golden circle tour 2 days

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Golden Circle Iceland in 2 Days – Self Drive Tour & Map

The Golden Circle in Iceland normally takes you from Reykjavik to 3 highlights: the waterfall Gullfoss , Þingvellir National Park , and Geysir in the Haukadalur geyser basin . In this itinerary, we want to introduce you to the other highlights along the Golden Circle of Iceland. These highlights will allow you to extend your drive along the Golden Circle in Iceland to 2 days or 3 days.

If you’re interested in just the highlights of the Golden Circle, or if you’re short on time, check our 1-day itinerary along the Golden Circle.

Check our guide: The Golden Circle in Iceland in 1 day

2-Day Itinerary for Extended Visit to the Golden Circle

Our itinerary below will take you to all the main stops on the Golden Circle of Iceland. But next to that, we also added some other stops we admired during our travels to Iceland. Details on those stops can be found further down in this article.

This tour around the Golden Circle of Iceland took us 2 days to complete. But the days were quite full, so if you want to take more time, you can take 3 days. In the tables below we’ll give you the details on what we did on each day. If you have any questions, please drop us a comment so we can get back to you. If you used our itinerary, we’d love to hear from you!

Day 1: Þingvellir and Reykjadalur Valley

We did the Golden Circle of Iceland at the beginning of our road trip along the ring road of Iceland. After we arrived in Iceland, we stayed at Reykjanesbær, close to the airport. We start our itinerary from there, but you can also start from Reykjavik.

Day 2: Nesjavellir, Kerið, Bruarfoss, Gullfoss, and Geysir

On our second day along the Golden Circle in Iceland, we did quite a lot of stops. It was a wonderful day, but to be fair: this day was quite heavy. At the end of the day, we were really tired and our feet were sore. If you want to be more at ease, you can leave out the hike at Nesjavellir or take 2 days to complete this itinerary.

Main Stops on the Golden Circle in Iceland

There are 3 main stops that everyone is doing, along the Golden Circle in Iceland. Those 3 are the Gullfoss waterfall, the geysers Strokkur and Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park. Those stops are discussed in detail in our article about the Golden Circle. So check that article for details.

Avoiding the Crowd with Other Sights

In this post, we’ll focus on the other stops along the Golden Circle. These are less popular with tourists, but still worthy of your time. If you want to take a break from the crowded Reykjavik or one of the main 3 stops, you can take a visit to one of those less-visited stops.

Reykjadalur Valley Hot Springs

Reykjadalur Valley means valley of steam. And that’s no lie. You start from the parking lot walking uphill. On the way up you’ll cross steam vents, geothermal pools, and mud pots. But that’s not all! After about an hour of hiking you’ll reach a thermal river where you can bathe, so don’t forget your swimming clothes 👙.

Discover the Reykjadalur Valley and the thermal river in our article on Reykjadalur Valley. We’ll explain where to park, how to hike to the river, point you to a hidden waterfall at the end of the valley and give you tips.

Itinerary, parking, hiking and where to bathe: Reykjadalur Valley Itinerary

Kerið Crater

The crater Kerið is a volcanic crater located next to the Golden Circle of Iceland. At the bottom of the crater, there is a volcanic lake. You can hike around both the crater and the lake, making this an ideal quick stop on your trip.

There is a small entrance fee if you want to visit Kerið Crater, but parking is free. There are no restrooms though, so keep this in mind. If you’re interested to learn more, check our article on Kerið crater.

Entrance, hiking and visiting details: Guide to visiting Kerið Crater lake

Bruarfoss Waterfall and Midfoss

Bruarfoss and Midfoss are two waterfalls that are located close to the Golden Circle. The parking lot to start the trail is on the road directly next to the Golden Circle, but the location of the waterfalls is more remote. To reach the waterfalls, you’ll have to hike for about 1 hour (1-way).

The hiking trail is worth it though. On this trail, you’ll see two beautiful waterfalls that aren’t visited a lot. If you plan a visit or want to learn more, check our article on Bruarfoss and Midfoss waterfalls.

Full details in our article: Waterfalls Bruarfoss and Midfoss

Nesjavellir Geothermal Area

Nesjavellir is a geothermal area in the south of Iceland. The area is known because of the Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Plant, the second biggest geothermal power plant in Iceland. But the area is also a great destination for hiking.

On the hiking trail we did in Nesjavellir, we experienced a variety of different landscapes. You’ll see all colors of rocks and earth, mosses and plants and steam coming out of the ground. Check out the itinerary of our hike in our article on Nesjavellir.

Golden Circle Iceland Map & Route

On our map below you can find the route and all the stops along the Golden Circle mentioned in the article above. You can use this map as a base for your travel plans to the Golden Circle of Iceland.

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Hi there 👋! My name is Steven. I write for our travel blog and focus on the technicalities behind the blog (hosting, SEO…). My focus is to provide useful information I found lacking when preparing our own travels. That’s why I love making maps to enhance the articles. I hope you find what you seek on our website. And if there is something I can help with, make sure to reach out 🙂!

12 comments

Steven, I found this very helpful with the maps and how much time to allow for each attraction. thanks, Marie

Thanks a lot for your nice comment :). I’m happy to hear you found it useful!

Hi Steven. I am planning a tour of the golden Circle and have found your article very helpful. However, I wish to do this for 4 days, a road trip. So if i incorporate the main3 : Gullfoss waterfall, the geysers Strokkur and Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park and then i include the extended sites you have mentioned, will that allow me to stretch this to 4 days:Reykjadalur Valley Hot Springs, Kerio Crater and Bruarfoss Waterfall and Midfoss.

Any advice you can provide will be very helpful.

Hi Arafat, sorry for my late reply. Somehow I missed your comment. Indeed, if you extend the trip, it’s perfect for a 4 day road trip. We did it in 2 days, but it was really heavy and we had to rush a bit and one of the days we were out until 8 PM. So 4 days gives you more time to enjoy each of the sights.

We’d love to do this two-day tour by car. Do you recommend a hotel half way through the trip?

Hi Wayne, yes a hotel would be great. We stayed in Geysir when we did the Golden Circle.

I find car rentals expensive. Is an SUV required or can the circle be done in atypical rental car?

Hi Mike, sorry for the late answer. Seemed that I missed your comment. But a regular car is fine for the ring road. If you want to go to one of the more rural areas, I’d recommend an SUV. Indeed rental cars are expensive in Iceland :(.

Which month have you done the trip? Greetings Franziska

Hi Franziska, we did our trip to Iceland in June 🙂

thank you so much for the information. It is very useful in the planning stages of our trip in July.

I’m happy to hear our information is useful to plan your own trip 🙂

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The Best Tours in Iceland

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2-Day Best of Golden Circle & South Iceland Tour

Explore the Golden Circle , and Iceland’s south coast in 2 days.

Join us on an unforgettable journey through Iceland, where you’ll witness geysers erupting, breathtaking waterfalls cascading, and majestic glaciers stretching across the horizon. Stroll along unique black sand beaches and marvel at the volcanic landscapes that define this land of natural wonders. Your adventure begins with the awe-inspiring Golden Circle, after which you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a Reykjavik hotel. On day 2, depart from Reykjavik to explore the spectacular South Coast, a region renowned for its diverse and stunning sights.

Begin your enchanting journey with a tour of the iconic Golden Circle , featuring not just the famed sites but also hidden gems like the Kerið volcanic crater . Your adventure continues on the second day as you delve into the wild beauty of Iceland’s South Coast . Experience the surreal landscape of Reynisfjara beach , where black sands meet extraordinary basalt cliff formations.

Marvel at Iceland’s most celebrated waterfalls, including the picturesque Seljalandsfoss , where a unique path invites you to explore behind its cascading waters. The visit to the majestic Skógafoss waterfall will leave you awe-struck, while the sight of blue ice mixed with volcanic ash on Sólheimajökull glacier offers an otherworldly experience that is truly beyond compare.

For detailed itineraries or to learn more about each tour, simply click on the tour names below for a seamless redirection.

Included tours

Tour 1: Grand Golden Circle Tour

Tour 2: South Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour

Tour highlights & itinerary

Accommodations on the 2-Day Wonderful Golden Circle & South Coast Iceland tour offers a range of room choices, from single to triple occupancy, all equipped with private bathrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi. Embracing a minimalist Nordic design, rooms feature cozy furnishings and essential amenities like hairdryers and kettles.

Conveniently located in central Reykjavik, it prioritizes comfort and tranquility for a unique experience. The stay includes a diverse continental buffet breakfast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, complemented by breathtaking scenery.

• 1 night at a hotel, with a private bathroom and breakfast
• 2 guided tours
• Free onboard WiFi
• All tours and transfers include pick-up and drop-off from accommodation and special Tour Bus Stops in central Reykjavik
• No meals are included except breakfast at the hotel on day 2
• Food or drink
• Warm, water- and windproof clothing are always useful in Iceland.
• All tickets are e-tickets so there is no need to print them out.
• Disclaimer: Tour durations are approximate. Tours can overrun due to weather and other unexpected delays. (Tour 1 - Grand Golden Circle tour takes about 8.5 hours; Tour 2 - South Iceland tour takes about 10 hours.)
• ‣ 100% refund of the tour price, if canceled 7 days or more prior to the starting time of the tour.
• ‣ 50% refund of the tour price, if canceled 7 days or less prior to the starting time of the tour.
• ‣ No refund is given if canceled 48 hours or less prior to the starting time of the tour.

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Our Golden Circle day tour starts with a swift pickup. Our driver-guide will collect you from specific central Reykjavik spots or various city stops. Once everyone is gathered, we’ll set off to our day’s first attraction.

Explore Kerið, a stunning 3000-year-old volcanic crater on Iceland’s Golden Circle Route, boasting a captivating conical shape and azure lake. Then, encounter the raw power of the Geysir Geothermal Field, Gullfoss waterfall’s majesty, and the rich history of Thingvellir, all in one unforgettable journey.

Discover Kerið , a breathtaking 3000-year-old volcanic crater nestled along Iceland’s enchanting Golden Circle Route . With its distinct conical shape, adorned in maroon volcanic rock and accented by dark sediment stripes, Kerið presents an irresistible allure. Venture along paved pathways to explore its wonders, whether you opt for a leisurely stroll around the rim for sweeping views or descend to the serene azure lake at its heart.

A brief journey leads you to Gullfoss , Iceland’s famed waterfall, where the Hvítá River cascades gracefully over tiers of rugged terrain. Choose from upper and lower walking paths to admire this majestic sight from various angles.

Continuing your journey along the Golden Circle, at the Geysir Geothermal Field , prepare to be enchanted by the earth’s raw power, as sulfuric scents waft through the air and bubbling mud pools create a mesmerizing spectacle. Witness the awe-inspiring eruptions of Strokkur Geyser, a natural wonder that delights visitors every 5 to 10 minutes, while the tranquil blue waters of the Great Geysir offer a serene contrast.

Delve into the rich history and geological wonders of Thingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at Öxaráfoss waterfall and traverse the dramatic Almannagjá rift valley, following in the footsteps of Vikings to the historic site of Iceland’s ancient parliament.

After immersing ourselves in Icelandic culture and marveling at nature’s wonders, we’ll wrap up the day and return to Reykjavik.

You will be staying at your hotel room in central Reykjavik.

*Please be aware that the itinerary could be modified due to operational or weather-related factors.

On the second day of your journey, embrace Iceland’s untamed south coast .

Explore the surreal landscape of Reynisfjara beach , where black sand meets towering, otherworldly cliffs. Discover iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss , offering a unique view from behind the cascading water, and marvel at the majestic Skogafoss waterfall . Experience the charm of Vík í Mýrdal , the southernmost sea-front village, and get up close to the captivating blue ice of Sólheimajökull Glacier .

After enjoying the fresh breakfast at your hotel, you will board on our bus again for your South Iceland adventure!

Your adventure begins with our reliable pickup service, available at designated spots throughout the capital area. For pickup specifics, reach out to our customer service team. As we embark eastward on Route 1, the Ring Road, expect coastal winds and dress accordingly. Our stops may vary depending on conditions, so stay flexible. Keep watch for the picturesque Westman Islands to the south and the looming Hekla Volcano to the northeast.

Skógafoss Waterfall , standing at 60 meters tall, marks the termination point of the Skógá river atop ancient sea cliffs. Its sheer beauty arises from the coastline’s retreat, leaving behind this majestic vertical cascade. The perpetual mist enveloping the area often forms rainbows on sunny days. Climbing the 527-step staircase rewards adventurers with panoramic views and access to the Fimmvörðuháls trail, serving as a gateway to Iceland’s highlands.

Revered as one of Iceland’s most cherished attractions, Reynisfjara black sand beach gives out an ethereal charm. Here, the dynamic interplay between lava and sea has sculpted a landscape of basalt columns, a grand domed cave, and the renowned black sand beach. Beware of the powerful waves; follow your guide’s instructions to stay safe. Recognized by National Geographic among the globe’s top ten non-tropical beaches for its unparalleled beauty.

Vík í Mýrdal , the southernmost village on Iceland’s mainland, offers captivating vistas of Reynisdrangar basalt columns and a striking black beach. Perched atop a hill, the church provides sweeping panoramic views of the area. However, Vík resides in the shadow of Katla Volcano, lying dormant beneath Mýrdalsjökull glacier . The town remains vigilant, conducting regular evacuation drills due to the potential threat of flooding from glacier meltwater in the event of an eruption. We’ll pause here for lunch.

Our upcoming destination is the Sólheimajökull Glacier , a glacier tongue extending from the massive Mýrdalsjökull glacier . Upon navigating the rugged road, we reach the parking lot, formerly adjacent to the glacier. Unfortunately, due to significant recession over the past two decades, it now takes approximately 15 minutes to walk from the lot to the ice. Despite the uneven terrain, the trail to the glacier’s edge is relatively flat, accommodating most visitors. Along the way, we encounter a sizable glacier lagoon formed by meltwater, where glacier calving occasionally occurs—large chunks of ice breaking off into the water. Your guide will delve into the science of glaciers, their profound impact on the landscape, and their uncertain future amid climate change, as each year witnesses further recession, signaling an uncertain fate.

Our final stop of the day awaits at Seljalandsfoss waterfall , promising an unforgettable experience for all tour participants. Standing tall at 60 meters, like Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss possesses an elegant grace, though less forceful.

Fed by the Seljalandsá river originating beneath the Ejyafjallajökull glacier , it showcases the harmonious interplay of various natural forces shaping Iceland’s landscapes. Notably, a unique walking trail runs behind the waterfall, offering a wet yet captivating perspective. Seljalandsfoss also serves as the gateway to Thorsmörk nature reserve, accessible via a rocky road north of the waterfall. Nearby, photographers favor Gljúfrabúi , a hidden waterfall waiting to be discovered.

Following our visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, our journey takes us westward back to the capital region. Rest assured, our bus will return you to the same convenient location where you were initially picked up earlier in the day.

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Tour Itinerary

The golden circle tour.

See the unique natural marvels of Iceland’s world-famous Golden Circle on this enjoyable tour of its three most iconic places. First, you’ll walk between two continents at Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park , a spectacular rift valley packed with Viking history and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then you’ll be thrilled by the soaring fountains of superheated water at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the tremendous two-tier 30-meter waterfall at Gullfoss . Along the way you will be treated to mesmerizing views of Iceland´s landscapes, make sure you have your camera ready! We offer a range of options and departure times to make this a fun-filled experience you’ll never forget!

Viking History & Colliding Continents at Iceland´s Þingvellir National Park

Your first stop on Iceland's famous Golden Circle is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park , a place of outstanding natural beauty and the birthplace of the Icelandic Parliament. The Vikings made their laws for a thousand years and celebrated summer festivals in this stunning location. You can walk between the towering North American tectonic plates and Eurasian tectonic plates here, which are splitting apart at the speed of a few millimeters a year. Iceland declared its independence here in 1944, and in 2004, Thingvellir was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine yourself walking with Vikings in this magical place!

Bubbling with Excitement at Geysir Geothermal Area

The next adventure on your Golden Circle tour is the world-famous Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. The world’s geysers take their name from this place – Geysir means “ to gush ” in Icelandic. Geysir itself erupts very rarely now, but don’t worry! Nearby, Strokkur is very active, with fountains of boiling hot water soaring high into the sky every 10 minutes or so. It truly is one of Iceland´s must see attractions. Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet as it prepares to explode, and smell the sulfur in the air! This is where you can really experience Iceland’s powerful underground geothermal energy at close quarters. Just watch which way the wind is blowing!

Majestic Gullfoss Falls, the Golden Falls of Hvita River

Your final treat on our Golden Circle tours is a trip to Gullfoss Waterfall, which translates as the “Gold Falls” is a short drive from the Great Geysir. Fed by glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier (the Long Glacier), you’ll be amazed by this roaring two-tiered waterfall, plunging more than 30 meters and then crashing deep into a rocky canyon. If you visit on a sunny day, you’ll see spectacular rainbows rising above the waters, or if you’re here in the winter, the falls will be a frozen wonderland instead! Clouds of spray hang in the air, making Gullfoss Waterfall a sensational sight, and there are several viewing platforms so you can experience it at different levels. We’ll stop for lunch at the excellent Gullfoss Waterfall Café.

Memories That Last a Lifetime on a Golden Circle tour Iceland

The glittering jewels in Iceland's crown, the Golden Circle is the perfect introduction to the spectacular sceneries that the “ Land of Fire and Ice ” offers you! With one stunning sight after another, your camera will be clicking all day! Our knowledgeable tour guides will be ready to wow you with fascinating stories of Viking heritage and fun facts to take away from this unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. where is the golden circle in iceland.

The Golden Circle route is in southwest Iceland, not far from the capital city, Reykjavík. The first stop on your Golden Circle tour is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, just over 30 miles (50 kilometers). It’s about an hour’s drive from Reykjavík. Next, reaching the Geysir Geothermal area will take about 45 minutes. The last stop is Gullfoss Waterfall, which is only another ten minutes further away from Geysir. The entire route is about 80 miles (130 kilometers) in each direction. So, if you’re looking for an enjoyable day trip full of history and nature, the Golden Circle is a perfect choice! Join us and see what makes this the most popular Iceland guided tour.

2. How long will my day tour around the Golden Circle take?

Starting with a convenient pick-up from the city, the journey to the Golden Circle and stops at all the main attractions and the return journey will last about seven and a half hours. Your tour guide will provide you with a rich history of every part of the journey around the Golden Circle in Iceland.

3. What does Iceland's Golden Circle tour include?

The tour includes convenient city pick-ups and a comfortable journey in one of our modern coaches, with expert commentary and support from one of our professional tour guides in English. Enjoy the free WiFi and USB charging points onboard, so you can make the most of your time when you visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area , and Gullfoss.

4. How long is the Golden Circle tour?

The overall distance from the city to the Golden Circle Route stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall, plus the return is around 155 miles (250 kilometers).

5. Can you enjoy the Golden Circle tour if the weather is bad?

Icelanders have a saying: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” So that means you need to be prepared for all eventualities. Bring waterproof clothes (especially a waterproof jacket), dress in light layers that you can take off and put back on quickly, and wear sturdy waterproof shoes with good grip! We operate this tour year round, so please dress for for the season.

6. Where can you eat during the Golden Circle tours?

We ask you not to eat and drink when you’re on board our coaches, but don’t worry about getting hungry along the Golden Circle! There are places where you can grab something to eat and drink along the way at our three stops - Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss! Also, enjoy a 10% discount at the restaurants at Geysir and Gullfoss! All you need to do is to show your tour confirmation when paying.

7. Where are the pick-up locations for the Golden Circle tours?

Where possible, we will collect you from all major hotels in the greater Reykjavík area. In the city center, tour buses cannot always park outside the hotels, so we will pick you up from designated bus stops instead. We also pick up from the cruise ports for Golden Circle Tours.

8. What other natural beauties can I add to my Golden Circle Tour Iceland?

The standard Golden Circle Tour in Iceland includes the main stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geryser Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. Many travelers like to combine Iceland's Golden Circle tour with extra attractions. A visit to the World Famous Blue Lagoon , The Secret Lagoon , or Fontana Geothermal Baths . Adding on a visit to one of Iceland´s Hot Springs is the perfect way to add some relaxation into your Golden Circle adventure. If you want to get even farther off the beaten track, a glacier snowmobile tour might be for you! There are so many things you can explore in one day in Iceland.

9. Have we answered all your questions about the Golden Circle tours of Iceland?

If you have any questions or are considering visiting the Golden Circle route on your own, or need recommendations for your visit to Iceland, just click here to ask us for more information! As a leading tour operator in Iceland, we offer trips to many other attractions in the beautiful country that we call home, other guided day tours in Iceland can be viewed here.

Please note

• This Golden Circle tour is by default guided in English.
• Restrooms available at all the tour stops

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Please present your electronic travel voucher/ticket at the time of tour departure. Pick up and drop off Pick up from hotels, guesthouses and designated bus stops starts 30 minutes before the tour departure time stated on your voucher.

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Private Tours in Iceland

Golden Circle & South Coast

Golden circle & south coast in two days.

• What's Included

Golden Circle & South Coast in two days. When time is limited, this tour will bring you to the kingdom of Eyjafjallajokull, give you a moment at Gullfoss and introduce you to the local culture.

From the pearls of the Golden Circle, Gullfoss and Geysir, to the magic of the south coast, Eyjafjallajokull and waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, you will get your share of what has made Iceland so intriguing to so many with a touch of our secrets along the way. This is the perfect trip to take when time is limited. But you must be aware that there is a danger of discovering a part of yourself that you can never find again without re-visiting our precious little island. But not to worry, we‘ll be just as welcoming when you come back and excited to show you even more of what is to be experienced and discovered.

John Muir - "Take a course in good water and air; and in the eternal youth of Nature you may renew your own. Go quietly, alone; no harm will befall you."

• Airport Transfers
• Accommodation with Private Bathroom
• Expert Guides
• Snowmobiling
• Glacier Hike
• Reykjavik City Tour
• All Taxes/No Hidden Fees

The Service You'll Get

• Award Winning Tour Operator
• Personal, Discrete & Attentive Service
• On-Call Travel Consultant for the Duration of the Tour
• Detailed Trip Documents Prior to Arrival
• Year-long Experience in Tour Planning in all Seasons

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What's Included

• Blue Lagoon
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The Perfect Golden Circle Iceland Itinerary

By: Author Charles

Posted on July 28, 2023

The Golden Circle is one of the most well traveled routes in all of Iceland. It is home to some incredible sights, each with its own beauty to offer.

Hiking, tectonic plates, geysers, waterfalls, craters – you name it, the Golden Circle has it.

Due to the proximity to Reykjavik, it can be the perfect and easy day trip for those who have just a few days in Iceland.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Golden Circle Summary

If in Iceland for a day or for a month, odds are you will make your way around the famous Golden Circle route.

Starting in Reykjavik, the round trip should take approximately 7-8 hours: 3.5 hours of driving time + however long you decide to stay at each of the attractions listed below.

Some highlights will include hiking along tectonic plates, seeing an 100 foot geyser shoot out the ground, and potentially getting up close and personal to a bright blue waterfall and river.

Due to the proximity of the Golden Circle attractions to Reykjavik, it is one of the more popular routes in the country.

Even with that said, do not expect there to be thousands of people at each one of these spots. Just note it could be a bit more crowded than other places further away from the capital city.

2) How to Get Around the Golden Circle

Now that you are in Iceland, you will have to decide how you are getting around the country. There are two main ways to see the Golden Circle – self drive or group/private tour .

If you are planning on being in Iceland for more than a couple days and/or want to explore more places outside of Reykavik, odds are you will want to rent your own car.

By renting a car you will have more freedom to choose when and where to go, and you will be on your own schedule.

When it comes to renting a car in Iceland, I would highly recommend checking out Rentalcars.com for potential options.

By going through Rentalcars.com , you will have the chance to compare car prices among a variety of rental companies, and choose the best option for you.

You can take a look at the Iceland Helpful Tips article I have up that speaks a bit more about car rentals. Once you have your car, you can simply put in the attractions into the GPS or Google Maps, and start your way around the circle.

Even if you are only in Iceland for a day or two, you could also rent a car to explore. Taxis on their own are pretty expensive to and from the airport so by renting a car, you will not only save on taxis but you will be able to go wherever you want at any time.

Private / Group Tour

The second option here is to do a private or group tour around the Golden Circle. This option is usually best for those who do not feel comfortable with renting a car or want some more insight into certain places they are visiting.

Thankfully Iceland has plenty of different tour operators that can take you along the Golden Circle route and teach you a bit about the history of each place in the process.

Take a look at Viator for some of the highly rated day trip tour options   that can take care of everything for you along the way.

Note that one of the attractions listed below (Bruarfoss) is usually not included in group tours – you might be able to ask to add it in to a private tour though.

3) When To Go Around

The weather in Iceland is much different in the winter time vs summer time.

During the winter months you could get as little as four hours of day light while in the summer you can get close to 24 hours! With that said though, you can really go around the Golden Circle at any time of year.

It is just important to note that during those short winter days you will not have as much daylight to see everything for a longer period of time. Be sure to prep and dress accordingly so you can get the most out of your time there.

For more info about Iceland weather check out the helpful tips article mentioned above. Below is a screenshot from Nordic Visitor Iceland showing the sunrise and sunset times throughout the year.

4) Golden Circle Iceland Itinerary and Map

As mentioned the guide will go over five sites on the Golden Circle, going clockwise, and starting and ending in Reykjavik. Here are the places I will speak about each marked on the map indicated by a letter:

Stop #1: Thingvellir National Park (B) Stop #2: Bruarfoss (C) Stop #3: Geysir (D) Stop #4: Gullfoss (E) Stop #5: Kerid Crater (F)

Below is a map of the Golden Circle with the starting and ending points in Reykjavik (marked A and G).

The driving time for the day is not too bad at all coming in around 3.5 hours with plenty of stops in between. At some sites you might just stay 30 minutes or so while others for a few hours.

Two quick things to note:

1. ​ If you happened to get a very early start and still have some fuel left in the tank you can also add in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike between the Kerid Crater and Reykjavik.

2. If you are not going back to Reykjavik at the end of the day and are continuing onwards along the Ring Road, you can stopover in Selfoss (nearby the Kerid Crater) to end your day.

5) The Golden Circle

Now lets dive into the attractions themselves…

A) Thingvellir National Park

At Thingvellir you will have plenty of options to choose from. You can do just one or try to fit in a couple depending on how early you started off the day…

The first option is to just roam around the visitor center area, walk along the tectonic plate, head down the path to Oxarafoss, and check out the church and other highlights along the way .

There are a bunch of nearby marked trails that you follow in the park. As you make yourself through the park you are sure to pass the tectonic plate along with crystal clear water down below.You could easily spend a couple hours just enjoying the park and surrounding areas. 

A second option is snorkeling or diving between the continental tectonic plates – a very unique opportunity and one that not everyone can say they have done.

You will have to book this in advance  if you decide on doing so. It will probably take around 3 or so hours and you can also spend some time walking around the park once your time between the continental plates is complete. 

A third option would be to do a longer hike around the park . There is a 10km hike option that can take you further into the park on a relatively flat path overlooking the tectonic plate in the background.

It will take you through the park’s greenery, passing by abandoned farmhouses, plenty of sheep and the main lake of Thingvellir.

Below is an attempt of drawing out the map of the hike starting by the Silfra Diving site on the left hand side. You can make your way north before finding the trail heading clockwise back to the starting point.

B) Bruarfoss

*Optional due to closure of access point*

The next stop on your Golden Circle Iceland itinerary is not found on most itineraries that you will come across during your research. But that should not stop you from visiting one of the best waterfalls you will come across during your trip.

Recently, the easy access point to Bruarfoss has been closed down – the only way to get there is to hike approximately one hour each way from the main road .

If you are up for the hike, simply just type it “Bruarfoss Waterfall Official Parking”. Once parked, continue up river until you see the majestic blue water that Bruarfoss has to offer.

After finishing up with Bruarfoss, head on over to Geysir. If you haven’t been to any type of geyser before, Geysir is a pretty great first experience. This is a site of geothermal fields where there are several hot springs, mud pits and geysers around the area.

The main attraction though is Strokkur . Every 10 minutes or so, t h e water gets sucked all the way into the ground and then suddenly shoots up nearly 100 feet into the air .

You can stay around for just one spout or stay around for several until you get the perfect shot and slow motion video.

Spend the rest of the time exploring the area on foot and seeing the rest of what Geysir has to offer. There is also a great visitors center here for lunch, drinks, and souvenirs.

D) Gullfoss

The next stop on the Golden Circle route is one of the largest, most powerful waterfalls you will see on your trip – Gullfoss.

This is a bit different then the other fosses you will come by during your time in Iceland. It is a massive waterfall and one where you can get a nice viewpoint up and close to it down below, or from up above as well.

E) Kerid Crater

Last but not least, the final stop on the Golden Circle route is Kerid Crater.  A massive red rock crater with a lake in the middle  of it. Note that you will have to pay to get into the site per person (about $3 each).

On top of the crater  is a great view point and you can walk the path  along the top ridge and/or walk the path on the bottom close to the lake. It is a nice place to end the long Golden Circle route before heading back to Reykjavik or onto your next city.

6) Where to Stay

As mentioned, the Golden Circle makes for a great day trip from Reykjavik. You can also easily add this onto your Rind Road itinerary if you are thinking about heading around the entire country as well.

You can check out Booking.com for some great spots around Reykjavik by using the search box below.

Top Accommodation Options

Reykjavik4you Apartments

Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Also noted above, if you are not going back to Reykjavik you can check out some accommodation options in Selfoss instead.

Hope you enjoy your time around the Golden Circle. Take a look at our other Iceland itineraries and guides to help out with any other trip planning.  Feel free to comment below with any questions!

Related posts:

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Michelle Holley

Wednesday 9th of May 2018

Hi! I would like to know how many hours take to complete all teh Golden Circle's stops mentioned in this article. Do 6 hours is enough?

Thanks so much! Michelle

Thursday 10th of May 2018

Hi Michelle,

Thanks for your question. I think that 6 hours is just barely enough time to visit all 5 spots in the guide. If you break it down – the driving time alone (starting and ending in Reykjavik) is going to be in the 3.5 hour range. That would leave you with around 2.5 hours for the 5 attractions plus a stop for lunch as well. If you are fine with just seeing each place for 30 minutes and moving on to the next then that can be done in 6 hours. However if you want more time to explore each place and not be rushed, somewhere closer to 7-8 hours would be best.

Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

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Driving Iceland's Golden Circle: All You Need to Know

Imagine coasting through stunning countryside to see spouting geysers, thundering many-tiered waterfalls, and dramatic cliff faces. All at your own pace. If that sounds incredible, then you're ready for an iconic adventure with a  driving tour  of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

This iconic route represents one of Iceland’s most popular day tours , where you can discover landscapes rich with history and folklore. And inbetween attractions you can find reasons to stop at any number of fascinating locations. Think photogenic Lutheran churches, Icelandic horse farms, and restaurants dishing up Icelandic cuisine.

• Relax and let someone else book your hotels and plan your itinerary: choose from these  Golden Circle self-drive tours
• Prefer someone else to take the wheel instead? Consider a private tour , a small group tour or a multi-day tour

When you're ready to hit the road, bookmark this handy guide to the route. It’s packed with insider tips on must-see attractions and handy local restaurants to help you make the most of your trip.

What is the Golden Circle?

In the strictest sense, Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is a popular route between 3 of Iceland’s most visited attractions. Starting in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, you’ll drive into the southern uplands and back, visiting Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

You’ll find, though, that many tour routes take in extra attractions along the way. You could visit a geothermal greenhouse on one trip, or a natural hotwater spa with another.

Golden Circle map

Can you drive it in one day? How many miles is it?

The whole Golden Circle route can easily be done in one day, as the classic journey covers around 230 kilometres (140 miles to you and me). You can actually drive the route in just over 3 hours. But, of course, you need to factor in time to enjoy the attractions, take photos and stay fuelled as well.

Many guided coach tours will take the best part of a ‘9-to-5’ day to visit most stops on the route. But if you’re going self-guided, then you can choose exactly how long you want to stay at each attraction. And you can even start early or finish later for quieter sightseeing.

How to drive the Golden Circle in Iceland

While you can join a group tour of the Golden Circle, you may prefer to explore at your own pace and in your own style with a self-drive. For this, you’ll need to rent a car, or even a 4x4 if you’re planning to drive onward to the Icelandic Highlands.

Hiring a car puts you in control of your trip. You can start early (or late) and explore at times that suit you best. In summer, you could even use the long daylight hours to avoid the crowds often created by larger coach tours.

• Find out more about our friendlier take on coach tours,  small group minibus tours , with 16 travellers at most

When you go with self-drive, though, how you experience the Golden Circle in Iceland is totally up to you.

What to see in the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle has many attractions, but it’s mainly known as the route that connects:

• Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
• The Great Geysir and Strokkur Geysir
• Gullfoss Waterfall.

Each has its own special charms, which we've highlighted below.

Þingvellir National Park

Discover a fascinating mixture of Icelandic history and natural beauty. Þingvellir (pronounced ‘Thingvellir’) is one of the most famous stops on the Golden Circle. It’s also Iceland’s first National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , too. If you’re travelling the Golden Circle clockwise from Reykjavik, it’ll be your first stop.

Þingvellir is a keystone of Icelandic cultural history. The first settlers put down their roots in South Iceland in the 9th century CE. As their society developed, they decided an assembly could help ease disputes and create a fairer society. Þingvellir was chosen as the assembly site because the region was accessible from all the most peopled areas.

In 930, it became Iceland’s -- and the world’s -- first parliament. And the nation's shared cultural heritage has grown ever since.

Then there's the landscape. Geology buffs should note that Þingvellir National Park is also the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which creates some stunning geological sights. You can admire its deep valley, the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible on land, or the sheer cliff face that’s actually the corner of the North American continent.

Indeed, Iceland's land mass was formed from the magma that bubbled up as these two plates moved away from each other. That's why you can still see volcanic activity and landscape throughout the country. You could say these factors make Þingvellir National Park a natural starting place for your tour of Iceland.

Here's the top things to do in Þingvellir National Park:

• Marvel at Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake
• Witness Langjökull glacier
• Snorkel between the tectonic plates at Silfra, one of the world’s top 10 dive sites
• Hike along the North American plate and through Game of Thrones scenery at Almannagjá gorge
• Watch the thundering waters at Öxarárfoss waterfall

Geysir geothermal area

Continue driving clockwise, and you’ll arrive at Geysir geothermal area, within the Haukadalur Valley. Your drive will take you past more volcanic landscapes of steaming vents and chimneys. As you get closer to the Geysir geothermal area, the activity becomes more dramatic.

Here, against a vivid landscape, you’ll find 2 bubbling geysers of note – Great Geysir and Strokkur Geysir. Great Geysir (or simply 'Geysir') is the earliest documented geyser in European literature, and has been active for around 10,000 years! Don't expect much from it now, though: Geysir is considered all but inactive, stirring only when earthquakes inspire bursts of activity for a few months at most.

For action, though, look no further than nearby Strokkur. This geyser erupts every 6–10 minutes, shooting hot water as high as 40 metres (131 ft) into the air. Just make sure you (and your camera) are waterproofed. As you walk through the surrounding Haukadalur Valley, you can also admire the many hot springs, smaller geysers and bubbling mud pots.

Gullfoss waterfall

A short drive away lies Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Watch as water thunders over 2 drops, falling a total of 32 metres (105 ft) and admire the rainbows that shoot from the spray. From your viewpoint, you can admire the Langjökull ice sheet.

During the summer months, when there’s no ice on the ground, you can walk up to the edge of the falls and feel Gullfoss’ spray on your face. It's an incredible, invigorating experience.

While you’re here, you could also raft the Hvita river, an exhilarating experience that allows you to experience the power of the falls up-close. Or, learn about Sigridur Tómasdóttir, known as 'Iceland's first environmentalist'. This local woman campaigned to protect the falls from property development, and ultimately paved the way for the falls to be forever protected as a national conservation area.

Other Golden Circle attractions 

While Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall may be the most well-known Golden Circle attractions, there are some noteworthy detours too.

• Fontana Geothermal Baths . Located in the town of Laugarvatn, between Þingvellir and the Geysirs, you can truly relax and unwind at the Fontana Geothermal Baths. Fontana spa uses the natural waters from the area’s hot springs to create 3 steam rooms, traditional Finnish sauna and shallow kid-friendly bathing pools
• Kerið Crater . Kerið Crater forms a complete oval and has a small lake at the bottom. The rocks surrounding the crater have fiery reds and oranges combine with bursts of black and green while the lake below adds to the pallet with its sky-blue waters. You could take a thousand photos of this beautiful site.
• Langjökull Glacier . For the adventure of a lifetime, head to Langjökull Glacier on a snowmobile. You can experience Langjökull Glacier at any time of year as there’s always snow. If you’re on a self-drive, you can get picked up from and returned to Gullfoss waterfall.
• Sólheimar . On the drive from Þingvellir and the Geysir Geothermal Area, stop off at the ecovillage of Solheimar. Visiting this village allows you to learn more about how the community maximises the potential of every resident, regardless of their age or disability, and supports their cause.
• Þjórsárdalur (Thjorsardalur) Valley . While not officially part of the Golden Circle, Thjorsardalur allows you to get off the beaten track. Here, you’ll find thundering waterfalls like Hjalparfoss, Haifoss, Glanni and Pjofafoss.
• Skálholt . This little village is rich with history and is considered by some as Iceland’s first town. Skalholt was home to the country’s first bishop and school. It’s worth stopping to admire its quaint cathedral or visit the nearby Secret Lagoon.

Where to eat when driving the Golden Circle

Driving the Golden Circle provides plenty of photo opportunities. And if you're a fan of Instagramming your food as well -- no judgment here, honest! -- you may want to get a few pictures of some traditional and contemporary Icelandic cuisine while you're there. Along the way, eats such as Skyr yoghurt, fresh seafood like lobster tails, and locally grown farm produce could be a real feast for your senses.

Our travel consultants recommend the following places to eat:

• Skyrgerðin . Try traditional sky yoghurt at Skyrgerðin, housed in Hveragerði´s former Skyr yoghurt factory.
• Friðheimar Farm . Get a light lunch of special tomato soup and home-baked bread at Friðheimar Tomato and Horse Farm. The tomatoes are all grown on-site, pollinated by imported Dutch bees in a greenhouse powered by the earth's internal heat. Non-drivers can even sample a geothermal Bloody Mary at the greenhouse bar. 
• Efstidalur . This family farm is in the heart of the Golden Circle, on the way from Haukadalur (Geysir) to Þingvellir. Stop by for a special 'farm to table' experience, where dairy, meat and veg from the farm is served up in the farm restaurant.
• Lindin . Indulge in chocolate desserts in a cosy setting at Lindin, located in the quaint village of Laugarvatn. Lindin also serves home-cooked Icelandic meals too.
• Gallerý Laugarvatn . Roughly halfway between Geysir and Þingvellir, this cafe and handcraft gallery offers magnificent mountain views and the chance to pick up a handmade souvenir after you've had a snack.
• Tryggvaskáli . Whether you like authentic Nordic dishes, seafood or burgers, this restaurant comes highly rated. Head over the bridge and into Selfoss, when you're at the southernmost point of the 'circle'.
• Kaffi Krús . If you're thinking of a casual bite in Selfoss, rather than a restaurant meal, try Kaffi Krús. Here you'll discover warm, hearty dishes like pizza, pasta and burgers. Perfect for satisfying kids and parents alike.
• Fjöruborðið . If you're willing to make a slight detour, Fjöruborðið in Stokkseyri is a Nordic Visitor staff favourite. Delight in langoustines in garlic butter (prepare to get a bit messy!), creamy tomato and langoustine soup, or traditional homemade cakes.

How much is the Golden Circle? Is it free?

While it doesn’t cost anything to enter the Golden Circle, you will need to rent a car and pay entrance fees at some of the sites. The total cost will depend on how long you rent a car for, the type of accommodation you stay at, how many ticketed sites you visit, and where you eat.

Where should you stay?

As noted before, you can do the whole Golden Circle in one day. Most journeys start and end in Reykjavik, where you can find hotels and guest houses to suit all budgets. With so many options to choose from, the only trick will be finding the right place to launch each day of your stay in Iceland.

At Nordic Visitor, we’ll sort all the lodgings for you. So, you don’t have to worry about researching and planning your route. We’ve carefully vetted and tested all of our chosen hotels and guest houses , which means you’ll always have a comfortable stay at competitive rates.

As a local travel agency, we have special relationships with our accommodation providers and tour organisers. So we will craft a personalised itinerary that provides a seamless getaway, with each day's activities and accommodation organised for you. We do all the heavy lifting so you can just enjoy dreaming of your Iceland trip.

When should you visit the Golden Circle?

The Land of Fire and Ice is a year-round destination, so it's really down to personal preference. Tour Iceland in the summer and you'll enjoy longer days. For a time, the sun barely sets at all, so you don’t need to worry about squeezing everything in before dark.

Top tip : self-drive in summertime means you can time your visits to avoid any coach tour crowds.

On the other hand, driving the Golden Circle in winter means you could see the northern lights or the jaw-dropping beauty of icy cliff-walls created by the freezing spray of Gullfoss. Decide how you’d like to spend your time in Iceland before you book a winter or summer break.

• Book one of our self-drive tours with the Golden Circle included
• Related: Driving the Diamond Circle in North Iceland

Is the Blue Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?

Technically the Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle, but you can easily visit both. Many tour companies offer a two-in-one day tour. But personally I feel this is a little demanding on your time: a trip to a spa experience should not be rushed.

A trip to the Blue Lagoon probably takes at least 4 hours including drive time, and you could easily spend a bit longer there. When self-driving the Golden Circle, meanwhile, you should spend at least 8 hours on the route and attractions. It just gives you more time to enjoy each attraction at your own pace. 

That's why I suggest that you'd be better off spending one full day on the Golden Circle, and another half-day enjoying the Blue Lagoon. It can often a good idea to spend half a day relaxing at the Blue Lagoon as a bookend of your trip. That is, either go there after your arrival at Keflavik, or before heading to the airport for an afternoon or evening flight home.

• Thinking about not driving? Take a look at our Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon multi-day tour

Arrange your Golden Circle self-drive trip with us

Our dedicated travel consultants will arrange all the fine details of your self-drive Golden Circle adventure. We’ll plan your route so that driving time and sightseeing time are perfectly balanced.

When you book with us, your car rental comes with basic insurance, 2-driver allowance, a hand-drawn map, and unlimited Wi-Fi and mileage. All this, plus our 24/7 helpline, means your drive is stress-free.

• Save time on planning: book one of our self-drive tours with the Golden Circle included  and let your own travel consultant manage all the paperwork
• Explore a summer self-drive option with the  Golden Circle and South Coast .
• View the winter self-drive alternative,  Golden Circle and South Coast - Winter .

We’ll also satisfy any special requirements on request. You can add extra destinations from your wishlist to your self-drive tour. Why not spend one final day indulging in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, or cap off your trip with a city tour of chic Reykjavik, finishing with a five-star dining experience?

Check out our driving tours -- they all feature the Golden Circle.

Greg Perkins is from Edinburgh, Scotland, but he adopted Iceland as his second country when Scotland (typically) managed not to qualify for football's Euro 2016 tournament. His passions include travel, English literature, and board games. Among his top travel experiences are sailing along Geirangerfjord with classically trained singers providing the soundtrack, seeing Sólheimajökull glacier up close in South Iceland, and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand's Doubtful Sound fjord.

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

GOLDEN CIRCLE & SOUTH COAST

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GOLDEN CIRCLE & SOUTH COAST - WINTER

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Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Detailed Guide, Itinerary and Map for Your Trip!

Last updated: March 6, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 11 Comments

One of the most popular scenic routes in Iceland is the Golden Circle. This is a fantastic introduction to the country, and it lets you see many of the natural wonders that Iceland has to offer.

These include waterfalls, geothermal activity, spas, volcano craters and even a UNESCO world heritage site!

Even better, Iceland’s Golden Circle is an easy day trip from Reykjavik , making it accessible even if you’re on a short trip to Iceland.

In this post, we’re going to share with everything you need to know about Iceland’s Golden Circle, based on our time travelling in the country in both summer and winter.

This post includes what to see on the Golden Circle, the best ways to travel around the Golden Circle, other nearby attractions and lots more besides! Let’s get straight into it.

What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle is a circular route in southern Iceland that stretches for around 300 km / 186 miles and starts and ends in Reykjavik.

The route is popular, either as a day trip from the city, or as a precursor to exploring Iceland’s south coast. Often, instead of returning to the city, travellers continue along the south coast and then on around Iceland’s Ring Road .

The popularity is largely down to the easy accessibility of the route from the capital, and the fact that many of Iceland’s top attractions can be found along the route. We definitely recommend the Golden Circle to anyone visiting Iceland.

Why is it called the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle gets its name from Gullfoss, one of the major waterfalls on the route. Gullfoss means Golden Falls in Icelandic. The circle part of the name is simply down to the route that you follow being roughly circular.

The name is also a clever bit of marketing as it sounds pretty cool. In the north of Iceland you can also find the Diamond Circle, another circular driving route which visits a number of popular attractions.

How Long Does it Take to Drive the Golden Circle?

The total driving time for the Golden Circle is just under four hours if you start and end in Reykjavik. Of course, this doesn’t include any stopping time or sightseeing.

For most visitors to Iceland, the Golden Circle is done either as a full day trip or a half day trip from Reykjavik, and we suggest allocating between 6 and 10 hours to the circuit.

Can I do the Golden Circle as a Day Tour from Reykjavik?

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular day tours from Reykjavik, so yes, you absolutely can.

We recommend some more tours at the end of the post, but here are a few quick examples to give you an idea of what’s available.

• An 8 hour tour of the Golden Circle which includes the major highlights plus Kerid Crater.
• A full day tour of all the highlights of the Golden Circle , which includes the option to visit the Blue Lagoon as well.
• A private full day tour of the Golden Circle which includes all the highlights as well as Kerid Crater, Faxi waterfall, and time for ice cream at Efstidalur II.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of choice, whether you want a private tour or a group tour.

When to Visit Iceland’s Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle can be visited year round. Most of the attractions here are open year-round and the roads are open and well-maintained in both summer and winter.

It’s also one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, meaning it can get quite busy.

Most of the tours from Reykjavik depart in the morning between 8am and 10am. Some half-day tours also depart in the afternoon, between midday and 2pm. The majority of all the tours are back in Reykjavik in the early evening.

The three most popular stops for tours are of course the highlights, which are Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Expect these locations to be busy from 10am until 6pm. In winter, due to the reduced hours of daylight, these locations will likely be busy from 10am until around 4pm.

If you want to avoid the crowds on the Golden Circle, the best option is to drive yourself, and to visit outside of the busy times. If you are visiting Iceland in summer, you will have almost unlimited hours of daylight at your disposal, so if you toured the highlights before 9am or after 6pm, you are likely to be visiting with fewer people.

However, we would say that you shouldn’t let the possibility of crowds put you off. The attractions are all fairly large with plenty of space, and are all worth seeing even if they are a bit busy when you visit.

Highlights of the Golden Circle in Iceland

The Golden Circle has three major highlights that you should visit, as well as a number of other attractions. We’re going to go through the three major highlights in the order you might visit them, and then share an example itinerary for visiting the Golden Circle.

Almost all Golden Circle day tours will include all three of these sites.

Þingvellir National Park

The first attraction you will come to on the Golden Circle, assuming you are driving it in a clockwise direction, is Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir in English).

This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and was Iceland’s first national park. It’s important from both a cultural point of view, and also from a geological point of view.

Suffice to say, you won’t want to skip it!

Thingvellir was the location for Iceland’s first parliament, known as the Althing, which first met on this site in 930 AD. This was around fifty years after Iceland was first settled. Thingvellir continued to be used as the parliament’s meeting location until 1798.

Thingvellir was chosen as the location for the parliament as it was deemed to be relatively easy to reach from all the different regions of Iceland. Parliamentary meetings were held over the warmer summer months, and it was a major focal point for the Icelandic people.

Laws were passed, judicial hearings took place, and the basis for Iceland’s present day cultural roots and heritage were essentially formed.

This would make Thingvellir National Park worth visiting alone, but there’s more to see here.

As you may know, Iceland sits right on the middle of two continental plates, the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate. These plates are slowly drifting apart from each other, and Thingvellir is found in the rift valley of these two plates.

This means that you can see and even walk in the cracks that have opened up in the earth as these massive plates move apart from each other. You can even go snorkelling or diving in these fissures , for a truly unique experience.

Fans of Game of Thrones will also be excited to visit Thingvellir, as a number of scenes from the show were filmed in the park.

Most recognisably, the so called Bloody Gate, which forms a part of the path to the Eyrie, was filmed here for Season 4 of the show. More on this, and lots more other locations for the show, in our guide to Game of Thrones locations in Iceland .

Thingvellir National Park is also home to a lovely waterfall, Oxararfoss. This is a ten minute walk from the parking lot, and is a gorgeous waterfall that is well worth the visit.

As you can see, there is plenty to see and do at Thingvellir, so expect to spend at least an hour to 90 minutes here. There are also more walking trails and sights to see if you want to extend your visit.

Visiting Thingvellir is free, however if you are driving yourself there is a small parking charge. This is valid for all the parking lots for the day, and payment is accepted by credit or debit card. Read more on the fees and how to pay here .

Haukadalur Geothermal Field

The next major highlight after Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle is the Haukadalur Geothermal Field,  also referred to as the Geysir Geothermal Area.

This is around an hours drive from Thingvellir, and is home to a range of geothermal wonders. These include mud pots, fumaroles and hot springs, as well as two of Iceland’s most famous geysers – Strokkur and Geysir.

Geysir (the name means “to gush”) is where our modern day word geyser comes from, and Geysir was the first geyser ever to be described in print.

If you want to see geothermal activity in Iceland, then the Haukadalur Geothermal field is a must-stop on the Golden Circle.

The two main geysers are Strokkur and Geysir. Of late, Geysir has been fairly dormant, although as he’s believed to have been erupting for at least 10,000 years, we think taking a break from time to time is only natural. When he does go off though it’s spectacular, with eruptions of boiling water and steam reaching over 400ft.

The good news though is that Strokkur, which is around fifty metres from Geysir, is far more reliable, usually erupting every five to ten minutes. This eruption is not quite as big as Geysir, generally averaging around 50ft in height, but it is still very impressive.

It’s free to visit Haukadalur Geothermal Field, and there’s free parking on site too.

Just be aware that this is an active geothermal area with thousands of gallons of boiling water pouring out of the ground, so take care when visiting and stay to the marked paths. Keep a close watch on children.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The last of the three major highlights of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss, which means golden falls, is where the name of the Golden Circle comes from.

Gullfoss is a truly spectacular waterfall, and is one of our favourite waterfalls in Iceland .

The waterfall, which is on the Hvítá river, is found around ten minutes drive from Haukadalur. There are two main parking areas which offer different views of the falls, one at a lower elevation, and one at a higher elevation.

The views from both locations are worth seeing, and a set of steps links the two. It’s also possible to walk along the edge of the river above the falls for different views.

The falls themselves are across two stages, with the first around 36 feet in height, and the second around 70 feet in height. Before these stages there’s a wide three-step drop that spans the width of the river. The falls are impressive due to their large volume of water, with approximately 4,900 cubic feet of water passing over the falls each second in summer.

Gullfoss is beautiful in both summer and winter. In summer, it’s surrounded by lush green vegetation, and there’s a good chance of seeing rainbows in the spray if you visit in the afternoon, as we did. In the winter, it’s a whole different scene, with snow covered landscapes stretching off into the distance.

The Falls have a visitor centre, shop, and cafe on site. It is free to visit and park here.

As well as being an impressive sight in of itself, Gulfoss is also the starting point for a number of experiences that many visitors to Iceland are interested in doing.

For example, you can book a tour to an ice cave and glacier , or you can take a snowmobiling tour on a glacier . These are seasonal tours, but might be worth considering if these activities are on your wishlist.

Other Attractions On or Near the Golden Circle

As well as the three major attractions along the Golden Circle, there are a number of other stops that you might consider. Some tours will include some of these locations, whilst others will require you to drive your own car, and even to do a short hike.

These attractions are listed in the order that you would encounter them if you depart from Reykjavik and drive the Golden Circle in a clockwise direction. Some of them do require taking a small detour from the main Golden Circle route.

þórufoss, or Thorufoss, is just a five minute detour from the Golden Circle route, and we think is a detour that is very much worth doing.

The waterfall is just off Route 48, and there’s a small parking lot off the road. Note that you can’t see the falls from the roads, and there’s not much in the way of a sign, meaning many visitors miss it.

From the small parking area, it’s a five minute walk across flat ground to a viewpoint, where you can see the falls. You can also descend down the fairly steep path to the pool at the base if you are so inclined, but we thought the view was just fine from the viewing area.

The falls are not huge, but they are very picturesque. They have around a 54ft drop and are around 100 ft wide. They were also used as a Game of Thrones filming location . A good stop if you have an extra 15 minutes or so.

Laugarvatn Fontana

When you visit Iceland, the chances are high that you will want to take a soak in some sort of geothermal spring. Iceland has no shortage of these, from the famous Blue Lagoon , to hot rivers, and everything in between.

On (or near) the Golden Circle, there are at least three places for you to stop off for a refreshing soak, and the first of these is Laugarvatn Fontana .

The natural geothermal springs here have been a popular attraction since 1929. There are a series of experiences you can have here, including steam rooms, and warm pools that overlook the lake. There’s also a hot tub and sauna.

Those of you feeling brave can even take a refreshing dip in the lake itself, which is accessible from the bathing area.

Another reason to visit Laugarvatn Fontana, even if you aren’t planning on using their spa facilities, is for their famous lava bread. They bake their own bread using geothermal heat (a process that takes around 24 hours) and the end result is delicious.

Laugarvatn Fontana is in the town of Laugarvatn, which is on the Golden Circle between Thingvellir National Park and Haukadalur Geothermal Field. There’s free parking on site, but entry to the spa itself does have a fee, which you can see on their website here .

Towels are available for hire, so we recommend packing a travel towel like this to save on that fee.

They also have a nice on-site cafe which serves traditional Icelandic fare and snacks, including that delicious lava bread.

If you’re looking for a tour that includes time at Laugarvatn Fontana, this is a good option .

Faxi (also known as Vatnsleysufoss) is another beautiful waterfall on the Golden Circle, found on the Tungufljót river. It’s not a very high waterfall at around 22 ft, but it is 300ft wide, and is unusual enough to warrant a visit we think.

You can either view the falls from the road above them, or drive down to the parking lot at the base. It’s a popular place for salmon fishing, so expect to see fishermen during the fishing season.

The falls are around a five minute detour off the Golden Circle route, and if you have the time are worth visiting for some photos. There’s also a restaurant on-site here, Vid Faxa, which offers meals with nice views.

This private tour includes a stop at Faxi.

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring

The Secret Lagoon Hot Spring is the second of the geothermal baths you can visit whilst travelling the Golden Circle. Despite the name, it must be said that the secret is definitely out on this one.

The Secret Lagoon dates from 1891, making it the oldest man-made swimming pool in the country. However, it fell into disuse until around 2005, when the present owner started to use it himself as a private pool, and hence it got its name.

Today the pool is open to all for a fee, and offers a lovely bathing experience. It’s part of a larger geothermal area, so you can also see a baby geyser (Litli Geysir) as well as boiling pools.

It’s around a 10 minute detour from the main Golden Circle route to get to the Secret Lagoon, which is found in the town of Flúðir. There’s a fee to use it, and you can opening hours and prices on the official website here . You can also buy your tickets in advance online here .

Your entry ticket includes access to the segregated changing rooms, lockers and showers. Towel and swimsuit hire is available as an extra charge, so we recommend bringing your own .

Note that in Iceland it is required to shower fully naked prior to bathing, and whilst the changing rooms and showers are normally segregated, there are not usually private shower cubicles. So do keep this in mind prior to booking any spa experience.

The Secret Lagoon can be visited on a self-drive trip.

Kerið Crater

Kerið Crater, also called Kerid Crater, is a lovely volcano crater and crater lake just off the Golden Circle as you return to Reykjavik.

The crater is one of the best examples of its type in Iceland. It only formed around 3,000 years ago, so weathering and erosion have not had too great an impact, meaning it’s very visually recognisable.

When you visit, you have the option of walking around the crater, and you can also descend the approximately 200 feet down to the lake itself if you wish. It’s a lovely colourful red color with a fairly circular lake inside it, and makes for a great stop.

There’s a small entry fee of 400 ISK (as of June 2019) to visit the crater and park here. It’s also included on this tour , or this private tour .

Bobby Fischer Center

Those of you with an interest in chess will likely be interested in visiting the Bobby Fischer Center , one of the few museums in the world dedicated to a world champion chess player!

This is found in the town of Selfoss, and would be around a five minute detour from your Golden Circle route.

Here you can learn all about Bobby Fischer, often regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Bobby was originally from Chicago in the USA, but lived the last years of his live in Iceland, largely as a way to avoid deportation to the USA following his violation of US sanctions in Yugoslavia.

There’s a small entry fee, and the museum is open from mid-May to mid-September. See the official website for opening times.

Horse Riding

Iceland is home to the beautiful Icelandic horse, a tough breed which has a wonderful flowing mane.

Many people want to meet, take photography with, learn about, and of course, ride, an Icelandic Horse when in Iceland.

When driving the Golden Circle, one option is to visit Friðheimar . You can pre-book a visit to the stables, and in the summer months they also run a horse show.

It’s also possible to take a tour of the Golden Circle which includes visiting a horse stable , or a tour of the Golden Circle which includes horse riding .

Reykjadalur Hot Spring

Last, but by no means least, on our list of attractions near the Golden Circle, is the Reykjadalur Hot Spring. Unlike the other geothermal springs in this guide, this one is entirely free to visit, and is also a largely natural feature.

This one is just off the Golden Circle, with the parking lot for the hike around a five minute detour through the town of Hveragerði.

Hot water bubbles out of the ground and joins a natural river, and you can get into the river at different points and relax in the pools. To adjust the temperature, you’ll just want to go up or downstream!

There are of course a few caveats to this natural attraction. First, it’s about a 1 hour walk each way from the parking area to the bathing area. The path is well marked and fairly easy to follow, but it does go uphill for quite a while.

Second, there are no formal changing areas, showers, toilets, or anything like that. There is just a wooden boardwalk area with wooden modesty panels, but they are not enclosed.

So if you are nervous about getting undressed in public, you may want to put your swimsuit on underneath your clothing before you start the hike.

There’s also no shelter here for your or your stuff. So if it’s raining, you’ll want to be sure to have some sort of waterproof cover for your gear.

We advise against visiting in winter or when there is a lot of snow or ice on path as it can be more difficult to follow the path and to distinguish safe and unsafe areas.

All that said, this is a really wonderful natural bathing experience, especially in nice weather. If you are driving the Golden Circle in the summer months when you have lots of light, it would make a great last stop on your adventure!

Itinerary for Iceland’s Golden Circle

If you are planning on hiring a car and driving the Golden Circle, we’ve put together this quick suggested 1 day Golden Circle itinerary that departs from Reykjavik in the morning and returns to Reykjavik in the afternoon / evening.

It could also be used as the starting point for a longer trip in Iceland, and for some inspiration in that department, see our itineraries for 3 days in Iceland , 7 days in Iceland , and the Iceland ring road .

Stop 1: þórufoss

Our first suggested stop on your Golden Circle trip is þórufoss. It’s a pretty waterfall and it’s not usually too crowded. Depending on the traffic out of the city and where you are leaving from, expect this to take you around 40 minutes of driving. You shouldn’t need more than 10 – 15 minutes here.

Stop 2: Thingvellir

From þórufoss it’s about a 20 minute drive to Thingvellir National park. There’s a lot to see and do here. Don’t forget to pay for your parking! Highlights include Þingvallakirkja (the church), Lögberg (rock formations), the various fissures, and the Öxarárfoss waterfall.

You can also book snorkelling here . You’ll want to book this in advance and expect to allocate at least 2 – 3 hours to them if you choose to do those, which will impact how much you can see over the rest of the day.

Otherwise, we’d suggest scheduling around 90 minutes for Thingvellir.

Stop 3: Lunch at Efstidalur II.

By now you might be getting hungry. Our suggestion for lunch is the restaurants and farm shop at Efstidalur II, which is around a 40 minute drive from Thingvellir.

They have delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients, and we really enjoyed their burger. They are also famous for their ice cream, so even if you are travelling on more of a budget and are rocking a packed lunch, we highly recommend indulging in some ice cream anyway!

Expect to spend 45 – 90 minutes here if you have the full lunch, or a 15 minute break for ice cream.

Stop 4: Haukadalur Geothermal Field

After lunch, it’s a 15 minute drive to Haukadalur Geothermal field where you can see the bubbling mud points, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers.

This is a wonderfully photogenic location and is a lot of fun to visit. Expect to spend around 30 minutes – 45 minutes on site.

Stop 5: Gullfoss Waterfall

From Haukadalur it’s just a short 10 minute drive to Gullfoss, which is often the major highlight for most visitors touring the Golden Circle.

It’s not hard to see why, and this waterfall is truly impressive. There are a plethora of photo opportunities here, so expect to spend at least 30 – 45 minutes on site. There’s also a gift shop, cafe and restrooms here.

Stop 6: Faxi waterfall

It’s time to turn around and start heading back to Reykjavik. If you’re still keen on seeing some waterfalls, then a stop at the quieter Faxi waterfall, 20 minutes drive from Gullfoss, is worth it.

It’s just off the road, and shouldn’t take up more than 10 – 15 minutes of your time.

Stop 7: Kerið Crater

From Faxi, continue on Route 35 for around half an hour until you come to Kerid Crater. This is another very worthwhile stop on the Golden Circle, giving you the opportunity to explore a real volcano crater up close.

You can spend a fair amount of time here if you choose to hike around the crater and go down to the crater floor, or you can just swing by and take a few photos. We’d suggest allocating between 15 minutes and an hour here, depending on your interest level.

Stop 8:  Choose a Hot Spring

If you are interested in visiting a hot spring in Iceland, the Golden Circle provides three options for you.

The two hot springs on the way around the Golden Circle, Laugarvatn Fontana and the Secret Lagoon, are very easy to visit as you travel round, and there are tours available which stop at one or the other.

See this tour which includes Laugarvatn Fontana..

Another option, if you are driving the Golden Circle over the summer months and want a bit of a hike to end out your day, then we definitely recommend taking the time to visit Reykjadalur Hot Spring.

It will take you around 25 minutes to drive to the parking lot here from Kerid Crater, after which you’re looking at at least an hours hike each way to reach the bathing area.

After all that hiking, you’ll likely want to enjoy the pools, so expect to spend around an hour lazing around. We’d not recommend doing this in winter, or if you need to get back to Reykjavik to return your hire car by a certain time.

From Reykjadalur to Reykjavik it’s about a 45 minute drive.

Another option is to add on a visit to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon at the end of your trip. The Blue Lagoon is closer to the airport, whilst the Sky Lagoon is closer to Reyjkavik city centre. If you are driving yourself, neither are too great of a detour.

The Blue Lagoon makes for a good option if you are flying out the following day as the Blue Lagoon is close to the airport, and there are hotels in this area you can overnight at.

It’s also possible to take a Golden Circle tour which includes a trip to the Blue Lagoon at the end of the trip.

Total driving time on the Golden Circle: ~ 4 hours Total sightseeing time on the Golden Circle: 3 – 8 hours, depending on sights and activities

Overall time for the Golden Circle 7 – 12 hours.

Map of Iceland’s Golden Circle

To help you visualise the Golden Circle and plan your route, we’ve put together this map. This has the standard Golden Circle Driving Route, as well as the major highlights and other attractions marked. You can see also see this on Google Maps here .

Where to Stay on the Golden Circle

The majority of travellers driving the Golden Circle do it either as a day trip from Reykjavik , day tour, or as the start of larger trip around the country.

However, you can also stay on the Golden Circle too, and thus not feel rushed to get back to the city.

If you have more time in Iceland, you can easily split it up into 2 much more manageable days and have more time to explore this route, with plenty of time for side attractions, day-hikes and thermal baths!

We’ve stayed at a few properties on the Golden Circle itself, as well as in Reykjavik, and wanted to share some options to help you plan.

Accommodation on the Golden Circle

• Héradsskólinn Guesthouse – A great value and well reviewed hostel close to the Laugarvatn Spa. There’s an on-site restaurant, and rooms range from dorms to private accommodation.
• Efstidalur Farm hotel – A lovely option that is close to both Haukadalur Geothermal Field and Gullfoss. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, a geothermal outdoor hot tub, and they offer Icelandic horse riding in the summer
• Fludir Icelandair Hotel – We stayed here once during a trip around the Golden Circle and it was very comfortable, with an on-site restaurant.
• Garður Stay Inn by the Secret Lagoon – This is a well reviewed property which is very handy for the “Secret Lagoon”
• River Hotel – Located by the Ranga River next to the town of Hella, this hotel offers dining, an open-air hot tub, bar and free wifi.
• Midgard basecamp – Found in Hvolsvöllur, this highly rated hostel is a great budget option with a hot tub
• Skyr Guesthouse – An excellent option just a couple of minutes drive from the Reykjadalur Hot Spring hike start point. We stayed here for a night and enjoyed the comfortable rooms and delicious food in the on-site restaurant

Accommodation in Reykjavik

• Galaxy Pod Hostel – A well located hostel offering dormitory accommodation with a twist – each bed is in a self-contained pod, offering more privacy than a normal hostel. Pods vary in standard, but most come with TV’s, power and WiFi.
• Reyjkavik Natura Icelandair Hotel , this hotel offers free parking, a free city bus pass to all guests, on-site restaurant and spa facilities. We stayed here on our first visit to Reykjavik.
• Guesthouse Galtafell  – A good value option around ten minutes walk from the city center and quick walk from the BSI bus station. Offers both guest rooms in the main house as well as apartments that come with a small kitchenette. We’ve also stayed here.
• Grand Hotel, around 1.2 miles from the city center, offering four star accommodation, free wifi, spa & fitness center and free parking. We’ve also stayed here.
• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina – a very central 4* hotel right on the Marina within a short walking distance of the highlights of the city. Rooms are all en-suite, some have balconies, and there’s a gym and restaurant on site.

Options for Visiting the Golden Circle

You have two main options for visiting the Golden Circle – you can drive yourself, or you can take a guided tour.

Guided tours are a very popular option, and because so many companies offer them, prices are competitive so you can get a full day tour at a good rate. See the next section for some of the tours and companies we suggest you look into for touring the Golden Circle, which includes both group and private tours.

The closest guided tour we found to the itinerary we put together is this full day tour .

The other option is to rent a car and drive yourself. There are a number of options for car rental in Iceland, but we recommend you check either Discover Cars here or on Northbound here .

Discover Cars compare a number of providers in the country so you can find the best price for you.

Northbound is based in Iceland, and they also search a range of providers with the added advantage that you can add the various insurances that are unique to the country should you so choose. This can help avoid the hard sell that you will otherwise likely get for these insurances at the checkout counter when you pick up your car.

See more on insurance in Iceland, plus general advice for driving in the country, in our tips for driving in Iceland post .

The Golden Circle follows good paved roads, so you won’t need a 4×4 for the Golden Circle. However, if you are doing it as part of a longer trip and are driving in winter, or are planning any time in the highlands in summer, you might consider a 4×4 vehicle.

At around 300 kms, the Golden Circle is easily driveable as a day trip from the city. Whilst gas is expensive in Iceland, you won’t need more than a tank to drive the whole distance.

That said, if you are travelling on your own or even as a couple, and budget is a consideration, you might find that a tour works out to be more cost effective than the cost of vehicle rental, insurance, and gas. This is because Golden Circle tours are really well priced in Iceland.

For budget tips, see our guide to travelling Iceland on a budget for more lots of tips on saving money in the country.

Best Tours of the Golden Circle

As already mentioned in the post, one of the most popular ways to experience the Golden Circle is on a tour. There’s a wide variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from, and taking a tour means you can just enjoy the sight-seeing without having to worry about the driving or other logistics.

Here are some suggested tours of the Golden Circle to consider, all of which depart from Reykjavik.

• An 8 hour tour which includes the three highlights of the Golden Circle plus Kerid Crater. One of the lower cost Golden Circle tours.
• A year round 9 hour tour which covers all the Golden Circle highlights and also includes time at the Laugarvatn Fontana.
• A 10 hour full day tour of the Golden Circle which also includes snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure
• An 11 hour tour of the Golden Circle which includes all the highlights, as well as an Icelandic Horse Riding experience

See many more tour options on  GetYourGuide here and Viator here .

Further Reading

That summarises our guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle. We’ve visited Iceland a number of times in both summer and winter, and have put together a number of detailed guides to help you plan your own trip. Here are some we think you will find useful:

• We have a detailed guide to the best day trips from Reykjavik , if you choose to base yourself in the city and explore from there
• We also have a guide to the best group tours of Iceland , if you want a longer guided experience. These range from a few days to a few weeks and cover all budgets
• For overall planning, see our guide to planning a trip to Iceland
• If you are looking for a self guided road trip in Iceland, we have some suggested itineraries. These include a 3 day stopover itinerary , a 5 day Iceland itinerary , a 7 day Iceland winter itinerary , and an Iceland ring road itinerary
• Iceland has lot of attractions to suit different types of traveller! For some specific advice on different sights, see our guides to finding puffins in Iceland , Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland , and waterfalls in Iceland
• If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, we have a winter packing list for Iceland , suggested winter activities in Iceland , and tips for driving in Iceland in winter
• A popular attraction in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon – we wrote a whole guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon to help you plan your visit and make the most of your time there
• Iceland is a fairly expensive country to visit. To help you save money, we put together a guide to visiting Iceland on a budget
• If you’re lucky, you might see the northern lights in Iceland if visiting in winter. See our guide to photographing the Northern Lights for some tips on getting great shots
• Speaking of photography, we have a guide to the best photography locations in Iceland , as well as a guide to finding the Iceland plane crash , which is a popular photography location

And that’s it for our post on visiting Iceland’s Golden Circle! As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and answer any questions – just use the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

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There are 11 comments on this post

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Anne Campbell says

11th February 2023 at 1:01 pm

Thank you so much for this excellent post about the Golden Circle! I haven’t found anything else online that compares to it. My husband, 15 year old son and I are going to be visiting Iceland on a 2-day layover to London in May and we have the Golden Circle planned for our second day in Iceland. With this post, I feel confident that I know what we will see and do, and we can’t wait!

Laurence Norah says

12th February 2023 at 10:32 am

Thanks very much Anne! Have a great time in Iceland and let me know if you have any questions!

Roy Hays says

23rd July 2022 at 2:58 pm

When is the best time to visit the golden circle?

24th July 2022 at 7:25 pm

If you mean by time of the year then honestly it depends! Summer you get lovely long days and green landscapes, whilst in winter you get shorter days but lovely snow covered landscapes. We’ve been at both times of year and they are both lovely, but it really just depends on whether you prefer a summery experience or a wintry experience!

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Neil Swinyard-Jordan says

12th August 2021 at 8:33 am

Good morning, I’ve just finished reading your website pages and so far it’s the best I’ve come across for details and things to do in Iceland and I’ve sent the address to several friends who are also planning trips to Iceland. Personally, I’ve booked a trip with my wife and two older parents in October, for 9 days. Keen to see the Golden Circle, our first 2.5 days will be staying to the south west of the circle at the Fire and Ice Hotel. I’d love to do the snorkelling at Silfra, perhaps the afternoon after we arrive in the morning but then wondered what you recommend for the best route to see the areas you write about above (clockwide /anti-clockwise, half one day, half the next)? We want to do the hot river soak, get to the far north for Gullfoss and see the main sights. Is it all doable in the time we have? Many thanks Neil.

12th August 2021 at 12:50 pm

Thanks very much, it’s great to hear from you.

So the hotel you have picked, (which I think is the Frost & Fire hotel in Hveragerði), is definitely well located, and just a four minute drive or 30 minute walk to the start of the Thermal River walk. It is definitely all possible in the time you have. I’d suggest:

The hot spring soak on the day you arrive. This isn’t time sensitive and doesn’t need a booking, so you don’t need to feel rushed about getting here should you have a flight delay. It’s about an hour’s walk each way from the start point, plus however long you choose to stay, so this could easily take up most of that afternoon if you choose.

The following day I would recommend the Silfra snorkelling experience and time exploring Thingvellir, including þórufoss. On the way back you could stop at Kerid Crater.

For your third day you could do the highlights around Gulfoss, including Faxi and Geysir.

This will give you plenty of time to see everything without being rushed at all. You could in theory do everything quicker (many people do the Golden Circle in a day), but going at a more leisurely pace will let you really enjoy everything.

I hope I’ve interpreted your request correctly in terms of the number of days you have, but do let me know if not and I can offer a revision 🙂

Have a great trip!

12th August 2021 at 6:18 pm

Laurence, That’s great and you interpreted everything exactly as I’d hoped. Your ‘programme’ will work for us and to do it at a leisurely pace will be ideal for the two parents… Many thanks, Neil

Kelly Brennan says

8th August 2021 at 2:08 am

Wonderful and very helpful article. I was wondering if you could give some advice? We are travelling with our kids (21&18) on the Disney cruise. (August 2022) We plan on renting a car. We would like to see the Golden Circle, Hike the Steamy Valley to the river hot-springs and go to the Blue Lagoon. We would like to see a bit of Reykjavik as well. We arrive at 1:00 pm and depart the next day at 5:00 pm. We can leave/return to the ship at anytime. Is this possible?? Thank you in advance. Kelly.

8th August 2021 at 12:39 pm

Great to hear from you and thanks for your kind words. I’d be happy to help. Sounds like you have an awesome trip coming up. So I would say that your plan might be pushing it a little in terms of getting everything in, although it depends on how fast you move and how early / late you are willing to travel. As you are visiting in August and the sun doesn’t set until around 10pm, you do have lots of daylight time to play with!

The drive out to Reykjadalur Hot Spring (I’m assuming this is what you mean for the steamy valley) is about 45 minutes each way from the city, and then it’s about a 1hr walk each way to the bathing area, plus however long you want to spend in the river itself.

The drive out to the Blue Lagoon from Reyjkavik is about 40 minutes each way.

I think you might have to decide between the Blue Lagoon and the Reykjadalur Hot Spring, unless you are planning some early starts or a late night.

An itinerary could look as follows:

Day 1: Spend a couple of hours sightseeing in Reykjavik on Head out to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring OR the Blue Lagoon between 3pm and 4pm.

Day 2, focus on the Golden Circle.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to be out too late, you could do the hot spring or the Blue Lagoon on day 1, then do the Golden Circle in the morning of day 2, followed by spending the remainder of your time sight seeing in Reyjkavik.

I hope this helps!

8th August 2021 at 3:27 pm

Thank you! I thought we were pushing it. The plan looks great. Have a fantastic day. Kelly.

8th August 2021 at 3:30 pm

My pleasure! Have a great trip 😀

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VOLCANIC ERUPTION & EARTHQUAKES ON REYKJANES – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

2-Day South Coast Hiking Package | Golden Circle, Glacier Hike & Waterfalls

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English commentary

Explore the famous Golden Circle and Iceland’s sensational South Coast on this thrilling two-day tour. Get up close to waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes, and walk on a beautiful black sand beach like a Viking!

See the best of the Land of Fire and Ice and take an unforgettable glacier hike!

Your 2-day tour will begin with a convenient collection from your accommodation in Reykjavik and a delightful drive out of the capital city through striking scenery, passing Mount Esja on our way to the Thingvellir National Park, the first stop on the Golden Circle.

Discover Iceland’s most famous sights on this action-packed two-day tour of the gorgeous Golden Circle and the spectacular South Coast.

You’ll see a colossal rift valley at Þingvellir National Park , the geothermal hotspot of Geysir and the glorious two-tier waterfall at Gullfoss .

The Land of Fire and Ice is home to countless geological treasures. You’ll also see a multi-colored volcanic crater before our overnight stop in the hot spring town, Hveragerði .

The second day will bring you a parade of photogenic waterfalls as you explore Seljalandsfoss , Skógafoss and Gljúfrabúi!

The second day’s highlight is an exciting glacier hike at Sólheimajökull , where you’ll get the chance to take a memorable walk across this mammoth river of ice.

Your two-day adventure will end by enjoying the sweeping panoramic views at Reynisfjara , the world-famous black sand beach. You’ll see beautiful basalt columns and the towering sea stacks of the Reynisdrangar. Then we’ll return to the city along Route 1 – known as the Ring Road .

Day 1 | Golden Circle & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Thingvellir national park.

The first stop on tour is Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir), home of the ancient Viking parliament, which sat for a thousand years in this fantastic rift valley. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge splits the Eurasian and American tectonic plates here, which means you can walk in the gigantic gap between two continents!

Thingvellir is where the nation of Iceland was born, with festivals and law-making sessions held here over the centuries, and it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage site. There’s also a beautiful lake, Þingvallavatn, one of the largest in Iceland

Geysir & Haukadalur Geothermal Area

Our next stop is the Haukadalur geothermal area, home to Geysir, the place that gave its name to all erupting hot springs. Did you know that it’s also the Icelandic word for “gush”? Geysir itself is asleep mainly now, but nearby, Strokkur is very active. You’ll see it sending fountains of superheated water high into the sky every six or seven minutes! As well as that, you’ll be able to get up close to hissing hot pots and steam vents as they bubble and splutter away!

Get your camera ready – you’ll get some fantastic shots when Strokkur explodes!

Gullfoss - The Golden Waterfall

The third stage on the Golden Circle is gorgeous Gullfoss, which means the “Gold Falls”. You’ll be amazed by the sight of this double drop waterfall as millions of gallons of glacial meltwater crash 30 meters down into a deep ravine, sending spray into the air and setting off arching rainbows on sunny days.

You might even see Langjökull in the distance, the glacier that feeds the falls. There are several viewing platforms to see Gullfoss thundering away from different angles. Some say Gullfoss is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland – see what you think!

Kerid Volcanic Crater

We will visit this extraordinary volcanic crater on our way to our overnight stop. Beautifully streaked with red earth and green mosses and a turquoise-blue mineral water lake, it’s a stunning spectacle. More than three thousand years old, 50 meters deep, and 270 meters wide, walking around this crater with its dramatic mix of colors is an amazing experience and an exciting picture opportunity.

It’s easy to reach, close to the car park, and you can see the crater from many different perspectives. The famous Icelandic singer Björk once performed a concert from a floating stage here!

Hveragerði, famous for its geothermally-heated greenhouses, is sitting in a rift valley between the two continental plates of Eurasia and America. The name translates as “Hot Springs”, and you’ll discover steam vapor rising from vents in the earth all around the town. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs through Hveragerði, which means you can stand on both continents at once!

Optional Activity (no pre-booking required):

After exploring four incredible attractions located on the Golden Circle Route you will arrive in Hveragerði, a town renowned for its vibrant geothermal activity. Not only will you have the chance to witness a smaller version of Geyser, but you can also indulge in a relaxing dip in the warm, naturally heated waters.

Be sure to pack your swimwear and end your day in the famous Icelandic geothermal pools! There is no better way to enhance your evening! Hot Tubs are located at or by your hotel and entrance is included.

OVERNIGHT STAY IN HVERAGERDI - town famous for Geothermal Activity

Day 2 | South Coast Waterfalls, Black Beach & Glacier Hike

Seljalandsfoss & gljufrabui waterfalls.

The second day of the tour begins with visits to three of Iceland’s wonderful waterfalls, starting with Seljalandsfoss . Look ahead as we make our way along the South Coast on Route 1, as it will appear framed against the volcanic cliffs. Tumbling down over sixty meters, this mighty cascade has carved out an enormous cave behind the falls. Walking around the falls is even possible if you don’t mind getting wet and scrambling along the slippery path!

Nearby, you’ll also enjoy Gljúfrabúi, a “hidden waterfall” tucked away in a concealed cave . We’ll show you where to look!

Skogafoss Waterfalls

Our next stop is Skógafoss, which is probably one of the most recognized waterfalls in the world. This incredible cascade has been featured in “Game of Thrones”, several Hollywood films and many music videos, including one for Justin Bieber.

The 60-meter-high waterfall faces directly south, so there’s a great chance to see rainbows rising over the cliffs on sunny days. It’s also possible to climb some stairs right up to the top to see the spectacular views from there, including the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano! There’s a café and restrooms here if you want to grab a snack or a coffee.

Sólheimajökull Glacier

Iceland is famous for its glaciers, covering more than a tenth of the country. Sólheimajökull, which translates as “Home of the Sun Glacier”, is an easy-to-reach glacier tongue, allowing you to see this marvel of nature up close on an unforgettable glacier hike!

Part of the Katla GeoPark and the mammoth Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, Sólheimajökull is a sensational sight. You’ll see dramatic ice formations, including crevasses, striped ice sculptures and rocky ridges. We’ll kit you out in all the safety gear you’ll need to enjoy this unique experience! So just bring your hiking boots and a warm coat!

From the top you can simply soak in the dramatic view over the surrounding mountains and glacier lagoon laying by the head of the glacier. 

Reynisfjara - The Black Beach

Your thrilling two-day adventure concludes with a visit to Reynisfjara, the world-famous black sand beach. The scenery here is incredible, with National Geographic calling it one of the finest beaches in the world .

You’ll enjoy walking on jet-black sands , watching roaring Atlantic waves pound the beach, and the sight of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks looming offshore . The towering cliffs are lined with stunning hexagonal basalt columns, like an enormous church organ!

Reynisfjara is the perfect place to end your South Coast adventure – we’ll return to the capital from here.

Experience the best of the Land of Fire and Ice on this action-packed two-day tour of the glorious Golden Circle and the sensational South Coast of Iceland. Enjoy the unique experience of a glacier hike and discover geysers, waterfalls, black sand beaches and volcanoes! Don’t miss it – book now!

DURATION 2 DAYS

Minimum age 8 years old, availability: all year, free cancellation: 24 hours prior travel, difficulty: adventurous/moderate.

• Professional tour guided in English in a minibus
• Pick up and drop off within Reykjavik - (CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS)
• Glacier Hike Expedition with all the safety equipment provided
• Accommodation for 1 night in a double or a twin room with private bathroom and breakfast included
• Free Wi-Fi on bus and USB chargers next to every seat
• Lunch & Dinner – we make scheduled stops so that guests can buy lunch or snacks during the tour
• Swimwear (optional for those wanting to use hot tubs). Towels are provided at the hotel

Know Before You Go

• Pickup takes place between 08:30 – 09:00 – so please be ready from 8:30 at your pick up location
• Tour is operated under all weather conditions: please bring warm, wind & waterproof clothes
• Duration of the tour is 2 days and 1 night
• Estimated arrival time in Reykjavík on Day 2 is around 21:00 (Depending on weather and road conditions)
• If you are a single traveler then a Single Room Supplement is mandatory
• Hiking boots are mandatory

Proper footwear when walking on uneven and slippery surfaces increases your safety and comfort. Please note, that you can be banned from participating in glacier activities when not wearing required shoes. If you do not own proper footwear (solid shoes reaching above your ankle) you can rent them during booking process

• One small carry-on luggage is included per person

For your convenience and safety reasons, it is recommended that you pack lightly for this tour, in a small suitcase or backpack. If you have large luggage with you, please check with your accommodation if they offer luggage storage for your time on this tour. If that is not a possibility, you can pay a small fee per luggage and we will make sure we have space for it on the tour bus

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You can also find answers to FAQ below

When you complete your booking, you’ll be asked to choose a pick up and drop off location. Where possible, we will collect you directly from your hotel .

Some parts of the city have traffic restrictions, so you’ll need to go to a designated bus stop for collection instead if your hotel is in that area.

This link will tell you which bus stop is closest to your accommodation.

There’s a 30-minute window for collection while we pick up other passengers from their locations.

At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at the same place unless you choose to get off at another stop instead – that’s your choice! Drop off can also take up to 30 minutes.

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so you’ll need to prepare appropriately, whatever the time of year for your tour.

That means choosing the right clothes (light layers), shoes (sturdy and waterproof) and coats (windproof & waterproof). And not wearing jeans, just in case it rains!

We’ve prepared a detailed guide for you to read, full of tips and tricks to help you know what to wear, what to bring and what to leave behind! 

If you’re booking a multi-day tour of up to three days, the maximum “carry-on” bag size is 22 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm or 22 x 18 x 10 inches)

If your multi-day tour is longer than three days, then your ticket includes “carry-on” (see above) and 24 inch “checked” baggage sized no bigger than 60 x 41 x 23 cm (24 x 16.4 x 9.2 inches)

For shorter tours, you can choose to add “checked” baggage for an additional fee during the booking process.

If you want to guarantee bringing a larger bag on a shorter tour, it is best to book in advance. Oversized luggages can not be taken on board but need to be stored prior the tour at either our office or at one of the public luggage lockers dotted across Reykjavík ( CHECK LOCATIONS & PRICES ).

If you wish to store your luggage at our office please contact us by email at [email protected]

At Nicetravel, we choose our overnight accommodations with care to make the best use of your time in Iceland, with reasonable drive times between stops.

You’ll enjoy a private room with en suite bathroom facilities and breakfast, WiFi, towels and, in most cases, a kettle for a morning brew.

Outside the capital, most Icelandic hotels are comfortable and unfussy, with friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable staff.

Enjoy the scenery while relaxing at the end of each day!

Hotel rooms are sold based on two adults sharing, so single-room occupancy is more expensive as a result.

If you are a solo traveler, we will not assign you a room with a stranger, so the single supplement fee becomes applicable.

If you are two people traveling together and staying in the same room but paying separately, the single supplement fee is not applicable.

Simply add the name of your travel companion in the “special requirements” section when completing your booking.

For couples or groups traveling together, rooms will be assigned according to the number of people who have booked together.

Depending on availability at each location, you may request twin beds if that is your preference.

Larger groups will be accommodated in combinations of triple, double and twin rooms – three people in a triple room, four people in two doubles or twin rooms, five people in one triple and one double, and so on.

If a person in your group would prefer a single room, you must select “single supplement fee” for them when booking.

Solo travelers must pay a single supplement fee in all instances.

Breakfast is included at each overnight location, featuring bread and butter, preserves, boiled eggs, cooked meats, fruits, yoghurts, tea, and coffee.

All other meals are at your own expense.

As the tour continues around the country, you can grab lunch and dinner at each of the scheduled stops, and we’ll offer recommendations if you want them!

Yes. We monitor the weather and road conditions on the tour route to maximize your chance to see Iceland’s attractions at their best.

That means we may change the order or timing of the stops to take advantage of the weather (avoiding rain or snow showers where possible) and “ golden hour” photo opportunities .

If we receive a weather alert from the Icelandic Meteorological Office or roads are closed by the local authorities, we must cancel tours for your safety.

Iceland’s weather is very changeable, meaning changes may occur quickly. If we have to cancel tours, we will send you an email notification immediately .

So please check your email inbox before heading out to the collection point, particularly if the weather looks bad in the city.

Sometimes the weather is worse outside the city, or vice versa!

On average, we will cover 200-300 kilometers each day, with four to five hours of driving.

We schedule our tours as evenly as possible, with driving distances between each stop varying from 45 minutes to a couple of hours.

You’ll have around 30 to 60 minutes to explore each location, with most attractions just a short walk from the parking lot.

As with everything in Iceland, the precise timings of the tour will depend on weather and road conditions on the day, as our priority is to keep you safe while exploring Iceland.

If you want to bring small children on our tours, we will provide booster seats to ensure their safety and comfort.

Important: bringing children younger than the minimum age stated for each trip is not permitted; please check carefully before submitting your booking.

Please contact us by email ( [email protected] ) at least 12 hours in advance, with the subject line “Booster seat + your booking reference number”.

After the final stop on the tour, we will return to the city. There is no specific time or drop off location – this can differ from the pick up spot. 

You’re free to ask the guide to drop you off in the city center, or back at your collection point, whichever is the most convenient for your evening plans.

You can expect to be dropped off within 30 minutes after the scheduled end of the tour.

All our scheduled group tours are guided in English. Though it is possible to book a private tour guided in other languages. We will try to accommodate your request the best we can!

Adults (16+): kr. 56.900,0

Children (8 - 15): kr. 46.900,0

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Have Questions? We will be happy to assist you!

+354 419 0100 | [email protected]

NICETRAVEL was founded by three Icelandic families with the aim of helping visitors to Iceland to enjoy a nice and enjoyable experience

All our services are of course fully licensed by the appropriate Icelandic authorities

Nicetravel ehf

Fiskislóð 45M, 101 Reykjavík

ID. 650712-0800 | TAX. 120367

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Prices displayed in currencies other than Icelandic Krona (ISK) are estimated. Final price in your currency will be calculated based on your bank´s currency exchange rate

Guaranteed Departures

Book worry free! We require no minimum number of participants to run any of our tours!

When booking with Nicetravel you can rest assured your tour will not be cancelled by us unless rare force majeure events occur (i.e. violent storm, volcanic eruptions, strikes)

If you find a bookable date on our website this means departure is confirmed

Free Pick Up Service From Reykjavík

We offer pick up and drop off within the city of Reykjavik. We can pick-up directly from many hotels and guest houses in Reykjavik as well as from the Reykjavik cruise ship terminals.

Parts of Reykjavík City Center are closed for the commercial traffic. Please note, that your pick up might be from one of the dedicated meeting points

Lava Formations

Explore Iceland’s astonishing lava formations on our tours

On our tours of Iceland, you’ll see an ever-changing country packed with breathtaking geological marvels, including beautiful basalt columns, jagged pinnacles, and jet-black lava flows. Home to some of the fiercest volcanoes ever known, more than a third of the world’s recorded lava since the Middle Ages has poured across Iceland! On our Ring Road and South Coast tours , you’ll see how lava has shaped the country into what it is today, where more than 30 active volcano systems have created astonishing sights like Stuðlagil Canyon , the Eldhraun lava field, and the black sand beach at Reynisfjara .

See the “Arch with a Hole” summer home to Puffins

Offering some of the best views on the South Coast, Dyrhólaey (Door Hill Island) is a spectacular promontory rising more than a hundred meters high above the Atlantic. Close to the most southerly point in Iceland, fierce waves pound the shores below. You’ll enjoy phenomenal panoramic views of towering stone arches, gleaming glaciers, brooding volcanoes, and Iceland’s famous black sand beach, Reynisfjara . If you look closely, you’ll see the Reynisdrangar too!  In the summer, thousands of puffins and other seabirds flock here, so it’s an excellent spot for bird watching!

Blue Lagoon

Take a dip at Iceland’s famous Geothermal SPA

Experience a spa day like no other with a trip to Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon . This geothermal paradise guarantees relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploring. Some of our Golden Circle & Ring Road tours include an option to visit here, where you can lie back in the warming waters, admire the astonishing views of the jet-black lava fields, exfoliate, and enjoy a drink at the swim-up bar. Close to the airport and the city, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to sample the best of Iceland’s famous hot pots, where the mineral-rich healing waters will send you to heaven! 

Whale Watching

Enjoy an unforgettable whale watching tour in Iceland!

With more than twenty types of whales visiting Iceland every year, it’s one of the best places in the world to take a whale watching tour. When we visit Akureyri in North Iceland on our Ring Road tours , get ready to spot humpbacks, minke whales, orcas, dolphins, and porpoise s . If you’re lucky, you might see a Blue whale, the most enormous creature ever known! Whales and other cetaceans come to Iceland to feed in the nutrient-rich waters, and some stay all year round now. Imagine the joy of seeing whales and dolphins in the wild – you can do that when you visit Iceland!

Explore the land of ten thousand waterfalls on our tours!

Iceland is covered by glaciers and snow-capped mountains, so that means there’s a lot of crystal-clear meltwater tumbling over cliffs and rushing to the sea. Some say there are over 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, and you’ll see some of the most famous falls on our Golden Circle , South Coast , and Ring Road tours . There are hidden waterfalls, multi-tiered falls, widescreen cascades where rainbows dance on sunny days, and even waterfalls where you can walk behind the waters! We’ll show you some of the best fosses in Iceland – and they’re all easy to reach too!

Volcanic Craters

See Iceland’s spectacular volcanic craters on our tours!

Iceland is less than 20 million years old, created by underwater volcanoes rising up along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge with a pipeline of molten magma straight from the Earth’s burning core. Dozens of volcanoes dot the country, and many are still active, which means you can explore fascinating volcanic formations at different geological stages! On our Golden Circle tours, you’ll see the multicolored crater at Kerið. Grábrok Craters are included in itineraries for our Westfjords Tours . There are countless more craters to be seen on our Ring Road and Silver Circle tours!

Seal Watching

Go seal spotting while you’re on tour in Iceland!

Iceland is a haven for several seal species, with little colonies of these captivating creatures dotted around the country. On our South Coast & Glacier Lagoon and Ring Road tours , you’ll have a chance to spot them at Jökulsárlón, where seals are often seen basking on the floating icebergs. Iceland’s coastline features golden sandy beaches where Harbor and Gray seals make their home, including Ytri-Tunga , a stop on our  Snaefellsnes tour in West Iceland.

Notably the highest chances to see them is when taking one of Westfjords Tours . It’s your best chance to see these gorgeous creatures in their natural habitat!

River Rafting

Take a ride on a thrilling river rafting tour experience!

Iceland’s fast-flowing glacial rivers offer you a fantastic adventure experience when you join one of our adrenaline-pumping river rafting tours. Jump on sturdy rafts not far from Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle , and paddle through the twisting turns of the Brúarhlöð volcanic rock canyon on the White River! Soak up the stunning scenery as you float downstream, safe in the hands of expert guides, with all the equipment you’ll need provided. It’s one of the most exciting adventure activities you can take in Iceland!

Northern Lights

Want to see the Northern Lights? Then book an Multi-Day Tour during winter time!

Seeing a display of the magical Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, and Iceland is one of the most beautiful places in the world to witness this colorful cosmic spectacle. Clear, dark skies are needed to see the Northern Lights at their best, far away from streetlights. So when you book a winter multi-day tour , you’ll have the best chance to see the Northern Lights when you stay overnight in the remote Icelandic countryside. The darker the nights get, the brighter the lights can be seen. Choose one of our winter tours for an experience you’ll never forget!

Lava Caving

Iceland is a hotbed of volcanic activity formed by superheated lava and molten rock from countless eruptions over millions of years. When the lava stops flowing, the top crust cools more quickly, leaving hollow caves and tunnels behind. You can explore these incredible underground spaces when our Silver Circle tours visit The Cave at Víðgelmir in West Iceland. Enjoy a 90-minute expedition on well-lit walkways with expert guides and learn about stalagmites and stalactites in colorful caverns. Viking outlaws used these places as hideouts – now you can explore here too!

Golden Circle

See Iceland’s most famous sights

Tour the Golden Circle to see the glittering jewels in Iceland’s crown. In one convenient day trip from the capital, you’ll see the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal wonders of Geysir , and the spectacular rift valley at Þingvellir National Park . The Golden Circle offers you the best of Iceland’s natural beauty and history, where you can walk in Viking footsteps between two continents! Stand back as a geyser erupts at Haukadalur Geothermal Area every few minutes and admire the view at Gullfoss, a tremendous two-tiered waterfall fed by glacial meltwater.

Explore Iceland’s unique ice caves on our exciting tours!

More than a tenth of Iceland is covered by glaciers, making it the perfect place to get a close look at these astonishing frozen wonders. On our South Coast tours , you can opt for an unforgettable Ice Cave experience at Vatnajökull . Iceland’s glaciers are constantly changing, so your ice cave trip will be unique – nobody else will see the same sight again! Strap on some crampons and discover fascinating ice formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, and spectacular blue ice caves, safe in the hands of our experienced glacier guides. Tours operate between late October to April. 

Hot Spring Bathing

Take a dip in Iceland’s famous geothermal spas on our tours

Enjoying a dip in a geothermal hot spring spa or pool is a daily ritual for Icelanders, like going to a coffee shop or a bar. There are dozens of natural hot spring spas, swimming pools, and outdoor hot pots all over the country, waiting for you to jump in and relax! Our Golden Circle tours include options to visit the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík, while our Silver Circle tours include an authentic stone-walled hot pot in a remote canyon! Our Ring Road tours also feature several geothermal swimming pools around the country, where the locals love to relax too.

Take our tours of Iceland to admire its gorgeous glaciers

Close to the Arctic Circle and just 300 miles wide, Iceland is the perfect place to explore glaciers and ice caps. These frozen blue wonders can be seen easily as you explore Iceland on our Ring Road tours . That’s because outlet glaciers and glacier tongues reach down from  Sólheimajökull on the South Coast and from Vatnajökull in the East right down to the coast, making it easy to get up close to these majestic sights. Centuries of snow and ice have created these incredible glaciers, but they are retreating now due to climate change. Don’t miss your chance to see these marvels while you can!

Glacier Hike

Experience an adventure like no other on a Glacier Hike tour

Did you know that a tenth of Iceland is covered in glaciers and that 269 of them have been named? Iceland is the ideal place to come if you want to explore these natural wonders at close quarters. That’s because our South Coast tours visit Sólheimajökull in South Iceland, where you can strap on crampons and take an unforgettable stroll across this ever-changing environment. Gaze at incredible ice formations, crossing crevasses, and exploring ice caves, all in the hands of knowledgeable expert guides. Note : Our Glacier Hike tours operate between April and October.

Iceland is a country filled with incredible water features, including hot springs, waterfalls, and glacial rivers. But did you know that the word “geyser” comes from here? On our Golden Circle tours , you’ll see the “OG” of geysers everywhere at the Haukadalur Geothermal area. While Geysir has fallen silent recently, nearby Strokkur erupts in steam explosions and spray every few minutes, sending superheated water flying high into the sky. Geysir means “gush” in Icelandic, and that’s where the name comes from! If you book a package with stay in Hveragerði you can also admire smaller cousin of Strokkur that erupts every 15-20 minutes.

Geothermal Areas

Discover Iceland’s active geothermal areas on our tours

Iceland’s fiery volcanic origins mean it’s a hothouse of geothermal activity with several colorful geothermal areas you can explore on our tours. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, close to the airport, and you can visit the Haukadalur Geothermal Area on our Golden Circle tours . On our Silver Circle tours , you can see the most powerful hot spring in Europe at Deildartunguhver . And if you choose one of our Ring Road tours , you’ll see the almost alien landscapes at Hverir , where fumaroles fizz and hot pools bubble and boil! Feel the ground tremble and smell the sulfur!

Iceland is a “country in the making” formed by volcanoes and earthquakes and sculpted by gigantic glaciers.

That offers you a variety of breathtaking and unique landscapes, such as Stuðlagil and Fjaðrárgljúfur , two of the most stunning places in Iceland! At Stuðlagil, you’ll see twisting basalt columns line a gorgeous glacial river canyon, a magnificent location that has only recently been discovered. Fjaðrárgljúfur (Feather River Canyon) is a surreal sight – a marvelous sheer-walled river canyon covered in blankets of velvet-green moss. But there are more stunning canyons in Iceland, like Vatnsjfjörður, Kólugljúfur or Þingvellir just to name a few.

Our tours will take you straight to the most spectacular sights in Iceland, but there are ways of getting even closer if you want to! At the Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón), you can jump into an amphibious vehicle for an unforgettable tour around the lagoon, sailing amongst the glittering giants.

Imagine the thrill of seeing these gigantic chunks of multi-coloured ice from just a few feet away! Where else will you get a chance to cruise between towering icebergs as they sway around the spectacular lagoon? Don’t miss this magical experience! Note: Boat tours are available from May to October.

Bird Watching

Everyone wants to see Iceland’s famous puffins when they visit in the summer months (late May until mid-August) . Iceland is also home to countless more species of birds, some of which stay all year round.

On our South Coast and Ring Road tours, you’ll also have a chance to see Arctic terns, kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills. Lake Mývatn in North Iceland attracts thousands of ducks each summer, making it a bird watcher’s paradise! Look out for the Barrow’s Goldeneye, Harlequin ducks, gyrfalcons, gannets, and ptarmigans! Our Westfjords and Snæfellsnes tours also include visits to bird-filled cliffs along the route.

Visit the “original” Geyser on our Golden Circle tours

Iceland’s fierce volcanic activity fuels gushing geysers all around the country, and the most famous hot spring is Geysir , one of the highlights of our Golden Circle tours . Geysir was the first erupting hot spring discovered by Europeans, and its name is the Icelandic word for “gush”, giving its name to all hot springs worldwide. Geysir is quiet these days, but Strokkur sends hot water and vapor high into the sky every few minutes! You won’t have to wait long to see it blow sky-high. So get your camera ready – this will be one of the best photo opportunities you’ll have in Iceland!  

Gullfoss Waterfall

Discover the glorious Gullfoss on our Golden Circle tours

One of the highlights of the famous Golden Circle route , Gullfoss is a thundering two-tier waterfall fueled by Langjökull , the “Long Glacier”, which you’ll see far inland if it’s a clear day. Tumbling more than thirty meters into a dramatic rock canyon, Gullfoss is one of the most thrilling waterfalls in the country, and you can see the falls from several viewing platforms. Watch out for rainbows on sunny days, and wear waterproofs – millions of gallons of water crashing over the cascade creates lots of spray!

Traditional Architecture

See the famous turf-roofed buildings!

Traditional Icelandic architecture is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and integration with the natural environment. During our tours you will be able to see couple of its examples. 

Eiriksstadir is a reconstructed Viking-era longhouse in Iceland, which provides a glimpse into the architectural style of the early settlers. Hlíðartúnshúsin (located in Borgarnes) is a collection of several turf houses that were first built more than a hundred years ago. You’ll see a sheep barn, a cowshed, and even a hut used to store potatoes!

Iceland is also famous for turf-roofed churches, such as the iconic Viðimýrarkirkja and Hofskirkja, showcasing the continuation of this architectural tradition into religious buildings.

Enjoy an evening and overnight stay in the capital of the North

Akureyri is the unofficial “second city” of Iceland, located in the far north about six hours from Reykjavik, nestling at the end of the longest fjord in the country.

Once a little 17 th -century fishing village and trading station, Akureyri is now a bustling town. You’ll find funky cafés, restaurants, art galleries, design stores and a botanical garden to explore.

Even though it’s very close to the Arctic Circle, the 20,000 people who call Akureyri their home enjoy some of the country’s warmest and most stable weather.

As you walk the streets of Akureyri, make sure you take a look at the traffic lights. All the red lights are heart-shaped!

Sólheimajökull Glacier & Lagoon

See the slowly disappearing glacier and a glacial lake forming in front!

Sólheimajökull is a magnificent glacier located on the South Coast of Iceland. It is an outlet glacier that descends from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Sólheimajökull is famous for its breathtaking ice formations, including deep crevasses, ice caves, and dramatic ice ridges. 

The glacial environment of Sólheimajökull provides a unique opportunity to witness the effects of climate change, as the glacier has been receding in recent years. This caused new Glacial Lagoon to appear on the map of Iceland, where huge chunks of ice slowly float on its surface.

Húsafell Canyon Baths

Bathe like Icelanders did in the old days!

This place offers a unique and natural relaxation experience, nestled within a stunning canyon surrounded by lush greenery. This is a spellbinding place that has to be seen to be believed, with three geothermally-heated pools of varying temperatures (30-41°C or 86-105°F), a cold-water pot and a cooling waterfall, all designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment. 

These are traditional and authentic Icelandic bathing pools , inspired by the age-old ways used by the locals in this area for a thousand years. Sustainably built in the traditional stone-bath style in an off-grid location, it’s a unique combination.

Rauðisandur Red Beach

Find yourself on the Westernmost Beach in Europe!

Rauðisandur is a stunning golden sandy beach located in the Westfjords region of Iceland. Its name translates to “Red Sand,” but the beach is actually a unique blend of golden, beige, and reddish hues . The vast expanse of Rauðisandur stretches for nearly 10 kilometers and is backed by stunning cliffs and mountains. The beach is known for its tranquil beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for solitude and relaxation.

The remote location and untouched beauty of Rauðisandur make it a hidden gem that captivates those who venture to this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Bolafjall Sky Walk

Take a walk on top of one of the most beautiful summits in Iceland!

Bolafjall is a prominent mountain located in the Westfjords region of Iceland. Rising up to an elevation of 638 meters , it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and coastal landscape. 

In the recent year, on the summit of Bolafjall impressing viewing platform with sky walk was constructed, just right next to old American radar station. It allows you to witness the beauty of the rugged terrain and the vast ocean beyond. The road leading to the top is very steep and narrow, but no worries! You will be taken there by our experienced drivers. 

See the most powerful waterfall in the whole of Europe!

Dettifoss is a mighty and powerful waterfall located in Northeast Iceland. It is known for being the most powerful waterfall in Europe , with a massive volume of water cascading over its rocky edge.

The sheer force and thundering sound of Dettifoss are awe-inspiring, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors. The waterfall is situated in the Vatnajökull National Park, surrounded by rugged landscapes and dramatic cliffs. Accessible via a well-maintained trail, Dettifoss offers breathtaking viewpoints from which to admire its grandeur.

Discover the hidden gem of the South Coast with us!

Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem located in Iceland, near the popular tourist attraction, Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

It is often referred to as the “Secret Waterfall” or “Cave Watefall” due to its concealed location and the fact, that is very often missed by many ! To reach Gljúfrabúi, you´ll need to walk through a narrow opening in the rock and wade through ankle-deep water in a small canyon. Inside, you will be greeted by a magnificent waterfall cascading down from a steep cliff. Remember to wear solid shoes and take your raincoat with!

Diamond Beach

Take a walk among the “Diamonds”!

Diamond Beach, also known as Jökulsárlón Beach, is a mesmerizing natural wonder located in Iceland. It is situated near the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where icebergs from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier float into the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach gets its name from the sparkling icebergs that wash up on the black sand , resembling diamonds on the shore. The contrast between the glistening ice and the dark volcanic sand creates a breathtaking sight. Diamond Beach is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning opportunities to capture the beauty of nature.

Walk on a lava arch and see many stunning sights!

Arnastapi is a small village located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. It is known for its stunning coastal scenery, with cliffs, gorges, and rock formations.

The village offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. One of the main attractions in Arnarstapi is the famous Gatklettur, a natural arch rock formation that stands tall against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. There, you can also take a walk on the Lava Bridge and pose for a unique picture.

Enjoy an evening and overnight stay in the capital of the West

Borgarnes bubbles with life, packed into a picturesque promontory overlooking the broad waters of Borgarfjörður, the “City Fjord”.

It’s one of the busiest towns in West Iceland, a focal point for fishing, culture and commerce for a thousand years. But you can still feel its Viking roots wherever you look!

You’ll discover that it has a cheerful small-town vibe that makes it a delight to explore. So take a walk around its pretty streets and rocky shoreline, and enjoy the stunning views across the fjord to Hafnarfjall!

We usually arrive there around 5-6 pm, crossing the fjord over the second-longest bridge in Iceland, with stunning views to enjoy on both sides of the waters.

Enjoy an afternoon and overnight stay in the charming, geothermal village

Hveragerði catches your attention with steam vents billowing vapor into the air everywhere you look. You’ll be amazed by the endless rows of geothermally-heated greenhouses, where bananas and other fruits are grown all year round!

The town is surrounded by moss-covered lava fields and towering volcanic mountains. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs through this area, so there are frequent earthquakes. That means new hot springs are constantly opening up in this highly active area, even in people’s homes and gardens! 

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there’s a wide selection of bars and restaurants. Some even use geothermal power for carbon-neutral cooking! Make sure you try the tomato soup while you’re here!

We usually arrive there around 4 pm – which gives you plenty of time to enjoy this charming town.

Hraunfossar Lava Waterfalls

See a unique waterfall when you book a Silver Circle tour

Iceland is filled with unique sights, and one of the most mesmerizing is the “Lava Waterfalls” at Hraunfossar . Part of the Silver Circle tour route, glacial meltwater gently cascades down a series of steps from the middle of moss-covered lava cliffs, with the falls stretching for hundreds of meters. The waters seep through the Hallmundarhraun lava field until reaching the White River before tumbling gracefully below. You can enjoy the Lava Waterfall from different perspectives at several viewing platforms. It’s an extraordinary sight!

Explore Iceland’s wildest region

If you want to see Iceland at its wildest, the Westfjords await you! Lonely Planet picked the Westfjords as its No.1 place to go – here’s your chance to see it! 

The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s oldest regions, and coming here is like taking a step back in time. A spectacular series of stunning fjords cut through dramatic peninsulas dotted with pretty fishing villages, thundering waterfalls, towering cliffs, and colorful beaches, reached by winding mountain roads. Few people live here, so it’s one of the most peaceful and relaxing regions Iceland has to offer. Look out for seals, puffins, and Arctic foxes – there are more of them than people! Take the Westfjords Way with us – a road trip you’ll never forget!

Vik í Myrdal

Charming, southernmost village in Iceland

The picturesque village of Vik í Myrdal is perfect for a photo stop on our South Coast and Ring Road tours. Atlantic waves roll in with full force at the most southerly point on Iceland’s mainland, pounding the black sand beaches. Vík is the warmest coastal town in the country, and the summer air is filled with migrating birds. Walk its pretty streets and admire the gorgeous hilltop church atop the town’s highest point! Enjoy another view of the Reynisdrangar from there!

Þingvellir National Park

Where two continents split apart

A place of outstanding natural beauty, Þingvellir National Park offers you a unique opportunity to walk in Viking footsteps between two continents. The tectonic plates of North America and Europe are pulling apart along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge here, increasing Iceland’s size every day! The early Viking settlers held their parliaments (the Alþingi) here for a thousand years, and Iceland declared its independence from this stunning location in 1944, so this is a sacred place for all Icelanders! It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , making it a must-see stop on our Golden Circle tours.

South Coast

See the best of Iceland’s stunning South Coast

Explore the treasures of the South Coast on our tours, discovering stunning landscapes lined with thundering waterfalls, immense glaciers, towering volcanoes, and dramatic black sand beaches! Easily reached from the city, the South Coast is an unforgettable dreamland of astonishing natural wonders. Hike across a glacier at Sólheimajökull , or maybe discover a hidden waterfall? Walk on an endless black sand beach at Reynisfjara or enjoy a thrilling walk behind a waterfall at Seljalandsfoss ? These are just some of the magical experiences you can enjoy on a tour of the sensational South Coast!

Snæfellsnes

See the “Iceland in Miniature”

Close to the capital and easily reached, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an ideal tour to discover all of Iceland’s best features in just one day! The “Snow Mountain Peninsula” is often called “ Iceland in Miniature ” because you can find photogenic mountains (including Kirkjufell ), beautiful beaches, plunging waterfalls, seal colonies, ancient lava fields, and a towering stratovolcano in one place! Some say the peninsula has mystical qualities as one of the planet’s many “chakra” centers. It also inspired Jules Verne when he wrote “ Journey to the Center of the Earth ”!

Soothe yourself after a day on tour with a dip at Sky Lagoon

One of Iceland’s newest and most impressive geothermal spa experiences, Sky Lagoon offers you a memorable experience with astonishing views of the Atlantic. Relax in the perfectly regulated waters surrounded by volcanic rocks and a turf-roofed visitor center. Enjoy the 75-meter infinity pool, and order a drink at the swim-up bar! You can opt for an authentic Icelandic bathing experience with the Seven-Step Ritual , including saunas, cold mist showers, and exfoliating scrubs. It’s one of the most spectacular geothermal spa experiences in the world!

Seljalandsfoss

Take a walk behind a waterfall on our South Coast tours

Seljalandsfoss is a graceful waterfall that tumbles over 60 meters from Eyjafjallajökull , a volcano on Iceland’s stunning South Coast . It has a special feature that makes it even more exciting – there’s a path you can take all the way around the cascade! It can be slippery, but the views are unforgettable if you don’t mind getting wet! The chute is fueled by glacial meltwater from the volcano that stopped air traffic in 2010, putting Iceland on the map! A “secret” waterfall called Gljúfrabúi is nearby, hidden in a little green rock canyon – we’ll show you where to find it!

Reynisfjara Black Beach

See one of the most famous beaches in the world 

If National Geographic and TripAdvisor both say Reynisfjara is one of the best beaches in the world, then you have to add it to your list of “must-see” places to visit when you’re in Iceland. With miles of jet-black volcanic sands stretching into the distance and fierce Atlantic waves pounding the shoreline, it’s one of the most dramatic coastlines you’ll ever see! Lined with beautiful basalt columns, the Reynisdrangar completes the cinematic scene, towering sea stacks looming offshore! Some say these were trolls trying to catch a ship, frozen in time when the sun rose!

Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore Iceland’s spectacular Glacier Lagoon on our tours

Where else can you get up close to immense icebergs in a glacial meltwater lagoon? On our South Coast Multi-Day and Ring Road tours , you can visit the astonishing Glacier Lagoon at Jökulsárlón , where you’ll see gigantic icebergs floating serenely around a spectacular lake, which only formed about 80 years ago. As the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier retreats, giant pieces break off the edge and sail out to sea. The Glacier Lagoon is the “waiting room” on the journey! Come and see these multicolored icy marvels for yourself at this bucket-list location, and look out for seals basking on the bergs too!

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Walk into the cave hidden behind the falls!

Hveragerði has several fine restaurants and cafés, and some offer unique dishes that use the underground heat! For example, Ölverk Pizza & Brewery specialize in wood-fired pizzas while using geothermal heat to brew their high-quality craft ales. You can also have a snack inside the greenhouse at Rósa Kaffi . Nearby, The Greenhouse Hotel is also home to a food hall with several options, including tacos, burgers, fried chicken and Asian cuisine. More options are available here, so you’re guaranteed a great meal, whatever you’re in the mood for. 

Golden C. Day Tours

Filter tours, by locations, small group golden circle and blue lagoon tour iceland – ticket.

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Golden Circle Platinum Tour

Golden circle & secret lagoon full day tour- reykjavik by minibus, golden circle, the blue lagoon with admission tickets included and kerid volcanic crater, small group golden circle tour – kerið crater and friðheimar farm.

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Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle Route: Perfect Itinerary [2024]

Home » Blog » Europe » Iceland » Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle Route: Perfect Itinerary [2024]

The Golden Circle route is one of the top attractions in Iceland, and for a good reason. It’s easily accessible to all travelers whether you’re visiting for just a few days or staying much longer. This guide has everything you need to plan your tour of the Golden Circle, plus some secret spots off the beaten path that you’ll want to check out.

One of the most popular attractions in all of Iceland is the route known as the Golden Circle. It’s one of those “must things to do in Iceland” that appears on just about every itinerary. 

So what is the Golden Circle exactly?

In short, it is a famous driving loop that passes by three main sights:

• Thingvellir National Park:  the place where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet
• Geysir:  a geothermal valley with a frequently-erupting geyser
• Gullfoss:  a massive waterfall

These three attractions are well-developed and easily accessible for people of most ages and abilities, making it a good addition to most visitors’ first trip to Iceland, even if you’re only in the country for a short time.

Golden Circle Iceland Guide

Where is the golden circle.

• How to plan your route
• Golden Circle map
• How long does it take?

Golden Circle main attractions

• Off-the-beaten-path attractions on the Golden Circle
• Bonus stops  near  the Golden Circle
• Golden Circle itineraries
• Tour vs. Self-drive
• Recommended Golden Circle tours
• Best time to visit the Golden Circle

Golden Circle FAQs

Where to eat on the golden circle, where to stay on the golden circle.

• What to pack

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve traveled to Iceland 3 times now and spent weeks living in a campervan, traveling around the country. We’ve been able to explore a lot of what Iceland has to offer!

We’ve complied our experience to create the  perfect Iceland itinerary . Our itinerary is for 7-9 days and meant to be explored while traveling in a campervan. It includes the  highlights of the southern coast of Iceland. 

We’ll send you our complete 7-9 day customizable itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  perfect Iceland itinerary  today!

This popular driving route in southwest Iceland loops from Reykjavík past three major attractions and back to Reykjavík.

How to plan your Golden Circle route

We’ve driven the Golden Circle route twice and have gathered all sorts of tips for the main attractions. Plus, we’re sharing some off-the-beaten-path stops you’ll miss out on if you don’t know what you’re looking for. (And in our opinion, some of these hidden gems are even cooler than the big names!)

In this article, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about planning your Golden Circle trip while in Iceland.

Golden Circle route map

How long does the Golden Circle route take?

• Golden Circle distance:  246 kilometers (153 miles)
• Golden Circle drive time  (return trip to Reykjavík): 3.5 hours (this does not include time at stops or additional attractions along the way)
• Our recommendation:  allocate between 6-10 hours, depending on how many additional stops you’d like to include

In short, you can easily drive the Golden Circle as a day trip from Reykjavík, and get back to town in time for dinner. Alternatively, you can take your time and stretch it out over two days if you’d prefer.

The total drive time from Reykjavík to the three main attractions and  back  to Reykjavík is just about 3.5 hours. That said, you’ll need to account for the time spent at each stop as well as any additional stops you’d like to make along the way.

We’d recommend allocating between 6-10 hours for this route so you don’t feel too rushed. 

If you really want to take your time and see some of the lesser-known sights, you may even want to plan to spend the night along the Golden Circle route so you have ample time for exploring. (This is what we did!)

The loop to just the three main attractions is roughly 153 miles (247 km). If you add in time spent at each attraction, it can add up to a good portion of your day. Plus, you’ll need to add on more driving distance and time if you want to include more stops along the way (which we’d highly recommend!).

Distances between main attractions

• Reykjavík to Thingvellir: 47 km (29 miles) / 40 minutes
• Thingvellir to Geysir: 60 km (37 miles) / 50 minutes
• Geysir to Gullfoss: 10 km (6 miles) / 10 minutes
• Gullfoss to Reykjavík (via Selfoss): 130 km (80 miles) / 1 hour 50 minutes

Good to know: Another factor to consider is whether you will be doing the Golden Circle as part of a longer road trip, or whether you need to return to Reykjavík. Personally, we  continued along the Ring Road route  after completing the Golden Circle, so we did  not  need to drive back to Reykjavík.

The Golden Circle truly only encompasses three main attractions, which we’ve listed below. 

However, there is much more in this area that is worth seeing. If you have the time, we’d highly recommend looking at our list of “off the beaten path” attractions to add to your route to make it more interesting.

Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park

Located 47 kilometers (29 miles) east of Reykjavík, this is most visitors’ first stop on the Golden Circle, and for good reason. 

Thingvellir was Iceland’s first national park, and it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. In addition to these titles, Thingvellir held an important role throughout history and has great geological importance.

Thingvellir National Park throughout History

• Þingvellir translates to “parliament plains” because this was originally where lawmakers met to settle disputes and put laws into place. While these meetings took place outdoors instead of in a fancy building, this is actually recognized as the oldest parliament in the world. The first recorded meetings took place as early as 930 A.D., which was during the age of the Vikings. 
• In 1930, Thingvellir was established as Iceland’s first National Park. 
• Thingvellir National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Centre in 2004.
• When Iceland gained its independence from Denmark on June 17, 1944, there was a huge gathering and celebration at Thingvellir.
• In modern history news, Thingvellir was a filming location for several  Game of Thrones  scenes.

Geology at Thingvellir National Park

• This is the spot where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a rift. Thingvellir is the only place in the world where you can see these two plates meeting above ground.
• Each year, these tectonic plates are drifting apart at a rate of 2 centimeters (about three-quarters of an inch).
• Silfra is the name of the fissure between these two tectonic plates, and it’s filled with glacial water that has been filtered through an underground lava system. This is the only place in the world where you can snorkel (or dive, if you have drysuit certifications)  between  two tectonic plates!

How do you pronounce Þingvellir?

I had the same question, and it’s kind of a tricky one.

While the first character in the word, “Þ”, looks like a “P” it most definitely is not. This character is known as  thorn  and has a “th” sound, so it is acceptable to spell Þingvellir as  Thingvellir .

Double Ls are another tricky one in Icelandic, as they sound more like “ti” or “til”.

My best phonetic spelling attempt of  Þingvellir  would be “thing-vet-ir”. 

Here’s a video pronunciation of Thingvellir.

Things to do in Thingvellir

• Almannagjá Gorge:  A path through this gorge quite literally brings you past the two tectonic plates, and offers up some pretty awe-inspiring views.
• Oxararfoss waterfall:  A short walk from the parking lot will lead you to this waterfall which has some interesting basalt column features.
• Lake Þingvallavatn:  Glimpse the largest natural lake in Iceland.
• Silfra Fissure:  This is the only place in the world where you can snorkel (or dive, if you have dry suit certification) between two tectonic plates! Even if you’re not getting in the water, it’s worth walking to this point where you can see the fissure from above the ground. More on this activity below!
• Þingvallakirkja:  The Thingvellir Church is situated in a beautiful setting and is fun to see while in the national park. You can even walk inside if you’d like. 
• “Heart of Iceland” exhibit:  Thingvellir has a deep history and has some of the most interesting geological features in the entire country. If you’d like to learn more about both, consider visiting the “Heart of Iceland” exhibit in the Thingvellir visitors center. It costs 1,000 ISK for adults.
• Optional stop near Thingvellir:  If you’re a waterfall buff and just can’t get enough of ‘em,  Þórufoss  is located just a short detour from the park entrance and makes a good quick stop on your way to Thingvellir. This waterfall tends to be less crowded than many others along the Golden Circle. 

Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure

This rift between the North American and Euroasian tectonic plates is one of the top-rated dive and snorkel sites in the world. It’s the only place on earth you can dive (or snorkel) between tectonic plates, so it truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The water is just above freezing and stays 2-4ºC / 35-37ºF all year round. Thankfully, the tour companies provide drysuits, which should keep you pretty warm. Being that the water originates at the Langjökull glacier and filters through volcanic rock, it is incredibly clear. We’ve heard that visibility is virtually limitless! 

Good to know:  It used to be possible to dive in the Silfra Fissure without much scuba experience. However, recent regulations have made it so divers must possess either a dry suit certification or have 10 logged drysuit dives within the last two years. 

Our personal experience:  Diving (or snorkeling) in the Silfra Fissure has been on our bucket list for years, but during our first trip to Iceland we were on an incredibly tight budget. Being that this is definitely a splurge activity, we didn’t include it in our itinerary. And on our second trip to Iceland, I was 6-months pregnant which barred me from participating. Next time we’re in Iceland, we’re definitely going!

Important Info:

• Facilities on site: Restrooms, visitors center, cafe, souvenir shop
• You can  pay for parking online

We’d recommend parking in  lot P2 , as it’s close to many of the trails

Next up on the Golden Circle route is a stop at Geysir, a geothermal field known as Haukadalur Valley. This area is famous for its boiling mud pits and geysers that erupt frequently.

On this site, there are two large geysers: Geysir and Strokkur.

Geysir is the larger of the two and documentation of its activity dates back to the thirteenth century. Apparently in its heyday, water would shoot up as high as 170 meters (230 feet). That’s taller than a 20-story building! However, today Geysir is more or less dormant. And when it does erupt, it’s not nearly as high as it once was.

But don’t worry, Strokkur is still very much active and you’ll definitely have the chance to see it erupt with boiling water in all its glory. 

As soon as you get out of your car, you’ll notice the scent of sulfur in the air and you’ll see steam in the distance. Follow the well-marked paths past bubbling mud pits and you’ll likely see a crowd gathered at one point. This is Strokkur. 

Like clockwork, this famed geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes or so, shooting a stream of boiling water 20-40 meters into the sky (65-130 feet). Think of Yellowstone’s Old Faithful, but on a smaller scale.

Fun Facts about Geysir

• Of the two main geysers at this site, Strokkur is the only one that is active. Geysir had been quiet since 2000, but suddenly erupted in 2016. However, it hasn’t erupted since then (yet!).
• Strokkur erupts very regularly, about every 5-10 minutes.

Things to do at Geysir

• The main attraction here is to walk the short path past boiling mud pits on your way to Strokkur. Depending on how long you want to spend here, you can watch this geyser erupt a few times. 
• View the pool where Geysir, which is now-dormant, sits.
• Follow the path up on the hill behind Strokkur to get a view of the Haukadalur geothermal valley from above.
• If you’re into rustic (aka undeveloped) hot springs, you may want to check out  Kualaug  which is located not far from Geysir. We haven’t personally been, but we’ve read it can get quite hot and the water is on the muddy side. If that doesn’t bother you, it looks like a unique stop on this popular path.

Important Info

• Facilities on site: restroom, visitors center, cafe
• Cost: free to enter and park

Translating to “golden falls”, this attraction is responsible for giving the Golden Circle its name. 

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and is one of the top 3 most-visited sights in Iceland, for good reason. 

Originating at the base of the Langjökull Glacier in Iceland’s highlands, the Hvítá River flows southbound where it forms the mighty waterfall known as Gullfoss. The falls itself has two cascading sections, dropping 32 meters (100+ feet) in total.  

While not the tallest nor the largest waterfall in Iceland, this unique 2-tiered beauty is truly a sight to behold. 

This powerful waterfall engulfs visitors in a heavy spray of mist and rewards them with rainbows on sunny days.

Insider Tip: If you have a camera with you, stick it inside your rain jacket or a dry bag when you’re walking through the mist to protect it.

Fun facts about Gullfoss 

• The falls is 32 meters tall (105 feet), and has two tiers
• When filming  Game of Thrones,  there were scenes filmed at this waterfall, but they were never released
• Gullfoss  translates to “golden falls”, as it is said to have a golden hue on bright, sunny days. This is also said to be how the Golden Circle gets its name.

Visiting Gullfoss

There is a paved path from the parking lot that is a short and easy walk to the falls. There is also a staircase leading to a lower viewpoint, which will bring you closer to the falls (and in turn, the mist!).

Interesting history about Gullfoss

Gullfoss was at the center of some drama back in the early 1900’s that includes deceit, corruption and an unlikely hero. If you want a short history lesson, keep reading (it’s pretty interesting!)…

In the early 1900’s, the world was just learning about hydropower and in 1907, an English businessman attempted to begin the creation of a hydroelectric plant at Gullfoss.

At the time, the land was owned by a sheep farmer, Tómas Tómasson, who declined the businessman’s offer. His reasoning,  “I will not sell my friend,”  has famously gone down in history, but he didn’t quite stop the businessman’s plan. 

Here’s the catch: Even though Tómasson declined to sell the land, he did agree to lease it to the land to the businessman, unaware that he was still plotting to carry on with building a hydroelectric plant through a loophole in the contract.

Tómasson’s daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, is the real hero here. She realized what was happening and saved up her own money to hire a lawyer to take on her case and fight to protect her beloved Gullfoss. It is said that Sigríður made the 120 kilometers (70+ miles) on foot several times to meet with officials in Reykjavík to discuss this matter. 

This legal battle was long and at times looked bleak. At one point, Sigríður threatened to throw herself into the waterfall if construction began. Even though she lost her legal case, Sigríður’s efforts were declared a success in 1929 when the businessman withdrew from the lease due to lack of funding. Gullfoss was then donated to Iceland, and remains protected to this day. 

Sigríður Tómasdóttir is hailed today as Iceland’s first true environmentalist and is one of the most beloved figures in Icelandic history. She was lucky enough to live a long life where she was able to see several ground-breaking environmental laws passed. Oh, and remember that lawyer who represented her? Well, his name was Sveinn Björnsson, and he went on to become the first president of Iceland once the country gained independence in 1944.

Okay, history lesson complete! When you’re at Gullfoss, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a plaque that is dedicated to Sigríður Tómasdóttir because now you’ll know the full, drama-filled story.

• Facilities on site:  visitor center, restrooms, gift shop, and cafe
• Cost:  free to park and enter

Want an extra dose of adventure?

Add “snowmobiling on a glacier” to your Iceland bucket list! There are tours that depart from the Gullfoss parking lot that will bring you to the nearby Langjökull Glacier. Here, you’ll suit up and hop on a snowmobile for an unrivaled experience. You’ll also explore the natural ice cave near the glacier, for a very different Golden Circle experience!

Off-the-beaten-path stops on the Golden Circle

While the Golden Circle technically just refers to the three attractions listed above, there is plenty more to see in this area. 

We’re going to go over some additional attractions you may want to add to your Golden Circle itinerary:

Walk the rim of colorful Kerið Crater

Perhaps the most colorful stop along the Golden Circle, this aquamarine lake sits inside a volcanic caldera and is flanked by red volcanic rock and bursts of lime green moss in a shocking display of Mother Nature’s artistic side.

Good to know:  Kerið Crater is pronounced “kair-ith”, as the “ð” symbol in Icelandic has a “th” sound.

After purchasing a ticket for 400 ISK ($3) at the trail entrance, you can walk the gravel trail that encircles the rim of Kerið Crater. This loop trail is just under a mile long and is relatively flat and easy and shouldn’t take much more than a half hour in total (including photo stops). You can also descend on a staircase down towards the water for a different perspective. 

Find the stats and trail notes here.

Interesting geology:  Most of the volcanic rock you see in Iceland is black, so why is the rock surrounding Kerið Crater red? Geologically speaking, Kerið Crater is quite young and therefore the iron deposits in the rock are, for lack of a better term,  fresh.  Geologists believe that this was once a volcano, and after its eruption the lava drained out, causing it to collapse and eventually fill with water. The water level fluctuates throughout the seasons and gets its piercing hue from minerals that seep from the surrounding into the water.

Fair warning:  Many of the pictures you’ll see of this crater on the Internet have been heavily edited – with the colors being enhanced to an unnatural level of saturation. While still very beautiful and colorful in real life, just beware that it may not look quite as vibrant as some photos may have you believe.

Cost:  400 ISK ($3) per person to enter, pay at the ticket booth at the trail entrance (this was the only natural attraction along the Golden Circle we visited where we had to pay an entrance fee)

Taste Rye Bread that has been baked underground at Laugarvatn Fontana

We first heard about this place from Zac Efron. Yep, that’s right, the studly star of  High School Musical  can do more than sing and dance.  But we all knew that, right?

In Netflix’s original series,  Down to Earth,  Efron explores sustainability in different places around the world, and it just so happens that the first episode takes place in Iceland and includes a visit to Laugarvatn Fontana.

Situated on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn this resort is most well-known for its lakefront baths that are heated by geothermal energy. While the hot pots looked nice enough, we had a packed day planned and passed on a soak (though if you have a flexible itinerary, go for it!). 

Instead, we opted to experience geothermal energy in a different way: by tasting bread that has been baked underground using the power of the hot springs that lie just below the earth’s surface.

Real Icelandic rye bread is definitely a  food you should try in Iceland . And if you can learn about geothermal energy while eating unlimited amounts of yummy bread, how can you pass the opportunity?!

The “rye bread tour” is just 30 minutes, but you’ll learn about geothermal cooking and get to help bury rye bread that’ll be tasted by visitors the following day. You’ll also unearth two large pots that have been cooking underground for the last 24-hours – yes, this is what you’ll get to eat! And no, even though the boiling springs have a slight sulfur smell to them, the bread doesn’t taste like it at all! 

Once the pots have been dug up, the tour finishes inside with the opportunity to sample as much bread (with Icelandic butter and smoked fish, if you’d like) as your tummy desires. I’m not ashamed to say we went back for fourths (as did most other guests!), it was  that  good. Kinda like a hearty fall cake, sweet but not  too  sweet. Warm and topped with a generous spread of butta and  ohhhh yeah…  

Eventually, we had to stop ourselves (it was difficult!) and continue on our Golden Circle route.

Do it yourself:  Book your Rye Bread Tour here . Tickets cost 2,300 ISK ($18) per person and you must make a reservation. Tours happen twice daily, at 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., so be sure to plan your Golden Circle route accordingly if you want to stop here.

Have lunch in a Greenhouse at Friðheimar Tomato Farm

Imagine eating lunch in a greenhouse surrounded by tomato vines and watching bees buzz pass on their way to pollinate. Even if it’s a typical chilly Icelandic day, the greenhouse is a welcomed retreat from the elements as it stays a balmy and consistent temperature year round. 

Did we mention that the tomatoes that surround you are the same plants that produced the food you’re currently enjoying? A true farm-to-table experience, if you ask me.

Having lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm is definitely a memorable experience to add to your Golden Circle itinerary. 

Friðheimar is famous for their “Peace Tomato Soup”, which is served buffet style (aka unlimited refills!) alongside homemade artisan breads, butter, sour cream, cucumber salsa (so good!) and fresh herbs. In addition to the soup (which you should definitely try!), there is an entire tomato-themed menu, boasting items like:

• fresh ravioli with homemade tomato sauce and pesto
• handmade Icelandic burrata served with fresh heirloom tomatoes, sea salt, basil and olive oil
• a wide assortment of twists on a classic Bloody Mary (some alcoholic and some non-alcoholic)
• green tomato and apple pie with whipped cream
• cheesecake topped with green tomato jam, lemon and cinnamon

What did we order?

• 1 “peace tomato soup”
• 1 burrata and heirloom tomatoes dish
• 1 cheesecake with green tomato jam (tastes like a tart kiwi jam!)

Total cost of lunch for two: 6,580 ISK ($55)

It was all fantastic, and we would go back again in a heartbeat. 

Fun Facts about Friðheimar Tomato Farm

As we were seated, our server gave us a brief overview of the facility, which is quite impressive. We even took notes so we could share with you!

• The farm has 9 greenhouses on site
• They produce 40% of all tomatoes in Iceland
• Staff at the greenhouses pick more than 1 ton of tomatoes per day.  That’s crazy!
• Bees inside the greenhouse are used to pollinate the plants naturally
• Leftover tomatoes are donated to social causes instead of being exported
• The greenhouses are completely run on geothermal energy
• The energy required to run this greenhouse is the equivalent of what it would take to power a town of 7,000 people! Since they solely use geothermal energy, it is totally free.

Do it yourself:  Friðheimar Tomato Farm is open year round from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day  and it is recommended that you make a reservation in advance.

Good to know:   Friðheimar Tomato Farm  is no secret. This restaurant is only open for lunch and is popular with both self-driving visitors as well as some tour companies. It is important that you make a reservation if you’d like to include this on your Golden Circle route. You can easily make a reservation using  this link . If you don’t make a reservation, it’s likely that your wait time will be an hour or more in peak season.

Hike to Brúarfoss, “Iceland’s Bluest Waterfall”

Known as the “bluest waterfall in Iceland”, we really enjoyed this stop on the Golden Circle. 

That said, the 2-hour+ round trip hike isn’t for everybody. If you’re pressed for time or just don’t feel like walking too far from the comforts of your car, this is a stop you can skip. But for those who want to stretch their legs and get away from tour buses, the hike to Brúarfoss makes a worthwhile addition to your day trip.

Important note:  There used to be a much shorter path to Brúarfoss, but it was on private property and has been closed due to tourists being disrespectful. Be sure to park in the proper lot ( here’s the location on Google Maps ) and follow the path so you don’t trespass. And for the love of all things, PLEASE clean up after yourself and do not leave trash behind. On a related note, there are no restroom facilities here, so if you think you’ll need to relieve yourself along the way,  follow Leave No Trace guidelines  and pack everything out with you. 

Brúarfoss Hike

• Distance: 7 km (4.4 miles) round trip
• Type: Out and back
• Elevation gain: roughly 500 feet* 
• Level: Easy

*Good to know:  Alltrails is one of our favorite  apps for traveling in Iceland , as it is super helpful with showing distance and elevation of hiking trails. However, the trail stats for Brúarfoss are incorrect. It is far less steep (thank goodness!) than Alltrails would have you believe. 

The hike itself is roughly 7 kilometers in total (4.4 miles) and is relatively flat as it follows the banks of the Brúará River. The source of this river is the Langjökull Glacier, which gives it a striking milky sky blue color.

Insider Tip:  Depending on the time of year you visit and the recent rainfall, there is a portion of this trail that can get very muddy. We recommend you wear hiking boots for this reason.

You can read more about what to expect at Brúarfoss and all the falls listed in this article in our  guide to the best waterfalls in Iceland .

Enjoy an ice cream cone at the source at Efstidalur II Creamery

Any other ice cream addicts out there?  Good, I knew I liked you!

Even though Iceland is objectively cold 90% of the year, ice cream is kind of a big thing here. And I’m here for it.

While there are some great ice cream shops in Reykjavík, we’d encourage you to stop at a creamery (or two!) as you road trip through the country to sample the creamy goodness from the source.

Along the Golden Circle route,  Efstidalur II Creamery  makes a good stop if you need a sweet treat and a bit of fresh air (well, air that smells a bit like cows, but still!). 

Choose from flavors like blueberry, salted caramel and even black licorice (it’s super popular in Iceland and the ice cream flavor is surprisingly mild and delicious!). Enjoy your cone or bowl of homemade dairy goodness while saying hi to the bovine ladies that were responsible for your midday treat.

• Faxi Waterfall

What  Faxi Falls  lacks in height it sure makes up for in width! This short and squatty waterfall stretches across Tungufljót River in a powerful cascade. 

Located just 18 kilometres (11 miles) south of its far more famous neighbor, Gullfoss, Faxi receives far fewer visitors. This makes it a great quick stop for waterfall lovers looking to have a peaceful moment on the Golden Circle.

See the Grave of Chess legend Bobby Fischer

If you’re a chess fan, seeing the grave of Bobby Fischer might be an interesting last stop to add to your Golden Circle route before heading back to Reykjavík. (It’s located just outside Selfoss which is on the way so it’s a quick detour.)

Not a chess fan?  Give this stop a miss (we skipped it). 

Did you know that Bobby Fischer spent the later years of his life living in Iceland? I had no clue. Apparently, he fled the United States because he was facing criminal charges for tax evasion as well as participating in a competition that violated executive orders. When Fischer passed away in 2008, he was buried in a quiet ceremony in Selfoss, Iceland. 

Do it yourself:  Here is the  location of Bobby Fischer’s grave . If you’re a real chess nerd (more power to you!), there’s a  museum nearby  dedicated to this famous chess champ.

Bonus stops  near  the Golden Circle

These places aren’t exactly along the Golden Circle route per se, but they are pretty darn close! 

We think they are well worth adding to your itinerary if you have time, especially if you plan to continue on a longer  road trip around Iceland .

Secret Lagoon

Don’t let the name fool you – the Secret Lagoon is no secret, but it is certainly less crowded than, say, the Blue Lagoon.

Said to be the oldest natural swimming pool in Iceland, the Secret Lagoon makes a relaxing stop at the end of your Golden Circle loop. 

Tickets cost 3,000 ISK ($23) per adult and it is recommended that you make reservations in advance

Good to know: In Iceland it is considered good hygiene to shower naked before entering a public pool or hot spring. Some of the more touristy (and expensive!) hot springs have private shower stalls, but the Secret Lagoon does not. Just know that it is expected that you shower naked (not in a swimsuit) prior to entering the pool and it is considered rude not to do this. Just wanted to warn ya!

Our recommendation:  Unless you have lots of extra time (aka 2 full days for the Golden Circle), we’d recommend choosing either the Secret Lagoon  or  Hrunalaug Hot Spring. They’re both very different, so continue reading to see which you’d enjoy more.

Hrunalaug Hot Spring

If you prefer your hot springs a little more on the  rustic  side, you are going to love Hrunalaug. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this small pool has a charming hut that can be used for changing. While Hrunalaug Hot Spring can apparently get quite crowded, there weren’t too many others at the time of our visit in the early evening hours. 

It was cleaner and more beautiful than I was expecting, but do know that the water won’t be as pristine or clear as the nearby Secret Lagoon. If you’re looking for more of a resort experience, that may be more your style.

Good to know: This hot spring is on private land, and at the entrance there is a box that requests 1,000 ISK for donations, as the land owner surely has to clean up after unruly tourists and spend their own time and money maintaining this pool.

Now, this little-known waterfall is not on the Golden Circle, but it makes a pretty convenient stop if you are continuing along the  Ring Road .

The waterfall is a very short walk from the small carpark, and if you’re like us, you may even have it completely to yourself (definitely a perk being that it’s so close to the Golden Circle).

Walk up the short set of stairs to get a better view of the falls, and take pleasure in the fact that you’re seeing a sight that most tourists never see.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring River

This thermal river was one of our favorite  hot spring experiences in Iceland , and making a visit here is a great addition to your Golden Circle route. That is, only if you are self-driving and have more than one day to see all the sights.

This is pretty much just like it sounds – a steamy thermal river nestled in a lush Icelandic valley. Yep, pretty much what dreams are made of.

Getting to the Reykjadalur thermal river requires a 1-hour hike each way (with a healthy dose of elevation gain). So this stop is not for those in a hurry. Your efforts will be rewarded with magical views and clean water that gets progressively hotter upstream. 

Insider Tip:  Pack a cold beverage to enjoy in this slice paradise!

Psst!  Are you interested in more hiking?? We have a whole guide to the  best hikes in Iceland  with photos, details and insider tips to help you plan your trip. 

Golden Circle Itineraries

Below, we’ll give you two different Golden Circle itineraries. 

• The first is meant for travelers who are limited on time and will be starting and ending in Reykjavík. This still packs in MANY more sights than the typical “Golden Circle loop”.
• The second itinerary is intended for travelers who will continue on a longer road trip after their Golden Circle trip, thus packing in a little more adventure!

Be sure to check out our  top things to do in Reykjavík  so you can plan your stay before and after exploring the Golden Circle!

Itinerary #1: Golden Circle Day Trip from Reykjavík

If you are doing the Golden Circle as a day trip and will return to Reykjavík at night, the itinerary below is what we’d suggest following. It is a twist on the classic Golden Circle loop, bringing you to many more destinations in order to pack a big punch in just one day.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Fontana Rye Bread @ 11:45 a.m.
• Friðheimar (reservations necessary)
• Burafoss (optional, as this entails a 2-hour round trip hike)
• Efstidalur II Creamery for ice cream
• Kerið Crater

Itinerary #2: Golden Circle with more time (1.5 days)

If you plan to include the Golden Circle as part of a longer road trip around Iceland and don’t intend to return to Reykjavík on the same day, this is the itinerary we’d suggest following. This is the route we personally followed, and we saw so much more than a typical Golden Circle tour. 

Good to know: Note that some of the stops on this itinerary are  not  actually part of the Golden Circle, but since they are nearby we think it makes sense to group them together into one route.

This route can be started midday, or you can get an earlier start 

• Hot spring river
• This seaside restaurant is known for langoustines, and it was one of our  most memorable meals in Iceland ! Definitely put this on your itinerary if you love seafood like we do!
• Kerið Crater at sunset
• Thingvellir Camping (or a nearby guesthouse)

This will be a packed day. 

• Friðheimar for lunch (reservations necessary)
• Burafoss waterfall hike (optional, as this entails a 2-hour round trip hike)
• Hrunalaug Hot Spring or Secret Hot Spring (chose one!)
• Gluggafoss Waterfall
• Camping at Hamragarðar*

*Choose a campground based where you will be headed next on your Iceland road trip. We personally chose this campground because it is very well-located (more on that below). The facilities aren’t quite as nice as many other campgrounds in Iceland, but we think its proximity to some of the best sights in the country makes up for it. 

Hamragarðar Campground

• This campground is situated just beside the stunning  Seljalandsfoss  waterfall, which is well worth seeing (especially at sunset if possible). 
• It is also a good place to begin sightseeing the following day as there are many nearby attractions. 

Additionally, if you plan to do the  Fimmvörðuháls hike , this makes a good place to start your day.

Golden Circle Tour vs. Self-drive

Are you debating whether you should book a guided Golden Circle tour or rent a car and do it yourself?

In our opinion, self-driving is without a doubt the best way to go. Driving yourself will allow you to go at your own place and stop at places along the way if you want. It also lets you customize your route to be exactly what  you  want to see. 

That said, we know it can be overwhelming to drive in another country. We have all sorts of information about  renting a car in Iceland  (with some essential tips!) plus a huge guide to  Iceland campervan rentals  you can check out for more info.

However, if the thought of self-driving is too overwhelming to you, know that there are many companies that offer organized tours around the Golden Circle.

Our Golden Circle tour recommendations

Full-Day Small Group Tour with Secret Lagoon

This budget-friendly tour includes the 3 main attractions on the Golden Circle as well as entrance to the Secret Lagoon. It earns rave reviews, includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Reykjavík, and at just over $100 per person, it won’t take too much of a toll on your budget. Plus, it is a small group tour, meaning the group size will be from 4-19 people.

Budget Golden Circle Tour

If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest tour, this one is very popular. At just under $60 per person, it’s a great value. That said, you won’t

Golden Circle + Silfra Snorkeling

If you want to be sure to experience snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure, this guided tour would be our pick. It includes all the “regular” Golden Circle stops, plus, it includes this unique snorkeling experience.

Adventurous Golden Circle + Glacier Snowmobiling

If you want a super unique Golden Circle experience, this tour includes snowmobiling on the nearby Langjökull glacier. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience! It is a bit of a splurge, so this option is a good choice for adventurous travelers with a bit of wiggle room in their budget.

Best time of year to visit the Golden Circle

One of the major draws to the Golden Circle is that it is accessible all year round and the three main attractions are open during all seasons. 

The roads are paved and well-maintained, so it shouldn’t be too difficult. Just be cautious if there has been a recent freeze or snowfall. Additionally, some of the restaurants mentioned in our article are only open seasonally, so be sure to check their hours before your visit.

If you have more questions, we did a deep dive for our article on  the best time to visit Iceland  and included all sorts of info on the seasonal changes, weather, and what you can expect in each season. 

Still have questions about the Golden Circle? Chances are we’ve answered it in the FAQs below.

Do you need a 4×4 to drive the Golden Circle?

Not at all! There are some roads in Iceland that are known as F-roads and require 4×4 vehicles. Luckily, the Golden Circle route does not include any F-roads. The entire loop is very easy to navigate and the roads are in good condition. 

That said, you’ll definitely want to read up on our  tips for driving in Iceland  so you feel prepared to conquer this route on your own. 

How can I avoid the crowds on the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is popular, and you’ll find crowds just about every day of the year. Honestly, the main attractions are pretty large and shouldn’t feel too packed even in peak season. However, there are a few ways you can avoid being in throngs of people:

• Drive the Golden Circle on your own instead of going with a tour. This will allow you to go at your own pace and avoid arriving to the attractions alongside a crowd of people. If you really want to do a guided tour, specifically choose one that is a small group instead of a coach bus.
• Go early or stay late, as most of the large tour groups are on the routeduring midday. If you’re visiting in the summertime, you can take advantage of long daylight hours. We found that before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. tended to be the least crowded times.
• Stay along the route. This will allow you to see the sights early in the morning and in the evening.
• Hit the main attractions, but also visit some of the lesser-known spots as they tend to be far less crowded.

How much does the Golden Circle cost?

Good news: All of the main attractions along the Golden Circle are free!

Bad news: Gas in Iceland ain’t cheap! If you’re self-driving, this will likely be your largest cost (along with your car rental, of course). 

You’ll also need to factor in money for food (whether you cook your own meals or eat at restaurants) and any entry fees for the off-the-beaten-path attractions that strike your fancy, like the rye bread tasting experience, visiting Kerið Crater, or soaking in a nearby hot spring. For each attraction that has a fee, we’ve included a price in the description so you can plan accordingly.

If you choose to do a Golden Circle tour, expect to pay between $60 and $200 per person, depending on the type of tour. 

Why is it called the Golden Circle?

This route gets its name from Gullfoss, as it translates from Icelandic to mean “golden falls”. It is said to have a golden hue on sunny days. While not the most creative of names for this loop, it was created mostly as a way to market these attractions to visitors.

Is the Golden Circle worthwhile?

This is a pretty subjective question, and the answer will vary from person to person. 

Being that it’s one of the most popular attractions, we’d say it’s definitely worth putting on your  Iceland itinerary  as there are some incredible sights on this route that are famous for a reason. 

However, if we’re totally honest, the Golden Circle wouldn’t be included in our personal list of favorite places in Iceland. 

Here are our honest opinions on each of the three major attractions: 

• Gullfoss is a seriously impressive waterfall and well worth seeing if you can. That said, there are other waterfalls in Iceland we enjoyed much more.
• Thingvellir National Park is a really unique place geologically, as it is where the Euroasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Visually, it’s not as interesting (in our opinion) as some of the other sights in Iceland.
• Geysir is a pretty short stop for most visitors, and while it’s cool to see, it likely won’t make it into your top memories in Iceland. 

In short: If it’s your first time visiting Iceland and want to see as much as possible, do it. I think you’d regret leaving it out. However, if you are really limited in time or are only looking for unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, you could potentially leave it out of your itinerary.

Can you do the Golden Circle in one day?

Yes! You can easily visit all the attractions on the Golden Circle in a day trip from Reykjavik .

The Golden Circle route is a 246-kilometer (153 miles) loop from Reykjavik that can easily be driven in a day. The route will take about 3.5 hours to drive without stops , so if you account to time spent at each attraction, you can see there is easily enough time in one day.

Friðheimar : Warm up from the chilly Icelandic temps inside this tomato greenhouse where you can enjoy all sorts of dishes from their tomato-focused menu. Be sure to get an order of their famous “Peace Tomato Soup”, which is fantastic. While you’re eating, be sure to take in the whole experience – from the tomato plants that surround you to the bees that buzz around as they pollinate. Dining inside a greenhouse is an experience you can’t have every day, after all! 

Farmers Bistro : Dine at Iceland’s only mushroom farm for a unique foodie experience. In addition to mushrooms, they cultivate bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, kale and more – all of which make appearances on their menu. Enjoy their “gourmet buffet”, which includes mushroom soup (lactose and gluten free), homemade garlic bread, bell pepper jam, sautéed mushrooms with butter and  thyme, bell-pepper & mushroom tapenade, marinated mushroom, mushroom butter, garlic butter & butter. It’s truly a mushroom-lover’s fantasy!

Efstidalur II Creamery : Make a quick stop here during your Golden Circle route to stretch your legs, see the resident cows, and enjoy an ice cream cone, of course! They also have a food menu, which is said to be good, if you’re feeling a bit more hungry at this point.

Restaurant Minilik : If you’re looking for food other than Icelandic options, this Ethiopian joint in Flúðir will surely impress. With authentic dishes, vegetarian options, and a cozy setting, this place earns rave reviews. Who knew you could get stellar Ethiopian food in the middle of Iceland?!

Fish & Chips :  This casual stand in Flúðir serves up one thing – fish & chips (with yummy housemade garlic sauce). If you’re looking for an inexpensive and quick dining option, this is a great choice, especially before or after a soak in one of the nearby hot springs.  

Fjöruborðið : While not on the Golden Circle route, we’ve include this seaside restaurant in Itinerary #2 because it is not too far out of the way. If you’re a seafood lover (like we are!), you’ll love this place. Their menu is focused on one thing – langoustines (also known as “Icelandic lobsters”). Do yourself a favor and order both the grilled langoustines (large size!) and the langoustine soup. We ordered one of each for the two of us and were super satisfied, but you can also order a 3-course menu which includes both dishes as well as dessert. This is definitely a “splurge meal”, but oh so worth it!

Thinking about taking your time along the Golden Circle? Good for you! If you have room in your itinerary, it’s nice to not be too rushed.

We drove the Golden Circle in our  campervan rental , which made it easy for us to find places to stay along the way. We have an entire  guide to camping in Iceland  with our best campsite recommendations. 

If camping is not your thing, here are our top recommendations for places to stay in the region:

Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse

A top-rated hostel located within the Golden Circle Iceland and overlooking Lake Laugarvatn, Hekla Volcano and the Eyjafjallajökull Glacier. Set in a former 1920’s school building, Héradsskólinn offers both private rooms and dorm-style accommodation, and an onsite bistro and cafe. 

Efstidalur Farm hotel

A beautiful farmhouse turned bed and breakfast in Laugarvatn, Iceland, perfectly situated within the Golden Circle region. They offer horseback riding during the summertime, traditional cooking and a geothermal outdoor hot tub. 

Airbnb: Breidablik Cabin

A beautifully decorated 3 bedroom home with all kinds of amenities like a fireplace, in-home laundry and home theater set up. Outside on the large deck you’ll find a BBQ grill and private hot tub. One of the best deals for families or small groups and perfectly located to explore the Golden Circle. 

If you’re looking for more options, we have an entire article on the  best Airbnbs in Iceland  with stays in locations all around the country, including the Golden Circle.

What to pack for visiting the Golden Circle Iceland

Packing for a trip to Iceland is tough (the weather changes all the time!). But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a  super detailed packing list  so you know exactly what to bring. 

In this  free Iceland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women  and  men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Iceland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Iceland?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Iceland and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect Iceland Itinerary
• Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavík
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Exclusive Discount!)
• Best Airbnbs in Iceland (+ Top Rated Experiences!)

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The Golden Circle of Iceland: a Detailed Guide and a Map of 22 Top-rated Attractions

• Last Updated: November 2, 2022
• Norbert Zohó

Although a fairly small island nation, Iceland is packed with stunning natural beauty and exciting adventures.

Think of traveling through spectacular countryside to admire multi-level cascades, powerful geysers, bubbling pools, lava fields, and rugged cliffs. Over time, locals and visitors alike have created the perfect route around some of Iceland’s natural highlights: The Golden Circle. The looped route takes in many of Iceland’s best bits, for a memorable experience in the Land of Fire and Ice.

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you on your exciting journey. You’ll find tons of recommendations and tips, covering famous attractions and thrilling activities, so you can really experience the best of Iceland.

What is the Golden Circle?

Map of the golden circle – attractions and detours, how long does it take to drive the golden circle, getting around the golden circle, when should you visit the golden circle, thingvellir national park, geysir geothermal area, gullfoss waterfall, thingvallakirkja church, gjabakkahellir cave, silfra fissure, laugarvatn fontana geothermal baths, sólheimar eco-village, faxi waterfall, kerid crater, slakki petting zoo and family park, the secret lagoon, helgufoss waterfall, brúarfoss waterfall, hvítá river and drumbó base camp, fridheimar tomato and horse farm, reykjadalur valley, the historical town of skálholt, thorufoss waterfall, efstidalur farm, bobby fischer center, langjokull glacier, thjorsardalur valley.

Iceland’s Golden Circle is one of the most famous and most popular routes for tourists. The circle reference is because it follows a loop, although you may also hear it referred to as the Golden Triangle. This stems from the fact that the route encompasses three particularly gorgeous destinations. You can visit a regularly spouting geyser, a thundering waterfall, and a UNESCO-listed site .

If you’re wondering about the golden part of the Golden Circle, it’s not just because the area is full of natural treasures. It actually takes its name from one of the main waterfalls along the loop: Gullfoss. In the Icelandic tongue, the name Gullfoss translates as Golden Falls.

There’s another cool driving loop in northern Iceland with a similar name: the Diamond Circle.

Unique features and dramatic landscapes are abundant throughout the region, and hotspots are so close to each other that it’s perfectly possible to hit them all up in just a day. Not to mention the fact that it’s tough to find such an area of geological wonder elsewhere across the globe.

Almost all travelers to Iceland want to experience the marvels along the Golden Circle. Combining natural splendor, picturesque scenes, traditional cuisine, and friendly local hospitality, it’s no wonder that the route is so popular. Within easy reach of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is an ideal day-trip destination from the capital.

To simply drive the Golden Circle takes around four hours. This is, however, without stopping. The whole point of the loop is to experience a number of Iceland’s beautiful natural sites—so you would definitely want to plan at least a few stops and allot extra time to your adventure.

Many organized tours take a full day, around seven or eight hours, including a break for lunch. We would recommend you plan to spend the same amount of time exploring the Golden Circle, perhaps even longer if you have the independence and flexibility that comes with driving yourself.

There are two main options for enjoying a trip around the Golden Circle: hiring a car or joining a private- or bus tour.

There are no public transport connections between the major attractions. Many are fairly remote, so it looks unlikely that this situation will change in the future.

In our opinion, driving yourself around the Golden Circle is the best way to fully enjoy your day. There’s no need for 4WD or any modified or specialized vehicles; you can explore the route in a regular 2WD car or campervan. Driving yourself gives you all the flexibility to tailor your day to your tastes. You can spend as much or as little time at places as you wish, break for lunch and restroom stops at any time, follow interesting detours, and really make the day what you want it to be.

Top tip: Although you should have no problem finding gas stations along the route, always begin your adventures with a full tank of gas.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving yourself around Iceland, or if you want to sit back and relax while somebody else does the driving, there are numerous Golden Circle tours to choose between. You can leave Reykjavik in the morning with a guide and hit the highlights before returning to the city in the evening.

You can visit Iceland at any time of the year, so the best time to visit the Golden Circle largely depends on your tastes and preferences.

In the summertime, you can enjoy longer hours of daylight and bright, sunny days. You can spend longer enjoying the sights without having to rush back to the city before darkness falls. In the winter, you can enjoy the icy landscapes and might even spot the wondrous Northern Lights. Each time of year offers a different, but amazing, experience.

Must-visit Attractions on the Golden Circle Route

Assuming you start the Golden Circle loop traveling clockwise, you’ll come to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park. Written in English as Thingvellir, it was the country’s first national park. It has cultural as well as geological significance.

The Althing, Iceland’s first parliament, was located at Thingvellir. The parliament first met here in the year 930 AD, some half a century after the country was first settled. Meetings took place during the warmer summer months with Icelandic people coming from all around the country.

Parliamentary sessions covered various matters, including judicial hearings and implementing legislation. The parliament played a huge role in shaping the cultural heritage that can be experienced in Iceland today.

Thingvellir was specifically chosen as the location for the Althing because it was fairly convenient to access from different parts of Iceland. Parliament continued to sit at Thingvellir up to the late 1790s.

Thingvellir isn’t just a special historic and cultural place though; it also has lots of fascinating geological aspects and nature.

The island of Iceland sits across two continental plates: the North American Plate and the Eurasian Plate. As the two plates gradually move away from each other, a gaping rift is created on the Earth’s surface. Thingvellir is in the rift valley, and visitors can not only see the huge cracks, but it’s also possible to go walking in the unusual fissures. Some areas have water, and it’s possible to snorkel and dive in the chasms.

Don’t miss visiting Oxararfoss waterfall while in the national park. The pretty cascade is around a 10-minute walk from the carpark. A number of walking trails lead through the park if you have longer to spend here.

You may recognize some spots as you explore, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan. Several scenes were filmed around the national park. See the Bloody Gate from Season 4, marking the path to the Eyrie. If you want to discover even more GOT locations, check out our Game of Thrones guide for Iceland.

There are no entry charges for Thingvellir National Park, though small parking charges apply if you’re driving yourself. With so much to see and do, plan to spend at least an hour (perhaps longer) at the national park.

Continuing clockwise for about an hour from Thingvellir National Park, the next must-see attraction is Geysir Geothermal Area / Field.

The name Geysir means to gush, and it’s where the word geyser (a hot spring that sometimes spurts hot jets of water and steam) originates from. Indeed, the first written record of a geyser is the one at Geysir.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that you’ll find plenty of geothermal magic at Geysir Geothermal Area. There are hot springs, bubbling pools of heated water, warm mud pots, fissures that belch steam and gases (fumaroles), and, of course, geysers. You’ll find two of the most famous geysers in Iceland here, the namesake Geysir and the frequently erupting Strokkur.

Thought to have been erupting for some 10,000 years, Geysir is fairly inactive these days. If you are lucky enough to catch the famous geyser in action, though, you’re in for a real treat—boiling water shoots more than 120 meters into the air, surrounded by a cloud of steam.

Sitting close to Geysir is Strokkur, the area’s main star for most visitors today. Eruptions occur every five to ten minutes, with the reliable and frequent jets a marvelous sight to behold. Water and steam typically reach between 15 and 20 meters high, though they can sometimes be as high as 40 meters.

Do take care when exploring the area, as there’s lots of boiling water leaking from the ground in many places. Additionally, steam can be scalding too. Stick to the marked walking paths and don’t go beyond safety ropes; it’s for your own safety and wellbeing!

There are no charges to enter Geysir Geothermal Area, and there’s also free onsite parking.

The third major destination along the Golden Circle is Gullfoss Waterfall (golden falls), the beautiful falls after which the Golden Circle is named. One of the most spectacular cascades in the whole country, it’s definitely worthy of a place on any Iceland bucket list.

Just a short drive of around ten minutes from Geysir, Gullfoss sits on the Hvítá River. The falls are split into two levels. The first tier is around 11 meters high, while the second level is almost twice as high, at around 21 meters. The two stages are broken by wide steps that completely cross the river’s width. Around 138,753 liters of water gushes over the immense falls every single second during the summer.

The falls are truly amazing when viewed from any vantage point. You can see the cascades from two main areas, with higher and lower observation points. Follow the steps that link the two main areas for different views. With more time to enjoy the mighty falls, you can also follow the river at the top of the waterfall for yet another perspective.

Gullfoss is spectacular at all times of the year. In the summer, the falls are surrounded by verdant foliage and you may catch rainbows sparkling in the spray. Over the winter, snow-covered landscapes engulf the falls for as far as the eye can see.

The site has a visitor center, cafe, and shop. There are two parking areas, one at the top of the falls and one at the bottom. There’s no charge to park and it’s free to visit the stunning waterfall.

Other Recommended Attractions and Things to Do Near the Golden Circle

A church has stood at Thingvellir since Christianity arrived in the area. The present church dates back to 1859. It’s a quaint church with attractive interiors. Thingvallakirkja Church is open daily from 9 am to 5 am during the summer.

Another attraction to add to your list if spending more time in Thingvellir National Park is the fascinating Gjabakkahellir. It’s a 364-meter-long lava tube that was created during a volcanic eruption around 9,000 years ago. You can enter the lava tube from either end, and it’s just a short walk from the road. An unusual sight, the lava tube is especially enchanting in the winter when ice sculptures form in the darkness.

Silfra Fissure is a relatively new chasm between the North American and Eurasian continental plates. The fissure was formed after a large earthquake in the late 1780s. The gap in the Earth’s surface is filled with meltwater from one of Iceland’s biggest glaciers, Langjökull.

It takes around a century for the meltwater to travel 30 miles via a lava field to fill up the fissure. The water is, therefore, incredibly pure. It’s possible to see up to 100 meters under the clear water. Snorkeling and diving here is certainly unique and exciting.

There are numerous geothermal springs and pools around Iceland, including the renowned Blue Lagoon near the capital to warm rivers and hot pools in various parts of the country. Many visitors dream of soaking in Iceland’s hot springs.

There are several places where you can relax in geothermal waters around the Golden Circle, including the popular Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths. The naturally warm water at Laugarvatn Fontana has been attracting visitors since 1929.

You can soak up the glorious lake vistas while bathing in relaxingly warm pools, soak in hot tubs, and rejuvenate in steam rooms and the sauna. You can also brace yourself and take a dip in the shimmering cold waters of the lake.

Don’t miss trying the local lava bread too. The facility bakes its own bread, taking around 24 hours from start to finish using geothermal heat. The time is well worth it, though, as the bread is super tasty!

This tour takes you around the essential sights of the Golden Circle and includes admission to Fontana spa: The Golden Circle & Fontana Wellness

Established in 1930, Sólheimar is the oldest eco-village in Europe. It’s also among the oldest such villages across the globe.

With a permanent community of around 100 people, the village was created using a combination of Christian teachings and the musing of Rudolf Steiner, a famous philosopher.

The unique sustainable village is one of Iceland’s biggest suppliers of organic produce. Pop into the cafe, situated inside a greenhouse heated by geothermal energy, for healthy refreshments. You can also pick up locally grown organic vegetables and delectable baked goods in the shop. The shop also sells terrific souvenir items, such as artisan wooden toys, handmade soaps and candles, pottery, arts, and crafts.

Visit the exhibition area to learn more about sustainable living and eco-friendly architecture. There are regular events, including art workshops, music recitals, sporting events, and informative lectures. The village is also home to a couple of guesthouses if you fancy experiencing the eco-lifestyle for longer.

Located on the Tungufljót River, Faxi Waterfall is sometimes said to be a mini version of the more famous Gullfoss Waterfall. Although the water only falls around seven meters in total, the waterfall’s main beauty is in its 80-meter width. The flow of water is said to be like that of Gullfoss, although Faxi definitely isn’t as thunderous!

Sometimes also known as Vatnsleysufoss, Faxi Waterfall’s name is thought to come from the Icelandic word fax, which is a horse’s mane. The cascades do seem to take on a flow rather like that of a mane as the horse gallops through the wind.

Peaceful and scenic, Faxi Waterfall has another interesting aspect; there’s a man-made ladder for fish at the side! The ladder was constructed to assist salmon when trying to swim upstream. The river is teeming with salmon and is a popular spot for fishing.

The stunning Kerid Crater is a common stop on Golden Circle day trips. Located close to Selfoss, just off Route 5, the beautiful caldera was created around 6,500 years ago.

The water-filled crater shimmers in the sunlight, the aquamarine waters contrasting perfectly with the colorful rocks around the edges. The rocks are hues of deep orange and red, with green and black streaks breaking up the fiery tones.

The oval shape of the crater creates wonderful acoustics, and a number of performers have held concerts in this magical place.

There’s a small charge to enjoy the crater, and there’s a car park close by.

A terrific family-friendly stop along the Golden Circle, Slakki Petting Zoo and Family Park has plenty to keep little ones happy. Come face to face with a range of small creatures, including rabbits, dogs, cats, cows, and sheep. There are fish in the aquariums and birdlife includes chickens, ducks, and geese. Call into the restaurant for a tasty meal, and escape the weather with a game of indoor mini-golf.

Located in Fludir, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool. Built in the early 1890s, it is known locally as Gamla Laugin. Filled by the nearby hot springs, the pool’s water maintains a pleasant year-round temperature of 38-40°C (100-104°F).

After a period of disrepair and disuse, the pool opened to the public again in 2014. Facilities include bathrooms, changing rooms, and a cafe.

Feel your cares simply drifting away as you unwind in the warm waters and enjoy the views. You can also follow the walking trail around the pool for great views of the geothermal landscapes.

The Secret Lagoon isn’t so secret these days and is rapidly growing in popularity among tourists. It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

While Gullfoss Waterfall is the most famous waterfall around the Golden Circle, the route boasts a number of other superb falls too. Tucked away from the main road, these hidden jewels are well worth a stop when driving yourself around the loop.

Helgufoss Waterfall is one such cascading beauty. Situated in the Mosfellsdalur Valley, it lies just a short distance from Route 36 between Reykjavik and Thingvellir. Water tumbles 12 meters down a moss-covered cliff, with pastoral scenes stretching into the distance.

This magnificent waterfall is like many other waterfalls in Iceland, something you should not miss. It is often called Iceland’s bluest waterfall. Brúarfoss is part of the Brúará river, which is composed of meltwater from Langjökull glacier. It runs wide above the waterfall and then the water falls into a narrow crack in the middle of the riverbed.

The waterfall is located between Geysir Geothermal Area and Laugarvatn on road no. 37.

The hiking trail starts from the carpark by the river and the distance to the waterfall is around 3 km one way. During this trail, you will also see two other beautiful waterfalls: Hlauptungufoss and Miðfoss .

The Hvítá River is sourced from Hvítárvatn, a glacial lake created by meltwater from the large glacier of Langjökull. It is the Hvítá River that flows through Iceland’s famous Gullfoss Waterfall.

It’s one of the country’s most beloved rivers for rafting and tours by river jet, and locals often enjoy fishing for salmon in the beautiful milky-blue waters. River tours lead through eye-catching scenery, with soaring basalt columns and impressive rock formations surrounding the canyon.

The family-operated Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm is situated around half an hour’s drive from Gullfoss Waterfall. Something of an unusual attraction in Iceland, tomatoes thrive in the greenhouses, with heat and light to replicate conditions in the Mediterranean region. It’s certainly rather strange to experience such a farm, especially when the weather outside is cold and wet.

The farm uses eco-friendly energy and modern technology, with naturally heated geothermal waters providing the necessary heat for the plants. Computerized climate-control systems monitor the temperature, lighting, humidity, and gas emissions inside the greenhouses to ensure the perfect growing conditions for the three varieties of tomatoes. The farm produces around 370 tons of tomatoes each year. Cucumbers are also grown here.

Learn more about the farm and taste the fruits of its labor in the restaurant. Set amid the plants in a toasty warm greenhouse, the eatery dishes up a variety of tomato-based dishes. From steaming bowls of tomato soup and mussels in a tomato seafood sauce to sweet treats like green tomato and apple pie and tomato-flavored ice cream, there’s something to suit any tomato-lover’s palate. You can even sip on tomato beer while dining!

Often a hit with younger visitors, the farm is also known for its horses. The farm breeds and shows horses, with several having proudly won first prize in events. Fridheimar Farm holds its own horse showing event each summer, called “A Meeting with the Icelandic Horse”. Attendees can learn all about the Icelandic horse, first brought to the island in the first century AD by early Scandinavian settlers.

The picturesque Reykjadalur, AKA the Valley of Steam, is a geothermal area near to the southern town of Hveragerði. A warm river flows through the area, perfect for bathing. Hot springs feed the river with boiling water, which is then cooled with rainwater and glacial meltwater. The result is a river that varies in temperature depending on the location—move up or down the flow to find your ideal temperature before plunging in.

Reykjadalur is also a popular spot for summertime hiking. Colorful wildflowers and lush greenery fill the valley and hills, and the natural chemicals from underground stain the soil in striking shades of red, yellow, green, and blue.

During the medieval era, Skálholt was one of Iceland’s major towns. Between the 1050s and 1780s, it was a significant hub for political matters, education, religion, and culture. In times gone by, it was the largest town in the whole of Iceland.

In the past, the area was surrounded by farms, smithies, and workshops, and there was also a monastery. In 1056, Iceland’s first official school was created in Skálholt, set up to provide an education for the clergy.

Tourists visit Skálholt today to learn more about the town’s important history and heritage. Over the summer months of July and August, the cathedral hosts a weekend music festival.

Thurufoss Waterfall is another attractive waterfall on the Golden Circle. Located on the Laxá í Kjós River, water flows over a few rocks and steps before crashing down a larger cascade. The final drop is wide and the waterfall has a rather unusual shape. Surrounded by raw, natural scenery, the offbeat waterfall is certainly worth a quick detour and photo stop if you’re driving yourself along the Golden Circle route. Follow Road 48 after Helgufoss Waterfall to reach a small parking area, from where you can enjoy Thorufoss.

The family-run Efstidalur Farm is a great stopping place on the Golden Circle. See the farm’s dairy cows and enjoy ice cream made using milk from the quaint farm. The homemade organic ice creams come in a variety of flavors. There’s also a restaurant where you can savor fresh, local tastes if you want something more substantial.

Situated in Selfoss, the Bobby Fischer Centre, known locally as Fischersetur, is one of just a few global museums in honor of a chess player. Learn all about the museum’s namesake—Bobby Fischer—who was a famous American chess player that spent three years living in Iceland.

In 1972, Bobby Fischer won the World Chess Championship. You can also visit the chess legend’s final resting place at the nearby Laugardaelir Church.

The museum opens from mid-May to mid-September. There’s a small admission cost.

If you’re looking to combine a thrilling activity with your Golden Circle tour, try exciting snowmobiling at the dazzling Langjokull Glacier. On clear days, the sweeping views are incredible. There’s plenty of beauty to enjoy through the windows simply driving to the starting point too!

You can book a snowmobile tour on its own or add on a visit to a spectacular ice cave for even more adventure. Tour organizers collect participants from the nearby Gullfoss Waterfall.

Fans of off-the-beaten-track explorations should consider taking a detour to the remote Thjorsardalur Valley. Part of the Southern Highlands, visiting the valley on your excursion will add on an extra couple of hours. With a myriad of stunning natural attractions, the extra drive is well worth it!

Marvel at superb waterfalls that see few visitors, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance far from the crowds. Haifoss, Hjalparfoss, and Granni are just a few of the splendid cascades to visit in the picturesque Thjorsardalur Valley.

You can also enjoy hiking in the expansive Burfells Wood, something of an Icelandic forest rarity for its large size. Spot an array of flora, such as vibrant wildflowers, verdant trees, and various species of grass and moss.

Which of these amazing spots would you love to visit for your holiday? Get in touch  with our travel experts to start planning your  tailor-made vacation in Iceland .

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The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Golden Circle

Why Should You Visit the Golden Circle?

What is the golden circle in iceland.

• Thingvellir National Park
• The Geysir Geothermal Area

Gullfoss Waterfall

When is the best time to see the golden circle, the classic golden circle route map, how far is the golden circle from reykjavik, where to stay near the golden circle, the top 5 best golden circle itineraries and tours, the best way to see the golden circle, top 9 detours on the golden circle route, 9. skalholt, 8. thjorsardalur valley, 7. solheimar eco-village, 6. helgufoss and thorufoss waterfalls, 5. fridheimar tomato and horse farm, 4. snowmobiling on langjokull glacier, 3. secret lagoon in fludir, 2. kerid crater, 1. fontana geothermal baths.

Learn everything you need to know about Iceland's amazing Golden Circle route. Discover spectacular natural sights, such as bursting geysers, roaring waterfalls, and a fissure between two tectonic plates.

The Golden Circle is Iceland's most popular sightseeing trail. You can combine it with a number of other activities and excursions, and should browse the largest selection of  Golden Circle tours  in Iceland before you plan your trip there.

Driving to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik is also easy and here you can find the cheapest car rental in Iceland . Most  self-drive tours in Iceland visit the Golden Circle as it is one of the premier attractions in the country. You can easily book accommodation in Iceland near the Golden Circle route so you don't have to worry about getting back to Reykjavik while in the countryside.

Continue reading this article to learn more about the best route to the Golden Circle, worthy stops along the way, main highlights, and must-see attractions. You can also save a number of Golden Circle maps and itineraries to your travel plan.

The Golden Circle itinerary is an easy and efficient way to see three of Iceland's top attractions in a day, whether you take a group tour or opt for driving yourself .  Each stop offers insight into Iceland's geologic history, not to mention excellent photo opportunities.

The Golden Circle consists of three equally stunning locations in Southwest Iceland: 

• The Geysir Geothermal Area

Only the city of Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon compete with these destinations in terms of popularity, and the reasons for the Golden Circle's fame are numerous. 

In this article, we'll cover all three attractions.

  Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a unique site in Iceland as its both historically significant as well as being a geological wonder. 

It has the honor of being the first of Iceland's three national parks to be established. It's also the only one that has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status. 

Considered the first stop on the Golden Circle, the park is only 29 miles (47 kilometers) from Reykjavik.

It's a place where dramatic geology meets a millennium of fascinating history. Here, visitors to Thingvellir can discover the roots of this island's formation and how the Icelandic settlers formed their leaderless society.

The park's unique geology comes from its location between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which create the rift valley that runs through Iceland.

Iceland is the only country where this valley, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, can be seen above sea level. Nowhere is it more visible than in Thingvellir National Park.

When you enter the park from Reykjavik, you'll drive towards a sheer cliff that is, in fact, a corner of the North American continent. The Eurasian continent is several miles away, on the far side of the park, and is equally dramatic to look at once you reach it.

A magma pocket formed between these plates, rising as they moved apart. This venting was responsible for creating Iceland millions of years ago.

Their continued separation is the reason that Iceland has such fascinating volcanic activity. The island as a landmass is still very young and still in its formation, which is why the land feels very much alive.

Visitors can find evidence of this process all across Thingvellir. The area consists of long stretches of lava rock, and many volcanoes surround the park, rising above Thingvallavatn , Iceland's largest natural lake.

The park has grown over with vegetation since the last eruption, over 2,000 years ago. 

The beautiful, tender moss that creeps over the Icelandic landscape now covers the lava fields, while many parts of the area are forested with native birch trees and imported pines.

The ravines opened by these quakes are filled with fresh water that melts from the Langjokull glacier and travels underground through the porous lava rock toward Thingvallavatn lake.

This long filtration process means that when the water emerges from springs in these cracks, it's devoid of any sediment and crystal clear. 

Visibility exceeds 330 feet (100 meters), which makes walking through the area that much more scenic and makes for some magical diving and snorkeling  opportunities.

While these activities do not seem to befit Iceland's climate, dry-suit technology advancements mean that the 36 F (2 C) water is more than accessible, even during the winter.

Qualified guides take groups multiple times a day on this increasingly popular adventure through the most beautiful of these ravines, the Silfra fissure.

Snorkeling in Silfra is available to almost everyone over the age of sixteen who knows how to swim. 

The dry suits are buoyant enough to act as a life jacket, and Silfra has a gentle current that helps guests move through the fissure.

Diving tours, however, require you to be a qualified PADI Open Water Scuba Diver and experienced in dry suit diving.

The underwater world here is incredibly beautiful, and the fact that guides conduct the Silfra diving tour between the tectonic plates makes it all the more exciting.

Silfra has been voted one of the top ten dive sites in the world. You can read more about diving and snorkeling in Iceland in this article.

If you wish to see where the earth is tearing apart but want to stay fully dry, it's possible to walk in the Almannagja gorge . This stunning valley displays how the area's geological processes work and leads to a lovely waterfall called Oxararfoss . 

However, Thingvellir's incredible location and fascinating geology have nothing to do with why it received National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site status. 

It received that title due to its compelling history. To learn Thingvellir's history is to understand the history of the Icelandic people . The first permanent settlers to Iceland came in the late 800s and were largely vagabond clans who refused to bend the knee to the first King of Norway, Harald Fairhair. 

In 930 AD, they decided that some sort of collective government could ease disputes on the island, and each of the thirty or so groups present sent someone to represent them.  

They deemed their meeting place 'the fields of assembly,' which translates to Thingvellir. 

This first assembly was so successful that the tradition continued year after year, decade after decade, and century after century, eventually evolving into a parliament.

The institution endured after Norway took over the Icelandic Commonwealth in 1262 and transferred into the clutches of the Danish crown in 1380. Since its establishment over a millennium ago, the parliament was only interrupted for one period, from 1799 to 1844.  

After that, it was relocated to Reykjavik, but its function remained the same.

This history makes the Icelandic Althingi (parliament) the world's oldest representative parliament that's still in session.

While the populations of Europe endured feudalism without a thought to any democratic process, the 'heathens' of Iceland created a representative system that would act as a model to many who followed it. 

Because of these roots, Iceland declared Thingvellir a National Park in 1930, precisely 1,000 years after the assembly there.

UNESCO eventually declared it a World Heritage Site in 2004. Not just for its natural beauty, but because it was the most important site in Icelandic history for centuries, Thingvellir witnessed many significant changes as the nation developed.

Even after the parliament site moved to Reykjavik, the area remained relevant to Icelanders. It was the ceremonial site of Iceland's declaration of independence in 1944 and where the parliament appointed the country's first president, Sveinn Bjornsson.

Thingvellir's history, combined with its beauty and geology, demonstrates why the park is such a popular destination. It is, however, only one of three iconic sites on the classic Golden Circle route.

The Geysir Geothermal Area

The second stop on the Golden Circle is the Geysir Geothermal Area, located within the Haukadalur valley . 

It's a 37-mile (60-kilometer) drive from Thingvellir. Steaming vents and chimneys are visible along the way and notably concentrated in the village of Laugarvatn , located halfway between Thingvellir and Geysir. 

This settlement has a spa heated by hot water currents beneath the ground's surface. Its steam rooms sit on top of bubbling hot pots that reach a sweltering 140 F (60 C). 

However, at Haukadalur valley, this geothermal activity becomes even more intense. Visitors can see the steam rising from miles away. Many hot pools, clay pots, and fumaroles dot the area. Minerals vividly color the hills and soil.

It would be a fascinating enough site even without the two geysers that make it famous.

The first of these is the one that gave all others their name: the Great Geysir . 

Geysir is the earliest documented geyser in European literature, and its name comes from the Old Norse verb 'to gush.'

Geysir rarely erupts, but its neighbor, Strokkur geyser, goes off every ten minutes, throwing water from 66 to 132 feet (20 to 40 meters) into the air.

The original Geysir is primarily inactive these days because of local tectonic activity and intrusive human intervention. Studies show that it has existed for about 10,000 years and tends to erupt in cycles. Usually, an earthquake will trigger it, and it will then slowly peter out over time. 

However, even when it's erupting, it's unpredictable in both timing and consistency. For example, in the early 1910s, it was known to erupt every half-hour, yet its activity had almost ceased by 1916.

Tired of the fact that their country's most famous landmark was so inconsistent, Icelanders dug a channel into the silica rim around Geysir's vent in 1935 to lower the water table and encourage it to go off again. 

Although it worked for a short time, the channel became clogged, and activity ceased once more. The channel was cleared in 1981, and it was found that Geysir could be made to erupt on occasion by pumping soap into it. There were many concerns about this activity's environmental impact, and it was stopped in the 1990s.

Geysir has been mostly dormant since then, though it still goes off occasionally, giving the lucky a chance to catch sight of it. When it does erupt, it's much larger than Strokkur.

In 2000, it spewed water 400 feet (122 meters) in the air. The only time it was recorded blasting higher was in 1845, when it reached an estimated 558 feet (170 meters).

The reliability of the highly active Strokkur in such an accessible location is part of what makes the Golden Circle so incredible. Geysers are a rare natural phenomenon. Their rarity is due to the specific conditions required for their formation. 

For a geyser to exist, it requires the following circumstances:

• An intense heat source: For geysers to erupt, magma must be close to the earth's surface to heat rocks hot enough to boil water.
• Water flow: There must be a source of flowing underground water. In this case, the water is runoff that melted from the Langjokull glacier and traveled through porous lava rock into the area.
• A natural plumbing system: There must be an underground reservoir for water to gather and a vent lined with silica so that the water cannot seep out of it before rising from the reservoir to the surface.

Walking around the Geysir Geothermal Area is a fascinating and rewarding experience, but its appeal goes further than these exploding hot springs.

The Haukadalur valley is an incredible place to stop and marvel at nature. Be sure to respect the area and do not throw anything into the hot springs or geysers.

The third and final stop on the route of the Golden Circle is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland: Gullfoss. This is the landmark from which the Golden Circle draws its name, as Gullfoss directly translates to "Golden Falls".

This powerful waterfall is located in a plunging, ancient valley and tumbles down two drops from an overall height of 105 feet (32 meters). During its heaviest flow in the summer, it pours an average of 4,944 cubic feet (140 cubic meters) of water every second.

Gullfoss is not only known for its breathtaking power but also for the rainbows that appear above the falls like a multicolor crown on a sunny day.

These only add to an already beautiful sight. In addition to the dramatic valley and falls, the area looks over rolling fields right up to the magnificent ice sheet of Langjokull glacier. 

Like the springs in Thingvellir and the water at the Geysir Geothermal Area, the river flows down Gullfoss from Langjokull. The river is called Hvita , and it was once a popular spot for river rafting in Iceland . 

Summer is arguably the best season to visit Gullfoss. When there's no ice on the ground, a walkway takes you right up to the edge of the falls, close enough to feel the waterfall's mist on your face.

The photo opportunities here are incredible, and one could spend hours marveling over the awe-inspiring power of the water.

While you cannot get as close, seeing it partially frozen and carrying chunks of ice into the abyss is mesmerizing. If you visit in winter, be sure to wrap up in warm layers. The winds coming over the glacier are notoriously sharp and the mist spraying off the waterfall is icy cold.

• See also: Top 11 Waterfalls to See in Winter in Iceland

Gullfoss today is an attraction that captivates people from across the world, and without it, Iceland's tourism industry would not be the same.

Therefore, it's incredibly fortunate that it's well-preserved and has not been meddled with in any way. 

After all, protecting nature in Iceland has not always been everybody's intention.

In the early 20th century, foreign investors saw a huge opportunity to add a dam to Gullfoss and turn it into a hydroelectric plant. 

The owner of the land adjacent to the falls, Tomas Tomasson, had allowed British investors to explore building a dam there. These plans started to go ahead against his wishes but became incredibly difficult to enforce when Tomas's daughter entered the picture.

This great environmentalist, named Sigridur Tomasdottir, refused to allow the destruction of the natural wonder she loved so much. 

She did everything she could to preserve it, from threatening to throw herself into the falls to walking the 134 miles (200 kilometers) of unpaved road to Reykjavik and back again multiple times to build a legal case in Gullfoss's defense.

Although her actions did not directly save the waterfall, they drew attention to the case. This awareness led to national criticism of the plans and ensured that the dam-building process was delayed.

Eventually, the lawyer Sigridur enlisted in her protests, managed to work with the investors (who lacked the money to take action), and persuaded them to annul the contract. 

The lawyer's name, Sveinn Bjornsson, may sound familiar. In 1944 he became Iceland's first president.

Today, Sigridur is immortalized in a stone memorial on top of the cliff overlooking the waterfall. Icelanders remember her for bringing awareness to the importance of preserving Iceland's nature and not being tempted by foreign investments. Her actions eventually helped preserve Gullfoss for all of us to marvel at its beauty to this day.

The Golden Circle can be visited at any time of year. Spring, summer, and fall offer milder temperatures, and the landscape is free of snow. If you decide to spend a night near the Golden Circle during the summer, you'll have the opportunity to see these places under the midnight sun  with its hues of pink and orange.

In winter, snow blankets the region, offering a unique experience. The water at Gullfoss waterfall continues to run, but parts of the waterfall get frozen, making it seem like glass. This is also a great time to look for the northern lights . Just make sure to step carefully as the platform at the waterfall can be slippery.

Snow is regularly cleared from the roads. However, sudden storms can cause delays. Be sure to follow the road conditions so you can travel safely. 

Choosing when to visit the Golden Circle is more a matter of personal preference than accessibility.

There are a number of ways to explore the Golden Circle. This map details the fastest and simplest Golden Circle route. Below, you can find more notable attractions along the way.

It's a fast and easy drive to Iceland's Golden Circle, just 25 miles (47 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. This is the distance to the closest attraction, Thingvellir National Park. 

The furthest of the three attractions is the Gullfoss waterfall, 72 miles (116 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. As you can see from the map of the Golden Circle, the entire route can be traversed in one day, with a return to Reykjavik in the evening. Read this article to find out how to drive the Golden Circle .

If you'd like to get a head-start on seeing the Golden Circle without the day-trippers from Reykjavik, then consider an overnight stay nearby. 

There is a wide range of hotels and accommodation within the Golden Circle , plus there are campgrounds at Thingvellir National Park and Geysir if you prefer to camp.

Some of the most popular hotels on the Golden Circle Include: 

• Torfhus Retreat
• Hotel Grimsborgir
• Hotel Geysir
• Efstidalur Farm Hotel
• Sel Guesthouse

Go to this article to read more about where to stay in Iceland or here to find the best prices for hotels in Iceland .

The Golden Circle route is one of the most popular trails in Iceland, and over the years, we've helped thousands of people explore it. These are our top 5 Golden Circle itineraries based on customer feedback. 

5. Affordable 10-Hour Golden Circle ​Tour with Snowmobiling on Langjokull and Transfer from Reykjavik  

If you're looking for adventure on a budget, this affordable tour stops at all the best Golden Circle attractions. This tour includes a stop for a snowmobile trip across the majestic Langjokull glacier , the second-largest glacier in Iceland.

4. 3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland's Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

This 3-day tour is the best way for you to make all of the must-see Golden Circle stops and fit in two of Iceland's most iconic activities: exploring the famous ice caves and hiking across expansive glaciers.

3. Small-Group Golden Circle Tour with a Visit to an Ice Cream Farm and Transfer from Reykjavik

This intimate small-group tour will take you to all of the most popular Golden Circle attractions with an added leisurely stop for a tasty treat at a local ice cream farm in Efstidalur valley.

2. Afternoon 6-Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

This short, affordable tour is perfect if you want to see all the most popular Golden Circle highlights in a single afternoon and be back in Reykjavik by nightfall. 

1. 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with the Golden Circle, South Coast & Blue Lagoon  

Our most popular Golden Circle tour takes you through the attractions at a leisurely pace, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights and explore the areas fully. The tour starts at the famous Blue Lagoon Spa , where you can soak in the warm geothermal waters and get yourself ready for your journey in Iceland. The next day you'll explore the Golden Circle along with snowmobiling on the nearby Langjokull glacier. The following day you'll go to Iceland's dramatic South Coast  to see majestic waterfalls and Reynisfjara black sand beach  with an option of walking on Solheimajokull glacier .

As Iceland's most popular tourist trail, there are many different ways to see the Golden Circle. 

Despite the Golden Circle having three main sites, it's way more than just a Golden Triangle. You can find hundreds of different tours from dozens of providers that combine your Golden Circle with extra activities or more sightseeing locations.

Some tours allow you to see it in a unique way, such as on a helicopter tour or on an evening excursion  under the midnight sun .

Of course, renting a car and driving from one attraction to another is enjoyed without the time and itinerary restrictions that come with a guided tour.

Doing it this way allows you to explore the route at your own pace and take as many detours to lesser-known locations nearby as you like.

For those who would rather avoid the pressure of driving in Iceland, there's a vast array of guided tours from which you can choose as well. 

Some of the tours are very straightforward, simply  visiting the Golden Circle's three attractions , then returning you to your accommodation.

Others make more of the day by taking you to popular sites like the beautiful crater lake Kerid and the Blue Lagoon .

Many combination tours have cropped up since visitors can complete the Golden Circle in around six hours, including driving to and from Reykjavik. 

For example,  the Golden Circle and Snowmobiling Tour  whisks you around all three sites. From Gullfoss, the tour drives you up to Langjokull glacier for an exhilarating blast across the glacial ice.

Combining the Golden Circle and Snorkelling in Silfra or lava caving on the Reykjanes Peninsula is also possible.

It's even possible to combine this excursion with a rich cultural experience . For example, you can enjoy sightseeing for the day, then complete the tour with a taste of traditional Icelandic cuisine in the evening .

There are even multi-day tours, both guided and self-drive, centered around, or featuring, a trip along the Golden Circle stops.

Those with a short amount of time may enjoy the guided three-day South Coast tour . This tour takes you along the Golden Circle trail, along the South Coast to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and into a glistening ice cave inside of a glacier that is sure to leave you breathless.

Meanwhile, those here for several weeks have plenty of options from which to choose. A 14-day self-drive package that encircles the whole Ring Road , taking in the stunning Westfjords area, is highly recommended.

Regardless of your time in this country, budget, or travel plan, it's nearly always possible to fit in a trip around the Golden Circle.

The incredible diversity of scenery available within a simple drive makes it an essential Icelandic experience for any traveler. Therefore it's advisable to rent a car in Iceland and explore the area near the Golden Circle.

If you elect to drive the circle yourself, there are many detours you can take to fascinating sites along the way. Most of these are lesser-known, so you can combine the classic Golden Circle route with visits to these off-the-beaten-track attractions.

Below are the top nine lesser-known Golden Circle highlights you should consider.

Skalholt is a remarkable historical town in Iceland. It was the seat of Iceland's bishop from 1056 and remained so until the 19th century. To put that in context, the bishop of Iceland was the most powerful position in the country when Iceland was ruled by foreign kingdoms in Scandinavia. The position of bishop far exceeded just attending to religious matters. Therefore Skalholt was a very important seat of power for centuries in Iceland.

By the year 1200, it was considered Iceland's first town, with a population of 120 people. Skalholt was also the site of Iceland's first school, established in the 12th century. Today it has an ordained bishop and hosts many cultural events, including its famous Skalholt Summer Concerts .

You can find Skalholt on Route 31, just off Route 35, from the Geyser geothermal area to Reykjavik.

If you are driving through Skalholt, its cathedral alone is worth a stop.

If you wish to explore some more hidden gems and do not mind a bit of extra driving, a detour to Thjorsardalur valley only takes a couple of hours. 

Thjorsardalur valley is part of the southern Highlands of Iceland. It boasts a wide range of incredible natural sites.

Here, you can find a wealth of beautiful waterfalls that most never get to visit, such as Haifoss, Granni, and Hjalparfoss .

Burfell woods is another natural attraction, being an unusually large forest for Iceland.

Thjorsardalur is quite the botanist's paradise, with many wildflower species, grass, and moss growing in the area.

To get there, drive south on Route 30 from Gullfoss, then take a left turn onto Route 32.

The unique  Solheimar eco-village has a population of approximately 100 people. 

Formed in 1930 by Sesselja Sigmundsdottir as a self-sustaining settlement for orphans and children with learning disabilities. It has always been a unique place with a distinct philosophy of maximizing every person's potential, irrespective of age or ability.

Over the past few years, its charm and quirky vibe have drawn more and more visitors. Now over 30,000 people stop by every year to see what it's all about.

The settlement - nestled seamlessly in nature - has everything visitors could need, with a bakery, cafe, guesthouse, and art gallery, all operated by the town's residents.

The gift shop at Solheimar has hand-made souvenirs made in the town's art workshop, where residents can engage in candle-making, weaving, and ceramics.

It's also home to the Sesselja House. An educational exhibition center focused on ecology and sustainable development.

Solheimar is a 13-mile (21-kilometer) drive south of Laugarvatn, so it's ideally located to visit as part of an extended Golden Circle self-drive tour. It is a different type of attraction with an atmosphere of positivity and freedom that's truly unique.

Some of Iceland's most incredible waterfalls are close to the Golden Circle.

The classic route takes you to Gulfoss waterfall, though other lesser-known waterfalls nearby are well worth visiting.

Two stand-out options are Helgufoss waterfall and Thorufoss waterfall , both named after Icelandic female names, Helga and Thora.

Helgufoss waterfall is located just off Route 36, on the way to Thingvellir from Reykjavik.

Meanwhile, Thorufoss waterfall forms part of the river Laxa i Kjos and can be visited by following Route 48 after Helgufoss before reaching Thingvellir National Park. 

The waterfall is signposted, and there's a small area on the side of the road where you can park your car.

You'll need access to a car to visit both waterfalls, as Golden Circle tours don't typically visit these remote locations.

Top Waterfall Tours

Fridheimar is a tomato, cucumber, and horse farm located on Route 35, close to Reykholt .

The farm is the perfect place to stop for lunch between noon and 4 PM. Here you can enjoy some delicious tomato soup with home-baked bread.

You can sometimes drop in if you're in a small group, but it's usually better to call ahead and reserve your place, as it can get quite busy. 

You'll need to book in advance if you would like to enjoy a farm tour or go to a horse show. Fridheimar is one of Iceland's most underrated locations, and it's well worth a visit.

The most popular option is to combine a Golden Circle tour with snowmobiling on the Langjokull glacier . 

It's also possible to just book a snowmobiling tour at Langjokull glacier or upgrade to a tour that also visits a stunning ice cave .

Langjokull isn't far from Gullfoss waterfall, where the tour operators will pick you up for the snowmobiling excursion. On a clear day, you'll have a fantastic view from the glacier, and the ride up to the glacier in a giant customized super-jeep is an adventure in itself. This excursion is not to be missed by adventurous travelers.

Top Snowmobile Tours

The Secret Lagoon , or Gamla Laugin, at Fludir is a great place to relax and renew your energy after a busy day of sightseeing. 

It's the oldest swimming pool in Iceland and was built in 1891. The pool's temperature is 100-104 F (38-40 C) year-round, sustained by the water entering it from the surrounding natural hot springs.

There's a also walking path around the swimming pool for guests to admire this geothermal area.

The pool hosted swimming classes from 1909 until 1947, but it fell into disrepair as new pools opened around the country. However, it has recently been renovated and modernized, with new changing facilities and a cafe. It reopened in June 2014.

Be aware that if you wish to visit this location, it's always best to book in advance, as it's growing in popularity.

Fludir is on Route 30. It can be easily visited by car or on a guided tour of the Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon .

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

Many full-day Golden Circle tours make a stop at Kerid crater , so if you're driving, you shouldn't miss out on this natural wonder either. The crater was formed about 6,500 years ago and is oval-shaped, with a lake at its bottom.

Due to its shape, Kerid is renowned for its acoustics, and artists sometimes hold concerts there, floating on a boat in the middle of the lake. This crater is situated on Route 5, close to the town of Selfoss. It also has a small parking lot next to it.

Please note that there's a small fee to be paid on entry to Kerid.

Fontana Geothermal Baths are the name of a spa in the town of Laugarvatn, on the way from Thingvellir National Park to Geysir. 

Laugarvatn is a picturesque village perched on the edge of a vast lake renowned for its geothermal activity. Locals have enjoyed this area since 1929, though the current spa was opened in 2011.

Fontana features three steam rooms and a traditional wooden Finnish sauna with fantastic views of the lake and surrounding nature. There are also plenty of shallow pools that vary in heat, allowing kids to enjoy the water while the adults can relax.

The Fontana Geothermal Baths open out onto the lake, where it's possible to feel warm water rising from the earth between your toes. 

If you stop here, make sure to try the rye bread that the spa bakes for 24 hours in the hot sand. Hot, freshly baked rye bread with butter is as traditionally Icelandic as it is delicious.

You can enjoy both this site and the Golden Circle on the Golden Circle and Fontana Geothermal Baths day tour.

Whether you're planning on joining a guided tour or opting for a self-drive, we hope you find our recommended list of the Golden Circle's top 9 detours helpful in making your visit to Iceland that extra special. Log in to Facebook to see or add to the comment section below!

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Self drive the golden circle in iceland (full 2024 itinerary).

My sister and I took our dad on a 60th birthday surprise trip to Iceland and it was amazing!

It’s been high on his bucket list for years, and I’ve always wanted to visit, so we were all very excited. 

We spent 4 nights, 5 days in Iceland exploring part of the island (you need a lot longer to do the entire ring road in Iceland!). 

One of the highlights of any trip to Iceland is to drive the Golden Circle, especially if you’re short on time. You’ll get a great introduction to some of Iceland’s best attractions, and trust me, you’ll want to return in the future! 

Below is a guide on how to self-drive the golden circle in Iceland, since that’s exactly what we did!

Travellerspoint

What is Iceland’s Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is probably one of the world’s most famous road trip routes! 

It’s a 300km route (186 miles) that takes you to three of the most iconic attractions in Iceland; the Geysir Geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. 

These attractions make the famous Golden Triangle in Iceland, however, there are plenty of other awesome places to see. 

Get ready to see some of the country’s most unique landscapes, rich culture, and geothermal sites if you’re planning a road trip around the Golden Circle.

When is the best time to visit Iceland’s Golden Circle?

There isn’t technically a bad time to visit the Golden Circle, as the attractions can be viewed all year round.

However, if you’re looking to do a bit of hiking or to visit the hot springs then Spring/Summer is the best time to visit. 

You’ll also find that many campsites shut during the winter months or run restricted services which can be a pain. 

Now if you’re wanting to see the Northern lights during your trip to Iceland that’s a different story, as you’ll want to visit between October and March.

Why should you self-drive the Golden Circle In Iceland?

In my opinion, driving yourself around the Golden Circle is the best way to admire its scenic landscapes and beauty. 

It’s possible to take a pre-arranged tour around the Golden Circle Route in Iceland if you really want to. 

However, it’s important to note that the tours all typically leave at the same time. Unfortunately, that means they all arrive at the popular sites at the same time, so you’ll encounter a huge build-up of crowds. 

This is especially the case at iconic attractions such as Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir! 

Now, if you drive yourself you’re in for a treat as it has so many benefits. 

For starters, you can time your visits to the more popular attractions, so you can avoid the crowds. This means setting off early, and then returning late when the tours have already finished.

You can also see the sights at your own pace and don’t need to stick to any tour itinerary. They might only allow you only 20-30 minutes at each destination and that just isn’t enough time to fully take the beauty in! 

If you’re not a confident driver - don’t worry. Driving in Iceland is actually easy and FUN! 

The roads are big and open, and you’ll constantly be treated to amazing views. Also, if you do decide to visit during the offseason, you’ll feel like you have the roads entirely to yourself

Campervan rental or car?

This is the big question, and it all depends on your budget, the duration of your trip, and how confident a driver you are! 

Many people choose to hire a campervan for their Iceland road trip for a variety of reasons.

It's no secret that the cost of visiting Iceland can be expensive , and this route helps save money on accommodation. As well as offering more flexibility, and the opportunity to camp in beautiful locations. 

Now if you’re not bothered about space and don’t mind slumming it, you can legally sleep in your car.

However, you can only do this on a campsite, as you’re not allowed to wild camp in Iceland.

You can actually drive the full Golden Circle in just one day, so if you’re planning to do that - hiring a car is all you need. 

However, I’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in this beautiful country. 

Now, of course, there are pros and cons to both! 

Pros and cons of a campervan rental

Pros of iceland campervan rental.

• Save lots of money on accommodation
• Very convenient and gives you the ultimate flexibility when driving the Golden Circle in Iceland
• There are views everywhere - and you’re likely to be sat higher up in a campervan!

‍ Cons of Iceland campervan rental

• High upfront cost 
• You're likely to have bad weather in Iceland so be prepared for a few stormy nights in the van
• Be prepared for rough road conditions if you’re travelling up to the highlands 

Pros and cons of hiring a car 

Pros of hiring a car in iceland.

• Only a small vehicle, so parking is much easier at popular attractions 
• Cheapest vehicle to rent in Iceland - best for travellers on a budget 
• Much higher availability with renting cars & more economic in terms of fuel 

Cons of hiring a car in Iceland

• Will have to set up a tent for space 
• Can’t access Iceland’s F-roads unless you rent a 4x4
• Very limited storage and space

When it comes to driving the golden circle from Reykjavik, I’d recommend Blue Car Rental .

From my personal experience, they are the best option when it comes to hiring a car in Iceland .

If you’re planning to hire a camper, then popular choices include Camp Easy , Happy Campers , and JS Campers . 

We have a whole guide on hiring a campervan in Iceland which will help!

Golden Circle Road Trip Itinerary 

With so many awesome Golden Circle attractions to choose from - how do you choose the best ones to visit?

Well, luckily for you I’ve come up with the perfect Golden Circle Itinerary after road tripping Iceland myself! 

So, let’s dive into the places you just HAVE to visit. 

Stop 1: Reykjavik

Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital and the largest city in the country. It’s also the world’s Northernmost capital which is pretty cool! 

You can either start or end your Golden Circle route here (or both) depending on where you pick your rental up from. 

Before you head out on your road trip, there are plenty of awesome things to do in Reykjavik. It’s a city full of art, culture, and spectacular scenery of course. 

One of the most popular sights to visit is Hallgrimskirkja Church which is visible from anywhere in the city. It’s a truly unique building, and at the top, you’ll find a viewing platform which offers panoramic views of the city.

You also need to visit the National Museum of Iceland , Árbæjarsafn , and the Saga Museum during your stay. 

However, the city’s number 1 attraction is Perlan , where you’ll get to make your way through an ice cave, and learn all about Iceland’s glaciers! 

If you have time I’d also recommend heading out on a whale-watching tour too! If you’re a fan of marine life you can also visit the ‘Whales of Iceland’ exhibition .

Stop 2: Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is another awesome spot along the Golden Circle.

It makes up part of Iceland’s Golden Triangle and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This national park is one of the country’s most significant geological sites as it’s where two tectonic plates meet.

You’ll be able to see where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates come together, and it’s a pretty astounding sight!

Aside from this, there are plenty of other things to do in Thingvellir National Park. 

This includes heading to the visitor centre, before making your way to the viewpoint just behind. 

After you’ve enjoyed the astounding views, follow the wooden walkway through the Almannagjá fault, and you’ll get to enjoy some of Iceland’s more hidden waterfalls. 

However, the highlight has to be the Silfra Fissure! It’s the only place in the world where you can snorkel or dive between two tectonic plates, so it’s a must for any Iceland itinerary!

We visited when it was snowy.

There is no entrance fee to the park itself, although you will have to pay 500 ISK ($3.85) to park.

You’ll also find some exhibits available at Thingvellir National Park Visitor Centre which you can pay for. 

Stop 3: Geysir

This is probably one of the most famous attractions in all of Iceland! 

Here you’ll find a bunch of geysers that erupt including ‘the Great Geysir’ and ‘Strokkur Geyser’.

Strokkur is by far the most popular and can get super busy.

For this reason, you’ll want to start your itinerary early, so that you can arrive here before the crowds do.

This geothermal geyser erupts every 8-10 minutes and can reach heights of up to 20m.

Trust me - you’ll want to have your camera ready for this one!

Make sure you spend some time at the Great Geysir too. Although currently dormant, its basin is enormous and it used to be Iceland’s tallest geyser. 

Before 2000, the Great Geysir erupted regularly and reached heights of 170m. Although this is no longer the case, it’s still impressive to look at. 

During your visit here you’ll also want to see Blesi Hot Spring, which is divided in two and looks like a funky pair of glasses. 

There are no entrance fees to enter the Geysir Geothermal Area, so this is another of Iceland’s FREE natural wonders. 

Stop 4: Gullfoss

Gullfoss is one of Iceland's most popular waterfalls and it doesn't disappoint!

The name literally translates to ‘Golden Falls’, and if you manage to witness the sunlight catching Gullfoss just right - you’ll understand why! 

It’s a two-tier waterfall that has a cumulative height of 32m, and its power will take your breath away.

From the parking lot, you can either head to the upper or lower viewpoint, but I recommend doing both! 

For the lower viewpoint, you’ll need to head down some stairs and then you’ll get to see the falls drop into the canyon!

From there retrace your steps, and head to the upper viewpoint. From the top, you’ll get to see the Hvita River flowing down over a series of rocks, which is the waterfall's first drop. 

There is even a viewing platform at the falls so make sure you head up there too! 

Gullfoss waterfall can also be visited in any season which is always a bonus.

We visited in winter, and the falls were super powerful and surrounded by snow. It was a photographer's dream! 

Gullfoss is another FREE attraction, which is crazy considering it’s one of Iceland's most popular attractions.

I’m not complaining though! 

Stop 5: Hrunalaug Hot Spring

Hrunalaug was once a pretty “secret” hot spring in Iceland, but since more people have discovered and shared it on social media - that’s no longer the case. 

More and more people seek out this place each year, but luckily it’s not included on any tour bus itineraries so you’ll get fewer crowds in general. 

However, Hrunalaug Hot Spring is very small, so it only takes 4 or 5 people to make this place feel “crowded”. 

I’d definitely recommend visiting this spot though as it’s incredibly scenic. Once you’ve arrived at the parking lot, it’s about a 5-minute walk to get to the hot springs. 

There are actually three springs here and a small concrete building where you can change!

Out of the three, the long rectangular pool next to the building is by far the hottest. Although if you’re looking for scenic views and great photographs - head to the other two first. 

This hot spring is located on private property, so there is no ‘entrance fee’ as such but there is a donation box at the parking lot. 

The farmer relies on this honour system for upkeep, so I'd recommend donating! 

Stop 6: Secret Lagoon Iceland

The Secret Lagoon is Iceland's oldest natural swimming pool! Known locally as ‘Gamla Laugin’, this impressive place has been around since 1891. 

It’s located in the geothermal area of Hverahólmi, right next to Flúðir village, and is a must-visit whilst driving the Golden Circle. 

The nearby hot springs (Básahver, Litli Geysir, and Vaðmálahver) provide 100% of the water supply here, so the water flows continuously. 

Not only is the water clean and rich in sulfur, but it also stays at 38-40°C (100-104°F) all year round.

So, it doesn’t matter what time of year you decide to road trip the Golden Circle as you can always warm yourself up here!

The entrance fee to the Secret Lagoon is 3000 ISK ($23) for adults, and children aged 14 and under are free! However, if you’re wanting to hire swimsuits or towels, that will be extra.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to the Blue Lagoon, then this is your place although I’d recommend visiting both if you can! 

Stop 7: Kerid Crater

Kerid Crater is the remnants of a volcano that formed over 6,000 years ago! 

The magma chamber then emptied and collapsed, before filling with water to create the beautiful Kerid Crater lake that we see today.

As you get to this site, you’ll see a boardwalk that leads to an awesome viewpoint of the crater. 

There is also a loop walk that will take you all around the crater, and you can even head down to the lake itself. 

The caldera is an impressive 55m deep, making this a place you don’t want to miss during your Golden Circle road trip. 

However, the thing that really catches your eye about this place is the colour. The lake is a stunning turquoise and is surrounded by red volcanic rock. 

I’d recommend allowing yourself at least an hour here. This gives you plenty of time to walk around the crater, head down to the lake, and take plenty of awesome photographs. 

There is a small entrance fee to visit Kerid Crater which is 400 ISK ($3). Children under 12 are also FREE! 

Bonus stop: The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon isn’t a typical Golden Circle loop stop, but if you’ve still got your vehicle, it’s worth visiting. 

It’s one of the most iconic attractions in Iceland, and attracts up to 4,000 people a day! Luckily though, as the Blue Lagoon is HUGE you’ll always be able to find a little corner to yourself.

This geothermal spa is considered to have regenerative qualities due to the amounts of silica and sulfur within the water. 

The temperature of the lagoon usually stays between 37–39° C (98–102° F), so it’s perfect no matter the weather. 

The cheapest package costs from 8,490 ISK ($65) and includes entry to the Blue Lagoon, a Silica mud mask, use of a towel, and a drink. 

As the Blue Lagoon is so popular, you’ll want to time your visit carefully. 

I’d recommend heading to the lagoon either early morning or late evening as this is when you’ll avoid the crowds from the tour buses. 

I visited during the late evening on one of the last slots of the day and had a very peaceful experience. 

Iceland Golden Circle Accommodation

Driving the golden circle in a campervan is one of the most popular ways to see Iceland so there are plenty of campsites located along the route. 

Þingvellir National Park Campground is one of the most popular campsites as it offers scenic views of Thingvellir (or Þingvellir) National park. Not only that, but you’ll find plenty of awesome hiking trails nearby! 

If you're looking for something a bit quieter then SKJOL campsite is a great option. Located just 4km (2.4 miles) from Geysir, it offers incredible views of the hot springs and the glacier from afar! You’ll also find a restaurant on-site that serves delicious pizza. 

You’ll also find a couple of FREE camping spots if you’re looking to extend your trip after visiting all the famous Golden Circle stops. 

These include Bakkafjörður camping ground and Gata Free Camping which is just an hour’s drive outside of Reykjavík. 

If you’re not in a campervan, then you’ll need to source some accommodation for your trip. Thankfully there’s a great range of hotels and Airbnbs along this route! 

Here are some great options when heading along the Golden Circle in Iceland. 

Litli Geyser Hotel - a 5-minute walk from the iconic Geysir

Litli Geyser Hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re wanting to spend more time at the world-famous Geysir hot springs. 

Not only is this site just 200 yards away from the hotel, but the staff can also help book tours and activities in the local area. This hotel also has an on-site restaurant and offers free parking for guests. 

Hotel Gullfoss - a 5-minute drive from the famous Gullfoss Falls

Now, this has to be one of the most special places to stay in Iceland. Not only is the hotel located just a 5-minute drive from the iconic falls, but it’s also situated by the Hvita River so the scenery is spectacular. 

A daily buffet breakfast is served at the hotel, and guests also have access to free WiFi. Make sure you keep an eye out for the Northern lights too (depending on when you visit of course).

Blue Hotel Fagrilundur - near Kerid Crater 

Blue Hotel Fagrilunder is situated in Reykholt which is along the Golden Circle. It’s just 96km (59 miles) from Iceland’s capital and just a 20-minute drive from Kerid Crater.

A continental breakfast is available each morning at the property, and guests are welcome to hop in the hot tub! 

Final thoughts 

Driving Iceland’s golden circle route yourself is without a doubt the best way to explore this beautiful country. 

You can of course take a golden circle tour but it doesn’t allow you the same flexibility. If you hire a car and head around the route yourself, you can decide where to visit and at what time. 

I’d also recommend hiring a camper if you’re planning to drive the Golden Circle!

Although upfront costs aren’t particularly cheap, at least this way you can save on accommodation if you’re planning to spend a couple of days in Iceland.

Read more: 

• Top 10 Campervan Rentals in Iceland

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Golden Circle Iceland Itinerary: Your Guide For 2024

Are you currently planning your Golden Circle Iceland itinerary? This is the only guide you’ll need!

While the Golden Circle Route Iceland takes only 3 to 4 hours to complete without stops, you will want to spend a few days seeing all the best attractions, taking awesome photos, and learning about Iceland’s history.

This three-day itinerary will give you an opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking sights and experience all that this magical place has to offer.

From majestic waterfalls, stunning geysers, and incredible crater lakes, it’s clear why thy Golden Circle Iceland is so popular among tourists!

Let’s get started with this Golden Circle itinerary so you can plan the perfect trip!

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: GOLDEN CIRCLE ICELAND ITINERARY

Before jumping into the main section, let’s cover the essentials of the Iceland Golden Circle, from where it is to how long it takes to complete and everything else in between.

GOLDEN CIRCLE MAP

To make the itinerary easier to understand, here is a map of the Golden Circle, starting near Reykjavík, extending through to Gullfoss Falls, and passing by Selfoss in the south.

WHAT IS THE GOLDEN CIRCLE?

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland that includes several must-see destinations.

Starting from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle route includes Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and more.

There are different day trips available, but I recommend a 3-day itinerary, which is what I did, and it was by far the best Golden Circle tour Iceland.

You’ll have time to see powerful geysers erupting, snorkel between tectonic plates, gaze in awe at the enormous waterfalls, and take pictures of the phenomenal landscapes.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DRIVE THE GOLDEN CIRCLE?

It typically takes around 3-4 hours to drive the full Golden Circle route, but you will obviously stay longer as you’ll stop in different places.

CAN YOU DO THE GOLDEN CIRCLE IN A DAY?

Yes, doing the Golden Circle in a day is possible, but you’ll have to prioritize which destinations you want to visit and plan your time accordingly.

The essential stops on the Golden Circle route Iceland are Thingvellir National Park, the famous Strokkur Geyser, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Secret Lagoon hot spring.

CAN I BOOK A GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR?

Absolutely! If you have limited time and want to experience the highlights in the most convenient way possible, it’s possible to book a 1-Day Golden Circle Tour as mentioned below.

BEST GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR

In a rush? Let me make it short – the best tour to consider is the Golden Circle and the Secret Lagoon from Reykjavik !

Plus, they have dozens of positive reviews online!

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

Iceland can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of great weather and extended daylight hours, then the summer season from June to August is the time to go.

On the other hand, if you want to witness the stunning Northern Lights or experience the winter wonderland of Iceland, then December- February is the season for you.

ENTRANCE FEES & OPENING TIMES

There is no entrance fee to the Golden Circle, however, some attractions along the way have an entrance fee such as Thingvellir National Park, with entrance tickets that cost 1000 IKR (USD $7).

The Golden Circle is open the whole year without interruption.

GOLDEN CIRCLE ITINERARY ICELAND

Now that we’ve covered the basics and you have a better idea of what the Golden Circle is, as well as the different attractions on the way, let’s start this itinerary.

Before that, however, I want to highlight that I explored the Golden Circle during a three-week trip to Iceland with Remote 9 , a company that organizes incredible coworking road trips for adventurous remote workers.

If you work online and looking to experience Iceland with fellow digital nomads, I highly recommend checking out their next Iceland trip and using coupon code JONNYMELON to receive a $150 discount.

DAY 1: REYKJAVIK TO THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK

Start your journey with the drive from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park, which is about 52 km away and takes around 1 hour to reach.

Thingvellir National Park is one of the country’s first national parks and boasts a similar landscape to the Burren, Ireland .

It is home to a variety of geological wonders, including the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

You can easily stay at the National Park for half a day, which I recommend, and because of its large size, you won’t be disturbed by crowds of tourists.

For history lovers, Thingvellir also holds a special significance – it was home to Iceland’s first parliament from 930 to 1798.

Now, while the National Park is stunning, one thing you can’t miss here is the snorkeling, let me elaborate below.

SILFRA SNORKELING

Have you ever dreamed of swimming between two tectonic plates?

In the Golden Circle in Iceland, you can join a tour that will take you snorkeling and swimming between the European and American tectonic plates.

This is an adventure that is well worth it as it’s the only place in the world where you can do it.

Before jumping into the water, you’ll get briefed by the instructors, and once that is done, you’ll go into the water for about 20 minutes.

The rocks’ colors, the water’s shimmer, and the awe-inspiring surroundings make it an experience like no other.

And the best part? When you join a Silfra snorkeling tour , the photos are included!

After an amazing time between the 2 tectonic plates, it’s time to continue the itinerary, with a quick stop at the Bruarfoss Waterfall.

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BRUARFOSS WATERFALL

Another very popular tourist attraction in the Golden Circle is Brúarfoss Waterfall.

Located just off the main route, this magnificent waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff face into a deep blue pool below.

The vivid blue color of the water is caused by glacial sediment, and it provides a stunning contrast to the lush green landscape that surrounds it.

You can park your vehicle at the parking lot and visit the waterfall quite easily. The parking spot only costs 750 IKR for 4 hours, which gives you plenty of time to roam around.

I recommend going hiking for a little while, as there are three waterfalls in the valley, and you definitely don’t want to miss them!

GEYSIR GEOTHERMAL AREA

After Bruarfoss, head over to the Geysir Geothermal Area, which is only about 15 minutes by car.

This incredible spot is home to several geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, however, the main attraction is without a doubt the famous geyser Strokkur.

Every 5 to 10 minutes, this geyser shoots water up to 40 meters into the air, leaving visitors in awe.

There’s no entrance fee, and the parking is free which makes things much more convenient.

Lastly, if you have more time available, head up the hill for an aerial view and capture some great shots looking over the entire geothermal area.

LUNCH & GULLFOSS WATERFALL

After taking in these incredible sights on your Golden Circle Iceland itinerary, you’ll want to stop for lunch, and the best place is Gullfoss Panorama Restaurant.

Other than spectacular views, you’ll get to grab a delicious lunch. They have a ton of options on offer, from chicken soup to pizzas to sandwiches to hot drinks and much more.

On top of that, they have a store that sells gloves, winter hats, and other accessories, which is definitely helpful when traveling in the winter.

After lunch, make your way to the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, where you can take in the stunning views and feel the power of the rushing water.

Gullfoss Waterfall is a majestic sight, cascading 32 meters into the canyon below. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, and you surely don’t want to miss it!

RELAX AT THE SECRET LAGOON

Once you’ve explored all the first stops on the Golden Circle route, head south towards Flúðir where you’ll find Secret Lagoon .

Nestled near Flúðir, only 32km from Gullfoss, it is the oldest natural pool in the country, dating back to 1891.

Surrounded by hot springs and a little geyser, the pool maintains a temperature of 38-40 °C (100-104 °F) all year round – how amazing is that?!

Here, you can enjoy soaking in its warm waters and admiring its natural beauty. It’s conveniently located on the Golden Circle route, making it easy to combine with other activities.

The Secret Lagoon is open every day from 10.00 am to 7.00 pm.

The tickets, on the other hand, will cost you 3,300 IKR (USD $40) per person and children up to 14 years old can get in for free.

Once you’re done, I recommend staying here as you’ll be tired from all your activities on day 1.

WHERE TO STAY IN FLUDIR

Fludir and the Golden Circle have dozens of hotels to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.

Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

LUXURY: Blue Hotel Fagrilundur

MID-RANGE: Hotel Fludir

BUDGET: Húsid Guesthouse

FOR MORE OPTIONS IN FLUDIR, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

Campervan area in fludir.

The best campsite area near Fludir is Flúðir Campsite , which is open from May 15th to September 15th.

The campsite is massive and has all the facilities you need for a night including toilets and showers, a cooking area, and a washing and drying area.

Alternatively, the Álfaskeið campground is a good option but has few amenities, no electricity, and toilets but no showers.

DAY 2: KERID & HVERAGERDI

Start your second day by visiting the Skálholt Cathedral.

Afterward, drive to the volcanic crater lake of Kerid, one of Iceland’s most unique sights that is sure to leave you speechless.

Next up is Hveragerdi, home to the country’s largest geothermal area and one of its most popular tourist attractions.

SKÁLHOLT CATHEDRAL

Continue your journey with a visit to the Skálholt Cathedral. This beautiful church is one of Iceland’s oldest and most iconic sights, and you can’t skip it while in the Golden Circle Iceland.

The site is rich in culture and history and is a perfect stop for history buffs on the Golden Circle tour.

The cathedral was consecrated in 1963, and it has an impressive span from door to apse of approximately 30 meters (98 feet).

The church is decorated with valuable art, both old and new, making it a beautiful sight to photograph on your trip.

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KERID VOLCANIC CRATER LAKE

If you’re an adventurer at heart, you’ve got to check out the Kerid Volcanic Crater Lake, about 20 minutes by car from the cathedral.

Kerið is one of several crater lakes in the area and stands out for its unique beauty and geological features.

The caldera is 170 meters wide with distinctive red volcanic rock slopes that contrast the blue color of the lake.

You can circle the rim and take photos from different angles, which won’t take you long, and I recommend taking hiking boots as the path can be slippery.

Note that there are steps to go down next to the crater, and that is the ultimate Insta-worthy photo you can take on this Golden Circle trip!

LUNCH AT FRIDHEIMAR GREENHOUSE

Feeling hungry after exploring the volcanic crater? One of my personal recommendations for lunch, and by far one of the coolest restaurants around is the Friðheimar Greenhouse .

This family-owned eatery offers a unique dining experience among lush tomato plants and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

When you enter the greenhouse, you’ll be greeted by the tomato vines stretching toward the glass ceiling – how cool is that?

The menu at Friðheimar Greenhouse is just as appealing as the interior decor.

The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly their signature tomato soup, a rich and flavorful concoction served with freshly baked bread, and a selection of toppings such as sour cream and butter.

Hveragerði, a small town located just 45 km east of Reykjavik, is often referred to as the “hot spring town” due to its abundant geothermal activity.

While you’ve already spent some time at the geyser, this is a nice addition to the second day.

Start with going to the Hveragerði Geothermal Park, where you can see the hot springs and cook an egg in them!

Once you’re back in town, go visit the Listasafn Árnesinga Art Gallery, a local art gallery that features works by Icelandic artists.

It’s a great opportunity to appreciate the creative talent of the region and perhaps discover new favorite artists.

After exploring the town, stop by one of Hveragerði’s cozy cafés or restaurants to refuel with a delicious meal or coffee. Rósakaffi is a popular choice, offering mouth-watering cakes and healthy options!

DINNER & SLEEP IN HVERAGERDI

After a day of sightseeing, I recommend you to stay in Hveragerdi for dinner and to spend the night.

Several restaurants offer local dishes in town, such as lamb soup and Icelandic cod. Check out HVER Restaurant , which has incredible dishes I’m sure you’ll love!

After a nice meal, check into your hotel room and rest for the night, tomorrow is another exciting day.

WHERE TO STAY IN HVERAGERDI

Hveragerdi has dozens of hotels to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.

LUXURY: Hotel Grimsborgir

MID-RANGE: The Greenhouse Hotel

BUDGET: INNI – Boutique Apartments

FOR MORE OPTIONS IN HVERAGERDI, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

Campervan area in hveragerdi.

The best campsite area near Hveragerdi is the Hveragerði Campsite , which is open all year and has everything you need.

Here, you’ll find WiFi, a cooking area, charging stations, and free showers, and it’s only a few minutes walk to the local swimming pool, which is very cool to relax in the evening or the morning after.

Prices for the night start at 1,750 ISK (USD $12) – what a bargain!

DAY 3: ÞINGVALLAKIRKJA & SELFOSS

We’ve got to the last part of this Golden Circle route Iceland, and day three is all about visiting two incredible destinations – Þingvallakirkja and Selfoss.

Both of these locations offer their own unique charm and beauty and are must-sees on any trip to Iceland.

Went for an Iceland Golden Circle self drive? You’ll be happy to know that the drive back to Reykjavik only takes an hour.

PHOTOGRAPH TUNGUFLJÓT RIVER

Photographing the Tungufljót River while visiting the Golden Circle in Iceland is an experience you won’t soon forget.

This 18.5-mile waterway is known for its abundance of salmon and large sea trout, making it a popular spot for fly fishermen.

The area around the Tungufljót River offers plenty of opportunities to capture beautiful landscapes with your camera.

Whether you’re looking to take professional pictures or just want some Insta-worthy shots, this is a stunning place for it!

HEAD TO THINGVALLAVATN LAKE

Þingvallavatn is the largest natural lake in Iceland spanning an area of 84 square kilometers, and is known for its great depth of 114 meters.

It is part of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is fed by glacial water from Langjökull that filters through bedrock for 40 km.

The lake provides a stunning backdrop to the journey, with its serene beauty and lava fields stretching into the lake from the north.

Overall, Thingvallavatn Lake offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking views and unique features.

ÞINGVALLAKIRKJA & ÞINGVELLIR CHURCH

Your next stop should be Þingvallakirkja, a historic church located in Thingvellir National Park that has been standing since at least the 11th century.

The current building was constructed in 1858, and it is one of the oldest churches still standing in Iceland.

The surrounding area of Þingvallakirkja is stunning, with its strange rocks and breathtaking views of the lake nearby.

There are also regular services held at Þingvallakirkja, making it an important part of religious life in Iceland.

LUNCH IN SELFOSS

After visiting the amazing, photogenic church, make your way to Selfoss – but before visiting the town, I recommend having lunch before.

For some comfort food, stop by Tommi’s Burger Joint , which serves delicious, high-quality burgers.

Other than that, the interior is super cool and I’m sure you’ll have an excellent meal.

EXPLORE SELFOSS TOWN

Before going back to Iceland’s capital city, I suggest you stop for a couple of hours in Selfoss town to see what life in an Icelandic town is like.

Selfoss Town is a great place to explore Iceland’s history and culture.

The town has several museums that are worth visiting, like Skyrland, which explains how Skyr, an Icelandic product, as well as milk and dairy products, are made here.

If you’re into golf, then coming to the Svarfhólsvöllur Golf Course is a must, and you’ll have so much fun playing a round in the beautiful surroundings.

No matter what you choose to do in Selfoss Town, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

BACK TO REYKJAVIK

After spending three days exploring the Golden Circle Route Iceland, it’s time to return to Reykjavik, which takes about an hour.

And let me tell you, the journey back is just as scenic and enjoyable as the trip there!

As you leave Selfoss behind, you will see the stunning mountainscapes and rolling hills that make Iceland such a unique destination.

WHERE TO STAY IN REYKJAVIK

Reykjavik has hundreds of hotels to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.

LUXURY: The Reykjavik EDITION

MID-RANGE: Center Hotels Plaza

BUDGET: Kex Hostel

FOR MORE OPTIONS IN REYKJAVIK, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

Campervan area in reykjavik.

The best campsite area here is the Reykjavik Campsite , which is open all year and has everything you need.

Here, you’ll have a cooking area, bathrooms with showers, a massive parking lot, and a cozy resting area.

I recommend booking online before coming as it sells out quickly, especially during the summer.

More Iceland Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Iceland!

WHAT TO PACK FOR ICELAND

When visiting Iceland, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

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Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

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Quick-Dry Travel Towel

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Portable PowerBank

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SUMMARY – GOLDEN CIRCLE ROUTE ICELAND

This was everything you had to know about the Golden Circle Iceland, the best attractions to visit, and where to stay each night during the three days.

If you have any questions, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

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Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on This 7 Day Iceland Itinerary

The writer was hosted.

Get ready for an exciting adventure through the land of fire and ice with a carefully crafted 7-day Iceland itinerary along the famous Ring Road. From the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the enchanting waterfalls of the South Coast, this itinerary offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Iceland as you explore volcanic lava fields, soak in the Blue Lagoon and witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky.

Day 1: You’ve Arrived in Iceland!

After landing at Keflavik Airport, grabbing your bags and picking up your rental car, you’re ready to start your Iceland adventure. But, of course, you’ve likely just spent the night on the airplane and a bit of refreshing is required. Fortunately, Iceland’s famed hot springs, The Blue Lagoon, is just a 22 minute drive away. Make your reservations before you arrive and head straight to The Blue Lagoon for a dip in this geothermal hot spring because no trip to Iceland is complete without this experience.

Once refreshed, a driving time of 40 minutes brings you to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. If a self drive road trip isn’t part of your itinerary, bus service is available from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon and on to Reykjavik.

A guided tour by locals is an excellent way to spend your first day in Reykjavik as an introduction to the capital city and Iceland in general. We chose the free tours by locals , a company with knowledgeable and entertaining local guides that lead walking tours of  downtown Reykjavik. The “tip what you think the tour was worth” concept is unique and the tour focuses on highlights like the stunning Hallgrímskirkja church, historic buildings and the city’s colorful neighborhoods. The guided tours introduce visitors to the stories of one of Europe’s most unique countries.

Whale watching tours provide another interesting experience in Reykjavik. Departing from Reykjavik Harbor, the tours not only search for whales but also keep an eye out for puffins and other migratory birds that visit Iceland seasonally.

Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle

Depart Reykjavik on Day Two of your self drive road trip to experience the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. The first stop, Thingvellir National Park harbors history and the marvels of nature within its boundaries. The park sits in a rift valley where the tectonic plates of North America and Europe meet.

Another must-see along the Golden Circle, the geyser geothermal area houses several geysers including Strokkur – Iceland’s most visited active geyser. Walk alongside the geysers and feel the steam as it erupts. Or stretch your legs on the hiking trail for a view overlooking the geothermal area.

Another must-see, Gullfoss Waterfall  – which translates as Golden Falls – is one of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls. Gullfoss is fed by the waters of Hvítá River that travel from the glacier Langjökull, before cascading 105 feet down the Gullfoss Waterfall’s two dramatic stages.

Continue Along the Ring Road

Next up on the Golden Circle, a stop at South Iceland’s Kerid Crater  seems almost otherworldly. This volcanic lake with deep blue-green water surrounded by red rock and lush mossy vegetation formed over 6500 years ago after an eruption. Allow yourself enough time to explore the hiking trails the circle the rim of Kerid Crater. Or venture down the hiking trails to the waters of the Kerid Crater for another perspective.

Continue east along the Ring Road on a two-hour drive to Vik. Of course those two hours may become three with all the sightseeing possibilities along the south coast of Iceland. Highlights include the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Fjadrargljufur Canyon.

Overnight near Skaftafell nature reserve and get ready for the next day’s big adventures.

Day 3: Experience Black Sand Beaches and an Ice Cave Tour

Day Three unveils a full day of adventure. Start with a walk along one of Iceland’s most striking black sand beaches. Framed by dramatic basalt columns, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a must-see. As you make your way along your Ring Road itinerary to Vik, take the turn off to Dyrhólaey to view the spectacular arch in the sea. During nesting season it’s possible to spot puffins and other bird life here. A 19 minute drive east from here leads to the lovely village of Vik.

For an experience off the typical tourist track, book an Ice Cave Tour with Southcoast Adventure . The experience begins with a pick up location in central Vik and a drive through ancient lava fields. You’ll then strap on some crampons for a short glacier hike on the mighty Myrdalsjokull glacier and into the ice cave. Plentiful shops, restaurants and lodging options make Vik an ideal place to overnight before continuing on your Ring Road itinerary.

Day 4: Waterfalls, a Glacier Lagoon and Europe’s Largest Glacier

As you continue east on the Ring Road, a drive time of under two hours brings you to Svartifoss waterfall – another gorgeous must-see waterfall framed by black basalt columns. Continue east to reach the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon where massive icebergs can be seen floating in the lagoon. For an up close view of the floating icebergs, consider taking a glacier lagoon boat tour. Be sure to allow enough time to see nearby Diamond Beach as you follow the road to the breathtaking east fjords. Overnight in a hotel or guesthouse in Höfn and rest up for the next day. From Höfn you’ll have a clear view of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.

Day 5: Driving and Sightseeing on the Ring Road

Today you’ll continue your Ring Road itinerary driving north to Lake Myvatn. Detour onto Iceland Road 864 for an additional drive time of about an hour to capture spectacular photos of the Dettifoss waterfall.

When you reach Lake Myvatn, more geothermal areas await exploration at Hverir and Kfafla. A must-see, Godafoss waterfall, located in the river Skjálfandafljót in north Iceland, falls from a height of 39 feet and has a width spanning 98 feet. Hiking trails provide an ideal way to see more of this region considered part of the Diamond Circle for sightseeing.

Continue traveling on Ring Road another 45 miles to overnight in Akureyri, the largest city outside of the greater Reykjavik area. Akureyri is a renowned cultural center with many galleries and museums. It’s also home to the world’s northernmost botanical gardens.

Day 6: Travel the Iceland Ring Road to Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself and today’s 230-mile drive from Akureyri to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula proves my point. Drive time typically runs about 4 hours and 30 minutes without stops. But the jaw-dropping vistas along the way beckon you to stop and take photos. A couple of not to be missed sights along the way are Hvítserkur and Kolugljúfur Canyon.

Visible from the impressive black sand beach at Húnaflói Bay, Hvítserkur is a distinctive rock formation often referred to as the Troll of Northwest Iceland. The 49 ft tall basalt sea stack features two unusual holes at its base and creates a silhouette often likened to a dragon drinking from the sea.

A short detour off of Ring Road, the breathtaking Kolugljúfur Canyon and Kolufossar waterfalls make an ideal stop to stretch your legs and take in these beautiful wonders of nature. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the canyon which is accessed by a footbridge.

As you continue to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you’ll leave the Ring Road behind to take route 54 at Borgarnes. Overnight nearby to rest up for a full day of adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Day 7: Exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

While day tours are available from Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula deserves a nearby overnight stay to allow a full day to explore this gorgeous peninsula. Home to Kirkjufell – the country’s most photographed mountain – the landscapes leave you breathless. Just steps from Kirkjufell the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls add to the serenity of this place.

A counter-clockwise drive along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula leads you through picturesque fishing villages, miles of lava fields, a volcanic crater and new discoveries at every turn. The peninsula is home to Snaefellsjokull National Park – a park filled with all the geological wonders Iceland offers along with intriguing human history. You’ll find black sand beaches, picturesque churches, soaring cliffs, volcanic craters and miles of lava fields.

When your explorations conclude, an hour’s drive time along Iceland’s west coast leads you back to Reykjavik.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

Deciding when to visit Iceland presents a few choices. If your focus is chasing the Northern Lights, visiting in the aurora season that runs from October until April gives you the best chance. Of course, mid-winter guarantees dark skies for hours, increasing opportunities to view the elusive Northern Lights. But, the downside to a winter visit is limited daylight. So if you want to cover as much of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes in seven days, you may need a season with more light.

Also, for those hoping to self drive on a road trip along the entire Ring Road, winter often means unsafe road conditions due to heavy snow and ice in some areas. For a winter visit, consider guided day trips from areas along the south coast of Iceland.

In summer months, the Northern Lights aren’t visible. But, the midnight sun extends your day giving you more time to explore each destination you visit. If there’s a downside to spending the mild summer months (mosquito free by the way) in Iceland, it’s the crowds. You know that Golden Circle you want to see? Everyone else wants to see it too. That means bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Personally, I prefer the shoulder season. And on our recent visit to Iceland, we arrived in mid-April for a week exploring this magnificent country minus the crowds. It’s early for bird and whale watching, but not impossible to catch a glimpse of some of the early arriving puffins and whales on a boat tour. Lingering Northern Lights are also possible on a clear night in April. Autumn presents another viable option for a crowd-free Iceland road trip.

What to Know Before You Go

Most travelers who visit Iceland arrive at Keflavik Airport. Located 50 kilometers outside the capital city of Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport is a relatively small airport compared to some of our mega-sized airports in the US. It’s also easy to navigate and rental car counters are located inside the airport.

Unless you plan to use a tour company for guided day trips, a rental car is the best way to really explore this magnificent place. Always up for a self drive road trip, we reserved a rental car in advance of our arrival. Small vehicles make the most sense on the narrow-ish roads throughout Iceland, but if you’re venturing outside Reykjavik in search of secret lagoons, lava fields and black sand beaches, it’s best to rent a small SUV with 4-wheel drive. Some roads are unpaved and road conditions are unpredictable so that extra power comes in handy.

Although I don’t typically use the extra insurance offered for rental cars, Iceland’s extreme wind and unpredictable weather warranted the need for rental car insurance just for peace of mind.

Camper vans provide another option for intrepid travelers up for a rugged adventure. Campgrounds throughout Iceland  offer various types of hook-ups and facilities.

Packing for Iceland

Your packing needs for Iceland vary greatly depending on whether you visit in the winter or summer months or the shoulder season I chose. One thing remains the same – you need layers! You also need a waterproof rain jacket. And, of course, pack a swimsuit for soaking in the country’s hot springs. You’ll find more information to aid in planning your packing list here .