The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes, offering a perfect mix of natural wonders, historical sites, and unique local experiences. This famous loop starts and ends in Reykjavik, covering approximately 300 kilometres of central Iceland.
While you could technically complete the route in just a few hours, I recommend dedicating a full day to truly soak in each stop. Here’s my perfect itinerary For driving Iceland’s Golden Circle:
Stop 1 – Thingvellir National Park
Your first stop on the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds both historical and geological significance. Located in a rift valley created by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which expands by about 2 cm every year.
Thingvellir is also the birthplace of Icelandic democracy. The site was home to Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, which was established in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world.
Explore the park’s many hiking trails, one of which leads to the stunning Öxarárfoss waterfall. For the more adventurous, snorkelling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra Fissure is an unforgettable experience. The fissure is filled with glacial water from the Langjökull glacier, offering visibility up to 100 metres—a truly unique underwater adventure. If you’re into fishing, the park is also a popular spot for catching brown trout and Arctic char.
Stop 2 – Efstidalur Farm
Next, head to Efstidalur Farm, a charming family-run farm that has been in the same family for seven generations. Located in the heart of the Icelandic countryside, this farm offers a taste of traditional Icelandic life with a modern twist.
The farm features a cozy restaurant and café located in a loft above the milking barn, where you can watch the cows being milked while enjoying a delicious meal. The menu is full of farm-to-table products, including homemade ice cream, skyr, and feta cheese, all made on-site. Efstidalur also offers a farm hotel, providing a peaceful countryside retreat for those who wish to extend their stay.
Stop 3 – Geysir
No trip to the Golden Circle is complete without a visit to the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. While the original Geysir (from which all other geysers take their name) is now dormant, Strokkur continues to put on a spectacular show, erupting every 10 minutes and shooting boiling water up to 20 metres into the air.
This geothermal area is a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity, with bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and vibrant mineral-rich pools lining the landscape.
Stop 4 – Gullfoss
The next stop is Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” one of Iceland’s most iconic and powerful waterfalls. Fed by the glacier river Hvítá, Gullfoss cascades over two tiers before plunging into a 32-metre deep crevice, creating a stunning spectacle of raw natural power. On a sunny day, you might even catch a rainbow forming in the mist, adding to the magic of this already breathtaking sight.
Gullfoss is a must-see for any visitor to Iceland, and it’s easy to understand why it attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Stop 5 – Friðheimar Greenhouse
Wrap up your Golden Circle adventure with a unique dining experience at Friðheimar Greenhouse, located about 30 minutes from Gullfoss. This family-run tomato farm is famous for its innovative use of geothermal energy, which allows them to grow tomatoes year-round in the middle of Iceland’s harsh climate, and their imported bees that provide pollination and fertilisation.
At Friðheimar, you can enjoy a meal right in the greenhouse, surrounded by rows of tomato plants. The menu is entirely tomato-themed, featuring dishes like tomato soup, freshly baked bread, and even tomato-based drinks. If you’re a fan of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” you might recognize this location!
Other Notable Stops on the Golden Circle
If you have extra time, consider exploring these additional stops along the Golden Circle route:
Laugarvatn Fontana Spa: Relax in geothermal baths and enjoy stunning views of Laugarvatn Lake.
Brúarfoss Waterfall: A hidden gem known for its bright blue water and tranquil surroundings.
Kerid Crater: An ancient volcanic crater with a striking turquoise lake at its center.
Skálholt: A historic site that was once one of Iceland’s most important cultural and religious centres.
Reykjadalur Valley Hot Springs: Hike through a picturesque valley to reach natural hot springs where you can soak in warm, soothing waters.
