Laura
Last Updated on June 3, 2026 by Laura
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The Iceland Golden Circle is the country’s most famous day trip from Reykjavik, a roughly 300km loop that takes in three of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Whether you have one day or two, this route is manageable, breathtaking, and endlessly rewarding. In this guide I’ll share the exact Golden Circle itinerary my husband and I followed complete with maps, practical tips, parking costs, where to eat, and optional extra stops if you want to go beyond the highlights.
Table of Contents
Iceland Golden Circle: Frequently Asked Questions
The route takes its name from Gullfoss waterfall. Gull meaning “gold” in Icelandic. The original Icelandic name, Gullni hringurinn, translates directly as “the Golden Circle,” referring to the loop from Reykjavik to Gullfoss and back.
The full loop from Reykjavik covers approximately 300km (186 miles). With stops at the three main highlights — Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss — most people complete it comfortably in one day, though two days lets you explore at a more relaxed pace and include extra stops.
The Golden Circle is a short loop (300km) starting and ending in Reykjavik, covering three key natural attractions. The Ring Road (Route 1) encircles the entire country, around 1,300km, and typically takes 7–10 days to complete. They overlap at a couple of points, but are otherwise completely separate routes.
The three main attractions — Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss — all have free entry. However, you will pay for parking at Þingvellir (around 400–600 ISK). The Kerið Crater, a popular add-on stop, charges a 450 ISK entrance fee.
Yes. There are several well-organised full-day tours departing from Reykjavik daily. These are a great option if you’re not comfortable driving on Icelandic roads or want a guide. If you do drive independently, a standard 2WD car is sufficient in summer; 4WD is recommended in winter.
Start early, ideally by 8am. Þingvellir in particular is far more magical before the tour buses arrive. Beginning at dawn also gives you a buffer for lingering longer at each stop without feeling rushed.
Tips for visiting the Golden Circle
These tips will help you make the most of your Golden Circle adventure and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Best time to do the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle can be driven year-round, but each season offers a very different experience.
Summer (June–August) is peak season. The days are incredibly long: in June you can drive the entire route under the midnight sun. The landscapes are lush and green, all pathways are open, and the lower waterfall trail at Gullfoss is accessible. The downside: this is also the busiest time, and you’ll share the parking lots and viewpoints with large crowds. Book tours and restaurants like Friðheimar well in advance.
Shoulder season (April–May and September–October) is arguably the sweet spot. Crowds are thinner, prices are lower, and in spring you may find Gullfoss partially frozen: a genuinely spectacular sight. In autumn, the golden tones of the moss and lava fields are stunning. September and October also offer a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights on the drive back to Reykjavik.
Winter (November–March) transforms the route into something otherworldly: snow-covered lava fields, frozen waterfalls, and the possibility of the Northern Lights overhead. However, daylight is limited to around 5 hours, some paths may be closed for safety, and roads can be icy. Always check road conditions at road.is before setting off.
Start at Þingvellir as early as possible
Aim to arrive at Þingvellir by 8–9am at the latest. It’s the most atmospheric stop on the route, and walking the Almannagjá Gorge without crowds is a completely different experience to arriving mid-morning when tour buses have pulled in. Starting early also gives you a comfortable buffer to linger at each stop without rushing the last one.
Allow at least 1.5 hours per main stop
The three highlights — Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss — each deserve proper time. Budget around 1.5 to 2 hours at Þingvellir (more if you explore beyond the gorge), around an hour at Geysir, and at least an hour at Gullfoss. Rushing any of them is a shame, especially if you’re there for photography.
Dress in waterproof layers — and bring more than you think you need
Icelandic weather can change dramatically within a single hour, and between stops on the same day. At Geysir you will almost certainly get wet from the spray if you’re anywhere near Strokkur. At Gullfoss, the mist from the waterfall combined with wind can make it feel bitterly cold even in summer. Waterproof jacket, waterproof trousers, and sturdy waterproof shoes are non-negotiable. I was wearing at least three jackets layers at Gullfoss in late April, so pack accordingly!
Book Friðheimar for lunch — or have a backup plan
Friðheimar, the famous tomato farm restaurant between Geysir and Þingvellir, is one of the best lunch stops in Iceland and genuinely worth the detour. However, it books up weeks in advance in peak season. Reserve a table before you leave Reykjavik, or have a backup plan. The Tourist Centre at Geysir has three restaurants and is a reliable and surprisingly affordable alternative.
Budget for parking fees
The natural attractions themselves are mostly free, but parking is not. Þingvellir charges around 400–600 ISK per car. Geysir and Gullfoss have their own car parks which may also charge a small fee depending on the season. Bring some Icelandic Króna or a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, as card payment isn’t always available at smaller lots.
Check road conditions before you set off
This is especially important outside of summer. The official Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website — road.is — gives live updates on road closures, ice warnings, and conditions along the route. In winter, some sections can become hazardous quickly. It takes two minutes to check and could save you a serious headache.
Consider an organised tour if you’re not confident driving
Iceland drives on the right, roads can be narrow, and in winter conditions can be challenging even for experienced drivers. If you’d rather leave the navigation to someone else, there are excellent full-day tours departing from Reykjavik every morning that cover all three main stops. Some also combine the Golden Circle with the Northern Lights or the Secret Lagoon for a fuller day.
If you don’t feel confident in driving the Icelandic roads, I would recommend trying one of these organised tours:
- Golden Circle Full Day Tour from Reykjavik
- From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo
- From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Day Tour
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
Iceland golden circle itinerary highlights
The map above provides a detailed overview of the exact itinerary my husband and I followed for our Golden Circle route. As I mentioned earlier, our route covered the primary highlights, as we were planning to continue south to start Route 1 after the last stop, rather than returning to Reykjavik. We independently organised and executed this itinerary, opting not to go with an organised tour operator.
The primary highlights of the Golden Circle include Þingvellir National Park (or Thingvellir), the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gulfoss Waterfall. Even if you choose an organized tour, these three destinations will likely be the main stops on your journey. Any additional stops are usually included if there is extra time available. Further information about these additional stops can be found at the end of this blog.
For our personalised itinerary, we added a bonus stop to interact with the friendly Icelandic Horses along the way. This was our first stop because the farm was conveniently located near Reykjavik. If you’re not particularly interested in horses, you can simply skip this step and head directly to Þingvellir National Park.
The total length of our route covered 117 km, making it a manageable and rewarding day trip.
First stop – meeting the Icelandic horses!
Photographing the Icelandic Horses was a highlight on my own itinerary, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Iceland. These unique horses can be found all over Iceland, but along the Golden Circle route, you’ll come across numerous farms where they graze by the side of the road, making it much easier to get up close and spend some time with these beautiful creatures. A nice place to stop if you have some spare time is the Laxnes Horses Farm (first stop on the map). They also organise some day tours. The photos above have been taken from the side of a road shortly after Reykjavik. There was not farm sign but there were some fences which, of course, we didn’t cross.
Icelandic Horses and Norse Mythology
Icelandic Horses were originally brought to Iceland by the Vikings during the early Middle Ages. While the current breed is slightly different from the horses of that time, they still represent a symbol of that special traditional heritage. The Vikings held horses in high regard and considered them sacred animals, as they played significant roles in Norse mythology. Some were protectors, while others were symbols of fertility. Perhaps the most famous mythological horse is Sleipnir, the eight-footed horse beloved by the god Odin.
Today, most Icelandic horses are used by Icelanders for agricultural work or in competitions. They are treated with great care and affection. From what I’ve observed, many farmers and owners consider them an integral part of their families.
So, don’t miss the opportunity to interact with these remarkable horses during your Golden Circle adventure. It’s not just a chance for photography but also to connect with a piece of Iceland’s rich history and culture.
Tips for your Icelandic Horses meeting
Icelandic horses are known for their friendly and sociable nature, as they are accustomed to human company. However, there are a few important considerations when interacting with them:
- Beware of Electric Fences: Be cautious when approaching Icelandic horses near fences. Some of these fences are electric, which can be a danger both to you and the horses. Keep a safe distance.
- Don’t Feed Them: While horses may approach you in anticipation of food, it’s advisable not to feed them. You might not be familiar with their usual diet or any special dietary requirements they have.
- Respect Private Farms: Many Icelandic horses are kept on private farms, even though they may appear to roam freely in open landscapes. It’s essential to be respectful of the boundaries and the lives of local people. While Icelanders are generally patient with tourists petting and photographing their horses, it’s important to maintain a considerate and respectful approach.
Second stop, Þingvellir National Park
If you choose to skip the horse meeting along the way, Þingvellir can be regarded as the first “official” stop of the Golden Circle for all tours departing from Reykjavik. The distance from the capital to Þingvellir is approximately 40 kilometers, and it takes about 36 minutes to reach the main car park. This makes it a convenient starting point for your Golden Circle adventure. Please note that despite the entrance to Þingvellir is free, the parking slot is chargeable. The price for the parking space is between 400-600 ISK.
Some information about the Þingvellir National Park
The Icelandic word “Þingvellir” translates to “Parliament.” In historical terms, when the Vikings first arrived in Iceland around 874 AD, they established their parliamentary assembly in what is now a National Park known as Þingvellir. Today, Þingvellir remains a significant location for events of national importance, such as the declaration of Iceland’s independence in 1944, as well as for hosting summer concerts.
Geographically, Þingvellir is situated in a rift valley formed during the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This unique geological setting adds to the site’s historical and natural significance, making it a must-visit destination on the Golden Circle route.
Indeed, Þingvellir National Park is situated precisely between two continents, making it an extraordinary and unique geological wonder. The constant movement of the tectonic plates, drifting apart at a rate of approximately 2 centimetres per year, adds to the park’s allure, showcasing the dynamic forces shaping the Earth’s surface. It’s truly awe-inspiring!
Walking through the Almannagjá Gorge, as pictured, can take around half an hour, provided you don’t (like me) stop every two steps to capture the incredible scenery on camera.
While many visitors tend to explore this side of the park, I highly recommend taking a little detour in the surrounding area if you have the time and don’t mind a walk. The natural beauty of the surroundings is beyond words.
If you’re a fan of “Game of Thrones,” you’ll be delighted to know that Þingvellir National Park served as one of the locations for the TV series, particularly the area near the Öxarárfoss waterfall. It’s a treat for both nature enthusiasts and pop culture enthusiasts alike.
Enhance your Þingvellir visit with a diving experience
If you have some extra time to spare during your visit to Þingvellir, one experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the opportunity to go diving at the Silfra fissure. Silfra is an extraordinary geological feature—a fissure in the Earth created by the movement of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This unique location is renowned for its crystal-clear glacial water, offering over 100 meters of underwater visibility.
Please note that in order to do this experience, you must have a PADI certification course. If you don’t have a PADI certification, you can opt for a snorkelling tour, which doesn’t require any certification.
Tour prices for diving starts at £200 per person for a 40 mins dive. While snorkelling tours starts at £115 per person. Most of the divings and snorkelling tours are organised by Diving.is.
Third Stop – See the geysers at Geysir
After dedicating most of your early morning to exploring the tectonic plates of Þingvellir, it’s time to head to the third major stop on the Golden Circle: the Geysir Geothermal Area. This is undoubtedly one of the most famous and iconic destinations on the Golden Circle, located in the Haukadalur Valley and easily accessible from Þingvellir.
During the spring and summer, you’ll immediately notice the area from the road, thanks to the vibrant minerals that lend the valley a multicolored appearance. As you get closer, the fumaroles emitting steam on the sides of the road will signal your proximity to the geysers. Yes, you read that correctly! This is one of the few places in the world where you can witness active geysers up close.
The Geothermal Area is approximately 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, and the drive takes about an hour to reach from the National Park. It’s important to note that this area can get quite crowded during peak seasons, and you may find yourself queuing for a parking spot, so plan accordingly.
Geysir and Strokkur
Icelandic geysers hold a unique place in history. Indeed, they are among the oldest known in literature. The Geothermal Area has been active for over 10,000 years, and it’s significantly influenced by the island’s seismic activity. Until 1845, the Great Geysir, from which the area derives its name, was highly active. There are reports of eruptions reaching up to 170 meters in height. However, after that period, Geysir became largely dormant due to the seismic activity on the island.
So, if you come across people waiting for more than 5 minutes by the side of the Great Geysir in hopes of witnessing its activity, you can safely disregard their efforts. That particular geyser is no longer active, and they are spending their time in vain. Instead, use that time to explore the valley and experience the area from different perspectives.
Conversely, the only active geyser you can observe today is Strokkur. It erupts approximately every 10 minutes, reaching a maximum height of around 30 meters. There are typically two types of eruptions: the first is quick and less powerful, which might initially leave you slightly disappointed. However, I strongly recommend patience. Indeed, after this initial outburst, you will likely witness the powerful and robust eruption you were anticipating. It’s well worth the wait!
Tip
When observing the geyser, be mindful of your position. If you stand too close, you run the risk of getting drenched during the eruption. To fully appreciate the landscape and the stunning colors of the valley, take some time to explore the other geysers in the area. The scenery is truly remarkable. Moreover, it’s an opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the region beyond just the geothermal activity.
Fourth stop, Gulfoss Waterfall.
Gulfoss, meaning “Golden Waterfall” in Icelandic, marked our final stop before continuing our journey to Southern Iceland. This magnificent waterfall is situated at the top of the canyon on the Hvita river.
Gulfoss stands out as one of the most powerful waterfalls I’ve encountered in Iceland. Its might is not only due to the substantial volume of water flowing through it, averaging between 80 and 140 cubic meters per second, but also because of its sheer immensity. Indeed, the waterfall plummets from a height of approximately 32 meters. I realise the photos I’ve taken of this waterfall don’t make justice to this stunning location. Indeed, one has to see it in person to truly admire its power.
During our visit in late April, we discovered that Gulfoss was still partially frozen. This added a unique and captivating element to the experience, despite the challenges. However, it’s worth noting that the pathway running along the lower side of the waterfall was closed to visitors for security reason. If you visit during summer, this is an additional pathway you can take to explore the waterfall up-close.
Gulfoss brief history
Gulfoss indeed had an interesting history. Until 1940, it was privately owned. Initially, there were plans to transform it into a local hydro-electric plant, but these plans were ultimately abandoned, thanks to the determined efforts of Sigríður, the daughter of the owner at the time, Tómas Tómasson. She vigorously advocated for preserving the untouched natural beauty of Gulfoss and, in the end, succeeded in protecting it. When the last owner eventually decided to sell the land and the waterfall, the government purchased it and established the present-day natural reserve, ensuring the continued preservation of this spectacular natural wonder. Sigríður’s dedication played a crucial role in safeguarding Gulfoss for future generations to enjoy.
Additional information for your Gulfoss visit
Gulfoss is located approximately 10 kilometers from the Geysir area, a short 10-minute drive by car. Surprisingly, despite the relatively short distance, I discovered that the climate and landscape in the two locations were remarkably different.
While the Geothermal Area offered a more pleasant temperature with a partially sunny sky, Gulfoss presented a starkly contrasting atmosphere. It was extremely cold, with strong winds and a partially overcast sky. Additionally, there was still snow and ice in the area, making it challenging to navigate around the waterfall. This highlights the variability of weather and climate conditions in Iceland, even during the spring season. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for a range of temperatures and weather patterns (I was wearing three jackets in the photos above!).
For those who haven’t stopped at the Geothermal Area’s services, you can find a smaller tourist center at Gulfoss. Here, you’ll discover a souvenir shop and a small cafe to replenish and warm up before continuing your journey.
Where to eat in the Golden Circle
The Geothermal Area is likely to be one of the most crowded places you’ll encounter on the Golden Circle, and for good reasons. It not only features the fascinating geysers but also serves as the first stop on the route with available services. Right across from the geysers, you’ll find a Tourist Centre equipped with three restaurants, souvenir shops, and parking facilities.
We initially intended to have lunch at Friðheimar during our journey. Nevertheless, we ended up spending so much time taking photos of the incredible landscapes that it became quite late. Consequently, we opted to have lunch at the Tourist Centre, and we were pleasantly surprised. Not only did we find the food to be satisfying, but it was also unexpectedly affordable for Iceland. It’s a convenient option for a meal on the Golden Circle route.
Iceland golden circle itinerary additional stops
As mentioned earlier, our approach was to avoid rushing and focus on the main highlights of the Golden Circle. However, if you have more time to spare, you can certainly incorporate additional stops into your itinerary.
The map below illustrates my original, and admittedly ambitious, itinerary for exploring the finest spots on the Golden Circle. This includes also the additional spots you can consider for your visit. There are numerous beautiful places along this route that deserve a visit. I look forward to the opportunity to explore them during a second journey around Iceland. The country offers an abundance of natural wonders and scenic landscapes, making it a destination worth revisiting for a more comprehensive experience.
Golden Circle extensive itinerary suggested stops
- Kerið Crater – This is a volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area. The Entrance fee is 450 ISK.
- Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths. Less crowded than the Blue Lagoon with stunning view on the lake. Entrance fee starts at 4.990 ISK for 2 hours experience.
- Skálholt Cathedral (free entrance)
- Friðheimar Tomato and Horse Farm (restaurant – local cuisine). Booking in advance is mandatory.
- Secret Lagoon Hot Springs – Gamla Laugin. This places is famous as the oldest pool in Iceland. Enrance fee starts at 3300 ISK plus towel rent 900 ISK. Booking is recommended.
- Faxafoss ( or Faxi Waterfall). It’s a smaller version of Gulfoss. The waterfall is 80 m wide and 7 m high. The entrance is free.
- Sólheimar Eco-Village. Hosting about 100 people, this is the only eco-village in Iceland.
- Western Þjórsárdalur Valley. This is one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Iceland. It includes one of the highest waterfalls in the country, Háifoss (dropping at 122 mt) and several other natural attractions. It is recommended to explore this area on a separate day as it is quite extensive.
- Gjáin Waterfall (free entrance). Set on a scenic valley background this waterfall appears in Game of Thrones.
- Langjökull Glacier. Is the second largest glacier in Iceland. There are various view points and for a deeper exploration, tours are recommended.
- Rafting in Hvita river. This is an exciting activity to do at the foot of the Gulfoss waterfall. However, it is organised only during summer and via organised tours.
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