Anyone interested in Iceland as a travel destination will inevitably come across the “Golden Circle.” The reason is simple: the Golden Circle is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland. In just one day, you can visit three of the country’s most impressive landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and Geysir. I’ll explain what makes each place special and which route you can take. Even if you only have a short time in Iceland, you can still see a lot with this route!
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What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
Just beyond Reykjavik lies the Golden Circle, living up to its name. The panoramic route begins southeast of Reykjavik via Selfoss, then continues north towards the geothermal area of Geysir and the Gullfoss waterfall, and finally westwards to Thingvellir National Park before leading back to the capital. The route covers 230 kilometres of pure adventure, filled with stunning views of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
Its proximity to the capital makes this route especially popular, allowing visitors to explore the Golden Circle in a single day from Reykjavik on good days. Personally, I’d recommend taking more time than just one day. Even though the main stops can be busy, they are absolutely worth visiting.
Golden Circle Route Map
Below you’ll find a map of the Golden Circle. We drove it in this order starting from Reykjavik. Bruarfoss can be tricky to reach, so if you’re on a tight schedule you can skip it. I’ll explain below what makes each stop along the route so special! Each location also includes a handy Google Maps link so you can pin it on your own map.
Top Stops: Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park, Kerið, and Geysir
The Golden Circle includes four easily accessible highlights.
Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir)
Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks and one of the country’s most important historical sites. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the park is set in a spectacular mountainous landscape and offers visitors the chance to explore remnants of ancient Icelandic settlements alongside breathtaking natural wonders. From wide lakes and cascading waterfalls to the dramatic Almannagjá Rift and the Silfra fissure, Thingvellir is a must-see stop along your Golden Circle route and easily accessible.
Fun fact for Game of Thrones fans: several scenes were filmed in Thingvellir National Park!
Thingvellir National Park has five parking areas. I recommend Parking 1 (Google Maps), as it’s the perfect starting point for a scenic loop walk with restrooms and a café nearby. If you prefer the quickest route to the waterfall, park at Oxarafoss Parking (Google Maps).
Gullfoss
The Golden Waterfall is located in Iceland’s southwest. Gullfoss owes its name to the mixture of water and air that gives off a golden glow in the evening sun. The 30-meter-high waterfall is accessible via a narrow path, offering a truly breathtaking view.
Find the official parking area here (Google Maps)
Geysir
Geysir is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, known for its spectacular eruptions of hot water and steam. The geyser, after which all geysers in the world are named, is located in the Haukadalur Valley and can spout water up to 70 metres into the air. It’s an impressive sight that draws thousands of visitors from around the world every year. But there’s more to discover in the area than just the famous Geysir.
The surrounding area features scenic hiking trails, hot springs, and other geysers worth exploring, as shown in the photo below.
You park your car at the Visitor Centre (Google Maps). From there, you cross the road to reach Geysir. There’s also a smaller parking lot (Google Maps) closer by, but it fills up quickly.
Kerið
This crater with its striking bright blue water is one of the most photogenic spots in the country and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It’s the perfect place to walk around, enjoy the breathtaking views, and learn about Iceland’s geological history.
You park at the base of the crater (Google Maps). After paying the entrance fee, you’ll be at the top within a few minutes and can start taking the most beautiful photos! You can see the parking lot in the photo above.
Travel Time Between the Highlights
To plan your day well, it’s helpful to know approximately how much time each segment will take:
- Reykjavik to Thingvellir: ± 45 minutes (50 km)
- Thingvellir to Geysir: ± 1 hour (60 km)
- Geysir to Gullfoss: ± 10 minutes (10 km)
- Gullfoss to Kerið: ± 45 minutes (50 km)
- Kerið to Reykjavik: ± 1 hour (70 km)
Definitely plan for a full day, and if you want to make extra stops, leave early. Better to have too much time than too little!
Lesser-Known Stops Worth Visiting
If you have some extra time, also check out these places:
- Laugarvatn Fontana: hot spring baths with lake views. And fresh bread baked literally from the ground.
- Friðheimar Tomato Farm: lunch in a greenhouse, surrounded by tomato plants.
- Secret Lagoon in Flúðir: a hot spring that’s less touristy than the Blue Lagoon.
- Faxifoss: a waterfall that’s often skipped but absolutely stunning – and quiet!
Flora & Fauna Along the Golden Circle
Along the route, you’ll encounter not only impressive waterfalls and geysers but also unique nature. Think moss-covered lava fields, wild lupines (especially in June and July), and sometimes even Icelandic horses or sheep chilling by the roadside. In Thingvellir National Park, you can also spot birds like puffins and falcons – if you’re lucky, of course.
Tip:
The stunning Bruarfoss waterfall is also located along the Golden Circle, reachable after a 6+ km hike. Read all about it in our blog “The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland”.
Visiting the Golden Circle from a Reykjavik City Trip
If you’re doing a city trip to Reykjavik, you cannot miss the Golden Circle. I would recommend renting a car and driving it yourself, but there are also day tours that follow the same route. A day tour will likely fit better into your schedule and is cheaper since you don’t need to rent a car for just one day.
Discovering the Golden Circle Yourself vs. With a Tour: What’s the Best Option?
The best option really depends on how long your visit to Iceland is. Are you only there for a short time? Then a day tour from Reykjavik is cheaper and easier. After all, you don’t need to rent a car to head out and you’ll be back in Reykjavik the same day. It also offers convenience. However, you’re dependent on the tour schedule and the pace of your fellow travelers. A hike to Bruarfoss won’t be possible.
If you have a rental car or campervan? Then I recommend discovering the Golden Circle on your own. You set your own pace and all the Golden Circle attractions are excellently accessible.
Tips for a Perfect Day Trip to Avoid the Crowds
Don’t expect crowds in Iceland like in major world cities. The parking lot at most highlights offers about as much space as a parking garage in Scheveningen. Still, it can get quite busy due to the many bus tours and tourists.
- Avoid bus times at the Geysers & Gullfoss waterfall
The majority of buses run between 10:00 and 17:00. Want to take the perfect photo? Head out before or after the rush. You’ll often have the best light then too! - Thingvellir empties out quickly
Around 16:00, Thingvellir National Park starts to empty out. Use the time beforehand to grab an early bite to eat, then explore the park as others leave. Just keep sunset in mind. - Summer is the busiest time.
Of course, you’ll find the most tourists on the Golden Circle in July and August. Months like September or June are cooler but reward you with fewer visitors. You’ll also encounter many Americans and Chinese in Iceland, though you’ve seen far fewer Chinese since the coronavirus pandemic. - Start early
The Golden Circle is a popular route, so it’s important to head out early to avoid the crowds. Start your day preferably before 9:00, so you can visit Thingvellir National Park before 10:00. - Plan your route
It’s helpful to plan your route in advance so you know how much time you can spend at each attraction. The total distance from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park is about 50 kilometers, and the total distance from Thingvellir National Park to Geysir is about 70 kilometers.
Food & Drinks Along the Way
Bringing food is smart, but there are also some nice stops along the way. You can stop in Laugarvatn at Laugarvatn Fontana, where alongside the hot spring baths you can also eat fresh rolls baked in the hot earth. At Friðheimar (near Flúðir), you can enjoy tomato soup in a greenhouse among the tomato plants – super fun and different from the usual. Make sure to reserve here in advance!
Golden Circle in Winter
The Golden Circle is drivable year-round, but in winter (November through March), there are a few things to watch out for:
- Roads can be slippery – winter tires are mandatory.
- It gets dark quickly – plan your stops wisely and leave on time.
- Bring warm clothing – think layers, hat, gloves.
- Advantage: chance for northern lights!
Many tours are also available in winter. Prefer to drive yourself? Always check the current weather forecasts on road.is.
Overnight Stay Tips Along the Golden Circle
Don’t want to rush? Consider staying overnight somewhere along the route. A few great options:
- Laugarvatn: quieter than the city, with natural baths and beautiful lake views.
- Flúðir: home to the Secret Lagoon and plenty of cozy guesthouses.
- Selfoss: a bit closer to Reykjavik, with supermarkets and gas stations – convenient as a stopover.
We stayed in a cabin just outside Laugarvatn, right in the middle of nature. Let me tell you, that’s not bad at all!
