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What to See on Iceland's Golden Circle | Route + Map
El golden circle It's one of the most famous areas to visit in Iceland and also one of the most accessible. Just a few kilometers from Reykjavik, this circular route allows you to discover some of the country's most iconic landscapes: waterfalls, geysers, volcanic areas, tectonic faults and even a crater with a lake inside.
We have traveled the Golden Circle both in summer and winter and, although the landscape changes completely, It's always worth itIn this guide we tell you What to see in the Golden Circle, in what order to do the route, which are the essential stops and which hot springs where you can enjoy a unique experience.
There is a lot to see in the Golden Circle, it is ideal for those who have only a few days in the country or to start your Iceland itinerary. It is also very easy to get there with a organized tour if you are not going to rent a vehicle.
What is the Golden Circle
El golden circle It is one of the most famous and busiest areas in Iceland. It is by far the most visited region in the country, both during the winter and summer months.
It includes three main stops: the Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area of Geysir and the impressive waterfall GullfossBut there are also other, less-famous stops that are also worthwhile, such as volcanic craters, hot springs, and hidden waterfalls.
What to see in the Golden Circle
Next we tell you What to see in Iceland's Golden Circle, arranged in order if you leave from Reykjavik.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir (Þingvellir) is one of the most iconic stops on the Golden Circle. Not only for its scenery, where you can walking between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, but also for its enormous historical importanceThe world's first democratic parliament, the Alþingi, was founded here in 930.
The park has several well-marked trails that take you to viewpoints, the Öxarárfoss waterfall, and crevices between the slabs. If you want to explore at a leisurely pace, allow an hour and a half to two hours.
And if you are looking for a different experience, you can snorkeling in the Silfra fissure, a crevasse filled with crystal-clear meltwater between tectonic plates. Check out this experience: Snorkeling in Silfra
Brúarárfoss waterfall
The Brúarárfoss waterfall is a hidden gem to see in the Golden Circle and one of the most photogenic thanks to its color. blue intense of its waters, which contrasts with the dark rocks of the environment.
It can be accessed from two points: the old free parking lot (a 30-minute walk along an easy path) or the new paid parking lot (700 ISK), just a 5-minute walk away.
Despite being small in size, It is one of our favorite waterfalls in IcelandIn person the color of the water is mesmerizing.
Geysir and Strokkur
The Geysir geothermal area is one of the most spectacular stops on the Golden Circle. Although the Great Geysir, which gives its name to the phenomenon, is no longer active, its neighbor Strokkur It's still in great shape: it shoots a jet of boiling water up to 30 meters high. every 5-10 minutes.
You can see it from below or, if you have time, climb a small path up to a hill with panoramic views. It is a completely surreal spectacle which demonstrates the Earth's power up close. To complete the entire route, allow around 45 minutes, including stops and photos.
The area features walkways, steam pools, and a visitor center with restrooms, shops, and a restaurant, so it's a good place to make a longer stop if you need to.
Gullfoss, the waterfall you absolutely must see on the Golden Circle
Just a 10-minute drive from Geysir is Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland and The most famous things to see in the Golden CircleThe Hvítá River plunges here in two drops—one diagonal and one vertical—before tumbling down a narrow canyon. It's 32 meters high and 70 meters wide, and the roar of the water can be heard long before you see it.
There are several trails that allow you to see it from different angles. In summer you can gocarYou'll find it very popular, while in winter some access points close for safety reasons. We'll tell you more in How to visit GullfossAllow 45 minutes to an hour for the visit because you won't be able to stop looking at it.
🏠✅ Accommodation
Skyggnir B&B
Húsid Guesthouse
south central
Faxi, another waterfall to see in the Golden Circle
Just a 15-minute drive from Gullfoss, Faxi is a much more overlooked waterfall. It's nowhere near as impressive as Gullfoss or other waterfalls. what to see in southern Iceland, but if you have time you can make a quick stop.
You can see it from above, right in the parking lot. (paid 700 ISK) or go down to a wooden walkway to appreciate it up close in frontal view.
Another waterfall that Not many people visit UrriðafossIt does not have the height of Gullfoss nor the color of Brúarfoss, but it is the waterfall with the largest volume of water in IcelandA spectacle of natural power. Make a note of it if you have time! It's very close to Selfoss in the carmain road and next to the parking lot.
Kerid Crater
Kerid is a volcanic crater about 3.000 years old with a lagoon inside which stands out for the contrast of colors: the turquoise water against the reddish walls of the crater is truly photogenic, reminiscent of the landscapes of the Icelandic highlands.
It's on private property and they charge an entrance fee of around €3, which you pay directly at the entrance. It's one of the few Iceland's natural attractions with an entrance fee, it's normal for only the paid parking lots to be parked. It will take you about 30 minutes to get around.
More guides to Iceland
– What to see in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
What to do in Myvatn and surroundings
Hot springs to see in the Golden Circle
In addition to waterfalls, geysers and cratersOn the Golden Circle, you can also enjoy a very Icelandic experience: bathing in open-air hot springs. It's a perfect way to relax during the hike or even end the day with a soak.
Here we leave you three different options:
📍 Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is the oldest thermal pool in Iceland, located in the small village of Flúðir. Although it is hardly a “secret” place today, it retains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, surrounded by steam and small springs. The water temperature is around 38–40 °C and is perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. It is also one of the Iceland hot springs cheaper.
📍 Fontana – Laugarvatn
These hot springs are located next to Lake Laugarvatn, between Thingvellir and Geysir. They combine several outdoor pools with steam baths fed by a small geyser, also with access to the lake for contrast.
In addition, they offer a very curious and typical experience: you can take a short tour to see how They cook rye bread underground with geothermal heat, and try it freshly made with homemade butter and smoked trout! Even if you don't take the tour, you can try it at the café.
📍 Reykjadalur – Thermal river near Selfoss
Although it is not part of the Golden Circle as such, if you spend the night in Selfoss or make a slight detour, you can visit the Reykjadalur thermal river, one of our favorite places in Iceland.
After a one-hour hike, you'll reach a stretch of the river where the water gushes hot between the steamy mountains. It's one of the best Iceland's free hot springs.
You can see it here complete guide to visiting el Reykjadalur hot springs
Fridheimar – Iceland's most famous tomato greenhouse
Just like Last recommendation of what to see in the Golden Circle We leave you one of the most famous and curious restaurants where to eat in Iceland
In this greenhouse-restaurant where they grow tomatoes year-round using geothermal energy. everything revolves around the tomato: From the soup they serve to cocktails, tomato bread, or pasta with homemade sauce. All in a setting filled with plants, beehives, and tables between rows of crops. It gets busy, so it's a good idea. Book Now a few days in advance.
Map: Best stops Golden Circle
We hope this Guide to visiting Gullfoss help you fully enjoy one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. A classic that shouldn't be missing from your itinerary.
If you have any questions or if anything has changed, please leave it in the comments 😊. And if you're planning your trip, don't miss our other posts. Guides for traveling to Iceland.
