Best Sightseeing Tours in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed

Iceland is a one-of-a-kind destination known for its striking landscapes, from geysers and waterfalls to glaciers and volcanic craters. Whether you're looking to explore independently or with a guide, Iceland offers a wide variety of sightseeing tours that cater to all types of travelers. The country’s well-maintained roads and organized tours make it easy to visit top attractions, and there are plenty of options to suit your travel style and schedule.

For those looking to explore the iconic sights, the Golden Circle and South Coast are accessible by rental car or through guided tours, offering stunning views of famous landmarks like the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. The dramatic landscapes also provide opportunities for more adventurous activities, including glacier hikes, volcano tours, and boat rides on the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. The variety of sightseeing tours available makes it easy to discover Iceland’s breathtaking beauty, no matter your travel style or schedule.

Top Places to See in Iceland

Iceland’s diverse landscapes are home to some incredible natural wonders. Whether you’re drawn to towering waterfalls, vast glaciers, black sand beaches, or geothermal hot springs, there’s no shortage of incredible sights to explore.

• The Golden Circle is a popular route that includes Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between tectonic plates and learn about Iceland’s history. The Geysir area features Strokkur, a hot spring that erupts every few minutes, and Gullfoss waterfall impresses with its powerful cascade into a deep canyon.
• The South Coast is home to well-known attractions like Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind, and Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls. Reynisfjara black sand beach is known for its basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, while Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon offers views of floating icebergs, which then wash up on the volcanic Diamond Beach.
• The Snaefellsnes peninsula is often called "Iceland in Miniature" because of its mix of landscapes. Highlights include Kirkjufell mountain, Snaefellsjokull glacier, and fishing villages like Arnarstapi, surrounded by cliffs and rock formations.
• North Iceland is quieter but full of interesting spots. Akureyri, the "Capital of the North," is a great base for visiting the incredible sites around Lake Myvatn, the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, the Asbyrgi canyon, and Husavik, the best place for whale-watching in Iceland.
• The Eastfjords are known for their peaceful scenery and small villages. Seydisfjordur stands out with its colorful traditional houses, while Hengifoss waterfall and Vestrahorn mountain are great for hiking and photography.
• The Westfjords are a remote area with untouched nature. Key spots include Dynjandi waterfall, known as the "Jewel of the Westfjords," and the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a great place for hiking and spotting Arctic foxes.
• The Highlands are ideal for adventurous travelers. Landmannalaugar has colorful mountains, Askja caldera features a turquoise crater lake, and the Kerlingarfjoll mountains are known for their steaming hot springs.

Best Sightseeing Day Tours from Reykjavik

Day tours in Iceland are perfect for those who want to experience the country’s iconic sights without the need for extensive planning. From Reykjavik, you can join guided tours that cover must-visit locations in a single day, and these are the best options.

1. The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: One of the most popular day tours, the Golden Circle route takes you to three of Iceland's most iconic sights: the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the historic Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between two tectonic plates.
2. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour from Reykjavik: Explore the stunning Snaefellsnes peninsula and its diverse landscapes, including volcanic craters, glaciers, and charming coastal villages.
3. 12-Hour Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik: Discover the variety of natural wonders on the Snaefellsnes peninsula with this small group tour, which includes stops at iconic sites such as Kirkjufell mountain, black sand beaches, and unique lava formations.
4. The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: Visit the famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Solheimajokull glacier, all in one day trip.
5. The Golden Circle Tour & Blue Lagoon Transfer: Combine a visit to the Golden Circle’s top sights with a relaxing trip to the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous spa.
6. South Coast Waterfalls & Glacier Lagoon Day Trip from Reykjavik: A full-day tour from Reykjavik, exploring the beautiful waterfalls of the South Coast, including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, and the awe-inspiring Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
7. Golden Circle Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik: A perfect option for those with limited time, this afternoon tour covers the highlights of the Golden Circle, including the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
8. Classic Golden Circle & Kerid Crater Day Trip from Reykjavik: Explore the best of the Golden Circle, with an added visit to Kerid crater, a stunning lake in an ancient volcanic crater.
9. The Glacier Lagoon & South Coast Day Tour from Reykjavik: This tour combines the beautiful South Coast with a visit to the spectacular Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, offering a mix of waterfalls, beaches, and ice formations.
10. Golden Circle ​& Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik: For those looking to add adventure to their sightseeing, this tour combines the iconic Golden Circle route with a thrilling snowmobiling experience on the Langjokull glacier.

Best Multi-Day Sightseeing Tours in Iceland

For travelers wanting to dive deeper into Iceland’s beauty, these top multi-day tours offer a more immersive experience. Travel with a professional guide who'll give you insight into the places you visit, and transportation, accommodations, and activities are pre-arranged for you.

1. 3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour to the Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon: This multi-day winter tour takes you to the top Icelandic attractions, including the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, with the added bonus of an ice cave exploration and the chance to witness the northern lights.
2. 2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast Trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Explore the South Coast and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, then venture into a spectacular ice cave for an unforgettable adventure in this 2-day guided tour.
3. 8-Day Guided Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland With Top Activities: This comprehensive tour covers Iceland’s full Ring Road, offering you the chance to visit top attractions like waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and coastal areas. It also includes activities like glacier hiking and a visit to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
4. 2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast from Reykjavik with Glacier Hiking: A fantastic 2-day tour focusing on the stunning South Coast and offering the opportunity to hike on the Solheimajokull glacier, adding an adventurous twist to your sightseeing.
5. 6-Day Guided Small Group Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: This 6-day guided adventure takes you along the full Ring Road, with plenty of time to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

Best Sightseeing Activities in Iceland

Beyond traditional sightseeing, Iceland offers a variety of unique activities that bring you closer to its natural wonders. Whether you prefer hiking, horseback riding, or even descending into a volcano, there’s an adventure to suit every interest.

1. The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour: Explore the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon by boat and get a close look at the icebergs floating in the glacier waters.
2. Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: For added thrills, hop on a zodiac boat and navigate the waters of the glacier lagoon to get an up-close view of the icebergs and wildlife.
3. Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik: Take a journey deep into a dormant volcano near Reykjavik and descend into its massive crater for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
4. Easy Horse Riding Tour through Lava Fields with Optional Transfer from Reykjavik: Explore Iceland’s rugged landscape on horseback, riding through lava fields and volcanic terrains on a guided tour.
5. Helicopter Tour of Amazing Geothermal Sights from Reykjavik: Take to the skies on a helicopter ride over Reykjavik to see Iceland’s unique geothermal sights and dramatic landscapes from above. The ultimate sightseeing adventure!

Best Sightseeing Vacation Packages in Iceland

Vacation packages provide a seamless way to explore Iceland, combining accommodation, itinerary, rental cars, or guided tours into one convenient bundle. These packages cater to both summer and winter travelers, offering unforgettable experiences year-round.

1. 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon: This package offers a combination of winter adventure with ice cave exploration, the chance to see the northern lights, and a relaxing visit to the Blue Lagoon.
2. 6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package in Iceland with Ice Caving: A 6-day package focusing on the best of Iceland’s winter wonders, including the northern lights, ice caves, and guided tours around the Golden Circle and South Coast.
3. 5-Day Summer Vacation Package in Iceland with Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Golden Circle: Explore Iceland’s summer beauty with visits to the famous Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This package combines iconic landmarks with opportunities for glacier hiking and boat tours, making it ideal for a summer getaway.
4. One-Week Northern Lights Winter Package with Ice Caving & National Parks: Spend a week exploring Iceland’s top winter attractions, including visits to national parks, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. This package also includes an ice cave adventure and several opportunities to see the northern lights.
5. One-Week Winter Package in Reykjavik & the Circle of Iceland: This package combines the comfort of staying in Reykjavik with guided tours to Iceland’s most famous sights, including the whole Ring Road and ice caves. It’s a great option for those wanting to balance city life and natural beauty.

Best Self-Drive Sightseeing Tours

Self-drive tours are perfect for independent travelers who want the freedom to explore Iceland at their own pace. These itineraries include carefully planned routes, accommodations, and suggested activities, ensuring you make the most of your journey.

1. 7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour Through the Golden Circle and South Iceland: Experience the best of Iceland’s winter landscape on this self-drive tour. Visit the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon while chasing the magical aurora borealis.
2. 10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes: Explore Iceland’s entire Ring Road at your own pace, including highlights like the Snaefellsnes peninsula, Golden Circle, Eastfjords, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This popular tour is perfect for adventurous travelers.
3. 1-week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle: Discover Iceland’s stunning summer landscapes, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, and lesser-known gems along the Ring Road. This tour is ideal for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders under the midnight sun.
4. One-Week Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour in Winter of South & West Iceland with Ice Caving: Focus on the beauty of South and West Iceland, visiting iconic sights like the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes peninsula. This winter tour includes ice cave adventures and northern lights viewing.
5. 6-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour in the South Coast of Iceland with Ice Caving: Explore the South Coast at your own pace with this 6-day tour. Visit famous attractions like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, while also venturing into a stunning ice cave.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

Each season in Iceland has its own charm, making it a year-round destination depending on your interests. Whether you prefer hiking under the midnight sun or exploring ice caves in winter, there’s always something special to experience. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in each season.

• Iceland in Spring (April to May): Spring marks the transition from winter to summer. Roads and attractions begin to reopen as snow melts, making it easier to access popular spots. This is a great time for budget travelers, as prices are lower and crowds are smaller. You can also witness the return of migratory birds like puffins and enjoy waterfalls at their fullest due to melting snow.
• Iceland in Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Iceland, thanks to its long daylight hours and mild weather. The midnight sun allows for nearly 24 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to explore. Roads to remote areas, including the Highlands, are open, making it a great time for self-drive tours and camping.
• Iceland in Fall (September to October): Fall offers a balance between summer activities and winter experiences. The weather starts cooling down, and the first chances to see the northern lights appear. Crowds are smaller, and prices for accommodations and tours begin to drop. This is also the time to enjoy Iceland's beautiful autumn colors, especially in areas like Thingvellir National Park.
• Iceland in Winter (November to March): Winter is the best time for northern lights hunting and experiencing Iceland’s snowy landscapes. Activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling are at their peak. While some remote roads close, popular routes like the Golden Circle and South Coast remain accessible. Winter also brings festive events like Christmas markets and New Year celebrations, offering a cozy and magical atmosphere.

Weather and Daylight in Iceland

Iceland’s weather and daylight hours vary dramatically throughout the year, shaping the travel experience depending on when you visit.

• In the summer months, temperatures are mild, typically ranging between 50°F to 59°F (10°C and 15°C). The midnight sun ensures nearly 24 hours of daylight, providing ample time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Fall brings cooler temperatures and shorter days as the midnight sun fades. By late September, the northern lights become visible on clear nights. Daylight dwindles to about eight hours by November, and temperatures hover around 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C).
• Winter is a season of contrasts. Temperatures typically range from 23°F to 41°F (-5°C to 5°C), with frequent wind and snow. Daylight hours are limited, with only four to six hours of light in December, but this creates excellent conditions for seeing the northern lights.
• Spring, from March to May, is a transitional season as the snow begins to melt and temperatures gradually rise, reaching 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C). Daylight increases significantly, with up to 16 hours of light by May. This is an ideal time for those seeking fewer crowds and budding greenery while still enjoying snowy landscapes in the mountains.

Regardless of the season, Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, often changing from sunny to stormy within minutes. Travelers should always keep an eye on the Icelandic weather forecast and check road conditions before heading out to explore and be prepared for a mix of conditions.

Get Ready for a Sightseeing Adventure in Iceland

Iceland truly offers something for every traveler, no matter the season or your preferred style of exploring. With its stunning natural wonders, wide range of activities, and well-organized tours, it's easy to craft an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you're chasing the northern lights, hiking on glaciers, or enjoying the midnight sun, Iceland's unique landscapes and experiences promise memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the selection of sightseeing tours in Iceland and find the perfect adventure for your trip.