Why Go On Day Tours in Iceland?

Thinking about exploring Iceland but not sure where to start? You've landed in the right spot! Day tours in Iceland are the ultimate way to soak up all this jaw-dropping country has to offer without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Imagine packing your day with stunning waterfalls, erupting geysers, and black sand beaches, all with the help of a local guide who knows every hidden gem. Whether you're after thrilling glacier hikes or a relaxing soak in a geothermal lagoon, there's a day tour for you. Miss out on this, and you could be missing the adventure of a lifetime!

What is the Best Month to Visit Iceland for Day Tours?

Choosing the best month to visit Iceland for day tours is like picking your favorite flavor of ice cream—there's no wrong answer, but each one offers something unique. Winter (December to March) is perfect if you're after those mystical Northern Lights or exploring glittering ice caves.

On the other hand, summer (June to September) is ideal for waterfall chasers and glacier hikers, with nearly endless daylight and warmer temperatures. The shoulder months—spring and fall—offer a bit of both, minus the crowds.

So it all boils down to what you want to experience and when. Luckily, we've got options for every month of the year.

Top Summer Day Tours in Iceland (June to September)

Summer in Iceland is hands down the best time of year to go to Iceland if you want to make the most of your day tours. With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), it's perfect for outdoor fun without bundling up like an Eskimo. Plus, with almost 24 hours of daylight, you can cram in more adventure than a Viking on a mission. Here's a roundup of some of the best day tours to experience during the summer season!

Golden Circle Tour

• Duration: 8.5 Hours

• Price: 10,990 ISK for adults, while children get discounted rates

The Golden Circle Tour is one of the most popular day tours in Iceland offered by BusTravel, and for good reason! This tour blends iconic sights with unique stops for an unforgettable adventure. 

Highlights include exploring Þingvellir National Park, witnessing the explosive power of the Geysir geothermal area, and marveling at the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. True to their motto, 'More nature, more fun,' BusTravel adds an extra stop at the Kerid volcanic crater—a stunning bonus you won't want to miss.

Whale Watching in Reykjavik

• Duration: 3.5 Hours

• Price: 12,490 ISK for adults, while children get discounted rates

  
  

Set sail on an unforgettable day trip aboard the Amelia Rose yacht for an exclusive whale watching in Iceland experience right off Reykjavík's coast. This small-group tour is perfect for nature lovers eager to see minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises up close.

Glide through Faxaflói Bay, soaking in panoramic views of Reykjavík and its surrounding islands. With three spacious decks for stunning photo ops and a knowledgeable crew to guide your journey, you're in for a scenic voyage that's as smooth as it is thrilling. And who knows? You might just spot an elusive orca along the way!

Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier

• Duration: 2.5 Hours

• Price: 16,999 ISK for adults, while children get discounted rates

  
  

Embark on an exhilarating Iceland day trip with a guided walk on the Sólheimajökull glacier. Led by a certified glacier guide, this tour ensures a safe and informative journey through ice formations ranging from white and blue to crystal clear.

Discover deep crevasses, water cauldrons, and unique glacier features while snapping breathtaking photos. No technical skills needed—all glacier gear is provided, making it perfect for families and first-timers. Learn about glacier formations and their volcanic surroundings, adding depth to your adventure!

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

• Duration: 11 Hours

• Price: 18,900 ISK for adults, while children get discounted rates

Embark on a thrilling excursion to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called 'Iceland in miniature' for its diverse landscapes. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour showcases the best of Iceland's natural beauty, from the iconic Búðir Black Church and seals at Ytri Tunga to the dramatic Djúpalónssandur beach and Snæfellsjökull glacier. With stops at Mt. Kirkjufell, lava fields, and fishing villages, this tour offers a taste of Iceland's most stunning sites all in one trip.

South Coast Wonders Tour

• Duration: 10.5 Hours

• Price: 14,999 ISK for adults, while children get discounted rates

  
  

The South Coast Wonders Tour is your ticket to explore Iceland's scenic south coast, ending in the charming village of Vík. Known for its flat, fertile farmlands, this area is shielded by mountains, offering a gentle climate. 

Highlights include the majestic Eyjafjallajökull Glacier, the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls, the dramatic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and a scenic walk to Sólheimajökull Glacier. Don't forget your raincoat—walking behind waterfalls can get wet!

Top Winter Day Tours in Iceland (December to March)

Winter in Iceland is a wonderland waiting to be explored! Sure, it's colder—with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)—but that's all part of the charm, right? Here are a few tours that showcase the best of Iceland's winter wonderland:

Experience the Northern Lights

• Duration: 3 hours

• Price: 129,500 ISK for groups up to 4 people

  
  

Experience one of the most magical day tours in Iceland by witnessing the Northern Lights, where vibrant colors swirl and dance across the Arctic night sky. This guided Jeep tour takes you far from city lights to the best viewing spots based on aurora forecasts.

Stay cozy with provided warm clothing, learn the science and folklore from seasoned guides, and immerse yourself in nature's breathtaking dance. While sightings aren't guaranteed, the serene beauty of Icelandic nights promises unforgettable memories!

Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajökull National Park

• Duration: 3 hours

• Price: 21,990 ISK

Embark on one of the most stunning Iceland day tours with an Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajökull National Park. Venture into the heart of Europe's largest glacier, where light dances off the ice, creating a magical atmosphere.

The adventure begins with a thrilling 30-45 minute super jeep ride from Glacier Lagoon to Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Spend 45 minutes exploring the ice caves, each with its own unique charm. Remember, these natural wonders constantly change, so no two visits are ever the same—every experience is one-of-a-kind!

Snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier

• Duration: 8 hours

• Price: 40,990 ISK, while children get discounted rates

Looking for an epic way to explore Iceland's snowy landscapes? This Snowmobiling Tour starts off by cruising to Skjol, where a thrilling Super Jeep ride takes you to Langjökull Glacier. At the glacier base camp, gear up with all the essentials—suits, gloves, ski goggles, balaclavas, and helmets—before receiving a quick briefing from a pro guide. Then, hit the ice on snowmobiles and experience breathtaking views of ice-filled volcanic craters, Eiríksjökull glacier, Hofsjökull glacier, and the stunning Kerlingafjöll Mountain range.

Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon Combo

• Duration: 10 hours

• Price: 280,000 ISK per person

Make the most of your time in Iceland with the Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon Combo Tour! Discover geothermal wonders at Seltún, drive along the stunning Krísuvík road, and stop at the serene Kleifarvatn Lake. Pass through the charming Grindavík Village and grab a bite at Bryggja Café. For adventure lovers, an ATV ride around Hópsnes Peninsula awaits, ending with a relaxing soak in the iconic Blue Lagoon spa.

Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour

• Duration: 3 hours

• Price: 19,990 ISK, while children get discounted rates

Dive into Iceland's festive spirit with the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour, one of the tastiest Reykjavik excursions! Led by passionate local experts, you'll savor holiday favorites like smoked lamb, Laufabrauð, and reindeer paté. Sip on festive drinks like Jólaöl and Jólaglögg, and visit the charming Little Christmas Store. Plus, enjoy stories of Icelandic traditions and leave with a special locally inspired gift!

Top Shoulder Season Day Tours in Iceland (April to May & October to November)

The shoulder months in Iceland offer a unique twist for day tours in Iceland. With temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), you get a mix of both summer and winter vibes. Here are some of our top picks:

Silfra Fissure Snorkeling

• Duration: 2.5 hours

• Price: 18,490 ISK

Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure offers a surreal experience between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. With glacial water filtered through lava rock for 30 years, Silfra boasts some of the clearest water on Earth—visibility over 100 meters (328 feet)! Suit up in a dry suit and glide through vibrant, near-freezing waters, feeling like you're flying through an otherworldly landscape.

Landmannalaugar Day Hike

• Duration: 9 hours

• Price: 39,990 ISK per person

Embark on a Landmannalaugar day hike to explore Iceland's rugged beauty. Surrounded by colorful mountains, clear rivers, and fascinating geological formations, Landmannalaugar is a feast for the senses. Drive by Ljótipollur Crater Lake—a stunning 'ugly puddle' with turquoise waters—and soak in a natural geothermal pool. Hike through vibrant landscapes or venture up Hekla, Iceland's mighty volcano, for panoramic views extending over 100 km (62 miles), with glimpses of up to seven glaciers!

Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater

• Duration: 8 hours

• Price: 13,712 ISK

Start your Golden Circle and Kerid Crater tour with a cozy minibus pickup by a friendly guide. Explore Thingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates pull apart, and Iceland's first parliament was founded in 930 A.D. Discover the beauty of Bruarfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. End with the vibrant Kerid Crater—a stunning 6,500-year-old volcanic marvel!

Wonders of Iceland's South Shore

Discover the wonders of Iceland's south shore, where you'll encounter landscapes that feel straight out of a fantasy novel! On this tour, you'll get to marvel at the mighty Skógafoss waterfall with its 60-meter (197-foot) drop, walk across vast black sand deserts, and sail among icebergs in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Along the way, witness glacier rivers and black sands and pass by the towering Öræfajökull, Iceland's second-largest active volcano.

Tips for Booking the Best Day Tours in Iceland

Booking the best day tours in Iceland doesn't have to be complicated! Here are a few quick tips to help you plan the perfect adventure:

• Choose a reputable tour company: Look for companies with strong reviews and knowledgeable local guides. This ensures a safe and fun experience.

• Book in advance: Popular day tours in Iceland fill up fast, especially during peak season. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment!

• Pack smart: Bring layers, waterproof gear, snacks, and a camera. Iceland's weather is unpredictable, and you'll want to be prepared.

• Know what to expect: Read tour descriptions carefully to understand the itinerary, difficulty level, and any included amenities.

Get Ready for Your Perfect Day Tour in Iceland

Planning your day tours in Iceland is all about choosing the right season and aligning with your interests—whether you're chasing the Northern Lights in winter or hiking glaciers in summer.

Think about what kind of adventure excites you most: soaking in geothermal pools, exploring ice caves, or spotting whales off Reykjavík's coast. And hey, why not rent a campervan in Iceland while you're at it?

Think about it... It's a fun, cozy way to travel, giving you a unique chance to sleep under the stars or by a waterfall with all your gear right there with you. Plus, you will save money on accommodations! So go ahead, start planning your dream day tours in Iceland, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. See you soon!