Great Iceland and Greenland Tour 11 Nights 12 Days with Iceland Air Airlines

DAY 1 | ISTANBUL  REYKJAVIK (ICELAND) 1225 1520

Meeting at Istanbul Airport at 09:30 and departure for Reykjavik at 12:25 with Icelandair. Arrival in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, at 15:20 local time after an approximately 5-hour-55-minute flight.

After passport procedures, transfer to the city center with our waiting vehicle.

We get our first impressions of Reykjavik with a short briefing and panoramic drive. Transfer to and check-in at our 3* standard hotel located in the city center.

Accommodation: Center Hotels Plaza 3* or similar

Location: Reykjavik city center – within walking distance of restaurants and shopping areas.

Free evening. Guests may take a short walk in the city center accompanied by the guide or taste Icelandic cuisine at local seafood restaurants.

DAY 2 | REYKJAVIK CITY TOUR – “First Discovery” BLUE LAGOON

After breakfast, we set out to explore Iceland’s colorful capital. Reykjavik is a tranquil city that blends the serenity of the north with modern art and design. We begin our city tour at Hallgrímskirkja Church, which has become a symbol of the city. We stop in front of the church to admire Reykjavik’s pastel-colored houses and the snow-covered mountains in the distance. Guests may climb the church tower to enjoy a panoramic view.

We then walk along the city’s main street, Skólavörðustígur, seeing colorful art shops and boutique cafés. From here, we take a short transfer to the Old Harbor area. Here, we view Harpa Concert Hall from the outside, one of the finest examples of the city’s modern architecture, and watch the reflection of the sky and sea on its glass façade.

Proceeding along the coast, we reach the Sun Voyager (Sólfar) sculpture. This elegant ship-shaped monument, symbolizing Viking culture, reflects Iceland’s spirit of exploration in the most beautiful way. We then take a short break and enjoy coffee at seaside cafés with those who wish.

We set out for Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous geothermal wonder. In the midst of lava fields, Blue Lagoon is a relaxing and visually fascinating stop with its turquoise waters, whose steam blends into the sky. Guests who wish may swim in these mineral-rich thermal waters, care for their skin with a mud mask, or enjoy the unique atmosphere while sipping a drink on the café terrace.

We return to the hotel in the evening. Guests who wish may take a short walk through the streets of Reykjavik or taste the flavors of Icelandic cuisine at a small fish restaurant. Overnight in Reykjavik at our Center Hotels Plaza 3★ or similar hotel.

DAY 3 | GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR – THREE WONDERS OF NATURE

After breakfast, we set out on the Golden Circle tour, Iceland’s most famous route. This route brings the power of nature together at three different points: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we walk through the rift valley where the European and American continents are geologically separating, and watch the clear waters flowing among volcanic rock formations. This area is also a historic center where “Althingi,” the world’s first parliament, was established. Both Iceland’s nature and identity come together here.

After leaving the park, we arrive at the Geysir Geothermal Area. Formed by hot water sources rising from underground, this area is known for Strokkur Geyser, which erupts up to 30 meters every few minutes. We take a short walk through this region, where steam rises and the color of the earth takes on sulfur tones, and feel the power of nature up close.

Around noon, we take a break at a small local restaurant nearby and have a light lunch with traditional soup, fish, or sandwich options (food is not included in the price).

The final stop of the day is Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. Falling into a deep canyon in a two-tiered formation, this waterfall fascinates visitors with a rainbow appearing in the mist on sunny days. We allow free time to take magnificent photographs from the viewing terrace.

We return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon. We reach the city while observing Iceland’s typical farmhouses, herds of horses, and glacial valleys along the way.

Overnight in Reykjavik at our Center Hotels Plaza 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 4 | SOUTH ICELAND – WATERFALLS AND BLACK BEACHES

After breakfast, we set out toward the South Coast route, one of Iceland’s most impressive regions. This area is considered the place where the country’s natural beauty is most concentrated. Along the way, we travel among lava fields, moss-covered hills, and small farmhouses.

Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, one of the country’s symbols. This waterfall is famous for the opportunity to walk behind its falling curtain of water. In suitable weather conditions, we go behind the waterfall and take unique photographs.

Our next stop is Skógafoss Waterfall, known for its powerful waters flowing from a height of approximately 30 meters. We take short walks around the waterfall and breathe in Iceland’s typical village atmosphere. When the weather is clear, seeing a rainbow in the waterfall’s mist is almost guaranteed.

Around noon, we take an affordable break at a small village restaurant or a gas station café along the way. After a short rest with hot soup, sandwiches, and coffee options, we continue on our route.

The most impressive stop of the day is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Located on the Atlantic coast, this beach is one of the most extraordinary shores in the world, with its volcanic basalt columns, giant waves, and black sand. The Reynisdrangar cliffs rising opposite are known, according to legend, as trolls turned to stone. We admire this magical landscape while walking along the beach.

In the evening, we begin our return journey to Reykjavik. We have the opportunity to observe the country’s peaceful nature by taking a short photo break on the way back.

Overnight in Reykjavik at our Center Hotels Plaza 3* or similar hotel

DAY 5 | REYKJAVIK - GREENLAND (NUUK / GOH) JOURNEY TO THE POLAR REGION 0945 1005

After breakfast, we check out of the hotel.

Today, we travel beyond the north to Greenland, the world’s largest island, on an unforgettable journey. After our transfer to the airport, we depart from Reykjavik for Nuuk (GOH) Airport on an Icelandair domestic flight. During the approximately 2-hour-20-minute flight, ice masses over the Atlantic and white fjords can be seen from the airplane window.

Upon arrival in Greenland, after passport procedures, we transfer to our hotel by a short city transfer.

After settling into the hotel, we take a short walking tour accompanied by our guide to get our first impressions. With its colorful wooden houses, quiet streets, and small seaside harbor, Nuuk reflects the peaceful face of the North.

Free evening. Guests who wish may try Greenlandic fish soup or reindeer meat specialties at cafés near the hotel.

Overnight in Nuuk at our Hotel Hans Egede 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 6 | GREENLAND – GLACIERS AND FJORDS

After breakfast, we set out to discover Greenland’s fascinating nature. Beginning at Nuuk harbor, we take a short boat trip among glaciers and fjords where sea and land intertwine. As we glide among enormous pieces of ice along the way, Arctic gulls, seals, and occasionally appearing whales accompany the scenery.

After listening to nature’s breath in the silence of the fjord, we return to the shore and visit the local fishing pier and the seaside town surrounded by colorful houses. Guests who wish may take a lunch break at the small cafés in the harbor with hot soup or a fish burger.

In the afternoon, together with our guide, we visit Nuuk Art Museum and the National History Museum, among Greenland’s principal cultural venues. Traditional kayaks, masks, and hunting tools from the Eskimo period reflect the North’s deep-rooted culture.

We return to our hotel in the late afternoon. At sunset, guests who wish may take a short walk accompanied by the guide to a viewpoint overlooking the fjord. If the sky is clear, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) dancing along the horizon may be visible.

Overnight in Nuuk at our Hotel Hans Egede 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 7 | GREENLAND – LOCAL LIFE AND INUIT CULTURE

After breakfast, today we will get to know Greenland’s heart, people, and culture up close. On our walking tour beginning in the city center, we see landmarks such as Nuuk City Hall Square, Katuaq Cultural Center, and the Cathedral.

We then move on to the local market area. Here, we witness the daily life of the Inuit people; fish, seal, reindeer meat, and traditional handicrafts are sold at the stalls. Local clothing made from colorful fabrics and small carvings reflect the distinctive details of Greenlandic culture.

Free time around noon. Guests who wish may enjoy a pleasant lunch break at small restaurants in the harbor area with menus consisting of Greenlandic salmon or seafood.

In the afternoon, together with our local guide, we visit the Inuit Cultural Center dedicated to the history and traditions of the Kalaallit people. Traditional house types, hunting equipment, and clothing made from reindeer hides are exhibited here.

Return to the hotel in the evening. If the weather is clear, a short Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) viewing break may again be arranged outside the city. The quiet fjord landscape and dancing lights become one of the unforgettable moments of our tour.

Overnight in Nuuk at our Hotel Hans Egede 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 8 | GREENLAND - REYKJAVIK – 1105 1525

After breakfast, we check out of the hotel. Today, we say farewell to Greenland, the land of white silence. After our transfer to the airport, we return from Nuuk to Reykjavik on an Icelandair domestic flight. The glaciers seen through the window, floating ice islands on the ocean, and distant fjords during the flight offer one last glimpse of the North’s grandeur.

Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we transfer to our hotel with our vehicle waiting at the airport. After settling into the hotel, we spend the remainder of the day resting or taking short city walks. After the long polar days, Reykjavik’s lively streets, shops, and café atmosphere make us feel the warmth of returning to the city once again.

A small group walk may be arranged in the evening for guests who wish. During this gentle walk along the coast, beautiful photographs can be taken of the sea and city lights at sunset.

Overnight in Reykjavik at our Center Hotels Plaza 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 9 | REYKJAVÍK – AKUREYRI TRAVEL DAY (JOURNEY TO NORTHERN ICELAND)

After breakfast, we begin our overland journey toward northern Iceland. Today, we will travel along the Ring Road route connecting the island’s two major regions. This approximately five-to-six-hour journey passes through some of Iceland’s most impressive landscapes: lava fields, fjord shores, mountain passes, and small fishing villages.

We take short breaks along the way and stop for coffee in the town of Borgarnes. Then, near Hvammstangi, we take a short walk and photo break along the coastline, where seals are frequently seen. Depending on weather conditions, lava fields, small waterfalls, and viewpoints overlooking the sea can be seen at each stop.

Around noon, we take a short break at a suitable local restaurant; we have a light lunch with homemade soup, warm bread, and fish menus (not included in the price).

As we approach Akureyri in the afternoon, the valleys narrow and the green tones of the north give way to snow-covered slopes. We reach the city in the late afternoon, arriving in Akureyri, known as the capital of northern Iceland. With its location on the shore of a fjord, colorful houses, and small harbor, the city offers a warm atmosphere.

Rest after settling into the hotel. Guests who wish may get to know the city briefly with an evening walk or try the local cuisine at small restaurants in the harbor. Overnight in Akureyri at our Hotel Kea 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 10 | LAKE MÝVATN AND THE NATURAL WONDERS OF THE NORTH

After breakfast, we leave Akureyri and set out toward the fascinating Lake Mývatn region in northern Iceland. Along the way, we travel amid snow-covered valleys, steaming lava fields, and small waterfalls. This route is famous for being Iceland’s most active geothermal region.

Our first stop is Goðafoss Waterfall, shaped by volcanic activity. This magnificent natural formation, meaning “Waterfall of the Gods,” is one of the north’s most photogenic spots. We take a short walk here and watch the water cascade down the valley.

We then reach the surroundings of Lake Mývatn. This region is known as a paradise for birdwatchers; numerous craters, lava columns, and small islets are located around the lake. While walking here, we experience both the scenery and the silence.

We visit the Dimmuborgir Lava Field and the Skútustaðagígar Craters around the lake. This natural landscape formed by lava columns is referred to as the “dark fortresses” according to legend.

Around noon, we take a break at a café in the area; after a short rest with hot soup and bread, we continue on our route.

The final stop of the day is the Hverir Geothermal Area, known for its boiling mud pools. Here, amid steam rising from underground and the smell of sulfur, we feel Iceland’s volcanic energy up close.

We return to Akureyri in the late afternoon. Free time in the city center for guests who wish: we end the day pleasantly with small shops, cafés, and a harbor walk.

Overnight in Akureyri at our Hotel Kea 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 11 | AKUREYRI – RETURN TO REYKJAVÍK (WITH BEAUTIFUL STOPS)

After breakfast, we leave Akureyri and begin our return journey south from Iceland’s northern valleys. Today is not merely a transfer day; by making several enjoyable stops along the way, we will see Iceland’s different faces once again.

Our first stop is a view of Eyjafjörður Fjord, a short distance from Akureyri. We take a short photo break here and observe the mountains stretching along the fjord in the morning light.

Continuing along the route, we stop in the town of Blönduós. This small but charming town is worth seeing for both its local character and its location on the river. We take a tea or coffee break here and witness Iceland’s rural life.

Around noon, we take a break near Borgarnes; a light lunch can be enjoyed here with the option of a small museum or local restaurant. We travel along the safe and comfortable paved section of the Ring Road throughout the route.

Arrival in Reykjavik in the late afternoon. Short rest after settling into the hotel. Guests who wish may take an evening walk in the city or complete their final shopping.

Overnight in Reykjavik at our Center Hotels Plaza 3* or similar hotel.

DAY 12 | REYKJAVÍK ISTANBUL 1500 2355

After breakfast, we check out of the hotel. After days spent in the silence of the North, it is now time to return home.

A short period of free time is provided in the morning; guests who wish may take one last walk through Reykjavik’s colorful streets or complete their small souvenir shopping.

Transfer to the airport at the designated time. After check-in and passport procedures, we depart from Reykjavik for Istanbul on an Icelandair flight. After an approximately six-hour flight, arrival in Istanbul in the afternoon.

Thus, we complete this fascinating northern journey extending from lava fields to glaciers, from Greenland’s fjords to Iceland’s warm waters.

As we say goodbye to our participants, the lights of the Aurora, the winds of the north, and its brilliant white silence now remain in each of our memories.

Until we meet on the next northern adventure...

Our tour ends here.

IMPORTANT NOTES

• The times stated in the program may change depending on weather conditions and flight times.

• Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) viewing depends on weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

• Domestic flights within Greenland and Iceland are operated in economy class; seat selection is assigned automatically according to the airline system.

• The tour is confirmed when the minimum number of participants (7 people) is reached.

VISAS:

 A multiple-entry Schengen visa for Iceland is required for this tour.

Since Greenland is a territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, it also requires a SPECIAL visa!! A visa is not required for holders of green (official) passports.

In other words, even if you have a SCHENGEN visa, an entry visa for GREENLAND will be obtained from a DANISH embassy. We will provide you with information. Those who do not already have a Schengen visa would be advised to obtain their entire new Schengen visa from Denmark.