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

How much does it cost to see the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The cost will depend on which tour you choose. Each package is priced individually, depending on what’s included, how long it lasts, and any other extras.

Check out the individual tour pages for up to date prices.

Question 24

Where to stay on the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

Most visitors explore the Golden Circle while staying in Reykjavík. As the city is such a short distance away—and as it boasts a range of high-quality accommodation—it might be the best option for you too.

Question 25

Is there a lot of walking on the Golden Circle tour?

Accepted Answer

There are opportunities for walking at each of the destinations in the Golden Circle. And while you don’t have to walk too much if you don’t feel up to it, a little bit of walking is to be expected.

For example, at Gullfoss, you’ll need to walk for about 10 minutes from the carpark to reach the waterfalls. You’ll have to walk for a few hundred metres to reach Geysir too.

At Þingvellir, you can walk as far or little as you like, but you’ll need to go further than at the other sights. For example, the main highlights can be covered in a 40 minute walk. But if you want to see more, a longer walk takes about an hour and a half.

Question 26

What to see on the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

The most famous sights on the Golden Circle are Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir—a trio of true natural wonders. However, there’s a lot more to see if you put the time aside.

For example, there’s Friðheimar greenhouse and restaurant, an innovative agricultural project serving up incredible locally grown cuisine. Or there’s Sólheimar, the eco-village and artistic community.

Don’t miss other sights, such as Kerið crater, the stunning bowl with a lake in the bottom. The Langjökull glacier is another great place to see while you’re on the Golden Circle route too. Many people explore on a snowmobile or monster truck.

While they’re not technically on the Golden Circle, make sure you visit the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon too.

Question 27

How long is the drive from Reykjavík to Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

The journey to the Golden Circle from Reykjavík takes about an hour. But you should also expect some travel between sights.

Overall, the Golden Circle route is about 230 kilometres (140 miles), between Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir. You will be travelling for a minimum of three hours.

Question 28

Is Secret Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

While the Secret Lagoon is located in the same region as the Golden Circle, it’s not typically part of the classic itinerary. That said, if you would like to visit the Secret Lagoon, it’s very easy to add it to your trip!

Question 29

How many days for the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

That depends on how long you’ve got and what you want to see.

Most people explore the Golden Circle in just a single day, usually from Reykjavík. But you can add extra experiences to your tour, taking you to ice caves, Jökulsárlón, and even to the north coast.

Question 30

How long does it take to do the Golden Circle tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

You can take as long as you would like to see the Golden Circle in Iceland. There are a range of tours available to best suit your needs.

The most popular Golden Circle tour is the day tour from Reykjavík. You’ll leave the city in the morning and be dropped back in the evening—giving you the day to explore the sights.

If you’re short on time, you can do it more quickly. For example, express tours show you the main destinations in just over six hours.

Or, take it more leisurely. Combine your Golden Circle visit with a stop at the Blue Lagoon, the Friðheimar greenhouse and restaurant, or other sights in the area. Many tours can involve overnight stays, too.

Question 31

Can you do the Golden Circle in one day?

Accepted Answer

One of the most popular ways to see the Golden Circle is with a day tour from Reykjavík. It’s a really convenient option to see some of the most famous sights in Iceland while keeping a base in the capital.

You can join us at the BSÍ bus station in Reykjavík in the morning (or we can pick you up from your accommodation) and we’ll drop you back in town at the end of the day.

Question 32

Is the Golden Circle in Iceland worth it?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most famous destinations, and it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in the Land of Ice and Fire.

Where else would you see geysers shooting water into the sky above your head? Or walk in the great trench between Europe and North America?

If there’s one thing you should do while in Iceland, it’s this.

Question 33

Does the Golden Circle tour include Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle tour doesn’t include the Blue Lagoon as standard. Typically, visitors to Iceland choose to visit the Blue Lagoon separately.

However, it’s very easy to combine the two sights. With a Golden Circle tour and Blue Lagoon package, you can visit both on the same day.

Question 34

How to dress for the Golden Circle Iceland?

Accepted Answer

No matter the season you’re visiting in, the first thing to know about Iceland is that the weather is very changeable. That means that when you’re visiting the Golden Circle—or joining any tour in fact—you’ll need to be prepared for any weather.

Generally, we suggest you wear warm layers, sturdy shoes, and a waterproof and windproof jacket. It’s better to be prepared, even if you don’t need it.

Question 35

Do I need hiking boots for the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

We always recommend that you wear hiking boots—or at least sturdy, reliable shoes—when visiting the Golden Circle. You’ll be outside in the Icelandic outdoors, after all, and the terrain can sometimes be challenging.

For example, throughout the day, you’ll be walking on rocks, grass, and paths in a national park. It’s sensible if you wear shoes that can handle these changing environments.

Question 36

What is included in a Golden Circle tour?

Accepted Answer

What’s included in your Golden Circle tour will depend on which tour you book. However, as standard, you can expect transportation to the sites plus admission. On every tour, you’ll also benefit from expert guidance and local knowledge.

If you want to add other destinations or experiences to your tour—for example the Blue Lagoon or glacier snowmobiling—these will be covered in the cost too.

Escape the daytime rush and experience Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss in the peaceful evening hours

Need to know

Tour itinerary

Reykjavík

Gullfoss

Gesyir Geothermal Park

Thingvellir National Park

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

Are you wondering about something?

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Escape the daytime rush and experience Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss in the peaceful evening hours

Need to know

Tour itinerary

Reykjavík

Gullfoss

Gesyir Geothermal Park

Thingvellir National Park

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?

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