiking boots or rent them from your guide/company. Wear layers as you will alternate from being chilly to warm from the exercise. And if given the chance, take the opportunity to drink the water flowing fresh off the glacier; it’s delicious. Recommended by The Unknown Enthusiast

hiking the white and icy blue vatnajokull glacier in iceland with a person in a yellow jacket standing at the base

#18 Go for a Soak at The Sky Lagoon

Outdoor bathing is a big part of Icelandic culture. Locals love visiting hot springs and heated pools to relax and socialize. Visitors to Iceland shouldn’t miss this activity, and when you’re in Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon isn’t far. Sky Lagoon was created at the edge of land overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and while the lagoon is man-made, it’s heated naturally with geothermal heat from the ground.

Sky Lagoon allows guests to feel like they’re one with nature. You’ll soak in the crystal-clear water with rocks built up around you, helping you detach from the “real world.” Another unique offering at Sky Lagoon is The Ritual. It is a seven-step process that honors the Icelandic heath practice of shocking your body with cold and hot sensations.

There are three different pass options, two include the seven-step Ritual, and one doesn’t. The other main difference is that the Pure Passes have male and female community changing rooms, and the Sky Pass offers guests a co-ed locker room with private changing and bathing rooms.

A few tips include visiting during the off-season or early in the morning to avoid crowds. Summer months and mid-day are peak visiting hours. You’ll also want to book in advance as passes are timed entry and often sell out. You can reach the Sky Lagoon via taxi from Reykjavik city center in about 15 minutes or pre-book the pass with transportation. Recommended by Stuffed Suitcase

the geothermal pool with people hanging near the cliff at the sky lagoon in Reykjavik

#19 Explore the Largest Ice Tunnel in Iceland

If you’re looking for an extra memorable day trip from Reykjavik, consider a tour through the largest ice tunnel in Iceland ! You can book an Into the Glacier tour from Reykjavik or make the short (less than 2-hour) drive and start your tour from the Húsafell base camp.

To get to the ice tunnel, you’ll ride in a modified glacier vehicle like a super truck! The ride itself is fantastic and is worth the trip. You’ll also get to stop at Klaki Basecamp for other-worldly pictures before finishing the drive to the tunnel.

Once you finally get to the ice tunnel, your guides will provide crampons for your safety while exploring inside — it is impressive! The tunnel is over 1,800 feet long and over 130 feet underneath the glacier’s surface at the deepest point. Another great thing about this tour is that it’s available year-round!

Even though the tours typically last only 3-4 hours from start to finish, weather and other determining factors can make it last up to 5-6 hours, so this should be your only planned excursion for the day. Make sure to dress appropriately with warm, water-proof layers and insulated hiking boots. Recommended by Adventures With TuckNae

into the glacier ice tunnel on a day trip from reykjavik

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

If you’re looking for places to stay that are centrally located, check out these two terrific spots. One note, breakfast is included at The Storm Hotel but isn’t at Eyja Guldsmeden.

Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Brautarholt 10, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland 4-star hotel

Storm Hotel

4 Þórunnartún, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland 3-star hotel

Wrap it Up: More Iceland Travel Help

Now that you know all of the best day trips from Reykjavik, you might be curious about what else Iceland has to offer. Don’t miss these helpful guides!

Is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour Worth It? Iceland Vegan Guide: Where to Stay & Eat Around The Country Ultimate Reykjavik Vegan Guide: Best Restaurants, Bakeries, & More G Adventures Review: Best of Iceland Tour Where to Stay & What To Do on Iceland’s Ring Road Is the Golden Circle Worth Visiting?

Rebecca is the founder of the vegan travel company Veggies Abroad. In 2021, she bid her 15-year career goodbye and ventured into the world of ethical business with the launch of a vegan travel blog (the one you’re reading!). As the blog flourished, Rebecca expanded her vision to encompass personalized travel planning services and launched Veggies Abroad's inaugural vegan tour to Thailand, marking the beginning of many more eco-conscious, plant-powered adventures to come. Follow her adventures on Instagram or Facebook @veggiesabroad

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Best Day Trips from Reykjavik in Iceland

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The beautiful Strokkur geyser erupts with the sun shining behind it.

Small-Group 8-Hour Golden Circle Minibus Tour with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater from Reykjavik

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall trickles in the foreground as the sun sets

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

You will wear metal crampons over your hiking boots to ensure a proper grip on the ice.

11 Hour South Coast Waterfalls & Glacier Hiking Day Tour to Solheimajokull Departing from Reykjavik

A Snowmobiling day tour provides for an action-packed afternoon in Iceland.

Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

On the Best Value Whale Watching Trip from Reykjavik you might see the giant humpback whale breaching in a stunning acrobatic display.

Affordable Whale Watching Boat Tour from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik

See the Volcano Area on the Reykjanes peninsula from Reykjavik

Helicopter Tour over the Volcano Area on the Reykjanes peninsula from Reykjavik

The Secret Lagoon is as historical a site as it is a geothermal one.

9 Hour Tour of the Golden Circle with an Audio Guide in 10 Languages & Transfer from Reykjavik

11 Hour Sightseeing Tour of Snaefellsnes with Kirkjufell & Black Sands with Transfer from Reykjavik

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights dancing in the autumn sky.

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights over the city pond in Reykjavík

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

Amazing 2 Hour Northern Lights Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik Harbor

A view of the ice tunnel into Langjökull Glacier

Into the Glacier Langjokull & Hraunfossar Waterfalls Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Flying in a helicopter is both a truly luxurious experience and a mind blowing one.

Fantastic 5-Hour ATV & Helicopter Adventure with a Mountaintop Landing and Reykjavik Transfer

The beautiful northern lights moving like dancers in the sky above the Thingvellir National Park.

Magical 4-Hour Aurora Museum and Northern Lights Minibus Tour from Reykjavik

Þingvellir is home to the scenic Almannagjá gorge, the exposed North American tectonic plate.

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

Have a snowmobile adventure in Iceland on this Golden Circle tour with a Super Jeep.

10 Hour Super Jeep Tour of the Golden Circle with Snowmobiling and Transfer from Reykjavik

The Northern Lights arch over a road in Reykjavik.

Amazing Northern Lights Hunt in Small Group from Reykjavik with Hot Chocolate

4 Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour & Whales of Iceland Exhibition with Transfer from Reykjavik

Seeing the Northern Lights by boat allows guests to totally avoid the city's light pollution.

5 Hour Whale Watching & Northern Lights Double Boat Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Landmannalaugar region is often referred to as the crown jewel of Iceland's Highlands.

Amazing 14 Hour Jeep & Hiking Tour of Landmannalaugar & Waterfalls with Transfer from Reykjavik

Þingvellir National Park becomes an oasis of colour in the summer months.

Affordable 7 hour Golden Circle Sightseeing Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

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Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Guojin Gong

Great experience! The tour guide (Kiki) is so helpful and told us a lot of stories along the road, making it fun and educations (for my 12-year-old girl). Definitely recommend!

Jessica Lynas

It was lovely! I'd recommend it for anyone who doesn't want to do a 10 hours tour straight away. This is a lovely little taster of what Iceland can offer. 10/10

My first time solo travelling I was a little nervous about big groups so this was recommended to me instead. It was amazing I couldn't recommend anything else for solo travellers. The groups are small enough that you don't feel overwhelmed but still have the opportunity to make friends if you wanted. Siggi was amazing cracking jokes and getting everyone involved. 10/10

Pyeseghl Aurelio

Great Golden Circle tour with a knowledgeable tour guide. The Northern Lights tour guide was very enthusiastic about the phenomenon and you could tell from the way he talked about it. Unfortunately, we only saw a small trail during our time there, which lasted roughly 4 hours. The lead guide was trying to see if we could chase another sighting on the way back to Reykjavik but we ended up heading straight back. The effort that the guides took into to ensure possible sightings was admirable and definitely a stark change from another tour that we went on the previous night. Whilst the offer of rebooking the tour was there, unfortunately we were leaving the next day so were unable to try again during the trip. However, the enthusiasm the guides experienced and the fact that they did try to go to another site to ensure a sighting is why next time I shall book with the same company (Grey Line Iceland) .

Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital, serves as the perfect launching point for exploring the country's stunning natural beauty. Numerous day trips are available from Reykjavik , offering a wide range of unique experiences.

The Golden Circle is perhaps the most famous, encompassing the Geysir geothermal area , the iconic Gullfoss waterfall , and the historical Thingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just an hour's drive from Reykjavik, it provides a taste of Iceland's geological wonders.

For those seeking a more immersive adventure, a trip to the South Coast unveils the striking Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls , along with the eerie beauty of the black sand beach at Reynisfjara and the charming village of Vik .

Another option is the enchanting Snaefellsnes Peninsula , featuring the Snaefellsjokull glacier and a rugged coastline, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature."

Animal lovers will appreciate a whale-watching tour departing from Reykjavik's harbor, where you can spot majestic humpback whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

In winter, the chance to witness the elusive northern lights, a celestial spectacle, is a must-consider excursion.

In Reykjavik itself, you can immerse yourself in Icelandic culture by visiting the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church , exploring the vibrant streets of Laugavegur for shopping and dining, or delving into the nation's history at the National Museum of Iceland.

Don't forget to sample Icelandic cuisine at local restaurants, where you can savor delicacies like fermented shark, Icelandic lamb, and skyr, a traditional yogurt-like treat.

In conclusion, Reykjavik offers a perfect balance of city and nature, with an array of exciting day trips and local activities that cater to diverse interests, making it a fantastic starting point for an Icelandic adventure.

Frequently asked questions

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7 Excellent Day Trips from Reykjavik

Iceland is one of the top destinations to visit in Europe. Its wild rugged landscape is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and nature. Iceland gets more than a million visitors in a year, and yet doesn’t feel overcrowded. There are zillion things to see and do in a country that is so compact in size and a wide array of great day trips from Reykjavik.

The ultimate way to experience Iceland is to take a road trip. We did a 12 day ring road itinerary of Iceland in June. We explored Snaefellsnes Peninsula on the western side, then drove up north, crossed the east region briefly, and spent time exploring the popular south coast of Iceland. Reykjavik and the famous Golden Circle were the last stops on our Iceland itinerary.

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But you may not want to change hotels frequently or may not have 10+ days that is recommended to drive down the ring road. If you have a short time in Iceland and base yourself in the capital city, you can see a lot of the country by doing day trips from Reykjavik .

The Absolute Must-Do Activities ✅

If you can do all the tours on this Iceland list , do it. But if you’re time is limited, these are my Reykjavik Day Trip faves:

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .
Take a day trip to Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle route.
Visit a geothermal spring (hot spring).

The Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

This post covers the best Reykjavik day trips that can be easily converted to overnight trips.

In cities like Reykjavik there are cars, buses , or tours .

You can rent a car (near Keflavik airport) and do the self-drive option for all these day trips. My favorite rentals car options for Iceland are RentalCars.com , AutoEurope and DiscoverCars .

Except for Landmannalaugar, these mostly fall on the ring road and can be easily added to a Iceland 5 days itinerary.

Golden Circle Route

Thingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle Tour

Distance from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park: 45 km

This is the most famous day trip from Reykjavik. Thingvellir national park, Geyser Hot springs area and Gullfoss make the trio in the popular Golden Circle . It is best to get up early and head to Thingvellir national park. Being popular and close to the capital, this national park gets quite crowded.

Thingvellir also has important place in the political history of Iceland. It was here that the first parliament got made to govern the country And nowhere else can you see the American and Eurasian tectonic plates on land. Also walk to Oxarafoss, a lovely waterfall up ahead. There are many other hiking trails to be explored here, but you can’t manage them probably in a day trip from Reykjavik.

After Thingvellir, head to Geyser geothermal area for a quick stop. The famous Geyser itself is no longer active, but you can see Strokkur nearby. The eruption of Strokkur geyser occurs every 6 to 10 minutes. Make sure you stick to the walking paths in this area and enjoy the bubbling mud pools from a safe distance. The water is extremely hot and there is a Sulphur smell in the area.

The last stop on the Golden Circle route is the famous Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss is the most visited waterfall in Iceland, partly due to proximity to Reykjavik and partly because of its dramatic display. It comprises 2 waterfalls, a shorter cascade of 11 meters and then a drop of about 21 meters. The canyon walls on both sides of the falls descend deep into the Gullfossgjufur Canyon.

The 3 stops plus the drive from Reykjavik would make this a long day, but very doable in spring or summer months.

Here are the best Golden Circle tours .

Blue Lagoon

Distance from Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon: 45 km

You can’t visit Iceland without enjoying its hot springs . Soaking in the warm water at a natural geothermal spring is heavenly. And one of the most famous spots is in the village of Grindavik and makes for an excellent Reykjavik day trip.

Blue Lagoon is the most popular attraction close to Reykjavik so book your tickets in advance. Iceland trip cost is not cheap with all the hotel stays and activities cost, but Blue Lagoon is so worth it.

Blue Lagoon is a man-made pool where water is brought up from deep within the earth. This water rich in silica and other minerals is supposed to have healing properties. If you can time your visit in the early morning hours or late evening hours, you will get less crowds. We went late in the evening, and it turned out to be perfect. The Blue Lagoon has 2 on-site restaurants, a spa and all amenities that you may need.

Do note that there has been a lot of volcanic activity close to Grindavik in recent times, due to which Blue Lagoon had to be temporarily shut down several time. So check the latest situation before your trip. If Blue Lagoon is shut, another great option close to Reykjavik is Sky Lagoon.

You can book your ticket with roundtrip transfer from the airport or Reykjavik with Viator.

Distance from Reykjavik to Kirkjufell: 180 km

Would you take a day trip from Reykjavik to view the ‘most photographed mountain in Iceland’? Kirkjufell is the highlight of Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland. Together with Kirkjufellfoss (the waterfalls across the road), it makes for a postcard perfect picture.

You can explore the surrounding beauty of Snaefellsness Peninsula. The coastal drive, the picturesque villages will all convey why this area is termed as miniature Iceland’. Some of the attractions that can be covered here are Ytri Tunga seal beach, Budir black church, Arnarstapi cliffs. You get views of Snaefellsjokull glacier – a glacier topped volcano) from many parts of your road trip.

Check out the best Kirkjufell Iceland tours .

Glymur Waterfall Hike

Distance from Reykjavik to Botnsa village: 68 km

Iceland is heaven for the adventurous and those who enjoy hiking. If you are looking for a moderately challenging hike doable as a day trip from Reykjavik, consider the Glymur waterfall hike . For hikers, this is one of the best things to do in Iceland in summer.

At a height of 198 meters, it is the second tallest waterfall in the country. This waterfall can be visited only a hike. It is nestled in a narrow canyon and fed by the river Botnsa.

There is a river crossing that you need to cross during the hike. This log is put sometime in May end or June, so the Glymur waterfall hike is possible only during summer months (June to September). As you hike up to Glymur, you get wonderful views of the lush valley and the coast far away. You can come back the same way or do a second river crossing (without any log!) and take a different route to come back to the car park.

Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss

Distance from Reykjavik to Vik village: 187 km

Not all beautiful waterfalls in Iceland are difficult to reach. In fact, two of the most popular waterfalls are on ring road route in South Iceland when you drive from Reykjavik to Vik town.

You first come upon Seljalandsfoss. The unique thing about this waterfall is that you can get behind it. There is a small path that leads to the back of the waterfall, and you get glorious view of the waterfall and the surrounding areas from behind it.

But do put your rain jacket and waterproof shoes on because, I got drenched when I did the tour and you will get drenched as you walk the full circle to come back to the front. Seljalandsfoss drops with a thunderous sound some 60 meters on the rocky ground.

Next on the route from Reykjavik to Vik is Skogafoss. This is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland with a height of about 60 meters. It is possible to walk very close to Skogafoss but be prepared to be soaked due to the heavy mist around the falls.

Many days, you can see a rainbow looming over the falls due to the heavy mist. There is a staircase with over 500 steps to take you to the top of the falls. And unless you plan to hike the ‘Skogafoss way’ that starts at the to of the fall, you can avoid climbing the steps.

On a day trip from Reykjavik to south Iceland, also add the black beach near Vik – Reynisfjara with its tall basalt columns and the rock formations nearby in the ocean. Beware of the strong current in the ocean, it is best not to get into the water. You could drive up to Dyrholaey Peninsula to get stunning views of this beach and also of the Atlantic Ocean. There is a lovely lighthouse on top of the peninsula.

Check out the best South Iceland tours with Viator.

Glacier Hiking

Distance from Reykjavik to Skaftafell: 327 km

The driving distance from Reykjavik to Skaftafell is long, so I don’t recommend this as a day trip. It is best to stay overnight in Vik or Hofn.

But you can’t visit the Land of Ice and Fore without a glacier hike to the largest glacier in Iceland , the Vatnajokull. This glacier hike, or a hike on the nearby Solheimajokull glacier, cannot be done without a tour guide and gear like crampons and ice picks. So it is best to pre-book your glacier hike. You need to go to Skaftafell to start this glacier hiking tour.

You can also book a a boat tour to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon . Large iceberg chunks that have broken off from the glacier float in this lagoon before getting into the Atlantic Ocean.

And if you have some time left on the second day, make sure to head to Diamond Beach. If you are lucky and the sun is shining brightly, you get to see ice chunks glinting against the black sands of the beach.

Landmannalaugar

Distance from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar: 141 km

Landmannalaugar is an area of ethereal beauty in central highlands of Iceland that is difficult to reach. It requires planning, but well worth the effort. There is a short season between June and September when the F-roads (or unpaved dirt tracks) open in Iceland that connect central highlands to other parts of the country. You will need to take a 4WD to get on F-roads.

Do a short hike, see the multi-colored hues of rainbow mountains, soak in the natural geothermal spring, and watch the active geothermal area here. Landmannalaugar is just unreal. After 2 days of heavy rainfall, we abandoned the idea of self-idea and opted for a day tour to this area.

Hope I have parked your wanderlust with these 7 Reykjavik day trips. Some of these trips are seasonal and limited to summer months, like the Glymur waterfall hike and Landmannalaugar.

Others can be easily done throughout the year. Though it gets tougher to drive in Iceland during winter months and day trips for long distances like Vik or Skaftafell should be avoided.

If you do visit Iceland in winter, the best day trip you can take from Reykjavik is to see the Northern Lights. This is possible at many spots: the lesser the city lights are, the brighter the aurora would shine!

Check out the best Landmannalaugar Jeep tours from Reykjavik.

Iceland Resources & Tips

Getting to Iceland is quite straightforward, and you’ll find some great flight from the US. Numerous major cities provide direct flights to Keflavik Airport (KEF), which serves as the starting point for all tours in Iceland .

Check out tools like SkyScanner or Cheapo Air for cheap flights or Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You don’t even need to shell out any cash because Skyscanner and Cheapo Air have a free version.

Airport Shuttle: The airport offers a convenient shuttle service called Flybus that operates between the airport and Reykjavík. The trip takes approximately 45 minutes, with multiple stops in the city center. This option is ideal if you want to explore Reykjavík during your layover.

In cities like Reykjavik there are cars, buses , or tours to get around.

Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com , AutoEurope and DiscoverCars .
Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

1. Thórsmörk

2. kerlingarfjöll, 3. snæfellsnes, 4. katla ice cave, 5. snowmobiling, 6. southern highlands safari, 7. solheimajökull glacier, 8. hvammsvik, 9. hrunalaug, 10. black sand beach, 11. seljalandsfoss and skógafoss, 12. blue lagoon and sky lagoon, 13. active volcano, 15. fimmvörðuháls hike, 17. reykjadalur, 18. landmannalaugar, 19. westman islands, 20. golden circle, 21. háifoss.

Hiking trip in Þórsmörk valley

Þórsmörk is a hidden gem away from all the tourist crowds and yet pretty close to the main Icelandic ring road. Thórsmörk can easily be done as a day trip from Reykjavik. It’s a go-to place for every hiking enthusiast or avid nature explorer.

Lush green valleys intersected with hundreds of riverbeds with majestic glaciers sitting above this awe-inspiring scenery . That, and much more, is Þórsmörk.

How to get there

To reach the Valley of Thor, you have to overcome a rough highland road F249 . This so-called F-road requires a huge jeep because of the several significant rivers you must cross on your way.

There are three different ways to get to Thórsmörk:

Take a guided Thórsmörk super jeep tour
Take a public Highland bus to Þórsmörk
Drive to Thórsmörk yourself

It takes less than 3 hours to reach Thórsmörk from Reykjavik.

Tip from a local

It’s best to visit Þórsmörk between June and September when all the snow is melted and the valley is the most colorful.
Plan for doing at least one hike . It’s more than just worth it!

Our experience

We drove to Thórsmörk ourselves with a modified Toyota Land Cruiser we rented in August. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Iceland. We wrote a detailed guide on visiting Þórsmörk and dealing with its challenges.

One of the Best Day Trips from Reykjavik – Kerlingarfjöll Hveradalir Geothermal area

Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most otherwordly spots you can visit as a day trip from Reykjavik. You will be hiking orange mountains full of steaming Sulphur and bubbling hot springs . We guarantee you’re going to feel like you’re on another planet!

Kerlingarfjöll is a must-see if you are into remote places in harsh surroundings and enjoy silence rather than company. Be sure to take any hike here , and your jaw will drop.

To reach Kerlingarfjöll, you can either:

Drive there via rough but rather easy roads 35 and F347
Take a guided Kerlingarfjöll tour
Kerlingarfjöll typically enjoys volatile weather . A visit in heavy rain and wind may be quite unpleasant. We suggest carefully planning the trip according to the local weather forecast .
Dress well! It will be cold, even in summer. When camping, remember that summer night temperatures may fall as low as 0°C, or 32°F.

We have visited Kerlingarfjöll several times and have always struggled with harsh weather . We wrote a detailed article on How to visit Kerlingarfjöll and what to see.

On one trip, we even took a hike to the tallest peak of Kerlingarfjöll called Snaekollur , and we can’t recommend it enough!

It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to Kerlingarfjöll from Reykjavik.

Kirkjufell in winter, the most legendary place on a Snæfellsnes peninsula

Snæfellsnes peninsula is a great day trip spot full of natural wonders and mesmerizing coastal sceneries not too far from Reykjavik. It’s very well accessible with basically any car and almost any time of the year.

Some of the most photographed spots in Iceland , like Kirkjufell or Budakirkja, are in the heart of Snæfellsnes. Unique cliff formations, black beaches, narrow ravines for adventurers and even seals! You can find all of these in Snæfellsnes.

It will take you slightly over 2 hours of driving to get to Snæfellsnes from Reykjavik. Driving is the easiest and most convenient way to access Snæfellsnes.

By far the most sought-after spot is Mt. Kirkjufell . We recommend visiting Kirkjufell before 10 AM or after 7 PM to avoid big tour groups .
There’s a cute little hill with lovely views called Helgafell , where almost nobody goes. Check it out!

We visited Snæfellsnes three times. We enjoyed each trip a lot and highly recommend seeing the peninsula both in summer and winter . It looks entirely different when covered by snow in February, opposite to lush green surroundings in July or August.

Katla is the Best Ice Cave that can be done all year round as a Day Trip from Reykjavik

Katla is the most beautiful ice cave doable as a day trip from Reykjavik . And we don’t know anybody who was not impressed by Katla! It’s a one-of-a-kind ice cave consisting of glacial ice and black volcanic ash. Out of this world, colors will follow you with each step.

To visit Katla, you have to take a Katla guided tour . Visiting the cave by yourself is very dangerous and highly discouraged.

The two best tour operators in Iceland running Katla Ice Cave tours are:

Arctic Adventures (5% discount code: EPICICELAND23), pickup in Vik or Reykjavik
KatlaTrack (5% discount code: EPICICELAND), pickup in Vik.

A ride to Katla from Reykjavik takes something over 3 hours.

Katla is the only natural ice cave in Iceland open all year round for visitors.

If you could choose a season, we recommend going to Katla in winter . Katla typically possesses the most shiny colors between November and April in winter. You can also visit Katla outside of winter, and it’s still awesome, just a bit smaller and less shiny.

Snowmobiling day trip from Gullfoss

What about snowmobiling on a glacier besides volcanoes during the sunset? Too much of a cliché? Well, it’s entirely possible in Iceland!

Various tour providers offer the snowmobiling experience in Iceland. The two best ones are also located the closest to Reykjavik :

Mountaineers of Iceland , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND, pickup at Gullfoss
Icelandic Mountain Guides , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND24, pickup at Ytri Solheimar

To take a snowmobile tour, you can take either:

Tour from Reykjavik: Take a combo super jeep tour of snowmobiles with Golden Circle or
Self-Drive to meeting point: Either to Gullfoss (Mountaineers) or Myrdalsjökull (Icelandic Mountain Guides) and take just the snowmobile tour directly there

Reaching Gullfoss or Myrdalsjökull from Reykjavik will take you around 2 hours.

The cheapest way to enjoy the snowmobile is to ride on a shared snowmobile with your companion. Separate snowmobiles are priced higher.

We are young, and we love adventure and speed. This means we would always choose the fastest snowmobiling tour available. Currently, Mountaineers run the fastest one from Gullfoss on a Langjökull glacier. The fast-paced tour is a bit pricier but comes with fewer fellow riders.

Best Super Jeep Day Trip from Reykjavik? Try Highlands with Midgard Adventure ! 10% discount code: EPICICELAND10

Southern Highlands of Iceland are our personal favorite when it comes to day trips from Reykjavik. It will be a long day, but the one you will never forget!

There’s just so much to see in the highlands, and basically, any place there looks like on another planet . You will be fording rivers with a jeep, exploring green volcanos, and admiring the harsh power of the Icelandic wilderness.

Reaching the southern highlands of Iceland requires a large 4×4 car and sound driving experience, including crossing treacherous rivers . You have two options when it comes to visiting the highlands:

Study, practice, plan, and drive there on your own or
Take a guided super jeep tour (10% discount code: EPICICELAND10)
One day is not enough to explore every single place in the southern highlands. It could take you weeks to do so. Nevertheless, even one day in the highlands is much better than no day!

We’ve driven across the southern highlands countless times and never stopped admiring them. This is simply our most beloved corner of Iceland . We write extensively about every place we’ve ever visited in the highlands for free on our website.

Don’t underestimate the highlands! Always check the road conditions before going, and when feeling unsure, better don’t go!

Solheimajökull Glacier hike is the nearest glacier hiking trip you can take from Reykjavik

Do you want to hike on a glacier near Reykjavik ? Then, your best choice for a day trip would be a Solheimajökull glacier hike . Is that not enough? Well, then you can also take a kayaking tour of the glacial lagoon right next to the glacier!

Solheimajökull is the closest glacier to Reykjavik, providing excellent hiking and canoeing opportunities. Blue ice, white ice, ice covered with ash , or icebergs in a lagoon are just an introduction to this ice paradise.

You can reach Solheimajökull in about two and a half hours from Reykjavik. The ride there is easy and just follows the ring road.

To hike the glacier, you have to take a guided tour. It’s too dangerous to go on your own.

There are several different glacier tours at Solheimajökull that vary in length and difficulty. Choose the one that suits you the best.

We had the best experience at Solheimajökull with the two most experienced local glacier hiking companies :

Icelandic Mountain Guides , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND24
Arctic Adventures , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND23

Hvammsvík Hot Spring is possibly the best hot spring day trip from Reykjavik! Image courtesy to: https://hvammsvik.com/

Hvammsvik hot spring offers a unique combination of a luxurious spa with Icelandic wilderness . The hot spa overlooks the fantastic scenery of Hvalfjordur Bay, with picturesque mountains in the background.

A combination of hot water and beautiful views of the fjord makes Hvammsvik a perfect spot for a relaxing day .

Hvammsvik is a top candidate for one of the best day trips from Reykjavik . It’s conveniently located just about an hour of drive from the Reykjavik city centre.

Many guided tours visit Hvammsvik on a daily basis. You can either join one of these tours or simply drive to Hvammsvik yourself via easy and well-maintained roads.

We can highly recommend a Hvammsvik guided tour with Golden Circle run by NiceTravel, a top local family company. You can use a 5% discount code: EPICICELAND on their tours.

Regardless of whether you’re a couple, a single traveler, or a family with small children, we are sure you will enjoy Hvammsvik! Just check out the reviews anywhere online.

We haven’t visited Hvammsvik yet, but we are really looking forward to it! We’ve heard so many spectacular references about this place. We plan to visit Hvammsvik during shoulder season, like April, May, or October, to avoid crowds .

Amazing scenery around Hrunalaug hot spring

Hrunalaug hot spring is one of the most picturesque Icelandic hot springs . As it is located close to the Golden Circle, “Hruni” has become a viral spot and a popular day trip from Reykjavik .

Netflix could easily feature Hrunalaug in a fairy tale. Green grass, sheep eating it, and in the midst of this scenery, an old wooden shelter with a hot pot next to it.

The only way to visit Hrunalaug is to drive there . No tours are stopping at Hrunalaug.

That being said, Hrunalaug is an easy one-and-a-half-hour-long drive from Reykjavik.

Hrunalaug sits on private land, and you must pay for pool access .
The hot spring has become quite crowded; better visit it during unusual time s.

We visited Hrunalaug for the first time in the summer of 2020 during the worldwide Covid lockdowns. The charm of the hot spring quickly enchanted us. Only until we had a very peculiar experience with a young Icelander in the hot pot :).

We’ve also been to Hrunalaug in winter and can confirm it’s an equally good choice. Maybe even more charming when you bathe with snow and ice everywhere around you.

One of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, Reynisfjara beach, can easily get crowded also in winter. This is one of the most touristy places in Iceland.

The Black Sand Beach, or Reynisfjara in Icelandic, proudly belongs to the most beautiful day trips from Reykjavik. The beach has been featured in many movies and is famous due to the otherworldly sand and rock formations.

The Black Sand Beach is nested in the vicinity of the cute little town Vik. It takes around 2.5 hours to get to Reynisfjara from Reykjavik. The road is usually accessible all year round and by any car .

The sneaky waves on the beach can be deadly. Always pay special attention to the traffic lights showing how far from the waves you should stand. More info about these dangerous waves is on the Icelandic Safe Travel website .

When we first visited Reynisfjara , I remember we just stood still in awe. Black Sand Beach is a one-of-a-kind place , and there’s no wonder it attracts so many visitors. That’s the price you have to pay for such a beautiful place that is very easily accessible from Reykjavik.

reykjavik day trip skogafoss seljalandsfoss

Two favorite waterfalls for Icelandic day trippers – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss

Visiting Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls is most likely the the most popular day trip from Reykjavik . And for a very simple reason. These are the two most gorgeous yet easily accessible waterfalls in south Iceland.

Yes, Seljalandsfoss is that waterfall you can walk behind , and Skogafoss is the one you may climb above. Both are, without any doubt, just must-see spots for any first-time visitor . And when you are based in Reykjavik, it makes perfect sense to go see them on a day trip.

Driving on the main Icelandic ring road, you can easily reach both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls from Reykjavik in about 2 hours.

The best way to do so is by renting a car . Alternatively, you can take a guided south coast tour . Almost all of them stop at both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and are pretty affordable.

You can walk behind Seljalandsfoss only outside of winter . Otherwise, it’s dangerous due to paths full of snow and ice.
Make sure to wear spikes on your shoes when taking stairs to climb above Skogafoss in winter . The trail is very slippery.

These two waterfalls are an Icelandic classic, and we’ve seen them countless times, so we are not that much excited about them anymore. BUT. Exactly the opposite was true when we saw them for the first time – we were impressed! And so will be you, so go and see them!

Blue lagoon and Sky lagoon

Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are iconic hot spas every visitor to Iceland has heard about . Being located either close the Keflavik airport or directly in Reykjavik, they are frequently a beloved candidate for a Reykjavik day trip.

Blue Lagoon offers an almost unrealistically looking blue color of water, that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. On the other hand, Sky Lagoon is sought for its even more luxurious experience with the so-called 7 Steps Ritual and views over the ocean .

Sky Lagoon is located right in Reykjavik in the neighborhood called Kópavogur, near the shore. It takes 15 minutes to reach it by car from the city center. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a public bus.

To reach the Blue lagoon, either rent a car and take a 20-minute drive from the airport or use a transportation service .

Did you know that neither Blue Lagoon, nor Sky Lagoon are natural? Both have been man-made , and so is the source of the hot water.
Ticket prices vary based on the particular time slot. The less attractive times have lower price .

Our philosophy goes against mass tourism, so we avoided both lagoons for years. Finally, we visited Blue Lagoon a year ago with modest expectations. And it was nice. Blue Lagoon definitely wasn’t and will never be a highlight of any of our trips to Iceland, but it can be a nice relaxing stop .

We took a day trip from Reykjavik to a lava field created by an active volcano at Fagradalsfjall.

BEWARE! Before visiting any volcanic area, carefully check www.road.is and www.safetravel.is. The area may be dangerous or closed!

Did you know Iceland boasts 32 active volcanoes ? Yes, you read it right, thirty-two. But don’t confuse an erupting volcano with an active volcano. These are two different things. No volcano is erupting at the time of writing this article.

So why go and see an active volcano? The closest active volcano that can be visited as a day trip from Reykjavik is Fagradasfjall volcano and its neighboring Litli-Hrútur area. Here you can admire the freshly spewed lava from 2021, 2022, and the summer of 2023 . And that is a hell of an experience!

There are two ways of getting to Fagradasfjall volcano. You can take a guided volcano tour or drive there yourself and take a hike. A drive takes about 30 minutes from Keflavik airport.

There are several hiking trails around Fagradasfjall . Choose the one that suits you based on your hiking ability and on how much time you have.

Please closely monitor the situation of any volcano before heading there. Icelandic Safe Travel web should help a lot.

We were lucky enough to experience an active volcano in Iceland erupting and spewing out lava in August 2021. Similar “tourist” (harmless) eruptions then followed in the summer of 2022 and 2023 near the Fagradasfjall area.

In the end of 2023, however, Iceland faced a different kind of eruption near the town of Grindavik. This eruption may have been be very harmful and dangerous, but only locally around the Grindavik town. Please closely monitor the situation and information before visiting the area.

Amazing views from the yellow hiking trail in Þakgil

Although a bit further away from Reykjavik, Thakgil can make a day trip of a lifetime! Þakgil is one of our favorite spots in the Icelandic Highlands . When you go for a hike in Thakgil on a nice summer day, you will be rewarded with unbeatable views you will never forget about.

Þakgil is a majestic valley full of ravines, ridges, and even melting glaciers , just a few hours of hiking away from the Thakgil campsite. There are three main trails, and each one is simply breathtaking.

You can get to Þakgil only by car. To reach it, first, take the ring road towards Vik and then the rough road 214 full of potholes.

A journey to Thakgil will take you more than 3 hours from Reykjavik, but it will be worth every minute of driving! Be sure to rent a car with higher ground clearance , otherwise, you may damage the undercarriage. Road 214 is very bumpy.

Þakgil boasts one of the most picturesque campsites in Iceland. If you are into camping, you can’t miss the Thakgil campsite!

We took the day trip to Þakgil from Vik, as it is much closer. The same can be done from Reykjavik as well, though, it just requires more time. We hiked two out of the three most beautiful hikes in Thakgil and wrote a detailed guide about hiking in Þakgil .

Fimmvörðuháls hike is one of the longest, but also one of the most beautiful day trips from Reykjavik

This place is famous for its panoramic views of the volcanoes Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla and its beautiful waterfalls and the Thórsmörk valley . The famous trail from Skógar to Thórsmörk passes through Fimmvörðuháls, which can continue to the rainbow mountains of Landmannalaugar .

What can you expect there? You will probably see the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer. Get ready for a series of canyon-like waterfalls, volcanic moonscape, glaciers, and many more.

The best way to get to Fimmvörðuháls is to rent a car from Reykjavík and drive along Route 1 towards the southeast until you reach Skógar, where the Fimmvörðuháls trailhead begins. It is possible to complete the hike in a day, but camping facilities are available for those wanting to extend their journey.

Tip from a local

If you don’t have the energy or time to make all 22 kilometers, do not worry. From Skógafoss Waterfall in Skogar, follow the path along the Skóga River, where plenty of beautiful waterfalls await you.

Our Experience

You can read in detail about our experience in our Detailed guide to hiking Fimmvörðuháls . Long story short, we highly recommend you hike Fimmvörðuháls at least once in your life! But only in summer and only in good weather. The trek may be dangerous otherwise.

We started the trek in Skógar and finished in Thórsmörk in about 9 hours, still having plenty of time to wait for the last bus. There was one section that was quite dangerous, and hiking poles were a must. Other than that, the hike was not difficult, just long. This can change dramatically during adverse weather, though.

Glymur is one of the most sought-after waterfalls in Iceland. It makes for a beautiful summer day hike.

Glymur, the second-tallest waterfall in Iceland , is a hidden gem within easy reach of Reykjavik. It was the tallest in Iceland at 198 meters. In 2011, however, it was overtaken by Morsárfoss with 240 meters. Though this waterfall is very difficult to access, we can still say Glymur is the tallest accessible waterfall in Iceland .

Glymur is one of the best one-day trips that you can do from Reykjavík. The surrounding nature is beautiful, and you will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere when you come here.

Drive north from Reykjavik towards Hvalfjörður. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the Glymur trail. You will then have a roughly 50-minute trek uphill quite steeply. The hike is moderately challenging but well-marked.

The hike to Glymur is usually only one-way, but if you don’t want to follow the same way, we have a pro tip . It includes a river crossing. Follow the trail until the peak and then get down to the river, choose the spot you like, and get ready for some adventure. The water is cold, but it allows you to make a loop, see the waterfall from all sides, and enjoy more Icelandic nature. There is a well-marked trail.

Glymur is quite a hike, but it is worth every breath. At one point, you need to cross a river – there is a log with a rope to get over so your feet will not get wet. The more you move up, the more you can enjoy an unbelievable view of the deep and narrow gorge and surrounding mountains.

Reykjadalur Hot River is a trendy Reykjavik day trip all year round.

Do you want to enjoy a hot bath after the hike? Then Reykjadalur is a great place for your one-day trip from Reykjavík. The trail is not very challenging, so it is also suitable for beginners.

Reykjadalur is a very famous spot, so don’t be surprised if you won’t be alone there. On the positive side, thanks to that, there are wooden walkways around the river and even screens for changing clothes.

The trail starts in Hveragerði. It takes around 45 minutes to drive there from Reykjavík. There is a paid parking lot where you can leave a car and then follow the signs for the trail to Reykjadalur.

It is so close you can even get there by bus from Reykjavík . Take the bus number 51 from Mjödd Bus Stop in Reykjavík. Get off in Hveragerði and continue to the Reykjadalur parking lot. But it takes around 45 minutes to walk from the bus to the parking lot.

If you want to avoid crowds , take advantage of long summer days and go there early in the morning or later in the evening.
Reykjadalur in winter can be challenging, wear spikes!

A small hill in the beginning was a bit steep, but after that, the hike was quite easy. After about an hour of hiking, we enjoyed a relaxing reward.

The higher upstream we went, the warmer the water got. Where the water is at the best temperature for a bath, wooden walkways, benches, and changing shelters have been built around the river. The water temperature here is between 35 and 45 °C (95 to 113 °F) .

Amazingly beautiful roads around Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is an iconic, must-visit place located in the southern highlands of Iceland. This geothermal valley offers stunning views of multi-colored mountains and thermal springs . It is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Enjoy views of lush green valleys, walk through black-grey lava fields, observe steaming spots in the valleys and mountains, and relax in hot springs .

There are multiple options for taking a day trip to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik:

Drive yourself. A 4×4 car is required, and various roads of variable difficulties lead there. Please read our detailed Landmannalaugar guide .
Take a Landmannalaugar super jeep tour
Take a Highland bus

A journey to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik takes about 3 hours.

If you want to enjoy more of Landmannalaugar, there is a campsite where you can stay overnight.
Landmannalaugur is accessible only from around mid-June to mid-September . Outside of this time, the road is closed due to weather conditions.

We keep coming back to Landmannalaugar over and over. It’s a magical place with endless hiking opportunities . We’ve recently discovered a magnificent Graenihryggur hike and can’t recommend it enough!

We advise you to choose some of the many Landmannalaugar hiking trails based on your time and hiking skills. Try to follow the tracks deeper into nature or climb up to catch the best views .

A hot candidate for a top Reykjavik day trip? Westman Islands are close!

In our opinion, the Westman Islands are most likely the best day trip from Reykjavik, where you can enjoy so many attractions in a small area in just one day.

Westman Islands, precisely the main island – Heimaey , have everything – mountains, puffin colonies, volcanoes, and interesting history . It is easily reachable, and even though it is better to plan it at least for two days, you can explore it in one day, too.

To get to the main island of Heimaey, you need to take a ferry departing from Landeyjahöfn , which is 2 hours away from Reykjavík, following Ring Road to the south.

You can explore the island on foot, but if you want to save time, take a car with you .
Heimaey has one of the largest puffin colonies . Visit the island while puffin season is on.

We visited Westman Islands on a sunny summer day, and that’s exactly what we recommend to you as well. Wait for a nice day! It’s more than just worth it. Westman islands are one of the windiest places in Europe, so dress well, you’re going to feel the wind!

We wrote a detailed article with all the attractions, hiking trails, and things to do on Westman islands in one day.

By far the most crowded day trip from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle.

The Golden Circle is one of Reykjavik’s most famous day trips, featuring three iconic destinations: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This route provides a perfect introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders.

Golden Circle might be crowded and very touristic, but we must put it on this list as it is a kind of a trailer of what Iceland can offer.

The Golden Circle is easily accessible by car from Reykjavík . The entire loop is about 230 kilometers, and you can complete it in a day. There are many different locations where you can stop and enjoy some nice walks around the area.

All the spots are very accessible by car. There are also many Golden Circle guided day tours to choose from .

Golden Circle is the most visited area in Iceland, so prepare for crowds. If you want to avoid people , start early.

We are not huge fans of the Golden Circle because this is one of the most crowded day trips in Iceland. That being said, it’s definitely a beautiful start for any Iceland first-timer.

We suggest you also add some other places in the area to your itinerary to make it a bit different. You can, for example, dive into the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir or the cute Hrunalaug Hot Spring . After that, you can continue to Kerid Crater , the picturesque lake in a volcanic crater formed around 4000 BC.

Haifoss waterfall

Háifoss is one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls , falling from 122 meters into the Fossá River Canyon. The waterfall is located in a desert landscape a little bit away from the main tourist streams . You will have a quiet place to visit and enjoy the solitude of the landscape to the full.

Haifoss is easily accessible with a 4×4 car . It takes roughly 2 hours to reach it from Reykjavik.

Alternatively, some guided tours going to Landmannalaugar also include Haifoss in their itineraries. However, there’s no bus option to Haifoss .

A visit to the waterfall can be combined with a trip to the Rainbow Mountains of Landmannalaugar , as it is close to the road leading to them.
Route 332 to Haifoss is entirely impassable in winter.
Consider combining this trip with another nearby waterfall – Hjálparfoss .

When we visited Haifoss , we realized that the main waterfall viewpoint was not very far away from the parking lot. This means many other visitors may be standing at this place, racing for better pictures.

However, there are other trails you can take if you want to explore the area more. You can even walk down to the valley and walk through the canyon to the end. Then, you will enjoy the majestic waterfall from below and typically have it all for yourself!

Posted by Igor

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Greenland Day Trip from Iceland: Is it Worth It?

Traditional drum dance in Kulusuk, Greenland.

There are only two ways to fly to Greenland—that icy remote country that many of us jet over but few of us land in, that monster of the Mercator projection. You can fly there from Copenhagen, Denmark, or from Reykjavik, Iceland. So, if you’re in Iceland, it’s natural to consider popping up to Greenland (it’s just a two-hour flight) for a glimpse. After my husband surprised me with a trip to Iceland last week, he surprised me all over again a couple of days later with a day trip to Greenland.

Air Iceland runs a daily eight-hour tour where you leave Reykjavik at 10:15 am for Kulusuk, Greenland, landing back in Reykjavik at 6:15 pm. You spend four hours in the air and only four on the ground in Greenland, but that’s enough to get a taste of East Greenland’s scenery and the local way of life.

It’s expensive, though: The tour price is $800. That includes airfare and the guide in Kulusuk but does not include the reservation fee for airline seats (I paid $11 to reserve a window seat on both flights); taxi fare between your hotel and Reykjavik Airport, 1.2 miles from the city center (I paid $26 roundtrip); lunch (I bought a sandwich at RKV pre-security and two bottles of water post-security; fellow tour members wished they had); the $40 boat ride in Kulusuk from the town marina back to the airport (this photogenic icebergs-and-glaciers boat ride was not part of the Air Iceland tour but was a highlight of the day); or the tip for the guide.

In the end, this day trip easily cost $900. Was it worth it? Well, here were the biggest pros and cons:

The cons: The Air Iceland tour was bare bones. It did not include most of the professional niceties or advance instructions that are par for the course on trips designed by my WOW travel specialists . There is no tour vehicle in Kulusuk; you walk the 1.8 miles from the airport into town. No lunch is included, nor are you told ahead of time where and how to get lunch. None of these things bothered me (I mention them because they might bother you), but what did disappoint me is that we did not get to interact with any locals, aside from our guide, the curator in Kulusuk’s museum, and the cashier in Kulusuk’s one store. I felt very much like the tourist I was. In my mind, I kept comparing this experience to the week I spent in the tiny town of Point Hope, in remote Arctic Alaska. That trip was far more interesting and enjoyable because I got to know the local people—tribal elders, whale hunters, schoolteachers, students, artisans, the pastor and his wife, and storytellers galore. In Kulusuk the only person we got to know was our guide. Then again, I’m comparing a week-long trip to a four-hour one.

The pros: We couldn’t have asked for better weather: It was sunny and clear, which I was told is the summertime norm in Kulusuk. And we lucked out with our charismatic guide, 25-year-old Massanti Riel, who grew up nearby in Greenland, lives in Kulusuk in the summertime, and works for Icelandic Mountain Guides (the tour firm used locally by Air Iceland). Massanti and I are now Facebook friends, and you can spot him in the boat-ride video below (he’s the one in a hat).

Hopefully these photos and videos from my day in Greenland will help those of you who are Iceland-bound determine whether such an excursion would be worth the price tag for you. In my case, my husband made that determination for me. I would never have splurged like this on my own…but, in the end, I’m glad I can say I’ve been to Greenland.

If you have questions about the trip, feel free to ask me in the comments.

#Kulusuk #Greenland, pop. 250 A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 12:29pm PDT

Not all houses here have running water, but you can get it from the town tap. #Kulusuk #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 1:23pm PDT

Boats can access this part of the world only 5 months of the year. #Kulusuk #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 4:36pm PDT

These boots are made for dogsledding. (That’s an attempted quip/allusion to the Nancy Sinatra song “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” Actually, these boots are used for special occasions.) #Kulusuk Museum, #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 6:39am PDT

In the museum, tools made from animal bones and driftwood. Most of the men in the community hunt and fish for a living. They hunt whales (in a kayak, with a harpoon) and seals and polar bears (mainly from boats). It takes about three whales (narwhals of 3 to 5 meters, not counting the horn) to feed a family all winter. #Kulusuk #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 6:14am PDT

The town of #Kulusuk in #Greenland is only about 100 years old. The #church (which is the spiffiest building in town) was built from the remains of a Danish sailing ship that ran aground here 100 years ago. A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 1:04pm PDT

#Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 7:50am PDT

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Greenland is on my bucket list. Did you get your passport stamped? I want that Inuit passport stamp bad!

so it is worth the money for the excursion frpm iceland? is that all? = the museum and boat ride?

Do you know if this 1 day tour still exists with Iceland Air? Their site did no allow me to select any dates. Thanks for all your good information!

Sweet! What kind of plane were you on to Greenland?

Hi Johnny! A Fokker 50.

Wow! Another one for the wander list!! What a treat to get to go there!

How exciting! I adore Greenland, and after my visit a couple years ago I felt it is one of the most underrated places I’ve ever been. My trip was a bit different, in that I was onboard an expedition ship and was able to spend a bit more time exploring the impressive fjords, appreciating the magnificent ice, and watching for whales as we traveled from point to point. Since we had a charter flight back to Ottawa, it was surreal to be walking on the Greenland ice cap one day and back at home in Seattle the next! While I generally prefer time for more in-depth exploration, my take on a one-day trip from Iceland is GO FOR IT! Whether you experience Greenland for a day or for a week, it’s worth it!

I’m with you, Shelley. A small expedition ship hugging the coastline, stopping in settlements that would otherwise be very hard to access, sounds like a smart way to see Greenland.

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Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on This 7 Day Iceland Itinerary

The writer was hosted.

Get ready for an exciting adventure through the land of fire and ice with a carefully crafted 7-day Iceland itinerary along the famous Ring Road. From the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the enchanting waterfalls of the South Coast, this itinerary offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Iceland as you explore volcanic lava fields, soak in the Blue Lagoon and witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky.

Day 1: You’ve Arrived in Iceland!

After landing at Keflavik Airport, grabbing your bags and picking up your rental car, you’re ready to start your Iceland adventure. But, of course, you’ve likely just spent the night on the airplane and a bit of refreshing is required. Fortunately, Iceland’s famed hot springs, The Blue Lagoon, is just a 22 minute drive away. Make your reservations before you arrive and head straight to The Blue Lagoon for a dip in this geothermal hot spring because no trip to Iceland is complete without this experience.

Once refreshed, a driving time of 40 minutes brings you to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. If a self drive road trip isn’t part of your itinerary, bus service is available from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon and on to Reykjavik.

A guided tour by locals is an excellent way to spend your first day in Reykjavik as an introduction to the capital city and Iceland in general. We chose the free tours by locals , a company with knowledgeable and entertaining local guides that lead walking tours of downtown Reykjavik. The “tip what you think the tour was worth” concept is unique and the tour focuses on highlights like the stunning Hallgrímskirkja church, historic buildings and the city’s colorful neighborhoods. The guided tours introduce visitors to the stories of one of Europe’s most unique countries.

Whale watching tours provide another interesting experience in Reykjavik. Departing from Reykjavik Harbor, the tours not only search for whales but also keep an eye out for puffins and other migratory birds that visit Iceland seasonally.

Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle

Depart Reykjavik on Day Two of your self drive road trip to experience the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. The first stop, Thingvellir National Park harbors history and the marvels of nature within its boundaries. The park sits in a rift valley where the tectonic plates of North America and Europe meet.

Another must-see along the Golden Circle, the geyser geothermal area houses several geysers including Strokkur – Iceland’s most visited active geyser. Walk alongside the geysers and feel the steam as it erupts. Or stretch your legs on the hiking trail for a view overlooking the geothermal area.

Another must-see, Gullfoss Waterfall – which translates as Golden Falls – is one of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls. Gullfoss is fed by the waters of Hvítá River that travel from the glacier Langjökull, before cascading 105 feet down the Gullfoss Waterfall’s two dramatic stages.

Continue Along the Ring Road

Next up on the Golden Circle, a stop at South Iceland’s Kerid Crater seems almost otherworldly. This volcanic lake with deep blue-green water surrounded by red rock and lush mossy vegetation formed over 6500 years ago after an eruption. Allow yourself enough time to explore the hiking trails the circle the rim of Kerid Crater. Or venture down the hiking trails to the waters of the Kerid Crater for another perspective.

Continue east along the Ring Road on a two-hour drive to Vik. Of course those two hours may become three with all the sightseeing possibilities along the south coast of Iceland. Highlights include the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Fjadrargljufur Canyon.

Overnight near Skaftafell nature reserve and get ready for the next day’s big adventures.

Day 3: Experience Black Sand Beaches and an Ice Cave Tour

Day Three unveils a full day of adventure. Start with a walk along one of Iceland’s most striking black sand beaches. Framed by dramatic basalt columns, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a must-see. As you make your way along your Ring Road itinerary to Vik, take the turn off to Dyrhólaey to view the spectacular arch in the sea. During nesting season it’s possible to spot puffins and other bird life here. A 19 minute drive east from here leads to the lovely village of Vik.

For an experience off the typical tourist track, book an Ice Cave Tour with Southcoast Adventure . The experience begins with a pick up location in central Vik and a drive through ancient lava fields. You’ll then strap on some crampons for a short glacier hike on the mighty Myrdalsjokull glacier and into the ice cave. Plentiful shops, restaurants and lodging options make Vik an ideal place to overnight before continuing on your Ring Road itinerary.

Day 4: Waterfalls, a Glacier Lagoon and Europe’s Largest Glacier

As you continue east on the Ring Road, a drive time of under two hours brings you to Svartifoss waterfall – another gorgeous must-see waterfall framed by black basalt columns. Continue east to reach the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon where massive icebergs can be seen floating in the lagoon. For an up close view of the floating icebergs, consider taking a glacier lagoon boat tour. Be sure to allow enough time to see nearby Diamond Beach as you follow the road to the breathtaking east fjords. Overnight in a hotel or guesthouse in Höfn and rest up for the next day. From Höfn you’ll have a clear view of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.

Day 5: Driving and Sightseeing on the Ring Road

Today you’ll continue your Ring Road itinerary driving north to Lake Myvatn. Detour onto Iceland Road 864 for an additional drive time of about an hour to capture spectacular photos of the Dettifoss waterfall.

When you reach Lake Myvatn, more geothermal areas await exploration at Hverir and Kfafla. A must-see, Godafoss waterfall, located in the river Skjálfandafljót in north Iceland, falls from a height of 39 feet and has a width spanning 98 feet. Hiking trails provide an ideal way to see more of this region considered part of the Diamond Circle for sightseeing.

Continue traveling on Ring Road another 45 miles to overnight in Akureyri, the largest city outside of the greater Reykjavik area. Akureyri is a renowned cultural center with many galleries and museums. It’s also home to the world’s northernmost botanical gardens.

Day 6: Travel the Iceland Ring Road to Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself and today’s 230-mile drive from Akureyri to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula proves my point. Drive time typically runs about 4 hours and 30 minutes without stops. But the jaw-dropping vistas along the way beckon you to stop and take photos. A couple of not to be missed sights along the way are Hvítserkur and Kolugljúfur Canyon.

Visible from the impressive black sand beach at Húnaflói Bay, Hvítserkur is a distinctive rock formation often referred to as the Troll of Northwest Iceland. The 49 ft tall basalt sea stack features two unusual holes at its base and creates a silhouette often likened to a dragon drinking from the sea.

A short detour off of Ring Road, the breathtaking Kolugljúfur Canyon and Kolufossar waterfalls make an ideal stop to stretch your legs and take in these beautiful wonders of nature. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the canyon which is accessed by a footbridge.

As you continue to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you’ll leave the Ring Road behind to take route 54 at Borgarnes. Overnight nearby to rest up for a full day of adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Day 7: Exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

While day tours are available from Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula deserves a nearby overnight stay to allow a full day to explore this gorgeous peninsula. Home to Kirkjufell – the country’s most photographed mountain – the landscapes leave you breathless. Just steps from Kirkjufell the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls add to the serenity of this place.

A counter-clockwise drive along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula leads you through picturesque fishing villages, miles of lava fields, a volcanic crater and new discoveries at every turn. The peninsula is home to Snaefellsjokull National Park – a park filled with all the geological wonders Iceland offers along with intriguing human history. You’ll find black sand beaches, picturesque churches, soaring cliffs, volcanic craters and miles of lava fields.

When your explorations conclude, an hour’s drive time along Iceland’s west coast leads you back to Reykjavik.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

Deciding when to visit Iceland presents a few choices. If your focus is chasing the Northern Lights, visiting in the aurora season that runs from October until April gives you the best chance. Of course, mid-winter guarantees dark skies for hours, increasing opportunities to view the elusive Northern Lights. But, the downside to a winter visit is limited daylight. So if you want to cover as much of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes in seven days, you may need a season with more light.

Also, for those hoping to self drive on a road trip along the entire Ring Road, winter often means unsafe road conditions due to heavy snow and ice in some areas. For a winter visit, consider guided day trips from areas along the south coast of Iceland.

In summer months, the Northern Lights aren’t visible. But, the midnight sun extends your day giving you more time to explore each destination you visit. If there’s a downside to spending the mild summer months (mosquito free by the way) in Iceland, it’s the crowds. You know that Golden Circle you want to see? Everyone else wants to see it too. That means bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Personally, I prefer the shoulder season. And on our recent visit to Iceland, we arrived in mid-April for a week exploring this magnificent country minus the crowds. It’s early for bird and whale watching, but not impossible to catch a glimpse of some of the early arriving puffins and whales on a boat tour. Lingering Northern Lights are also possible on a clear night in April. Autumn presents another viable option for a crowd-free Iceland road trip.

What to Know Before You Go

Most travelers who visit Iceland arrive at Keflavik Airport. Located 50 kilometers outside the capital city of Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport is a relatively small airport compared to some of our mega-sized airports in the US. It’s also easy to navigate and rental car counters are located inside the airport.

Unless you plan to use a tour company for guided day trips, a rental car is the best way to really explore this magnificent place. Always up for a self drive road trip, we reserved a rental car in advance of our arrival. Small vehicles make the most sense on the narrow-ish roads throughout Iceland, but if you’re venturing outside Reykjavik in search of secret lagoons, lava fields and black sand beaches, it’s best to rent a small SUV with 4-wheel drive. Some roads are unpaved and road conditions are unpredictable so that extra power comes in handy.

Although I don’t typically use the extra insurance offered for rental cars, Iceland’s extreme wind and unpredictable weather warranted the need for rental car insurance just for peace of mind.

Camper vans provide another option for intrepid travelers up for a rugged adventure. Campgrounds throughout Iceland offer various types of hook-ups and facilities.

Packing for Iceland

Your packing needs for Iceland vary greatly depending on whether you visit in the winter or summer months or the shoulder season I chose. One thing remains the same – you need layers! You also need a waterproof rain jacket. And, of course, pack a swimsuit for soaking in the country’s hot springs. You’ll find more information to aid in planning your packing list here .

The writer was hosted. Get ready for an exciting adventure through the land of fire and ice with a carefully crafted 7-day Iceland itinerary along the famous Ring Road. From the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the enchanting waterfalls of the South Coast, this itinerary offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Iceland as you explore volcanic lava fields, soak in the Blue Lagoon and witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky. Day 1: You’ve Arrived in Iceland! After landing at Keflavik...

Win a trip to Iceland

The Weather in Iceland: What to Expect and How to Read the Weather Report

Tanja Rasmussen
April 27, 2024
Basics , Travel

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you’ve probably heard that in addition to northern lights and the magical midnight sun, it’s also famous for unpredictable weather. Constantly keeping the Icelandic people on their toes, it can change directions in an instant, sometimes even going so far as to offer all four seasons in a single day. Despite this uncertainty, staying up to date with the forecast is an important part of keeping yourself safe and comfortable. It allows you to plan ahead for packing, and travel-wise prevents you from getting caught in potentially dangerous situations. The Icelandic Met Office forecast, available on their website and app , is the best place to check. It provides detailed and up-to-date information about the expected weather and alerts you to extreme conditions. Below, you will find everything you need to know about what you can expect from the weather in Iceland and how to read the weather report.

What’s the weather like in Iceland?

Generally, temperatures fluctuate between -10 °C [14 °F] and 20°C [68°F] over the year, with January being the coldest month and July the warmest. Storms, often accompanied by snow or rain, are frequent from September to March but far less common during summer.

This is not to say that the weather in Iceland is all storms and rain that slaps you in the face. The fall and winter days can be quite beautiful, with clear skies and frosty ground or snow that falls calmly to the ground, and the spring and summer usually offer some exceptional days of sun and warmth as well.

Given this unpredictability, it’s imperative for your safety and comfort that you check the weather forecast a few days before your trip and stay informed throughout it. The weather often catches people off guard, leaving them cold and uncomfortable, a situation that can easily be avoided by checking the forecast and dressing in the right clothes. Likewise, knowing when extreme weather is expected can spare you from getting yourself into a potentially dangerous situation , such as driving on a mountain road in a blinding snowstorm.

Weather alerts

The most important thing to know about the Icelandic weather report is how the colour-coded alert system works. Alerts are issued in cases of extreme weather and are a convenient way to quickly get the lay of the land. As mentioned above, snowstorms, rainstorms, and windstorms are common during fall and winter, and keeping an eye out for alerts is essential for your safety. They are less common during spring and summer, but we advise you to check for them nonetheless, especially if you’re driving around the country or going up to the Highland.

The alert system is simple and easy to understand. It has three colours, each representing a different severity level: yellow, orange, and red. You’ll see the warnings in the top right corner of the Icelandic Met Office homepage. There’s a small blue map of Iceland there which will display the different colours in correspondence with the weather in each part of the country – north, west, south, east, and the Highland. You can click on each section of the country to get more specific information about the issued warnings, what they entail and where they apply.

Screenshot of the weather alert map from the Icelandic MET Office, showing a yellow alert for wind.

A yellow alert is the least extreme, and although it probably won’t be pleasant to spend the day outside, you can usually go about your business uninterrupted. Just be mindful of wind gusts and things that might be blowing around. If you had a hike planned , you should postpone it to another day, as the weather is usually more extreme in the mountains. You should also be extra careful driving around, especially in the countryside. Wind gusts can easily catch you off guard if you’re not prepared for them, leading to accidents.

An orange alert means that the weather can be dangerous, and people are advised not to take unnecessary trips outside. A red alert is the most extreme, indicating a level of emergency. It’s relatively uncommon that a red alert is issued, but in case you encounter one while you’re here, prepare to kick back and have a cosy day inside. You should only leave the house in case of emergencies.

For all stages of alerts, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and take caution when moving around, both on foot and in a car. If you’re staying in a home with a patio, balcony, or garden, and there is any furniture or other loose items, secure them so they won’t blow away. You could, for example, move the items inside or stack them in a sheltered corner. Any level of alert could result in cancelled trips, delays in transportation, and closed roads.

If the map in the upper right corner is entirely blue, there is no warning, and you can proceed with your plans uninterrupted.

The classic weather map

To get a closer look at the weather, you can check out the map labelled ‘ whole country ’. It’s a classic weather report map using sun and cloud symbols to display the expected weather – sunny, cloudy, rainy, snowy. Temperature is shown in Celsius beside the symbols, with a red number if it’s above freezing and a blue one if it’s below. Wind predictions are displayed as meters per second, with an arrow indicating the wind direction. Both the number and the arrows are black.

Use the sliding bar below the map to move back and forth in time, and click on the map to zoom in. Doing so will also give you more locations to look at. By hovering over a sun/cloud symbol, you’ll get basic written information about the weather in that location, and by clicking on it, a six-day forecast for the area will appear below the map.

In-depth weather report

In addition to the typical forecast map, you can find separate maps for temperature, wind, and precipitation predictions. These are colour-coded and more specific than the all-in-one map.

The wind map shows the expected wind at 10 metres [33 feet] height. The arrows across the map indicate the direction of the wind, and the colours indicate speed. Green tones represent a wind speed of 0-8 metres per second, blue tones 8-16, purple tones 16-24, and red tones anything above that.

The temperature map shows the expected temperature at two metres [6.6 feet] height. The lowest temperatures are shown in green tones, each tone representing 2°C temperature intervals. As the heat increases, the colour tones will change to blue, yellow, orange, and red, with red representing the highest temperatures.

The precipitation map shows the cumulative precipitation levels over a 1-hour, 3-hour or 6-hour period. The colours range from light yellow, indicating light precipitation of 0.1 mm [0.004 inches] per hour, to red, indicating heavy precipitation of 50 mm [2 inches] per hour. The map will also show you the direction and speed of the wind with wind barbs, the point of which will tell you the direction of the wind. Diagonal lines at the end of the barb symbolise wind speed. An increase in the length and number of lines means stronger winds. If the wind reaches 25 m/s, a triangle will be at the barb’s end. The lines across the map indicate mean sea level pressure.

The wind, temperature, and precipitation maps all have the same sliding bar function as the basic map, but you cannot zoom in on it or choose specific locations.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland

Day trips from iceland.

Iceland to Vik
Iceland to Reykjavik
Iceland to Grindavik
Iceland to Haukadalur
Private Day Trips
Up to 1 hour
1 to 4 hours
4 hours to 1 day
5.0 of 5 bubbles
4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
Chinese (Traditional)
Likely to Sell Out
Special Offers
The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

121. Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula day tour with 6+ Attractions

122. Northern lights hunting with plan G

123. Iceland's south coast G spots

124. Puffin Travel choice - We decide where to go. Do it like locals

125. SuperSaver: Golden Circle Afternoon Tour and Northern Lights Adventure by Minibus from Reykjavik

126. Private G tour by jeep

127. Private Jeep Tours - Reykjanes Peninsula & Lava Tunnel - optional Blue Lagoon

128. Private Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon tour from Reykjavik

129. Iceland Stopover: The Golden Circle Tour

130. Into the Glacier, Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls in a new Mercedes V-class

131. Private day tour in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

132. Reykjanes peninsula

133. Small-Group South Coast of Iceland: Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Beaches

134. South Coast with a first class experience in a semi private group

135. Ice Cave Katla, South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach Private

136. Exclusive Northern Lights tour with PRO photos, home cooked meal

137. Midnight Golden Circle & luxury hot sea baths & silent locations

138. Reykjanes Peninsula & Blue Lagoon (Premium Admission Included)

139. Full Day Private Guided Tour in Golden Circle of Iceland

140. Private Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Tour

141. South Shore and Eyjafjallajökull Super Jeep Tour from Reykjavik

142. Snaefellsnes Peninsula Private Tour from Reykjavik

143. South coast Of Iceland- Private tour

144. Unique West Iceland and Krauma SPA tour by minibus

145. Snæfellsnes Peninsula Day Trip Including a Local Farm Meal

146. Private full-day South Coast Tour from Reykjavík

147. South Coast of Iceland Private Day Trip by SUV or Van

148. Your private golden circle tour with a personal guide

149. Borgarfjörður

150. Landmannalaugar and Hekla Volcano Day Trip by Superjeep from Reykjavik

What travelers are saying.

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COMMENTS

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,098,594 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...
THE TOP 10 Iceland Day Trips (w/Prices)
Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater. 2,986. Make the most of your time in Iceland and embark on a jam-packed day of the country's key attractions with a small group. Start your day bright and early for your drive around the Golden Circle, stopping at Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss, and the Kerid volcanic ...
14 BEST Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland [2024 Guide]
3. Iceland South Coast. Distance from Reykjavik: 187km to the southernmost village of Vik on the South Coast Driving time: 2.5 hours one way The South Coast of Iceland is a stunning part of the country that makes an excellent day trip from the city.
26 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik Worth The Effort
Haifoss is just over two hours from Reykjavik and is well worth the drive. If you drive yourself, you will need a 4×4 vehicle. The falls can easily be included in a four day Iceland itinerary as well if you are interested in doing more than a Reykjavik day trip. At 400 feet, Haifoss is Iceland's third-largest waterfall.
The Best Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland
9. Landmannalaugar. The day trip from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, and for good reason. Landmannalaugar is an otherworldly landscape of colourful mountains, smoking hillsides and bubbling mud pots, accessed across vast ash covered plains.
Day Tours in Iceland
Various day tours are available in Iceland, giving you plenty of options. You can enjoy sightseeing tours, cultural tours, hiking tours, and numerous other experiences. Adventurous travelers can enjoy exciting day trips in Iceland, like this four-hour ice climbing tour or this two-hour Siberian husky dog sledding tour. These tours are rated 4.8 ...
Iceland Day Tours, Trips & Excursions
Guided Adventure Trips & Excursions in Iceland. We have an excellent selection of full or half day tours departing from Reykjavík, and many other locations around the country. These great value day tours and outdoor Iceland activities are designed to discover the best attractions around the country.
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,099,979 traveller reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming ...
The best Iceland day trips from Reykjavik
The Wrap: Best Iceland Day Trips From Reykjavik. Hopefully, these Iceland day tours help you plan your Iceland trip, or inspire you to book one if you haven't already! Despite being a small island, Iceland can be hard to get around on your own, especially in winter when many roads are closed, so organised day trips are a great solution.
DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK
Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of Iceland with our guided day tours from Reykjavik. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, we have the perfect tour for you. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and ...
19 Best Day Trips from Reykjavík to Explore Iceland's Natural Wonders
When you only have time to explore some of Iceland's natural wonders, The Golden Circle is a great place to go and one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavík. This 300-km (186-mile) loop takes you to Iceland's big three — a bursting geyser, a powerful waterfall, and a National Park where you can walk between the tectonic plates that separate North America from Europe.
12 Best Day Trips From Reykjavík, Iceland
South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik. 11. Game of Thrones locations tour (from USD 123.0) Game of Thrones is arguably one of the most famous TV series today, and if you're one of the show's die-hard fans, you'd probably and most likely book a Game of Thrones Locations Tour.
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,099,021 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...
Best Day Trips from Reykjavik
Book your complete trip with the best companies only. Discover the wonders of Iceland with unforgettable day trips from Reykjavik. Explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, and more on guided tours that showcase Iceland's stunning landscapes and fascinating culture.
THE TOP 10 Reykjavik Day Trips (w/Prices)
The best Day Trips in Reykjavik according to Viator travelers are: Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik. Golden Circle Classic Day Tour from Reykjavik. Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater. South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik.
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Glymur Waterfall Hike. Distance from Reykjavik to Botnsa village: 68 km. Iceland is heaven for the adventurous and those who enjoy hiking. If you are looking for a moderately challenging hike doable as a day trip from Reykjavik, consider the Glymur waterfall hike. For hikers, this is one of the best things to do in Iceland in summer.
21 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik to Take in 2024
4. Katla Ice Cave. Katla is the Best Ice Cave that can be done all year round as a Day Trip from Reykjavik. What is it: an ice cave Where is it: south Iceland, close to Vik Distance from Reykjavik: 3 hours, or 200km (125mi) How to reach it: a guided tour only. When to go: all-year-round.
Greenland Day Trip from Iceland: Is it Worth It?
After my husband surprised me with a trip to Iceland last week, he surprised me all over again a couple of days later with a day trip to Greenland. Air Iceland runs a daily eight-hour tour where you leave Reykjavik at 10:15 am for Kulusuk, Greenland, landing back in Reykjavik at 6:15 pm. You spend four hours in the air and only four on the ...
Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on This 7 Day Iceland Itinerary
Day 6: Travel the Iceland Ring Road to Snaefellsnes Peninsula . Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself and today's 230-mile drive from Akureyri to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula proves my ...
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,096,526 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...
The Weather in Iceland
If you're planning a trip to Iceland, you've probably heard that in addition to northern lights and the magical midnight sun, it's also famous for unpredictable weather. Constantly keeping the Icelandic people on their toes, it can change directions in an instant, sometimes even going so far as to offer all four seasons in a single day.
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,095,393 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland (UPDATED 2024)
Iceland is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Iceland, Europe directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,096,051 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Iceland to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...

14 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik, Iceland (2024 Guide)

1. The Golden Circle

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The Best Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland

Day Trips from Reykjavik

2. The Golden Circle

3. The South Coast

4. The Blue Lagoon

5. Reykjavik Itself

6. Game of Thrones locations

7. Into the Glacier

8. Northern Lights (autumn to Spring)

9. Landmannalaugar

10. Þórsmörk (Thorsmork)

11. Ice Cave Tour

12. Go Puffin or Whale Watching

13. Visit an Active Volcano

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

When to Visit Iceland

Further Reading to Help you Plan your Trip to Iceland

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Day Tours in Iceland

ABOUT ICELAND EXCURSIONS & DAY TOURS

WHICH ACTIVITY OR EXCURSION IS RIGHT FOR ME?

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Iceland

1. Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

2. Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater

3. Golden Circle, Volcano Crater and Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour

4. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

5. Golden Circle Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

6. Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Tour

7. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

8. Golden Circle Small-Group Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

9. South Coast Fire and Ice Tour: Waterfalls, Glaciers & Lava Show

10. Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

11. Iceland's Golden Circle Shared Tour for 6 people maximum

12. Northern Lights Midnight Adventure from Reykjavík

13. Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik

14. Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Tomato Greenhouse Lunch Tour

15. Private South Coast Tour of Iceland Including 6+ Main Attractions

16. Katla Volcano Ice Cave Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

17. South Iceland, Glacier and Black Sand Beach Small Group Tour

18. Lake Myvatn Godafoss and Dettifoss Waterfalls Tour in Iceland

19. Golden Circle Small-Group Tour by Superjeep from Reykjavik

20. South Coast Adventure with Glacier Hike Day Tour from Reykjavik

21. Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

22. Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Hvammsvik Geothermal Hotspring

23. Snaefellsnes Peninsula, geothermal bakery & horse stable visit

24. Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater Small-Group Day Tour

25. Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Goddafoss Waterfalls Day Tour from Akureyri

26. Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour with Geothermal Lagoon Visit

27. Small-Group Snaefellsnes National Park Day Trip from Reykjavik