Question 1

What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most appealing drives. This 190-mile long scenic route loops through some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes and is visited by a large proportion of visitors to Iceland.

Question 2

Why is it called the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

While the colour gold has connotations of first place, implying the Golden Circle is the number one activity you should plan in Iceland, the name comes from Gullfoss waterfall which translates as “golden falls” in English. Legend has it that a Viking threw his treasure into the waterfall’s plunge pool so that nobody could take his riches after he died, and that is where the name Gullfoss comes from. Others say it is simply because the falls have a golden hue when the sun hits them, due to the sediment carried down from glacial valleys.

Question 3

Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle traces its path through southern Iceland, typically starting and concluding in Reykjavík. A journey encompassing the wonders of Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss guides you across the southern uplands, initially venturing inland before looping back to Reykjavík along the scenic south coast.

Question 4

What are the main attractions on the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

Three main attractions anchor the Golden Circle and are featured on every tour: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most splendid waterfalls. Other key stops include Kerid Crater and historic Skálholt cathedral.

Question 5

How many miles is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle spans approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) and, without stopping, would take around three hours to drive. Of course, with stops you’ll want to allow a lot longer, around five to six hours just to hit the highlights and even longer if you want to embark on a glacier hike, try horseback riding or explore one of the walking trails at Þingvellir National Park.

Question 6

How far is the Golden Circle from Reykjavík?

Accepted Answer

The closest point on the Golden Circle to Reykjavik is Thingvellir National Park, which is about 30 miles from the capital with a journey time of about 45 minutes. Allow another hour to drive to Gullfoss, around 45 miles further to the north east.

Question 7

How far is Geysir from Reykjavík?

Accepted Answer

Geysir sits between Thingvellir and Gullfoss, though it’s closer to the waterfall. To reach it from Reykjavik you’re looking at about 1 hour 45 minutes to cover the 65 miles regardless of whether you take the northerly route along roads 36 and 37, or south along Route 1 (the country’s ring road) and then the 35.

Question 8

How long does it take to complete the Golden Circle tour?

Accepted Answer

It takes anywhere between six hours for an express Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik to three days for a more comprehensive itinerary. The shortest tours are a good introduction for first-timers but you won’t regret allowing yourself extra time to explore the area more fully and take an unhurried dip in one of its geothermal baths.

Question 9

Can you swim in the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can swim in certain parts of the Golden Circle. One of the most unique experiences is swimming between the tectonic plates at Silfra in Þingvellir National Park. If you book a guided tour, you can snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, which is a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

In addition to this, there are other swimming opportunities around the Golden Circle:

Secret Lagoon: Located near the town of Flúðir, the Secret Lagoon is a geothermal hot spring where you can relax in warm waters amidst a natural and rustic setting.

Laugarvatn Fontana: This is a geothermal spa located by Lake Laugarvatn. Not only can you swim in the geothermal waters of the spa, but you also have the opportunity to swim in the cold lake. After a refreshing dip in the lake, you can quickly warm up in a sauna or enjoy a geothermal hot spring steam bath.

These swimming experiences provide a unique way to immerse yourself in Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and make the most of your trip to the Golden Circle.

Question 10

Is the Golden Circle crowded?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle's attractions can undeniably draw crowds, particularly during peak season. Yet, its popularity is well-earned, showcasing some of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders. If you're a first-time visitor, the Golden Circle is a must-see. Despite the crowds, vast open spaces allow visitors to find their own secluded spots.

For instance, at Thingvellir, many visitors stay close to the parking area, but a brief walk offers a more tranquil experience. Over at Geysir, ascending the nearby hill takes less than an hour and rewards you with panoramic views of the geothermal marvels, including Strokkur's eruptions, away from the people. Similarly, at Gullfoss, while many gather at the main viewing platforms, a walk along the waterfall's path unveils less frequented vantage points.

These off-the-beaten-path perspectives not only offer respite from the crowds but provide unique, postcard-worthy views untouched by the typical tourist lens. So, should crowds be a concern, remember that tranquility is just a few steps away.

Question 11

Where to eat on the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Friðheimar tomato greenhouse is a unique dining experience where you can sample tomatoes grown in geothermally-heated greenhouses in all their dishes. This is a popular additional stop on the Golden Circle. There are also cafes at Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir serving warming soups, chunky sandwiches and hot meals packed with Icelandic produce. If you want to embrace modern Icelandic tradition, opt for one of the ubiquitous hot dogs at any of the petrol stations along the way. Icelandic hot dogs are made from organic lamb meat so are a little different from your average hot dog.

Question 12

What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle is a circular route beginning and ending in Reykjavík, taking in the highlights of Iceland’s unique scenery. Over approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles), it takes in Þingvellir National Park where the continental plates meet, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir area of geothermal activity. There are additional sights along the route to stop at, but those three are the main attractions.

Question 13

Are there toilets on the Golden Circle Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are plenty of toilet stops along the Golden Circle. All the major attractions have public toilets, cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops. Smaller sights like Kerið volcanic crater don’t have toilets, but you can stop at petrol stations along the route if you need to as well.

Question 14

What should I not miss on the Golden Circle Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Apart from the absolute basics of the Golden Circle – Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal park – there are a few other highlights along the route. Kerið volcano crater is a quick and easy stop and the Secret Lagoon is a popular addition to the route to soak tired muscles after seeing the sights.

You’ll want to stop for lunch too, and while there are cafes at most of the main attractions, some Golden Circle tours offer a stop at Friðheimar tomato greenhouse to sample the menu and see how tomatoes can be grown in near-Arctic conditions.

Question 15

Should I skip Golden Circle Iceland?

Accepted Answer

No, you should not skip the Golden Circle in Iceland. The Golden Circle is one of the most iconic and popular routes in Iceland, offering a fantastic showcase of the country's natural wonders that encapsulate Iceland's essential beauty. Given the proximity of these attractions to Reykjavik, it's an accessible and doable day trip for most travelers. If you're visiting Iceland, experiencing the Golden Circle is a unique opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.

Question 16

Can the Golden Circle be explored independently, or do I need a guided tour?

Accepted Answer

Both! If you choose to explore independently following a self-drive itinerary – or with a private guide – you can set your own pace. Opting for a guided tour gives you the benefit of insightful commentary which will provide useful context for first-time visitors. Also, you can give your full attention to the scenery as you won’t need to concentrate on the road.

Question 17

What is the best time of year to visit the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

There’s no bad time to visit the Golden Circle. Summer offers the best odds for good weather and plenty of daylight so you won’t feel rushed on a day trip. The shoulder seasons of spring or autumn tend not to be as busy, while in winter, the area is breathtakingly beautiful under a blanket of snow.

Question 18

Can I explore the Golden Circle during the winter?

Accepted Answer

In short, yes. The Golden Circle route is open to visitors throughout the year, including during the winter. However, occasionally, bad weather can lead to road closures. If you’re not confident driving on snow or in icy conditions, you might prefer to take a tour instead of driving yourself.

Question 19

Are there accommodation options along the Golden Circle route?

Accepted Answer

Yes, lots. On or close to all the main routes you’ll find hotels, lodges, guesthouses and campsites to suit every budget. If you’re keen to spend more than a single day touring the Golden Circle area, staying overnight means you’ll avoid an unnecessary return trip to Reykjavik.

Question 20

What should I pack for a day trip to the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing before setting out on the Golden Circle route. A camera is a must, so make sure your battery is fully charged. If you’re planning on visiting one of the area’s geothermal pools then don’t forget to bring your swimsuit.

Question 21

Is the Golden Circle suitable for families with children?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. Children of all ages will be wide-eyed with wonder at the sight of such a huge volume of water tumbling over the rock at Gullfoss or watching as Strokkur, Iceland’s largest geyser, erupts. Many paths are well-graded and some are suitable for pushchairs, though a baby carrier is more manageable over rough terrain.

Question 22

How can I combine a visit to the Golden Circle with other attractions in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle is a rewarding detour off the ring road accessible from Selfoss in the south or turn inland at Mosfellsbær if you’re further west. For those on a Reykjavik city break, it’s an easy day out from the capital. In summer, adventurous travellers might consider heading further into the Highlands from Gullfoss as they tackle one of Iceland’s famously challenging F-roads.

Question 23

Do you have to wash your hair before Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

You do have to rinse off in the showers (without your bathing suit) before getting in the Blue Lagoon, but fully washing your hair beforehand is not a specific rule. However, washing your hair beforehand and leaving conditioner on it while soaking in the lagoon (but avoiding submerging it in the water while bathing) can help stop the silica from drying out your hair.

Question 24

What is so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Since locals began bathing here nearly 50 years ago, they noticed the mineral-rich water left their skin feeling soft and rejuvenated and even helped ease skin conditions like psoriasis. The silica content of the water not only acts as a natural beauty treatment, but it’s also what creates the milky-blue colour of the water that makes the Blue Lagoon so distinctive.

Question 25

Can you swim in Blue Lagoon Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The deepest point is 1.4 metres (4.7 feet), swimming in the Blue Lagoon is possible. You can take a few leisurely breaststrokes in the middle of the lagoon, but as the water is so warm and the depth of a hot tub in most places, the idea is to sit back and soak rather than swim simply.

Question 26

Do you get a free drink at the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

Even the most basic entrance package includes a free drink at the Blue Lagoon. Alongside entrance, use of a towel and a silica mud mask, the comfort package includes a free fruit smoothie, beer, wine, cider or glass of sparkling wine to enjoy as you soak.

Question 27

Is 3 hours enough at Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

Three hours is ideal at the Blue Lagoon. This gives you time to change, shower, enjoy a drink from the swim-up bar and sample a silica mask before showering and changing again.

You might even have time for a quick meal in the casual café. If you want a more indulgent lunch at Lava or Moss restaurants, you must allow another hour or so.

Question 28

Can I eat and drink at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of dining options at the Blue Lagoon and a swim-up bar for drinks in the lagoon. For food, you can choose between the casual café for a quick bite or the more formal Lava and Moss restaurants, the latter being recommended in the Michelin guide.

Question 29

Is the Blue Lagoon accessible for people with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

The Blue Lagoon complex has been designed with disabled users in mind. There is disabled parking in the car park, a five-minute walk from the entrance.

Wheelchairs are available at reception, and the building is equipped with electronic door openers and lifts throughout. The lagoon itself can be directly accessed by special wheelchairs, and there are larger changing rooms available for those who require an assistant (assistants will not need to pay the entrance fee).

Question 30

Should I bring my phone to the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

People like to take pictures of the ethereal blue water of the Blue Lagoon, so you’ll see lots of people with their phones by the lagoon’s side. There are lockers in the changing rooms to store your belongings, and you can always snap a few photos and return your phone to your locker if you’re worried about dropping it in the water.

Some people even bring waterproof bags or cases to take photos while immersed in the milky-blue water. However, phones are not permitted at the Retreat Spa to ensure you’re fully immersed in the experience, away from the nag of the modern world.

Question 31

Can you just turn up at Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

Booking in advance at the Blue Lagoon is not essential – you can buy entry tickets on arrival. However, this is Iceland’s number one attraction, so making a Blue Lagoon booking online in advance is advised to avoid disappointment as entry tickets can sell out, especially in peak season.

Question 32

What are the opening hours of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Blue Lagoon hours vary by season. Summer sees the longest opening hours, between 08.00 and 23.00 in July and August and between 08.00 and 22.00 in June. January to May sees the shortest opening hours, between 09.00 and 21.00 and with the lagoon open between 08.00 and 21.00 from October to December, you’ve got a chance of spotting the Northern Light before closing.

Question 33

When is the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There is something dramatic about slipping into the constantly warm water of the Blue Lagoon as snow falls around you. Those that wish to see the landscape around the lagoon blanketed in white or perhaps catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead should visit in winter.

Alternatively, the heart of summer sees the best weather in Iceland, paired with almost 24 hours of sunlight, so the Blue Lagoon stays open longer in the summer months.

Question 34

Should I wear my bathing suit to the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is, yes, you must wear a bathing suit in the Blue Lagoon. If you forget to pack one, there are bathing suits for sale at the Blue Lagoon’s shop.

Question 35

Can you spend all day at the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

With a full spa, a Michelin-recommended restaurant with a full-tasting menu and shops to stock up on silica-enriched products, you can quite easily spend all day at the Blue Lagoon. If you only want to experience the lagoon's warm water, then a few hours is plenty of time.

Question 36

Do you shower after Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

You are required to shower before and after using the Blue Lagoon and there are plenty of private, lockable showers and public showers in the changing rooms for this purpose. There are also complementary shampoos and soaps available.

Question 37

How do I protect my hair from the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

The effects of the Blue Lagoon’s silica on hair are not permanent – you may leave with slightly dry, stiff hair after a soak, but this can usually be fixed with a thorough shampoo and condition in the showers after.

If you want to avoid this from happening entirely, it is recommended that you use a leave-in conditioner while bathing in the lagoon, use a swim cap or tie your hair up.

Question 38

Can you do Reykjavik in 3 days?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik is a great option for a weekend city break and in three days you can get under the skin of the city. Those spending three days here would probably opt for a day trip or two to take them out of the city to sights like the Golden Circle and south shore adventures.

Question 39

Is it expensive in Reykjavik Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Compared to most other European destinations, Iceland can be quite expensive. For example, a cup of black coffee costs an average of $5 and beer is particularly expensive at $9 for the average pint in 2023. However, there are plenty of ways to stick to a budget and still have a good time in Reykjavik. Finding happy hours in pubs across the city can keep the cost of entertainment down and dining at Reykjavik’s food halls rather than upmarket restaurants offer a budget alternative.

Question 40

What is Reykjavik best known for?

Accepted Answer

You’ll probably recognise the striking, stacked facade of Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s main church, from the front covers of guidebooks and photography books. But that’s not the only striking building in the city. Amidst the low-rise houses there’s the Harpa Concert Hall on the waterfront. Despite its small population (around 140,000 people), there’s a vibrant art scene in Reykjavik on show in the street murals and wall poetry.

Question 41

What is the weather like in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik has a cold oceanic climate with cool temperatures throughout the year.

Winter (November to March): Cold temperatures often hover near freezing. The first snow might fall in October or November, but continuous snow cover typically starts in December or January and lasts until late March. Storms and high winds are frequent.Daylight lasts only 4-5 hours in December and January, but starts lengthening significantly in February.

Spring (April to May): As temperatures warm, the days grow longer. The weather can be very variable, sometimes experiencing all four seasons in a single day. By May, the "Midnight Sun" provides continuous daylight.

Summer (June to August): The climate is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C. There's less wind, fewer clouds, and reduced precipitation. Daylight persists for 24 hours, continuing through July until mid-August.

Autumn (September to October): The weather turns cooler with increasing rain and wind. Daylight hours decrease fast, and the first snowfall can occur by late October.

Given Reykjavik's unpredictable weather, it's wise to dress in layers.

Question 42

Where to stay in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

If you are planning to rent a car, anywhere in the capital area is ideal. Even including its surrounding towns, Reykjavík is small compared to typical European or US capitals; you can drive through it in 15-30 minutes. If you have a car, it's wise to avoid the downtown area because parking can be a challenge. However, if you're not renting a car, ensure your accommodation is near a tour pickup bus stop. The downtown area has numerous pickup stops, but there are none in the suburbs.

Question 43

What are some popular attractions in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

The most popular attractions in Reykjavik are the main shopping street of Laugavegur, lined with clapboard shops selling puffin paraphernalia and cosy little restaurants and cafés. Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most striking buildings in the city, attracting photographers from far and wide. Spa-seekers flock to one of Iceland’s newest geothermal hot springs at the Sky Lagoon, jutting out over the Atlantic Ocean just outside the centre.

Question 44

What time is it in Reykjavik, Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Although Iceland and the UK are in the same time zone, they do not always share the same time. Iceland uses GMT+0, and does not use daylight savings time so during some months of the year Iceland is an hour behind the UK. It is either four or five hours ahead of New York, depending on the time of year.

Question 45

How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, you would spend two or three days dedicated to exploring Reykjavik. Ideally, allocate two or three days to explore Reykjavik thoroughly. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, wish to immerse themselves in the ambiance, visit museums, and mingle with the locals, you can easily spend even more days without getting bored. Many visitors who prefer not to drive use Reykjavik as a base, taking day trips to other parts of the island.

Question 46

Where is Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik is on the southwest coast of Iceland and stretches in a horseshoe shape around Faxaflói Bay. Iceland’s only international airport, Keflavik Airport (not to be confused with Reykjavik Airport which is for domestic flights only), is 50 kilometres from Reykjavik and it takes around 45 minutes to drive from the centre to the airport.

Question 47

What is the best month to visit Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

The best month to visit Reykjavik depends on what you want to do. Those seeking the Northern Lights will need to visit in the darker months of late autumn and winter. It’s possible to see the ethereal green lights dancing in the night sky between September and March, but the deeper in winter (late November, December and January) you are, the more likely you are to spot them. The middle of summer is the peak season for whale watching when the sealife is at its most active and the weather tends to be more reliable and warm.

Question 48

Is 2 days enough in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Two days is enough to see the highlights of Reykjavik – boat tours out into Faxaflói Bay to watch the wildlife, walks along the seafront to snap the perfect picture of the Sun Voyager glowing in the light at sunset, learning the Viking history of the island at the Saga museum and sampling some of the Icelandic food and drink on offer.

Question 49

How can I get around Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik offers several convenient options for getting around:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Ideal for sightseeing, this bus service allows tourists to explore major attractions at their own pace. You can hop off at a site of interest and then hop back on to proceed to the next location.

Walking: Thanks to its compact size, Reykjavik is a highly walkable city. You can easily traverse the city center from one end to the other in about ten minutes.

Public Transport: While Reykjavik's public transportation system is efficient, it may not run as frequently as those in larger capitals. However, it remains a viable option for getting from point A to B.

Electric Scooters & Bicycles: Especially popular in the summer months, rentable electric scooters and bicycles provide a fun and eco-friendly way to navigate the city streets.

Regardless of your preferred mode of transportation, Reykjavik offers a pleasant and manageable experience for visitors.

Question 50

Is it worth spending a day in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

A day is the absolute minimum you should spend in Reykjavik. It may be a small city, but there is much to see and do, from whale-watching to sampling local cuisine and hitting the museums.

Question 51

How to pronounce Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Pronouncing "Reykjavík" can be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with Icelandic phonetics. Here's a basic guide:

Reykjavík: [ˈreiːkjaˌviːk]: “raikeyow-veek”

Reyk - Sounds like "raike" but with a rolled "r"; avík - Sounds like "yow-veek".

Emphasis is on the first syllable: REYkjavík.

Question 52

What to do in Reykjavik?

Accepted Answer

Activity-wise, there is plenty to do in Reykjavik. Join the hop-on hop-off bus to hit the highlights of the city from the beautiful Hallgrimskirkja church to the modern Perlan building offering sweeping views from atop a hill. Whale watching boat tours leave from the old harbour out into Faxaflói Bay and there are myriad museums covering everything from Vikings to whales and punk music. Then there’s rest and relaxation on offer at the Sky Lagoon, a geothermally heated lagoon on the outskirts of the city.

4-Day Icelandic Wellness Package

Rejuvenate in Iceland: A 4-Day Iceland Itinerary of Wellness & Nature

BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center

Need to know

Tour itinerary

Arrival in Reykjavík

Golden Circle & Fontana Geothermal Spa

Free Time in Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon Comfort Package

Departure

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

Are you wondering about something?

Similar tours

The Golden Circle & Fontana Wellness

Golden Circle Direct

Reykjavík - Blue Lagoon Comfort including admission

Rejuvenate in Iceland: A 4-Day Iceland Itinerary of Wellness & Nature

BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center

Need to know

Tour itinerary

Arrival in Reykjavík

Golden Circle & Fontana Geothermal Spa

Free Time in Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon Comfort Package

Departure

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Why is it called the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

What are the main attractions on the Golden Circle?

How many miles is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Similar tours

The Golden Circle & Fontana Wellness

Golden Circle Direct

Reykjavík - Blue Lagoon Comfort including admission

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