Bus tours from Reykjavik

The Northern Lights along the western coast of Iceland. Photo: Diana R.

For true Cheapos, the best option might be to base yourself in Reykjavik and take bus tours out to the popular tourist destinations. Reykjavik Excursions, the same company that operates the airport buses, offers several tours to explore the beautiful scenery.

Note: This article is part of our budget travel guide to Iceland.

Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle Tour takes you on the greatest hits of Iceland landmarks in one day including the Geysir geothermal region, Gullfoss waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park. The cost isn’t cheap, but at 10,500 ISK (about $90), you’ll get a full day of sightseeing at four must-see attractions. It’s not a bad deal when you consider gas alone on a rental car would cost a small bundle.

Northern Lights Tour

For about $55, you can book a three-hour excursion to see the Northern Lights in person. The Northern Lights Tour runs from September through April, when sightings are most common. And if you don’t catch a glimpse of this wonder in the sky, you can book another tour to try again at no extra cost.

Regional Bus Passes

Another budget option for getting out into nature is purchasing a bus pass. You won’t have the flexibility of having a car, but you’ll still be able to get around the island and will never have to worry about getting lost! There are several bus pass options from Reykjavik Excursions.


Our guide to budget travel in Iceland

Read more in our guide to saving in Iceland:

About the author

Craig Nelson

Craig is a New York-based writer and tour guide who has worked with many travel publishers including Not For Tourists, Frommer's, and Google. Now he is an editor for EuroCheapo and manager of Bowery Boys Walks. When he's not out exploring the five boroughs for his blog, he's dreaming up plans for his next trip across the pond.

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