Iceland Golden Circle: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Scenic Landscapes and Viking History

Embark on a self-guided audio driving tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, exploring scenic landscapes and Viking history. Learn about the nation’s fascinating history and legends while driving through breathtaking vistas and historic structures. Purchase one tour per car and listen together!

Duration: 6 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • What’s On in Reykjavík - Tourist Information Centre - Your tour of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle begins in picturesque Reykjavik. From here, you’ll drive out into the stunning Icelandic wilderness toward the island nation’s most beautiful sights. As you drive, you’ll also hear tons of history and mythology, including the settlement of Iceland, Viking traditions, and Norse myths of Loki, Odin, Thor, and more!

Note: This 153-mile-long tour covers the essentials of Iceland in 3-6 hours.

  • Iceland Settlement Tours ehf - The settlement of Iceland is generally believed to have begun in the second half of the ninth century, when Norse settlers migrated across the North
  • Helgufoss - The first major landmark you’ll see is Helgufoss, a serene and sparkling waterfall at the end of a quick hiking trail. It’s just far enough from major tourist destinations to offer not just some great scenery, but also a bit of peace and quiet. Afterward, you’ll hear more about Viking traditions like music, dances, and poetry.
  • Thingvellir National Park - Then you’ll have the chance to visit Thingvellir, a historic site and national park boasting some of Iceland’s most incredible landmarks. The park occupies a rift valley created by the separation of tectonic plates, giving it a dramatic geology like nowhere else on earth. Here, you’ll be able to hop out of the car and walk through the park, admiring its many wonders.
  • Oxararfoss - Next, you’ll reach one of Thingvellir’s main attractions: Öxarárfoss. This pristine waterfall flows from the river Öxará over the Almannagjá. The pool at its base is as clear as the river which feed it, but legend has it that the waterfall turns red on New Year’s Eve every year.
  • Silfra Fissure Arctic Adventures - Then there’s the Silfra Dive Site, a phenomenal spot for underwater adventures. Here, you can dive and snorkel right where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Once you continue beyond the park, you’ll hear all about the Aurora Borealis and the ancient legends people created to explain those northern lights. You’ll also get to know some of Iceland’s most famous mythical creatures, such as trolls and the Hidden People.
  • Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths - Up next is an essential Iceland experience: the Geothermal Baths. These natural steam baths, fed by hot springs, aren’t just soothing. They’re also packed with minerals that the locals swear carry healing properties. Past these, you’ll hear how Vikings kept themselves squeaky clean. Then you’ll get to know Egil, a viking folk hero (or anti-hero, depending on who you ask) whose fascinating tale blends history and mythology together into an iconic Viking saga.
  • Geysir - Your route takes you next to Geysir, sometimes known as The Great Geysir. As one might guess from its name, this is a geyser which has been known to send eruptions of hot water and steam over 200 feet into the air! It’s been dormant for a while, but could become active again at any time. Its neighbor, Strokkur, is much more predictable, erupting every 5-10 minutes!
  • Geysir Hot Springs - Much-visited geothermal geyser that erupts every 8–10 minutes & reaches heights of 20 meters.
  • Gullfoss Falls - After that is one of the Golden Circle’s most popular attractions: Gullfoss. This 100-foot waterfall really earns its name, which means “Golden Falls” in English. Once you’re done admiring this impressive waterfall, you’ll hear about the important role of magic in ancient Viking mythology and culture. Then you’ll find out what ultimately became of Egil the folk hero and learn the truth behind a couple stereotypes about Vikings.
  • Secret Lagoon Iceland - As you drive, you’ll next have the chance to visit the Secret Lagoon. This is one of the best geothermal pools in Iceland and is absolutely beloved by locals. Whether or not you opt for a soak, your tour will introduce you next to a particularly bizarre Icelandic folk tale, then explain the importance of greenhouses on this remote, rocky island.
  • Fridheimar - Getting hungry? Friðheimar is your next stop. This country-style, family-run restaurant offers tomato-based dishes from onsite greenhouses. If you plan to stop by, however, you should call in advance, as this little establishment is remarkably popular.
  • Skalholt - Your route brings you next to Skálholt Cathedral, one of the most important historic sites in Iceland. This church dates all the way back to 1106! The current structure isn’t that old, but the land and its history most certainly are. Continuing past the cathedral, you’ll hear lots more about the role of religion in Iceland and the sometimes bloody conflicts it created during the Viking Age.
  • Sólheimar - Sólheimar is an eco-village in Iceland and is renowned for its ecological, artistic, and international community ethics. Its current population size is about 100 people. The village of Sólheimar locates in the south-western part of Iceland, the municipality of Grímsnes- og Grafningshreppur.
  • Kerid Crater - Finally, you’ll reach Kerid Crater. 3,000 years ago, a huge volcano collapsed, leaving behind this impressive crater. It’s a must-see spot, and a great location for photos! After visiting the crater, you’ll head back toward Reykjavik. Along the way, you’ll get acquainted with modern day Iceland, some more recent history, and what the future might look like for this unique nation. Your tour will conclude just outside Reyjavik.
What's Included
  • Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
  • Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
  • Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
  • Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
  • Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
  • Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
  • Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
  • Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
What's Not Included
  • Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Additional Information

Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!

Take a self-guided tour through the most breathtaking landscapes Iceland has to offer. Start in Reykjavik and drive the famous Golden Circle, home to astonishing vistas, sparkling waterfalls, and historic structures dating back to the Viking age. As you drive, learn the history of this fascinating nation, including legends of Vikings, elves, and magic! If you want to truly experience Iceland, there’s no better place to start than here.

After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.

New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

This isn’t an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

  • How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
  • How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action’s Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
  • Amazing savings: • Driving Tours: Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle, avoiding individual fees per person like on a bus tour. Connect your phone to the car speakers to share the audio.
  • Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It’s perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
  • Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
  • Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
  • Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
  • Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
  • Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app’s features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
Location
43PP+59
After booking the tour, search your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.3
(25 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Marcelyn_e
Jul 2, 2024
Self guided Iceland Tour - Fantastic!!! - Easy to use and great for self driving at your own pace. No technical issues. Downloaded and plugged into car play. Screen doesn’t sinc but the sound and instruction is clear and timely. Great tool!!!
Review provided by Viator
Sarahsb2580ei
Jun 7, 2024
Highly recommend - Highly recommend this audio tour. Full of information and stories to listen to along the way. Everyone from 8 to 68 enjoyed it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Chad_c
May 30, 2024
Perfect self guided tour - This self guided tour was perfect! We love guided tours but dislike the large crowded buses. This was perfect! We rented a car and made all the stops, including Fridheimar. Lunch was so yummy! The tales given on the tour were funny as well. I highly recommend getting this tour for an individualized tour experience.
Review provided by Viator
V7157camarciar
Apr 23, 2024
Great way to see the Golden Circle at your own pace! - What a great guide! Driving solo thru Iceland, it was like I was on my own private tour. Too bad snow prevented me from finishing the last few miles. Thanks!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Miguel_v
Jan 9, 2024
tour says 4-6 hours,... - tour says 4-6 hours, That's really if you don't stop anywhere if you want to do hikes along the way or jump in a spring really plan for an 8 hour day! great tour! great value!
Review provided by Viator
544ceciliab
Nov 27, 2023
Enjoyed by ages 14 to 80 - This was perfect! We were traveling with teens and our elderly parents. All enjoyed and all could easily hear/understand the narrator.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
William_n
Nov 11, 2023
despite the occasional... - despite the occasional wandering away from the path due to the app not updating in a timely manner, was an excellent tour, definitely will repeat in the future!
Review provided by Viator
Alison_p
Oct 29, 2023
Perfect - Was so amazing! Nice roads in the fall so don't worry about rough driving. And amazing cool stops. Stories were great!!! Having the freedom to stop asking the way was great!
Review provided by Viator
Jessica_g
Nov 19, 2023
Great for self-driving tour to get the history and info on Iceland, but sound did not play loud enough - Was great to have a self driving tour and commentary! There was a lot about the history and current culture of Iceland. However, the app wasn't great with directions (apps like GPSy in the US have warnings well in advance and then tones when the turn has come up). We also couldn't turn up the sound enough on our rental car's terrible sound system.
Review provided by Viator
Sarah_g
Feb 19, 2024
Ok but overpriced and rushed - The audio tour is nice enough and has a few interesting bits, and we liked the way it started automatically so you could concentrate on driving. That must be really useful if you're travelling alone. BUT the narrator sounded like he was reading it for the first time, with a lot of mispronunciations and some sentences being really hard to understand because of the way he put the emphasis. The info was pitched at a pretty basic level (maybe aimed at children?) and I knew some of the dates were wrong from having glanced at Wikipedia the day before. If the only thing you know about Norse gods is from Marvel movies, this is for you. Otherwise, probably not. There's nothing on it that you wouldn't know from a really basic guidebook or website. The Golden Circle is well enough known for you to be able to plot your own route between the main points. It's definitely not worth the £34 we paid for it. Get a good guidebook for a fraction of the price and listen to some atmospheric Icelandic music by Sigur Ros or Olafur Arnalds instead as you admire the landscape.
Review provided by Viator
Select Date and Tickets
up to 4 guests
1
Traveler
September 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today