The Golden Circle Travel Guide

The Golden Circle, Iceland's most iconic sightseeing route, takes you on an unforgettable journey through three of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders—all in a single day. It’s a bucket-list experience for anyone visiting Iceland!

The Golden Circle is a 190-mile (300-kilometer) loop that includes three beautiful destinations in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

Easily reachable from Reykjavik by road, the Golden Circle is the perfect day trip, offering easy access to stunning landmarks. You can experience it by joining a tour of the Golden Circle or by renting a car and driving the iconic route yourself.

To complete the entire Golden Circle, plan to allocate between 6 to 8 hours to make the most of each stop, taking into account the driving times between locations. The route has the great advantage of short distances between sites, allowing you to experience a variety of landscapes and highlights in a day.

This guide will help you plan your perfect Golden Circle adventure, providing information on each destination, recommendations for nearby attractions, and advice on making the most of your journey.

Whether you plan to experience the route during the summer under the radiant midnight sun or in winter with the northern lights illuminating its iconic sights, the Golden Circle is a year-round destination you won’t want to miss!

Thingvellir National Park

The largest attraction of the Golden Circle and nearest to Reykjavik is Thingvellir National Park. Iceland's national assembly, which eventually evolved into a parliament, was founded at this site in 930 and remained there until the year 1798 before moving to Reykjavik. That makes it the original site of what is now the world’s oldest legislature in existence. It was also the ceremonial site of Iceland's declaration of independence in 1944 and the appointment of Iceland's first president.

Thingvellir is located in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This means the area is full of dramatic cliffs, flowing rivers, and deep gorges, as the area has been slowly torn apart for millions of years by the tectonic plates that drift away from each other at a pace of one inch per year. It is one of the few places in the world where you can walk between the continents in the Mid-Atlantic Rift.

The most daring visitors even have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive in this no-mans-land, in a ravine filled with crystal-clear spring water called Silfra. The visibility here can exceed 330 feet (100 meters), revealing incredible geological sites. Though it never freezes over due to the constant flow of water into it, it has a temperature of 35 F (2 C) throughout the year; therefore, explorers are always equipped with protective suits.

Other sites of note are the magnificent Almannagja gorge, which you can walk down into to reach the rift valley from the North American tectonic plate, and the beautiful lake Thingvallavatn, the largest lake in Iceland, which is to the south of the National Park.

The Geysir Geothermal Area

The Geysir geothermal area is a hot spring paradise in Haukadalur valley. The area is most famous for being the home of the geyser from which all other geysers derive their name: Geysir.

Though Geysir itself is currently in a phase of inactivity, its neighbor Strokkur more than makes up for it. Every five to ten minutes, it bursts a column of boiling water to heights that can reach over 130 feet (40 meters). Strokkur's reliable activity guarantees a picture-perfect shot of the hot spring when you visit the valley.

The surrounding area is dotted with various fumaroles, hot springs, and mud pits. There are also two other smaller geysers, Smidur and Litli-Strokkur, that can be easily visited, as well as a hotel, restaurant, cafe, and gift shop across the road. The geothermal area has free admission and is always open to visitors, so you could even marvel at the erupting hot springs under the northern lights.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The 'Golden Falls,' Gullfoss, is one of the most beautiful and powerful waterfalls in Iceland, plummeting 105 feet (32 meters) in two tiers into the river gorge of the popular rafting river Hvita. It is just a ten-minute drive from Geysir and is the furthest point on the Golden Circle from Reykjavik.

Unbelievably, Gullfoss was almost lost in the early 20th century when British developers sought to harness its incredible force for hydroelectric power. But with the help of the arduous work of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, the daughter of the landowner of the farm adjacent to the waterfall, and future first president of Iceland Sveinn Björnsson, who was a young lawyer at the time, the British developers eventually withdrew their plans.

This made her Iceland's first environmentalist and helped establish a mindset within the country to protect the natural beauty of Iceland. A memorial was raised in dedication to Sigríður in 1978 on the cliff overlooking the waterfall for her effort to protect Gullfoss.

Thankfully, we can now enjoy the majestic sight of Gullfoss at any time, whether it's during winter when it's surrounded by snow and ice and the northern lights in the sky above. Or during the summer when it's crowned with a near-permanent rainbow as the midnight sun shines on.

Best Golden Circle Accommodations

Photo from Blue Hotel Fagrilundur

It's easy to spend multiple days enjoying all that the Golden Circle region has to offer. Thankfully, several excellent accommodations in the Golden Circle area will allow you to experience Iceland's iconic landmarks with ease.

1. Hotel Geysir – A luxurious hotel located directly across from the Geysir geothermal area, offering modern, stylish rooms with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a cozy lounge, and easy access to Strokkur and other attractions just steps away.

2. Litli Geysir Hotel – A charming 3-star hotel near Geysir, featuring cozy, well-equipped rooms with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its on-site restaurant serves delicious Icelandic cuisine, and its prime location makes it a great base for exploring the Golden Circle.

3. Blue Hotel Fagrilundur – Nestled in a peaceful forested area, this 3-star hotel offers modern accommodations with a relaxing ambiance. Located near Fridheimar tomato farm, it’s an excellent option for food lovers and travelers looking for a quiet retreat.

4. Efstidalur Farm Hotel – A unique farm stay that combines traditional Icelandic hospitality with modern comfort, offering rustic-style rooms overlooking the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy homemade ice cream, farm-fresh meals, and a peaceful rural setting just a short drive from the Golden Circle’s main attractions.

5. House in Laugarvatn with a Balcony Hot Tub – A private, scenic cottage offering stunning nature views and a relaxing hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Situated in Laugarvatn, it provides easy access to nearby attractions like Thingvellir National Park and the Fontana geothermal spa.

Photo from House in Laugarvatn With Balcony Hot Tub

There are many more accommodations to choose from, either in the Golden Circle or the larger area of the South Coast. It's a great way to get the most out of your adventure in the region!

Best Places to Eat in the Golden Circle

Exploring the Golden Circle isn’t just about stunning landscapes—it’s also an opportunity to savor Iceland’s finest cuisine. Here are the top dining spots along the route:

1. Fridheimar Greenhouse Restaurant: Located in Reykholt, this unique restaurant serves fresh tomato-based dishes in a lush greenhouse setting. The main restaurant is only open for lunch between 11:30 and 16:00, but their newly opened wine bar serves drinks and small dishes between 12:00 and 20:00. Don’t miss the famous tomato soup and freshly baked bread!

2. Efstidalur Farm Restaurant: Located near Laugarvatn, this family-run farm offers fresh burgers, soups, and ice cream made on-site. Enjoy a farm-to-table meal while watching their adorable cows through a glass window.

3. Lindin Restaurant: This lakeside restaurant in Laugarvatn features local ingredients like lamb and Arctic char paired with serene views. Their desserts are also a highlight.

4. Geysir Glima Restaurant: Conveniently located right in the Geysir geothermal area, this restaurant is located inside a shopping center and serves various Icelandic dishes, including lamb and fresh fish.

5. Fludasveppir Bistro: Located in Fludir, this bistro is a charming eatery specializing in dishes made with locally grown mushrooms and fresh ingredients. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy flavorful, farm-to-table meals in a relaxed atmosphere.

6. Skjol Bistro: Conveniently located near Gullfoss waterfall, this family-friendly spot is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Offering a menu of pizzas, burgers, and other comfort foods, it’s an ideal place to refuel before continuing your Golden Circle adventure.

The Golden Circle isn’t just about natural wonders—it’s also a culinary journey. These top dining spots ensure your adventure is as delicious as it is unforgettable.

Seasonal Travel in Iceland’s Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a stunning destination year-round, but each season brings a unique atmosphere. Whether you're looking for warm adventures, northern lights, or colorful autumn and spring landscapes, knowing what to expect in each season will help you plan the perfect trip.

• Golden Cirlce in Summer (June - August)

Summer is the most popular and accessible time to visit the Golden Circle, with nearly 24 hours of daylight and temperatures ranging from 10–15°C (50–59°F). The landscapes are lush and green, waterfalls flow at full strength, and roads and trails are completely open. This is the best time for hiking, snorkeling, horseback riding, and exploring the countryside under the midnight sun. 

However, it is also the busiest season, meaning popular sites like Gullfoss and Geysir can be crowded. To avoid the rush, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. 

• Golden Circle in Winter (November - March)

Winter turns the Golden Circle into a snowy wonderland, with frozen waterfalls, icy landscapes, and long nights perfect for northern lights viewing. Daylight hours are limited to 4–7 hours, and temperatures can drop to -10 to 5°C (14–41°F). 

While the scenery is breathtaking, travelers should prepare for icy roads and strong winds, making a 4x4 vehicle necessary for those driving. Alternatively, many choose guided tours to avoid winter driving hazards. Despite the cold, the peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere and magical snow-covered landscapes make winter an unforgettable time to visit.

• Golden Circle in Autumn (September - October)

Autumn brings crisp air, golden foliage, and fewer crowds, with temperatures ranging from 0–10°C (32–50°F). The northern lights start to return as nights grow darker, making it a great season for aurora hunting. While the weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of rain, wind, and early snowfall, it’s still a great time to explore before winter sets in.

• Spring (April - May)

Spring marks the transition from winter to summer, as snow melts and waterfalls reach their peak flow. Temperatures remain cool at 0–10°C (32–50°F), but days get longer, offering plenty of daylight for exploring. Fewer tourists make it an ideal time for a quieter experience, though some trails may still be muddy or icy.

From thundering waterfalls to steaming geysers and ancient rift valleys, the Golden Circle is a place where nature and history intertwine. Each season paints the landscape in a different light, offering endless reasons to return. However you choose to experience it, the Golden Circle will leave you in awe.