The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, taking you to three of Iceland’s most magnificent natural marvels in a thrilling 300-kilometer trail.
Easily reached in a day trip from the capital city, Reykjavik it’s an ideal introduction to the “Land of Fire and Ice,” packed with fascinating geological and historical treasures.
These are the three highlights of the Golden Circle:
As well as these marvelous attractions, there are more magical sights to see, including the colorful crater at Kerið and the wide waterfall at Brúarfoss.
The Golden Circle offers one spectacular sight after another, the most celebrated of Iceland’s adventures, so it’s the perfect place to get started!
The Golden Circle is close to the capital city of Reykjavík, taking just 45 minutes to reach the first stop at Þingvellir National Park and another hour to reach Geysir and Gullfoss.
You can explore the highlights on one of our Golden Circle Tours, with departure times to suit your schedule.
Þingvellir is the most historically significant place in Iceland and one of its most dramatic sights too!
Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, it’s one of the few places where you can see the split between Eurasian and North American tectonic plates above land, where they pull apart from each other a few centimeters a year.
It’s a spectacular rift valley where you can enjoy the unique experience of walking between two continents!
As well as its geological significance, Þingvellir is a sacred place for all Icelanders.
The name means “Assembly Fields,” where the early Viking settlers gathered every summer to resolve disputes, make laws, and enjoy festivals and feasts.
The Alþingi (Althingi) is the longest-standing parliament in the world, founded in 930 and meeting here every summer until 1798.
“Law Speakers” would recite the laws of the day by the “Law Rock,” making the most of the natural acoustics of the dizzying cliffs. Here, Icelanders agreed to choose Christianity as the national religion in the year 1000.
Later in its history, Iceland declared its independence from Denmark from here in 1944, and sixty years later, Þingvellir was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The summer residence of Iceland’s Prime Minister is by the lake, Þingvallavatn (Thingvallavatn), which is the largest natural freshwater lake in Iceland.
On our Golden Circle tours, you can walk in Viking footsteps and learn all about how the nation of Iceland was born in this stunning setting.
Heading further inland from Þingvellir for about an hour brings you to the Haukadalur Geothermal Area, home of the first “geyser” in the world!
This is Geysir, which gave its name to all erupting hot springs.
After changes in the geology here, Geysir itself is quiet now, but Strokkur is very active.
It erupts with enormous power every few minutes, sending fountains of superheated water and vapor into the sky.
Geysir was the first hot water spout ever recorded, and its written references date back to 1294! It was the first “geyser” that Europeans had heard of, and the name comes from the Icelandic words for “to gush.”
You’ll see the Haukadalur Geothermal Area from far away as we approach the area on our Golden Circle tours, with clouds of steam vapor rising high into the sky.
When you arrive, you’ll be amazed by the bubbling hot springs and hot streams running around the area – this is a colorful and exciting place to visit!
You’ll be able to get very close to Strokkur, so you’re guaranteed to snap some stunning pictures when it erupts every few minutes. Just check the wind direction to avoid a potential shower!
Geysers occur when cold rainwater seeps through bedrock to hot volcanic rocks below, where the water gets heated up under intense pressure before exploding upwards and jetting into the air.
This is one of the few active geysers that can be accessed so easily, so don’t miss your chance to see this natural marvel for yourself!
There are as many as ten thousand waterfalls in Iceland, and Gullfoss is one of the most famous of them all!
Gullfoss, which translates as “Golden Falls,” is a gorgeous two-tier waterfall that tumbles over thirty meters into a steep and narrow ravine.
Taking meltwater from Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull (the Long Glacier), the tremendous power of Gullfoss sends sheets of spray high into the sky, triggering rainbows on sunny days.
Several viewing platforms are accessible, so you can see this stunning spectacle from varying perspectives.
Watch as the “White River” waters crash down over 11 meters and then another 21 meters, surrounded by 70-meter cliffs on either side of the ravine!
Gullfoss was nearly turned into a hydroelectric power plant in the 1920s. However, a determined local campaigner helped prevent that, and Gullfoss is now a protected national treasure.
Bring a camera. Or your smartphone. You’re going to take a LOT of pictures!
As always, dress in layers that are comfortable and easy to take off. The weather in Iceland is famously changeable, so you must be prepared.
Bring scarves, gloves, hats, windproof pants, and sturdy shoes.
Depending on the season, you might need all of these!
Listen to your guides when you’re exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle.
Stay on marked paths, and don’t tread on the moss!
Don’t risk injury from a fall. No picture is worth risking your life!
We offer a range of tours featuring visits to Iceland’s Golden Circle for you to choose from, with different schedules and formats.
Visit the essential sights and learn about the riveting history of the Icelandic Golden Circle with our best professional guides.
Come for the Golden Circle and stay for the Northern Lights. Join us on this day-and-night combo tour and discover the essence of Iceland.
Head on the classic Golden Circle tour and end this amazing trip with a soak in warm milky blue water at the Blue Lagoon Iceland.
Make the most of your day on this popular tour that combines our best-selling Golden Circle day tour with an amazing snowmobile tour.
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure like no other on the Golden Circle Tour and Glacier Ice Cave Tour. Prepare to be blown away as we venture through Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes, immersing ourselves in the raw beauty and untamed power of nature.
Combining the Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon, this breathtaking tour takes you on a wondrous journey through Iceland’s staggeringly raw beauty. It ends with the ultimate Icelandic indulgence: a luxurious soak in Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa where the ocean meets the sky. Go on a journey that brings you the experiences of walking among geologic marvels, witnessing an erupting hot spring, discovering a magnificent waterfall, and unwinding in an outdoor geothermal spa.
An adventure-packed day is discovering the legendary sights of the Golden Circle followed by a soak in the spring-fed Secret Lagoon under the open sky.
Explore Iceland‘s most popular landmarks on the Golden Circle Tour and enjoy a relaxing visit to the natural Icelandic steam baths at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa.
Enjoy one of the best attractions in Iceland! Morning spends by whale watching, an afternoon exploring Golden Circle - Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall!
Enjoy two adventures in one day on this ATV Trail Ride of Mt. Hafrafell and Golden Circle tour exploring Iceland’s natural and historical landmarks
Ride an Icelandic Viking Horse in an idyllic landscape before visiting Thingvellir park, Gulfoss waterfall as well as Geysir and Strokkur hot springs on our Golden Circle & Viking Horseback Riding Tour.
Experience the highlights of the Golden Circle in a Super Jeep, travel up to the isolated highlands of Iceland, and try out snowmobiling on a glacier!
Visit some of Iceland’s most significant landmarks along the Golden Circle with a knowledgeable Iceland Tour Expert leading the way and your friends & family besides your on this private tour.
Combine the best sightseeing and excellent tasting Icelandic delicacies on this Golden Circle Private Food Tour at Efstidalur dairy farm, Fridheimar greenhouse & the Icelandic Turf House meanwhile discovering all beauty stops of the Golden Circle.
Welcome to the ultimate guide to Iceland's Golden Circle! This thrilling 300-kilometer route is a must-visit for anyone exploring the "Land of Fire and Ice." Packed with fascinating geological and historical treasures, the Golden Circle offers one spectacular sight after another. In this comprehensive article, we'll take you on a journey through the highlights of this popular sightseeing route, providing you with all the information you need to plan your own adventure. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland's most magnificent natural marvels!
The Golden Circle is Iceland's most popular sightseeing route, and for good reason. It takes you on a thrilling journey through three of Iceland's most magnificent natural marvels, offering a glimpse into the country's unique geological and historical heritage. The route is easily accessible as a day trip from the capital city, Reykjavik, making it an ideal introduction to the wonders of Iceland. So, let's dive into the details and explore everything the Golden Circle has to offer!
The Golden Circle is located close to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. It's just a 45-minute drive to the first stop at Þingvellir National Park, and another hour to reach the Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. The convenience of its location makes the Golden Circle an easy and accessible day trip for visitors. You can explore the highlights of the Golden Circle on one of our Golden Circle tours, with departure times that suit your schedule.
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically significant places in Iceland. Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the split between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates above land. This rift valley is not only geologically fascinating but also holds great cultural significance for Icelanders.
The name Þingvellir translates to "Assembly Fields" in English, reflecting its historical importance as the gathering place for early Viking settlers. Every summer, they would come together to resolve disputes, make laws, and celebrate festivals and feasts. The Alþingi, the world's longest-standing parliament, was founded in Þingvellir in 930 and continued to meet here until 1798. It was at this very location that Icelanders made the decision to adopt Christianity as the national religion in the year 1000.
Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the Vikings and explore the remarkable landscapes of Þingvellir National Park. The Alþingi site, marked by the "Law Rock," offers a glimpse into Iceland's rich history. The park's natural beauty is enhanced by the presence of Iceland's largest natural freshwater lake, Þingvallavatn, where the summer residence of the Prime Minister is located.
Continuing on the Golden Circle route, about an hour's drive from Þingvellir, you'll arrive at the Haukadalur Geothermal Area, home to the famous Geysir. This is the place where the word "geyser" originated, as Geysir itself was the first recorded hot water spout in the world. While Geysir is currently quiet, its neighboring geyser, Strokkur, puts on a spectacular show every few minutes.
The Haukadalur Geothermal Area is a captivating sight with its bubbling hot springs and vibrant colors. As you approach the area, you'll see clouds of steam rising high into the sky, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Strokkur erupts with tremendous power, shooting fountains of superheated water and vapor into the air, providing ample opportunities for stunning photographs.
Geysers form when cold rainwater seeps through the ground to hot volcanic rocks below. The water gets heated up under intense pressure before erupting upwards in a magnificent display. Witnessing the raw power of Strokkur is a truly awe-inspiring experience that shouldn't be missed.
As you continue your journey along the Golden Circle, you'll reach one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss. Translating to "Golden Falls," Gullfoss is a breathtaking two-tier waterfall that cascades over thirty meters into a narrow ravine. The raw power and beauty of this natural wonder are truly captivating.
Gullfoss derives its name from the golden hues that can be seen on sunny days as the waterfall's mist creates rainbows in the sky. From several viewing platforms, visitors can witness the sheer force of the "White River" as it crashes down over 11 meters and then another 21 meters, surrounded by towering cliffs on either side of the ravine.
It's worth noting that Gullfoss was almost lost to a hydroelectric power plant in the 1920s. However, thanks to the efforts of passionate locals, the waterfall was preserved and is now a protected national treasure. A visit to Gullfoss is an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of nature and appreciate the importance of environmental conservation.
In addition to the three main highlights of the Golden Circle, there are several other attractions worth exploring along the route. These include:
Located near the town of Selfoss, the Kerið Crater is a stunning volcanic crater lake. Its vivid red and orange colors contrast beautifully with the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a walk around the rim of the crater or descend to the lake's edge for a closer look. Kerið is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, offering unique perspectives and dramatic scenery.
Brúarfoss, often referred to as the "Blue Waterfall," is another hidden gem along the Golden Circle route. This picturesque waterfall is known for its vibrant blue color and is a favorite among photographers. While it requires a short hike to reach, the reward is well worth the effort. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility and beauty of Brúarfoss.
These additional attractions add even more diversity to your Golden Circle adventure, ensuring that every moment is filled with wonder and discovery.
When embarking on a journey through Iceland's Golden Circle, it's essential to come prepared. The weather in Iceland is famously changeable, so dressing in layers is key. Here's a list of items to consider bringing:
It's also important to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique moments along the way. You'll want to document your Golden Circle adventure and share it with friends and family.
Exploring the Golden Circle can be an exhilarating experience, but it's essential to prioritize safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
By adhering to these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through Iceland's Golden Circle.
A: The Golden Circle can be completed in a day, making it an ideal day trip from Reykjavik. The total driving time is approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. However, it's recommended to allocate a full day for the Golden Circle to allow ample time for sightseeing and exploration.
A: Yes, the Golden Circle can be visited during winter. However, it's important to note that weather conditions can be challenging, with snow and icy roads. It's advisable to check the weather forecast and road conditions before embarking on your journey. Additionally, some attractions may have limited accessibility or different operating hours during the winter months.
A: You can visit the Golden Circle on your own by renting a car or using public transportation. However, joining a guided tour can enhance your experience by providing informative commentary and ensuring that you don't miss any highlights along the way. Guided tours also offer the convenience of transportation and the expertise of local guides who can share their knowledge and insights.
A: Most of the attractions on the Golden Circle do not have entrance fees. However, there may be parking fees at certain locations. It's always a good idea to carry some cash or a credit card for any unexpected expenses.
A: Yes, there are food and restroom facilities available at various locations along the Golden Circle route. These include cafes, restaurants, and visitor centers. It's advisable to carry some snacks and water with you, especially if you plan to explore for an extended period.
For more frequently asked questions and detailed information about the Golden Circle, please visit our FAQ page.
The Golden Circle is a true gem of Iceland, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the historical significance of Þingvellir National Park to the geothermal wonders of the Geysir Geothermal Area and the awe-inspiring power of Gullfoss Waterfall, this route is a feast for the senses. Whether you choose to embark on a guided tour or explore on your own, the Golden Circle promises an unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags, bring your camera, and get ready to experience the wonders of Iceland's Golden Circle!