Thinking about hitting the Golden Circle in Iceland? Great choice! But let's be real, who wants to be crammed in a tour bus with strangers, staring out the window while someone talks non-stop about the history of every rock and tree you pass? No, thank you.
So, what's the best way to see it without feeling like just another tourist? You're in the right place. This guide will show you the coolest spots to visit and fun things to do and even help you pick the perfect campervan.
By the time you're done reading, you'll be ready to own the Golden Circle like a boss. Let's get started!
What Is the Golden Circle Route?
The Golden Circle route is Iceland's ultimate road trip, covering about 300 kilometers (186 miles). It's the country's most popular tourist trail, and for good reason. This route packs a punch with three major attractions that show off Iceland's raw beauty and wild side.
First up is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can literally walk between two continents, thanks to the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drifting apart. Then there's the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur geyser steals the show, erupting every 8–10 minutes and shooting boiling water up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the sky.
Finally, Gullfoss, the 'Golden Waterfall,' crashes down in two dramatic tiers, sending glacial water plunging 31 meters (102 feet) into a rugged canyon. Fun fact: the term 'Golden Circle' was cooked up by Iceland's Tourism Board to spark interest, and it clearly worked.
Iceland's Golden Circle Map
Here's a useful map of the Golden Circle. Get your rental car and plan your journey based on your schedule and adventure level!
🟠 Orange pins mark the main stops along the basic Golden Circle route, covering must-see attractions.
🟣 Purple pins highlight optional detours for travelers with extra time, offering hidden gems and scenic side trips.
Where Is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle route in Iceland is situated in the southwestern part of the country, stretching from Selvogur, west of Þorlákshöfn, to the east of Hella. This route covers a diverse region, including scenic coastal areas and rugged parts of the highlands. Thanks to its close proximity to Reykjavik, the Golden Circle route in Iceland is incredibly easy to access, making it perfect for both quick day trips and laid-back multi-day tours.
How Long Does It Take To Do the Golden Circle in Iceland?
To self-drive the Golden Circle in Iceland, it typically takes 6 to 10 hours to complete the full loop. The drive itself is around 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, but you'll definitely want to pull over often.
For those renting a car, the entire Golden Circle loop covers approximately 230 km (143 miles). If you’re sticking to the main stops, expect to spend about 4–6 hours driving, plus additional time for sightseeing and breaks. If you’re planning to explore extra detours, set aside a full day or even two for a more relaxed experience.
In winter, shorter daylight hours with about 5 hours of light might limit your time. Summer's midnight sun, however, lets you explore as long as you like.
The beauty of self-driving is the freedom to set your own pace, add detours like Kerið crater, or stretch the trip over 2 to 3 days for a relaxed vibe.
Which Campervan Should I Rent To Tour the Golden Circle?
When hitting Iceland's Golden Circle, picking the right campervan is key. Renting a campervan in Iceland gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and wake up to epic views right outside your door. If you're flying solo or traveling as a couple, the NV-200, Kangoo, or Doblo are great choices.
They're compact, sleep two comfortably, run on diesel, and you can choose between manual or automatic. They've got a basic kitchen setup, optional sleeping bags, and heating, though the Doblo skips the heater. Want something with a bit more flair? The VW Caddy Beach Minicamper is perfect for two. It has a diesel engine, automatic transmission, built-in heating, and even works with rooftop tents.
If you're the type who can't resist a rough F-road detour, the Duster or Jimny 4x4 Roof Tent is the way to go. It seats four to five, sleeps two, runs on gasoline, and handles tough terrain like a champ. Got a bigger crew? The Marco Polo 4x4 or VW Ocean sleeps three to four and has two double beds, heating, and a fridge. Renting a campervan in Iceland is perfect for road trip vibes and an unforgettable Golden Circle experience.
10 Of The Best Golden Circle Stops You Can't Afford to Miss
Since there is so much to see and do along the Golden Circle in Iceland, we decided to help you out and highlight some of the best activities and sights. Here are our top picks:
1. Explore Thingvellir National Park
Just 40 minutes from Reykjavík, Thingvellir National Park is your first epic stop on the journey from Reykjavík to the Golden Circle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn't just a pretty face. It's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates pull apart by 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) every year.
You can literally walk between continents along the Almannagjá Gorge. Cool, right? It's also Iceland's cultural cradle, where the world's oldest parliament, the Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD. Hike to Öxarárfoss waterfall, snorkel in the crystal-clear Silfra Fissure with over 100 meters (328 feet) of visibility, or fish in Lake Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest lake.
Don't miss Lögberg (Law Rock) and the spot where Iceland declared independence in 1944. Swing by the Hakið Visitor Center for Viking history lessons, and if you time it right, catch the Northern Lights in winter or the midnight sun in summer. Entry is free, though parking fees apply. Definitely worth it.
2. Snorkel in Silfra Fissure
No Golden Circle itinerary is complete without diving into the surreal waters of Silfra Fissure, tucked inside Þingvellir National Park. Here's the wild part: you'll be floating between two tectonic plates, literally drifting between continents.
The water is glacial melt filtered through lava rock for decades, giving it crystal-clear visibility of over 100 meters (328 feet). Expect vivid blues and jagged volcanic formations straight out of a sci-fi movie. The water stays a brisk 2 to 4°C (36 to 39°F), but drysuits keep you warm with only your face and hands feeling the chill.
A gentle current guides you through spots like the narrow Big Crack and the wide-open Silfra Hall, showing off epic canyon walls. There's no marine life, just jaw-dropping geology. Book a Silfra snorkeling tour for all the gear, expert guides, and safety tips.
3. Witness the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall
Along the Golden Circle in Iceland, you'll find Gullfoss, meaning 'Golden Falls,' living up to its name with a jaw-dropping display of raw power. The waterfall crashes down in two stages, first dropping 11 meters (36 feet), then plunging another 21 meters (69 feet), totaling 32 meters (105 feet) of roaring water.
Fed by the mighty Hvítá River, its flow can surge to 140 cubic meters per second during peak times. On sunny days, mist rises and paints rainbows across the canyon. Well-marked paths lead you to various viewpoints, with a lower deck offering an up-close encounter.
Beyond its beauty, Gullfoss carries a powerful story. It was almost lost to a hydroelectric project, but Sigríður Tómasdóttir fought to protect it, leaving behind a legacy marked by a memorial stone.
4. Watch Strokkur Geyser Erupt
Along the Golden Circle route in Iceland, Strokkur Geyser is the star of the show. Located in the bubbling Haukadalur geothermal area, it puts on a spectacular display every 6 to 10 minutes, shooting scalding water up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the sky.
The show starts with the pool bubbling and swelling into a bright aquamarine dome before exploding in a burst of steam and water. It's like nature's version of a pressure cooker with no off switch. Safe viewing areas let you feel the ground's heat without getting soaked.
The surrounding landscape is just as wild, with steaming vents, mud pots, and colorful mineral deposits scattered around. Since Strokkur erupts so often, you'll catch it in action more than once without even trying. For fewer crowds and the best photos, swing by early in the morning or during sunset when the light is pure magic.
5. Hike Around Kerið Crater
When you visit the Golden Circle, don't skip Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera that's around 3,000 years old but still knows how to impress. It plunges 55 meters (180 feet) deep, stretches 170 meters (560 feet) wide, and spans 270 meters (890 feet) across.
What really steals the show is the vivid aquamarine lake at the bottom, contrasting with the deep red volcanic rock walls rich in iron deposits. The rim hike takes about 15 to 20 minutes, offering panoramic views that are perfect for photos. Feeling curious? A stairway leads down to the lake's edge, where you can get up close to the serene water and rugged rock formations.
In winter, the frozen lake adds a magical touch to the scenery. There's a small entrance fee, around 400 ISK, which helps with site upkeep. Parking is easy, and the crater is open all year for whenever adventure calls.
6. Soak in the Secret Lagoon
As you explore the Golden Circle, take a break from the wild landscapes and soak in the Secret Lagoon, also known as Gamla Laugin. Tucked away in the village of Flúðir, this hidden gem has been around since 1891, making it Iceland's oldest swimming pool.
The natural hot spring water stays at a toasty 38 to 40°C (100 to 104°F) all year, perfect for melting away road trip fatigue. Surrounding the pool, you'll find bubbling hot springs and even a mini geyser that erupts every few minutes. The silica-rich water is great for your skin, and there's a small bar if you fancy a drink while you soak.
Wooden walkways let you explore the steamy landscape safely. In winter, you might even catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead. It's close to the Golden Circle route, so pre-book your spot, especially during busy seasons.
7. Admire the Beauty of Faxi Waterfall
When chasing waterfalls in Iceland, don't skip Faxi Waterfall, also known as Vatnsleysufoss. It's a hidden gem on the Golden Circle route, often missed by tourists rushing to the big-name spots. Spanning 80 meters (260 feet) wide and dropping 7 meters (23 feet), Faxi's broad, stepped cascade is pure eye candy.
There's a viewing platform perfect for photos, plus a salmon ladder where you might spot fish leaping upstream during the spawning season. The vibe here is peaceful, with a small parking area, picnic tables, and a cozy café serving local treats.
In summer, it's surrounded by lush greenery, while winter turns it into a frosty wonderland. If you're feeling adventurous, kayaking tours offer a closer look. Faxi is the perfect spot to breathe, relax, and escape the crowds of the Golden Circle's busier attractions.
8. Unwind at Laugarvatn Fontana
If you're craving a break from sightseeing, Laugarvatn Fontana is the perfect stop on the Golden Circle to relax and recharge. Located right by Lake Laugarvatn, this geothermal spa offers outdoor mineral baths, steam rooms, and a Finnish-style sauna with stunning lake views.
The three pools, named Lauga, Viska, and Sæla, vary in temperature and depth, so you can pick the perfect spot to soak. The natural steam rooms sit right above bubbling hot springs, reaching toasty temperatures of 40 to 50°C (104 to 122°F), while the Finnish sauna heats up to 80 to 90°C (176 to 194°F). Feeling brave? Take a cold plunge in the lake to boost your circulation.
Don't miss the geothermal bakery where bread is baked underground using natural heat. Open year-round, Laugarvatn Fontana is the ultimate spot to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature after a day of exploring the Golden Circle.
9. Discover the Hidden Bruarfoss Waterfall
If you're on a Golden Circle tour and craving something off the beaten path, Bruarfoss Waterfall is your hidden gem. Known as Iceland's Bluest Waterfall, its vibrant turquoise water looks almost unreal, thanks to glacial melt filtering through volcanic rock. It may only drop 3 meters (10 feet), but the unique braided flow over black lava rocks makes it a hypnotic sight.
Getting there is half the fun with a 7-kilometer (4-mile) round trip hike through the Icelandic countryside. The trail can get muddy, so sturdy shoes are a must. Recent trail upgrades make it more accessible without losing that wild feel.
Photographers love it, especially during golden hour when the contrast between the glowing blue water and dark rocks is pure magic. Want it all to yourself? Visit during off-peak times and enjoy the serenity of this lesser-known wonder tucked away along the Golden Circle.
10. Dine at Fridheimar Greenhouse
When driving the Golden Circle from Reykjavik, make sure to stop at Friðheimar Greenhouse for a dining experience that's anything but ordinary. Imagine eating surrounded by rows of thriving tomato plants, all grown using geothermal heat and pollinated by bumblebees.
The star of the menu is an all-you-can-eat tomato soup buffet served with fresh bread, cucumber salsa, and sour cream. Fresh basil sits on every table so you can add a burst of flavor to your dish. Feeling adventurous? Try the tomato ice cream, cheesecake with tomato jam, or even a tomato beer. They also serve up killer Bloody Marys.
Beyond food, Friðheimar offers greenhouse tours and Icelandic horse shows, blending sustainability with local culture. The on-site shop sells tomato-based goodies to take home. It's popular, so booking ahead is smart. This family-run farm is the perfect mix of fresh flavors and eco-friendly vibes, making it a must on your Golden Circle adventure.
This Is How You Dominate the Golden Circle in Iceland
Now you know how to dominate the Golden Circle in Iceland like a pro, not just another face in the crowd. From epic waterfalls to secret hot springs, you've got the insider scoop to make this trip unforgettable. But here's the real game-changer: hitting the road in your own campervan.
It's freedom on four wheels, letting you stop where you want when you want. Ready to roll? Check out our range of campervans designed for every type of traveler. Have questions? Contact us today, and let's get you set up for the ultimate road trip.