Welcome to ICELAND, the land of fire and ice.
This article delivers a FRESH PERSPECTIVE on the Golden Circle Route, showing unique stops along the way.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The Golden Circle is 143 miles (230 kilometers) long (doable in one day), highlighting 3 ACTIVITIES: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the famous Gullfoss waterfall.
- This route is famous for people to book as a guided PACKAGE with a local tour operator. You can go snorkeling, snowmobiling, go on helicopter rides, or enjoy the midnight sun.
- There are many SURROUNDING LOCATIONS you can include, such as the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, the Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn, the Langjökull Glacier, or the Kerid Crater Lake.
Practical Information About The Golden Circle Tour
Before we talk about the different locations you will pass on the traditional golden circle, you need to know some practical information for context.
- Distance: 230 km (143 miles) round trip from Reykjavík
- Duration: 1-3 days
- The ideal time to visit: year-round
- Road Conditions: The main roads of the Golden Circle are paved and in good condition. However, always check the weather and road conditions, especially during winter months.
- Entrance Fees: Most attractions along the Golden Circle are free to visit, including Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. However, parking fees apply.
WHY Should You Visit the Golden Circle Tour?
For us, the Golden Circle Tour was the perfect beginning during our three-week tour to get a feeling of Iceland.
Looking back on our adventure, these are the most IMPORTANT reasons why we visited the Golden Circle Tour:
- Geothermal Natural Wonders: If you want to witness geysers and hot springs, then this is perfect.
- Historic Significance: Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the location of the WORLD’S FIRST Parliament.
- Stunning Waterfalls: Enjoy the power and beauty of Gullfoss waterfall.
- Convenient Day Trip: Easily accessible from Reykjavik, so it’s perfect for a day-trip if you don’t have much time.
- Year-Round Adventure: accessible during any season.
- Instagrammable Photos: the nature landscapes give you the opportunity to take your best Instagrammable pictures to date!
The Classic Golden Circle Route Map
The INTERACTIVE map above shows you the popular route of the Golden Circle Tour in Iceland.
The route starts and ends in Reykjavik and is 230 KILOMETERS LONG (round trip), which takes about 3–4 HOURS of driving time without stops.
- STOP 1: Thingvellir National Park, 45 kilometers northeast of Reykjavik.
- STOP 2: Geysir geothermal area, 60 kilometers away from Thingvellir.
- STOP 3: Gullfoss waterfall, 10 kilometers from Geysir.
Despite the Golden Circle having only three main locations, it’s way more than just a GOLDEN TRIANGLE.
Most people create their own version of the Golden Circle Route, or they book tours for 1-2 weeks that visit many different locations.
You can find our ULTIMATE Golden Circle Adventure Itinerary (with many undiscovered and secret spots) further below in this article.
Now, let’s look at the three original destinations for the Golden Circle.
Thingvellir
Your first stop on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park.
The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2004) and for a few good reasons.
1) Tectonic Plates
Thingvellir National Park is one of the few places on Earth where the effects of TWO MAJOR TECTONIC PLATES drifting apart can be observed with the eye.
The NORTH AMERICAN AND EURASIAN tectonic plates pull away from each other at a rate of about 2 CENTIMETERS PER YEAR, creating the Instagram-famous THINGVELLIR RIFT VALLEY (aka mid atlantic ridge).
DO YOU KNOW: Iceland was formed from the MAGMA that bubbled up as these two plates moved away from each other. That’s why you can still see so much volcanic activity throughout the country.
Thingvellir National Park is filled with cracks and canyons, including the MASSIVE Almannagjá gorge (a must-visit activity), which you can walk through to experience the literal boundary between two continents.
FACTS: in Thingvellir National Park, the Icelandic Parliament was born, where the Vikings instituted their laws and celebrated their summer festivals for a millennium amidst the inspiring landscape. At 17th of June 1944, Iceland proclaimed its independence from Denmark at this place!
2) The Silfra Fissure: a TOP dive site in the world
Within the boundaries of Thingvellir Park lies Silfra, an UNDERWATER FISSURE that’s one of the TOP DIVE SITES IN THE WORLD.
Silfra is the RESULT of the tectonic drift between the North American and Eurasian plates.
The water in Silfra is some of the PUREST ON EARTH, as it is filtered through underground lava rocks for almost a CENTURY before it reaches the fissure.
DIVING in Silfra is a unique experience that allows you to glide between continental plates amid visibility that exceeds 100 meters (328 feet).
For us, it has been a bucket list item that we have finally been able to tick off.
With advances in DRY-SUIT TECHNOLOGY, the 36 F (2-DEGREE) water is accessible even during the winter. Qualified guides lead groups multiple times a day on an exciting diving adventure.
SNORKELING in Silfra is available to anyone over sixteen who can swim, with the buoyant dry suits acting as life jackets and the gentle current aiding movement through the fissure.
Here is a local tour operator that offers diving tours at Silfra.
Book here your snorkeling tour at the Silfra Fissure!
NOTE: While diving in Silfra is an amazing opportunity, it does require a PADI-certified Dry Suit Diving qualification, or equivalent, due to the frigid temperatures of the water, which remain between 2-4°C (35-39°F) throughout the year.
3) Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Summer (1 May – 30 September): 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. In Winter (1 October – 30 April): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Entrance Fee: 1200 Icelandic kronen (9 USD) + fees for activities like diving.
- Official Website.
- Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, walking paths, and on-site parking available
- Activities: Hiking, diving at Silfra Fissure, exploring the rift valley, and viewing historical sites
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Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area is your SECOND stop during your Golden Circle Tour in Iceland.
The name ‘Geysir’ is fitting for this GEOTHERMAL SITE as it’s home to several hot springs, steam vents, sulfurous mud pots, and the famous Great Geysir and Strokkur geysers.
The geothermal area itself covers a surface area of approximately 3 km2 (1.1 sq miles), with most hot springs aligning along a 100 m (328 ft) wide strip. As you explore this area, you can feel the ground crackling beneath your feet, smell the sulfur in the air, and witness the raw power of Iceland’s geothermal activity up close.
Great Geysir
The Great Geysir, known as the OLDEST GEYSIR in European history, has largely been DORMANT since the beginning of the 19th century.
Its eruptions were once so POWERFUL that the term ‘geyser’ was derived from its name, with the Icelandic verb ‘geysers‘ translating to ‘gushing‘.
The Great Geysir has been known to spout boiling water up to 70 meters high, reaching an astounding 175 feet in 1845.
Strokkur Geysir
Despite the dormancy of the Great Geysir, the smaller Strokkur geyser is very active.
It’s known for its reliable eruptions, launching fountains of boiling water every 4-8 MINUTES up to 30 METERS into the air.
SAFETY NOTE: You are advised to stay upwind of the geyser so the wind does not blow the boiling water in your face!
THE HIKING TRAIL around the various geysers (Strokkur, Geysir and Blesi) is not too long (3 km / 1,6 miles) and the perfect way to see all of them!
Practical Information: Geysir Geothermal Area
- Opening Hours: The Geysir Geothermal Area is open to visitors 24 hours a day, all year round. You simply park your car and cross the road, walk about 100mt to see the incredible geyser.
- Official Website: For more details, history, and updates on geothermal activity, make sure to check the Geysir Geothermal Area’s Official Website.
- Admission Fee: There is NO ENTRANCE FEE required to explore the Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Parking: There is a fairly large parking lot at the end of the road, which is free.
- Additional Facilities: You will find several amenities, including restrooms, a gift shop, and an educational visitor’s center. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Icelandic cuisine while admiring the view of the geothermal area.
Gullfoss Waterfall
The grand finale of the Golden Circle Trail in Iceland is the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall.
This colossal waterfall, also known as ‘THE GOLDEN FALLS’, is one of the country’s most famous landmarks and a highlight of driving the Golden Circle route in Iceland.
Only FIVE-MINUTES DRIVING (10 kilometers / 6 miles) from the Great Geysir will bring you to this beautiful waterfall.
KEEP IN MIND: Gullfoss waterfall has on average more than 2000 visitors per day.
On average, 100.000 LITERS OF GLACIAL WATER from the river Hvítá plunge 31 meters into the Gullfossgljúfur canyon EVERY SECOND.
Since the cold spray water does not stop for you, we recommend raincoats!
DID YOU KNOW: On sunny days, the mist from the falls creates stunning RAINBOWS. In contrast, a winter visit will reveal a FROZEN WONDERLAND!
The walk from the parking area to the Gullfoss Waterfall is short and easy, taking 5 to 10 minutes.
This path is well-maintained and leads you to several viewpoints offering AMAZING VIEWS of the falls.
We recommend you wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is be uneven and slippery, especially when wet.
During the winter months, the trails to the LOWER VIEWING PLATFORMS may sometimes be CLOSED due to icy and snowy conditions.
Always check the road and conditions map on safetravel.is for the latest updates.
Practical Information: Gullfoss Waterfall
- Opening Hours: Gullfoss is open to visitors every day of the year. The visitor center’s is open in SUMMER (May to August) from 9 am to 7 pm and in WINTER (September to April) from 10 am to 4 pm!
- Official Website: For more details and updates, visit Gullfoss Official Website!
- Admission Fee: Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall is free of charge, no ticket is required.
- Parking: There is a large parking lot provided for visitors at no additional cost.
- Additional Facilities: Restrooms, souvenir shops, and a restaurant are available next to the parking area.
NOTE: There is a lot of parking space available, but we recommend arriving early during the high season to avoid crowds.
Make sure you have travel insurance to avoid EXPENSIVE medical bills in case of an injury! You can check out below how expensive it would be for your holiday! Lucky for you, we partner with VisitorsCoverage, which offers the lowest medical insurance!
How to drive the Golden Circle route in Iceland
When we travel, we always rent our car with Discover Cars. Their platform is straightforward and user-friendly, offering a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices. Plus, they have great customer service!
Accommodation Near the Golden Circle
To book all our accommodations when we travel, we always use Booking.com, they have the best prices and very flexible cancellation policies.
Below we have listed our recommendations for accommodation in case you would like to stretch your Golden Circle tour over multiple days. our recommendations range from luxury to budget-friendly:
Luxury: Hotel Geysir
Indulge in the elegance and serenity of Hotel Geysir, located right in the heart of the Golden Circle.
This high-end hotel offers a modern, luxurious experience with beautifully designed rooms, an on-site gourmet restaurant, and immediate access to the Geysir geothermal area.
With exceptional service and facilities, it is the perfect retreat for those looking to pamper themselves after a day of exploring.
Mid-Budget: Frost and Fire Hotel
Frost and Fire Hotel presents a comfortable stay with stunning riverside views and an emphasis on relaxation. Located in Hveragerði, known for its hot springs, the hotel features geothermally heated outdoor pools and hot tubs.
It offers a serene ambiance and excellent dining options, capturing the essence of Iceland without stretching your wallet too thin.
Budget: Golden Circle Hostel
For a more budget stay, Golden Circle Hostel is an excellent choice. Offering clean, basic accommodations, it’s ideal for travelers looking to save money while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
You can choose from shared dormitory rooms or private rooms, with access to a communal kitchen and lounge area, all set amidst a scenic backdrop.
Take a look at this 5-day Iceland Itinerary, with all the must-dos in Iceland!
Restaurants on the Golden Circle Iceland
While embarking on a journey through Golden Circle Iceland, it’s important to know where to stop for a meal to complement the landscapes:
- Friðheimar – A unique greenhouse restaurant where you can enjoy fresh tomato-based dishes surrounded by plants, basking in a warm, sunlit ambiance.
- Efstidalur Farm – Indulge in homemade Icelandic dishes straight from farm to table. Their ice cream, made from the milk of the farm’s own cows, is a must-try.
- Geysir Glima Restaurant – Offering a range of Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist and an impressive view of the geothermal area.
- Gullfoss Café – Known for its traditional Icelandic meat soup, the café also provides a variety of snacks and meals perfect for a quick stop.
- Skjól Bistro – A cozy bistro tucked away near Geysir, serving pizzas, burgers, and local beers, along with vegan and vegetarian options.
- Ölvisholt Brewery – For those interested in sampling local brews and pub fare, this microbrewery provides a unique insight into the craft beer scene in Iceland.
- Mika Restaurant – A charming establishment in Reykholt offering exquisite seafood and sweets, it’s well-regarded for its chocolate making.
Local Tour Operators
Reykjavik Erupts
Experience Iceland’s wonders with this Golden Circle Private Day Tour. This exclusive tour includes:
- Þingvellir National Park
- The erupting geyser Strokkur
- Gullfoss waterfall
Optional stops at the Secret Lagoon, Kerið crater, and more make this tour special. Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle and insights from a local guide. Customize your adventure for a truly unique experience.
Book now at Reykjavik Erupts.
EV Travel
The Golden Circle Experience by EV Travel offers a private, ECO-FRIENDLY tour of Iceland’s most iconic natural and cultural sites.
This all-inclusive tour includes lunch, private transportation in a luxury electric vehicle, and a guide.
HIGHLIGHTS of the tour include the Geothermal Exhibition, Kerid Crater, Fridheimar Tomato Farm, the Geysir hot spring, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park.
This tour focuses on sustainability. They plant a tree for every tour conducted! For more details, visit their website.
Surrounding Sites Worth Visiting
Next to the three main Golden Circle attractions, there are many other activities that we recommend!
Fludir’s Secret Lagoon
Fludir’s Secret Lagoon, known as the Gamla Laugin in the local language, stands as Iceland’s OLDEST swimming pool.
Dating back to 1891, this naturally heated gem is fed by the hot springs enveloping it, maintaining a cozy temperature of 38–40 °C year-round.
Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn
Nestled in the village of Laugarvatn, the Fontana geothermal bathing facility offers a luxurious escape amidst majestic lakes and geothermal wonders.
This spot has a spa with steam rooms and a Finnish sauna.
You can soak in the spa heated by natural underground currents!
This oasis in Laugarvatn invites you to immerse yourself in nature’s thermal treasures.
Other Places Worth Visiting
- Langjökull Glacier: Known for its breathtaking ice caves and being the second-largest glacier in Iceland.
- Solheimar Ecovillage: A sustainable community promoting eco-friendly living and organic farming practices.
- Seydisfjordur: A picturesque town famous for its colorful houses and artistic community.
- Hrunalaug Hot Spring: A hidden natural hot spring perfect for relaxation in a serene setting.
- Glamping in Iceland: Unique camping experience offering luxury amenities amidst Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
- Bruarfoss Waterfall: A stunning blue waterfall hidden away in Iceland.
- Iceland Volcanoes: Home to numerous active and dormant volcanoes, shaping Iceland’s dramatic landscape.
Travel Accessories
Make sure you have all the necessary travel accessories before your trip!
- Universal Adapter
- Osprey Backpack
- Power Bank
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Traveler’s EHBO Kit
- Ebook reader
- Travel Bottles
- Multi-tool
- Packing Cubes
- Neck Pillow
- RFID Wallet
- Travel Umbrella
- Raincoat
- Walking shoes
- Eye Mask
- Waterproof Phone Case
- Microfiber Towel
Conclusion
In summary, the Golden Circle is a must-visit route that offers a diverse and unforgettable experience of Iceland’s natural beauty and rich history. Here are the key takeaways:
- Iconic Landmarks: Discover Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area—three of Iceland’s most famous attractions.
- Accessible Adventure: The Golden Circle is easily reachable from Reykjavik, making it perfect for both quick day trips and extended explorations.
- Year-Round Destination: Whether you visit in summer or winter, the Golden Circle offers stunning landscapes and unique experiences in every season.
- Beyond the Basics: Enhance your journey with stops at the Secret Lagoon, Fontana Spa, Langjökull Glacier, and the picturesque Kerid crater lake.
Let us know in the comments below how your experience was.
FAQ
How long does it take to do the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle route is 230km long and travels in a full loop between Reykjavik and Iceland for about 4 hours, but that’s merely a travel time and does not include a stop or sightseeing period for the trip. We recommend taking at least a full day to complete the Golden Circle, as there are many amazing sights and activities to experience along the way.
Is the Golden Circle in Iceland worth it?
Absolutely! The Golden Circle is one of the top tourist destinations in Iceland and for good reason. It features some of the most breathtaking natural wonders, including the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, the active geothermal area of Geysir, and the historic site of Thingvellir National Park. Plus, it’s easily accessible from Reykjavik, making it a must-visit for any traveler to Iceland.
Where are the pick-up locations for the Golden Circle tours?
There are several pick-up locations for Golden Circle tours, including Reykjavik city center, major hotels in the area, and the Reykjavik Domestic Airport. Some tour companies also offer pick-up from Keflavik International Airport for those arriving on early morning flights. Make sure to check with your chosen tour company for their specific pick-up locations and times.
What does the Golden Circle include in Iceland?
Whenever you see Iceland’s amazing places, Golden Circle is likely the phrase you hear. It comprises three unique places: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
What is special about the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle features small and many rocks surrounding large highlights that may extend freely. Other beautiful sights on the Golden Circle include volcanic eruptions, Keris, and historical bishops see Skálholt. Its high amount is supplied by many geothermal pools and greenhouse sites around the town.
What are the three main attractions of the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The classic Golden Circle trip includes a self-drive tour of the three most visited tourist attractions on the island: the Glockfoss Riverfall, the Geysis Geothermal Region, and ‘Angel’ National Parks. The journey runs about 250 kilometers and runs between capital cities, the center of Iceland, and back.
What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
Iceland’s Golden Circle is a popular road connecting three popular tourist attractions in Iceland. Start at Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, and head through the southern peaks to visit Inningvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal, and Gulls Falls.
Why is the Golden Circle famous?
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s best-known scenic route and combines breathtaking sights with historic significance on a round-trip sightseeing tour.
What is in the Golden Circle of Iceland?
The Gold Circle consists of three distinct locations: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Areas, and Gullfoss Waterfalls.
How long does it take to drive to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik?
The entire route to Golden Circle is about 154 miles (230 km) long. The entire loop from Reykjavik starts and finishes in under 4 hours; however, it’s merely a journey that doesn’t have any stops or sights.
Is the Blue Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?
No, the Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle. It is located in a separate area about 30 minutes away from Reykjavik. However, many tour companies offer combined tours to both the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon for convenience.
What is the difference between the Golden Circle and the Ring Road in Iceland?
The Golden Circle measures approximately 230 km long and can be completed within one day, whereas the Ring Road is a route that is 828 km long. It takes seven days to complete the loop.
