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Ahhhh… Iceland’s Golden Circle! This incredible region of Iceland offers a bit of everything from stunning waterfalls, to geysers and hot springs, to craters and stunning geologic features. I will share everything we learned on our visit to Iceland including a Golden Circle map, itinerary, and the best destinations to help you plan your own Iceland adventure.
We visited the Golden Circle on our first day in Iceland before we set out on our trip around the Ring Road. Many people start or end their visit to Iceland by doing a guided tour or by self-driving the Golden Circle loop. You can also do the Golden Circle as an easy day trip from Reykjavik.
The information below is organized to give you a brief overview of things to know about visiting the Golden Circle specifically if you are looking at information about driving the Golden Circle Iceland in a car or campervan. Next, you can find a Golden Circle Map and information on the top sites to see on your visit. You can find additional information and suggestions on the best Golden Circle Itinerary or you can use the list of the Golden Circle Iceland stops to plan your own visit. I’ve worked hard to make the information as complete as possible, but in case I missed anything, leave a comment below.
For more information on visiting Iceland, check out all our posts on Iceland or see our complete 7 day Iceland Itinerary: Driving the Amazing Ring Road and an A Complete Iceland Summer Packing List: Everything Your Need
Looking for a printable ebook or downloadable version of this Golden Circle Itinerary. This 11 page ebook shares the best things to do on the Golden Circle and everything you need to know to help plan your trip. The Iceland travel guide will help you figure out how much time you need, where to stay and where to eat.
You can also find a complete printable Ring Road Itinerary as well.
Things to Know About Visiting the Golden Circle Iceland Route
What is the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a loop in Iceland near Reykjavik that makes a triangle between the 3 most famous sites: Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geyser Geothermal Area. In addition to these sites there are a number of other interesting Golden Circle attractions and along this famous loop
Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle is located just to the Northeast of Reykjavik. In general, Iceland has flat, low-lying land just inland of the coast that rises into mountains as you move into Iceland interior. Most of the roads near the coast are well paved while the roads get increasingly more difficult to drive the further inland you go. The furthest point on the Golden Circle is just 2 hours from Reykjavic and all the main Golden Circle sites can be reached on well-maintained roads.
A good map of the Golden Circle, Iceland will give you an overview of where each site is and how long it takes to get to each site.

How Long do you Need on the Golden Circle?
You need at least a half day to explore the Golden Circle. With a half day, you will have time to see some of the sites. A full day gives you enough time to explore most of the main Golden Circle attractions and take the time to enjoy the different walks. You can also make the Golden Circle into a two-day itinerary by staying somewhere along the way.
When is the Best Time of Year to do the Golden Circle drive?
You can do most of the activities on the Golden Circle all year long. The best time of year to visit the Golden Circle is during the warm months of June, July and August. This is also the most crowded time of year. During the colder months, the roads and sites are generally open, although it’s more important to keep a close eye on the weather as Iceland is often cold and windy.
There are several winter activities such as snowmobiling that can only be done in the winter months in Iceland. If you are going to visit Iceland in the winter months, make sure to pack warm clothing and a good pair of microspikes for walking on the ice.
Should you Rent a Car or Take a Tour of the Golden Circle, Iceland?
If you are already renting a car for part of your visit to Iceland then you should consider self-driving the Golden Circle. This gives you the most flexibility during your visit. Driving conditions are good on generally well-maintained paved roads. Car rentals start at around $60/day but most cars will need to get picked up at the airport. Below you can see some prices on car rental.
Taking a guided tour of the Golden Circle is also another excellent way to see the sites. You get the added benefit of leaving the driving and navigating up to someone else. Your guide will also be able to give you an overview of the sites and geology of the region. When you are choosing a tour you will likely have the option of either a group or a private tour. A private tour Golden Circle Itinerary will offer you a little more chance to customize your trip but will be more expensive.
You should also look at what Golden Circle attractions you want to see and make sure to select a tour that visits their sites. The best Iceland golden circle tour will depend a bit on what you are looking for. Below are 3 top options for tours on the Golden Circle:
Where should you Stay to Visit the Golden Circle Route Iceland?
You have 3 options on the best place to stay on the Golden Circle. You can stay in one of the small hotels/boarding houses on the Golden Circle itself, stay in Reykjavik, and day trip to the Golden Circle, or stay in a campervan or campsite. Once you are outside Reykjavik, Iceland is sparsely populated, but you can still find some excellent places to stay. Pay attention to nearby restaurants if you will be eating out.
Here are 3 spots to consider on the Golden Circle:
You can also find a number of campgrounds around the Golden Circle. These are excellent places to stay during the summer months. All you need is a tent or a campervan. Unlike other countries. You don’t need to book campgrounds in advance – simply show up and find a spot. Many of the Golden Circle campgrounds can get crowded in the summer so you will have an easier time finding a spot if you arrive early. Most sites are around $15 USD a night and you can pay at arrival or in the morning.
The following campsites are all excellent options:
You may also want to consider looking in some of the small and beautiful Icelandic towns of:
- Kálholt
- Flúðir
- Hveragerði
Where to Eat on the Golden Circle
Icelandic food is known for fresh ingredients and you can find many places to eat along the Golden Circle. Many of the main attractions have their own small cafe.
Friðheimar – famous for its tomato soup, this restaurant needs a reservation. You can also find other tomato products like Bloody Marys
Minilik – This Ethiopian Restaurant has a variety of vegetarian and vegan recipes. You can also enjoy Ethiopian coffee ceremony (much like an English high tea).
Ölverk – Beer, pizza and apps, this is a brewery that is a perfect stop along the Golden Circle.
Græna Kannan Café – This restaurant is inside a greenhouse and if famous for its organic drinks and cakes. The cafe is open during the summer and for limited times during the winter.
Fjöruborðið – Another restaurant that requires a reservation, you can find their famous langoustine (Icelandic lobster) soup and other dishes.
Golden Circle Map
Below you can find the Golden Circle Map of Iceland attractions that you can use to help select the best places to visit and stay on the Golden Circle. This map can be interactive, and you can save the map for your own use.
Top Things to See on the Golden Circle (Including the Best Golden Circle Hikes)
Below you can find some of the best Golden Circle Stops with links to learn more about each site. If you only have a short time to visit. The top 3 sites on the Golden Circle are Gullfoss, the Geysir Geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park. You can also find lots of other amazing sites and hikes to explore this amazing part of Iceland.
If you are planning to stay in Reykjavik and day trip to the Golden Circle, you might be interested in the Best Things to do in Reykjavik.

Gullfoss
Gullfoss is a stunning and massive waterfall at the far point of the Golden Circle in Iceland. The waterfall is one of the main attractions of the Golden Circle driving tour and is absolutely worth visiting. Named Gullfoss, or Golden Falls, this waterfall plunges over 2 falls and over 100 feet. The mist that hangs over the falls creates rainbows and a golden aura.
There are two short walking trails to see the falls. One of the trails goes just upriver and above the waterfall giving you an excellent perspective. The other trail descends and takes you to the top of the waterfall where you will enter a misty world of Gullfoss waterfall.
You should plan about 45 minutes to visit Gullfoss.
Learn more about visiting Gullfoss.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Located about 10 minutes away from Gullfoss, you will come to the Golden Circle Geysir or the Geysir Geothermal Area. This is a geothermally active area with bubbling mud, hot pools, and geysers. Stokkur Geysir is the main attraction and sprays water up to 30 feet water into the air every few minutes.
You can park right next to the geothermal area making it an easy place to stop. Plan 15-60 minutes at this spot to see the Geysir erupt several times and walk around some of the other features.
Learn more about visiting the Golden Circle geothermal area.

Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir is one of the iconic sites in Iceland and has both cultural and geologic significance. This site became the assembly point for the early settlers and the place they met to settle disputes. In 1930 this became the site of the first parliament in the world.
Þingvellir also has geological significance as the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This forms a deep valley and is the only place where you can see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge above the ocean.
Learn more about Þingvellir

Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is a wonderful stop to add in some relaxation to your trip around the Golden Circle. Similar to the Blue Lagoon, you can soak in the man-made pool, but unlike the Blue Lagoon, you will be surrounded by nature and can see the geothermal activity and water as it comes directly into the pool.
This was one of our favorite stops along the Golden Circle route simply because we could take a break and enjoy the steamy water! Note that there is a fee to enter the Secret Lagoon and if you are visiting during the busy time, make sure to book in advance.
Learn more about visiting the Secret Lagoon.
Kerid Crater
This is another easy stop on the Golden Circle Loop that is worth stopping at. The Kerid Crater is a small crater with a crater lake inside. There is a short hike that takes you around the top of the Crater and a series of steps that allow you to hike down to the lake.
While this stop is definitely worth the short visit, note that there are no restrooms on-site and there is a somewhat steep fee to get onto the land to see the Crater (the land is privately owned).
Learn more about visiting the Kerid Crater.

Fontana Geothermal Baths
Another excellent place to relax, these geothermal baths. This bathing facility has 3 steam rooms, a Finnish Sauna and a kid-friendly pool.
Bruarfoss Waterfall Hike
This lovely hike takes you past 3 waterfalls on a 4.4-mile, mostly flat hike along the bluest river in Iceland. The trail is mostly easy to moderate although there is some mud, especially during the spring months or after heavy rain. We loved this hike and it felt nice to get a bit off the beaten path on this walk.

Langjökull Glacier
For an incredible adventure, head to Langjökull Glacier. There are a few ways to see the glacier, but many people travel by snowmobile. You can also experience an ice cave here. Many of these experiences are available seasonally, so you can search and book tours through Viator.
Sólheimar
This ecovillage between Þingvellir and the Geysir Geothermal Area, embraces communal living and is famous for artistic and ecological living. One hundred people live and work here, and you can visit to try some activities and learn more about their way of life. Visit the Sólheimar official site to learn more.
Þjórsárdalur (Thjorsardalur) Valley
Just a bit off the beaten path of the Golden Circle, this gorgeous valley is home to a number of beautiful waterfalls, such as like Hjalparfoss, Haifoss, Glanni and Pjofafoss.
Other Activities on the Golden Circle
- See the Northern Lights
- Go Horseback Riding
- Raft or Boat ride on the Hvítá River
- Snorkel Between Continents in Silfra
- Faxi (Vatnsleysufoss) Waterfall
1 Day Golden Circle Itinerary
Once you know how long you will spend on the Golden Circle and what sites you want to see, you can start to plan your itinerary. Below you can find an example of a one-day Golden Circle Itinerary. You can easily adjust this to make it longer or shorter depending on your timing, or add and subtract from the list of attractions above. Use the Golden Circle Map above to help plan your visit.
A few quick notes about this itinerary: this Golden Circle itinerary assumes you will be self-driving from Reykjavic. If you plan to stay on the Golden Circle, you can break this into two days. You will be stopping for lunch, but also plan to bring some snacks or stop to grab some treats along the way.
Start your morning early and drive straight to Thingvellir National Park after grabbing lunch in Reykjavic. The drive from Reykjavic takes about 45 minutes. Enjoy the view from out across the rift valley and lake and see where the first parliament in the world was assembled. Plan to visit for about 45 minutes
Drive 45 minutes to the Geysir geothermal area. Plan to stay for 45 minutes to see the Geysir erupt several times and then wander around to see the rest of the geothermal features.
Drive 10 minutes to Gullfoss Waterfall. You need about 45 minutes at this site to walk both the upper and lower paths and enjoy the incredible view.
It’s time for lunch! Leave Gullfoss behind and head to Friðheimar for some famous tomato soup. Make sure you have a reservation in the busy season!
From here make the short drive to the Secret Lagoon and spend the afternoon relaxing in the hot spring.
Drive 30 minutes to the Kerid Crater. Enjoy the walk around the top of the crater and down to the crater lake. After this short hike, it’s time to head back to Reykjavik. The drive from Kerid Crater to Reykjavik is about 1 hour and you should be back just in time for dinner!

Alternative Golden Circle Itineraries: There are many ways to adjust this itinerary. If you are an avid hiker, I strongly recommend the Bruarfoss hike. It’s about 4 miles and a nice break from the other (often more busy) sites.
If you aren’t planning to drive along the Southern Coast and visit the Glacier there, I would recommend a visit to the Langjökull Glacier.
You can see this one-day itinerary on the Golden Circle map above.

Half Day Golden Circle Itinerary Thingvellir National Park
If you only have a half day to enjoy the Golden Circle, it’s still worth it. It is possible to visit the main sites during a (slightly long) 1/2 day. To make the most of your day, start with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, then move on to the Geysir Geothermal Area and end your day at Gullfoss. You won’t have time to stay long at each of the sites, but you will still have time to enjoy the sites in about 5-6 hours.
Common Questions about the Golden Circle
Below you can find some of the common answers to questions about the Golden Circle. Leave a comment below with your question and I’ll continue updating this section of the Golden Circle Map and Itinerary article.
Why do they call it the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle, is also sometimes called the Golden Triangle and is more of a line based on the 3 primary sites. The ‘Gold’ refers to the famous waterfall on the circle – Gullfoss (or Golden Falls).
Is it better to take a tour or self-drive the Golden Circle?
If you already have a car, self-driving the Golden Circle is easy and gives you maximum flexibility. If you don’t have a car or want to avoid the hassle of planning and navigating and want more information about the sites you are seeing, taking a tour is the way to go. If you decide to self-drive, you can use the Golden Circle map above to plan your own itinerary.
Is the Golden Circle in Iceland Free?
There is no fee to drive the Golden Circle, but several of the sites on the Golden Circle route require a fee to enter. There is a fee to park at Thingvellir National Park, but there is no fee at the Geysir Geothermal Area or Gullfoss. Most of the sites on the Golden Circle have a small fee to use the toilet.
If you plan to visit Kerid Crater or the Secret Lagoon, you will need to pay an entrance fee.
Looking for more Iceland travel inspiration, see the best waterfalls in Iceland.