Reykjavík in 1 Day for Couples - Private vehicle with a driver/guide
In Collaboration with Friend In Iceland. Updated on February 13, 2026.
A fully private, tailor-made 1‑day tour based in Reykjavík. Vehicle (car/minibus/jeep) and driver/guide provided. The route below is a sample day most commonly requested: meeting in central Reykjavík, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, then returning to Reykjavík. The operator can alter timing, start location and vehicle type to suit your group.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Friend In Iceland, inspired by the tour Private Tours. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private vehicle with a driver/guide
- Explore Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss
- Flexible pacing and private experience tailored to your preferences
Itinerary
Day 1
Sample 1‑day private itinerary from Reykjavík. Timings are conservative with buffers for transfers and short walks. All stops are reachable in a single long day; the guide will adapt pacing to your group.
Meet your guide — Hallgrímskirkja (central Reykjavík)
Meet in front of Hallgrímskirkja for a short briefing, vehicle introduction and route confirmation. Final passenger count and any last-minute requests are checked before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet at the front steps of Hallgrímskirkja (Skólavörðustígur) to avoid pedestrian congestion on the church approach.
- Have a small daypack ready with layers and a water bottle; guides will store larger luggage in the vehicle.
- Public toilets are available inside the church tower visitor area; consider a quick stop if anyone needs facilities before the drive.
Drive to Þingvellir National Park
Scenic transfer from Reykjavík to Þingvellir with short comfort stops as needed. The guide will point out landscape changes and local landmarks en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a seated transfer of roughly 40–50 minutes; pick seats with a clear view for photography.
- If anyone is prone to travel sickness, request a front-seat during briefing.
- Carry a small snack and water if you prefer not to stop for a longer break en route.
Explore Þingvellir National Park
Walk easy paths to view the rift valley and historical assembly site. The guide will select short, accessible routes to match the group's pace and interests.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths at Þingvellir include some uneven surfaces; wear sturdy shoes and allow time for short, flat walks between viewpoints.
- Public toilets and a visitor centre are available near the main parking area—use these before setting off on the trail.
- If you want photos together, ask your guide to suggest viewpoints with minimal foot traffic for a quieter moment.
Transfer to Geysir geothermal area
Short drive across the highland fringe to the Geysir geothermal area. The guide will time arrival to watch Strokkur erupt.
Tips from local experts:
- Transfer time is approximately 35–45 minutes depending on traffic; use this time to layer up as it can be cooler at the geyser area.
- Keep cameras at the ready—Strokkur typically erupts frequently, but eruption intervals vary.
- Follow guide instructions on where to stand; geothermal areas have fragile ground and marked safe paths.
Visit Strokkur and the Geysir area
Short walking visit around the boardwalks to observe Strokkur and surrounding geothermal features. Guide provides safety briefings and photography tips.
Tips from local experts:
- Stay on the marked boardwalks—thermal ground is dangerous off-path.
- Bring a lightweight waterproof layer; spray from eruptions and changing weather are common.
- There are information boards and a small cafe area nearby for quick warm drinks after the walk.
Lunch — Geysir Centre (sample local lunch)
Lunch at the nearby visitor / cafe area. The guide can suggest menu items suitable for the group and allow time for a relaxed break.
Tips from local experts:
- Most visitor cafés accept card payments; inform the guide of dietary restrictions at the start of the day.
- Lunch seating can fill at peak times—use the guide's local knowledge to choose a quieter option or timing.
- Keep an eye on timing; lunches are planned to fit the day’s return schedule but can be shortened if you prefer.
Short transfer to Gullfoss waterfall
Quick drive to Gullfoss with a short walk to viewpoints. The guide times the visit to make the most of light conditions and crowd flow.
Tips from local experts:
- Transfer from the Geysir area to Gullfoss takes around 10–20 minutes; keep cameras handy.
- Wear a windproof layer—spray from the falls can reach the viewing paths.
- There are accessible viewpoints close to the car park; notify your guide if you need a shorter walking route.
Gullfoss waterfall — viewpoint visit
Walk short, well-maintained paths to multiple viewpoints over Gullfoss. The guide will manage group pacing and photo opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths to viewpoints include steps and uneven surfaces—comfortable shoes recommended.
- There are seasonal closures of lower paths; follow guide and onsite signage for the safest routes.
- If you prefer a quieter viewpoint, ask the guide to escort you to less frequented spots on the return to the vehicle.
Return drive to Reykjavík (scenic transfer)
Return to Reykjavík with an opportunity for the guide to stop briefly for photos or amenities as time allows. Travel time typically 1–1.5 hours depending on stops.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect approximately 1–1.5 hours for the return transfer; communicate any preferred last-minute stops to your guide early.
- Use the return transfer to relax—your guide can provide short commentary or local recommendations for the evening.
- If you have evening plans in Reykjavík, tell the guide so they can aim to drop you at a convenient central location.
Drop-off and tour close — Harpa Concert Hall or central Reykjavík
End of the private tour with drop-off at Harpa Concert Hall or another agreed central Reykjavík location. Quick debrief and collection of belongings.
Tips from local experts:
- Agree the final drop-off point with your guide at the start of the day; Harpa and the Old Harbour are convenient central options.
- Check you have all personal items from the vehicle before leaving; guides will assist retrieving anything left behind.
- If you enjoyed the day's photos, ask your guide about common local spots to continue exploring on foot afterward.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Break |
