00:00
Iceland’s Golden Circle is the number one way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of this island nation. This epic loop around Iceland swings past most of the top attractions, making it easy to explore this one of a kind place. The Golden Circle is at least and all-day activity, and you may even want to budget more than one day, depending on how much time you’d like to spend on hikes, at hot springs, or exploring Thingvellir National Park.
The Golden Circle is home to famous attractions like Gullfoss, a sparkling waterfall that draws visitors from around the world. Then there’s Thingvellir National Park. In addition to being a simply stunning landscape with incredible vistas and waterfalls throughout, it’s also a silver screen star, having been featured in a climactic sequence in Game of Thrones. The route is also peppered with geothermal areas where steaming hot springs and explosive geysers reveal the volcanic power just below the surface.
Of course, Iceland is a nation rich with history, dating all the way back to the age of the Vikings. This history is still very much alive along the Golden Circle, where visitors can find things like the site where the Viking parliament once met! And get ready to hear plenty of stories about ancient Viking myths and legends to boot.
Iceland’s Golden Circle is a popular tourist route covering about 300 kilometers looping from Reykjavik into central Iceland and back. It is easily accessible by car, air, or bus tour.
Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
Located about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik, Keflavik is the primary international gateway to Iceland. From the airport, you can rent a car or catch a shuttle to Reykjavik, where you can join a tour or start a self-drive adventure. The drive from Keflavik to Reykjavik takes about 45 minutes via Route 41.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV)
For those already in Iceland, Reykjavik Domestic Airport offers flights from major towns across the country. It’s centrally located in Reykjavik, making it a perfect starting point for Golden Circle tours. From here, you can easily rent a car.
Akureyri Airport (AEY)
In northern Iceland, Akureyri Airport serves as a secondary access point. While further away, it offers a unique opportunity to travel through the scenic landscapes of northern and southwestern Iceland to reach the Golden Circle. The journey from Akureyri to the Golden Circle is approximately five hours by car, via Routes 1 and 36.
Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS)
Located in the east, Egilsstaðir Airport provides another route for travelers wishing to explore Iceland comprehensively. The drive from Egilsstaðir to the Golden Circle takes about six hours via Route 1, presenting an epic journey through Iceland’s diverse eastern and southern landscapes.
Reykjavik
Visitors starting from Reykjavik can access the Golden Circle by taking Route 1 east from the city, then switching to Route 36, which leads directly to Þingvellir National Park. This is the most common and straightforward route, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Keflavik
From Keflavik, where the international airport is located, travelers can rent a car and drive northeast on Route 41 towards Reykjavik. From there, follow the same route as from Reykjavik, using Route 1 east to Route 36, leading to Þingvellir. The total driving time from Keflavik to Þingvellir is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Egilsstaðir
Travelers from Egilsstaðir in the east should drive west on Route 1, which traverses the southern part of the country. Continue until you can turn onto Route 36, which leads directly to Þingvellir. This extensive drive takes about seven to eight hours, perfect for those who enjoy exploring and experiencing the vast open landscapes of Iceland.
Akureyri
Those coming from Akureyri in the north can take Route 1 south towards Reykjavik, then turn onto Route 36 for Þingvellir. This scenic drive takes approximately 5 hours, offering a diverse landscape and the opportunity to see more of Iceland’s beautiful countryside.
Getting Around
Accessing and exploring the Golden Circle in Iceland is most conveniently done by car, providing the flexibility to visit each site at your own pace. Car rental services are widely available at Keflavik International Airport and in Reykjavik. For those without a vehicle, guided bus tours from Reykjavik cover all major attractions along the route, making it easy for visitors to experience the key sights without needing to drive. Additionally, public buses connect Reykjavik with key points on the Golden Circle, though these services may be less frequent. With these transportation options, exploring the Golden Circle’s stunning landscapes and historical sites is accessible for all visitors, regardless of their mode of transportation.
The Golden Circle in Iceland is renowned for its stunning natural attractions, and one of the perks of this popular tourist route is that there are no entrance fees for the major landmarks. This includes Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall, allowing visitors to enjoy these spectacular sites without any admission costs.
While access to these main attractions is free, Þingvellir National Park does require a parking fee, which helps fund the preservation and maintenance of the area. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and holds significant historical, cultural, and geological importance, making it a must-visit location on the Golden Circle route.
As the capital city and a common starting point for Golden Circle, Reykjavik offers a broad range of accommodations. Options include luxury hotels, charming boutique hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and private rentals. Staying in Reykjavik provides easy access to urban amenities and nightlife, as well as convenient tour departures.
This town is a practical base for exploring the Golden Circle. It has a variety of lodging options including hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals. Selfoss is larger than other nearby towns, providing good services and dining options while still offering quick access to the natural sites.
Known for its geothermal hot springs, Hveragerði is a unique place to stay. It offers health-focused resorts, cozy guesthouses, and vacation rentals. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want the experience of waking up to beautiful landscapes right outside their door.
This small community is another excellent option, particularly for those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas. Flúðir offers hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs, and is home to the Secret Lagoon, a natural hot spring that can be less crowded than the Blue Lagoon.
Located near the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall, Laugarvatn is a small village with a few accommodation choices such as guesthouses, hostels, and a luxury spa resort. The town is also known for the Laugarvatn Fontana, where visitors can relax in natural steam baths.
The Golden Circle in Iceland offers unique experiences across different seasons. In summer (June to August), enjoy mild weather with temperatures between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and nearly 24 hours of daylight around the solstice, perfect for hiking and sightseeing, although it’s peak tourist season with higher prices and crowds.
Autumn (September to November) cools to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), with decreased daylight revealing beautiful fall colors and excellent conditions for photography and Northern Lights viewing as nights lengthen and tourists dwindle.
Winter (December to February) transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, temperatures hovering around -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), offering magical Northern Lights experiences and winter beauty with accessible major attractions, despite limited daylight of 4 to 5 hours near the winter solstice.
Spring (March to May) sees temperatures rising from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) with daylight increasing, ideal for catching the last Northern Lights displays and experiencing the landscape’s rebirth before the peak season begins.
For those short on time, a half-day tour lasting about 5 to 6 hours covers three primary attractions: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This quick tour offers a glimpse of each site, perfect for those seeking a snapshot of Iceland’s natural wonders.
A full-day tour, spanning 8 to 10 hours, allows for a more relaxed exploration of the main attractions, plus additional sights like Kerid Crater Lake or the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. More time means leisurely walks, extended photography sessions, and the opportunity to soak in the stunning landscapes without rush.
For a thorough experience, consider a multi-day tour of the Golden Circle. This approach is ideal for those desiring deep immersion, offering detailed exploration of each site and activities like horseback riding or snowmobiling.
Visiting Iceland’s Golden Circle is more enjoyable during the shoulder seasons—late spring (May) or early autumn (September to early October)—due to milder weather and fewer tourists. Starting your day early or visiting late can avoid peak crowds at attractions like Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Weekday visits also see fewer tourists compared to weekends. Staying in nearby towns like Selfoss, Laugarvatn, or Flúðir allows for exploring key locations outside peak hours. Additionally, exploring lesser-known sites within the Golden Circle can offer a quieter experience away from the main tourist spots. These hidden gems provide stunning natural beauty without the crowds. Opting for alternative routes or starting points different from typical tours can further enhance your experience, ensuring a tranquil exploration of Iceland’s renowned scenic route.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park in Iceland is a site of immense historical, cultural, and geological significance. Renowned as the location of the Alþingi, the world’s oldest existing parliament founded in 930 AD, it sits in a rift valley marking the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Visible here are the effects of two tectonic plates drifting apart. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir offers a dramatic landscape of fissures, lava fields, and water bodies, appealing to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and geologists. Note that a parking fee is required to help maintain and preserve this significant site.
Silfra Fissure, located between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offers a premier diving experience. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters—often with visibility over 100 meters—Silfra allows divers and snorkelers to swim in drinkable water, filtered through volcanic rock. This unique site features vibrant algae and deep blue caverns, providing an otherworldly underwater environment where adventurers can literally swim between continents.
Gullfoss Falls, on the Hvítá River, cascades dramatically in two stages into a deep canyon, dropping a total of 32 meters. Known for its powerful flow and the spectacular mist that creates rainbows on sunny days, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Multiple viewing platforms provide varied perspectives of its breathtaking force. The lush surrounding landscape further magnifies the raw beauty of Gullfoss, marking it as a quintessential visit.
Kerid Crater is a stunning geological formation, once a vibrant volcano that collapsed after depleting its magma chamber. Just 3,000 years old, the crater features brilliant red iron deposits and lush green vegetation, framing a striking blue lake enriched by mineral deposits. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee which helps maintain this picturesque site. Spanning over 558 feet wide and 180 feet deep, Kerið offers a breathtaking view of nature’s artistry. Open year-round, the crater allows visitors to enjoy its beauty across different seasons, though checking current access conditions and opening hours before visiting is recommended.
Helgufoss is a hidden gem in Iceland, offering a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds. This charming waterfall flows over mossy rocks, set in a tranquil valley surrounded by lush greenery. The scenic hike to Helgufoss enhances the experience, making it perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude. Ideal for picnics, photography, and soaking in the serene atmosphere, Helgufoss invites visitors to enjoy a quiet escape into Iceland’s natural beauty.
It’s among the most impressive natural attractions on the Golden Circle route. Geysir, the namesake of all geysers worldwide, erupts infrequently but majestically. Its neighbor, Strokkur, steals the show with reliable eruptions every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20 meters high. Visitors gather in anticipation to witness these spectacular displays of Earth’s geothermal power. The area around these geysers is marked by bubbling pools and steaming vents, painting a striking landscape that underscores the volatile beauty beneath Iceland’s surface.
Secret Lagoon, established in the 1890s and rejuvenated in recent decades, is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool. After being overshadowed by newer facilities in the 1940s, it has been revived to become a cherished geothermal spot for both locals and tourists. The lagoon offers a natural, minimalistic setting with a scenic path around a bubbling geyser. Facilities include rental options for swimsuits and towels, and an entrance fee is required for access. Visitors are advised to hydrate and eat lightly before soaking in the warm waters to enhance their experience at this historic and relaxing destination.
Skálholt, once a center of religious and political power in medieval Iceland, remains a site of historical importance. It served as the bishopric from 1056 to 1785 and is now cherished for its serene atmosphere and modern church, built atop ancient ruins. Visitors can admire beautiful artwork, an elaborate altar, and archaeological relics that reflect its rich past. The peaceful surroundings make Skálholt a meaningful destination for those interested in Iceland’s ecclesiastical heritage.
The Cave People Museum in Laugarvatnshellir, Iceland offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early Icelandic settlers who inhabited this man-made cave. Visitors can explore restored interiors that replicate the living conditions from the early 1900s, when a young couple transformed the cave into a cozy home, complete with household items and a stove for cooking. The museum presents an authentic snapshot of how these cave dwellers ingeniously used their natural surroundings to build a life.
Hveradalir, a historic geothermal area in Iceland, traces its roots back to the 1920s when Anders Hoyer and Erica Hartmann, passionate horticulturalists, settled the land. Known for Iceland’s first steam bath, it offers visitors the chance to explore geothermal greenhouses and enjoy natural hot springs, while experiencing the site where skiers once gathered to unwind in steam cabins crafted from the surrounding fumaroles.
Delve into a landscape where history meets geology. Wander through ancient rifts formed by continental shifts or dive into crystal-clear waters that fill the fissures, offering a unique snorkeling experience. The surrounding area, steeped in history, also provides a profound connection to the past.
Stand in awe at the sight of geothermal activity as geysers erupt with astonishing regularity. Feel the thrill of the earth’s power underfoot, exploring an area where the ground bubbles and steams, creating a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
Experience the majesty of cascading waterfalls, where the river’s power is on full display as it falls dramatically into a scenic canyon. The resulting mist often creates dazzling rainbows, providing a stunning natural spectacle and perfect photo opportunities.
Reserve Lodging in Advance: If visiting during late spring and summer, book your accommodations and campgrounds well ahead of time, as popular spots fill up quickly. If you can’t secure your desired location initially, keep checking back for cancellations.
Book Permits Promptly: For popular attractions like Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon, be prepared to book your permits online as soon as they are released. The first round of permits is available six months in advance at midnight, so set an alarm. A second round for Fern Canyon is released the day before your visit at 9 a.m., while Tall Trees Grove permits are available at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. the day before.
Check Road and Trail Conditions: Before your trip, check the parks’ websites for any road or trail closures due to weather-related damage or seasonal shutdowns. Ensure that your desired destinations will be accessible during your visit.
Carry Navigation Tools: When hiking, have a detailed topographic map and compass in addition to any GPS device or navigation app. Electronics can fail, so it’s wise to have a reliable backup for navigation in the backcountry. Preload necessary maps in case of lost cell service on the trail.
Practice Bear Safety: While black bears in the area typically do not pose problems, it’s important to respect them. When camping, store all food, garbage, and scented items securely in a hard-sided vehicle or bear locker to prevent attracting bears into your campsite.
Carry a Phone Charger: Bring a phone charger and/or car charger, along with a portable power bank, to ensure your devices are charged for navigation, photography, and enjoying your trip.
Portable Charger: Keep your devices charged, as you’ll be away from power outlets for most of the day.
Map and Compass/GPS: While the Golden Circle is well-traveled and marked, having a map or GPS can help with navigation, especially during hikes.