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Where To Eat On The Golden Circle Iceland

Restaurants On Iceland’s Golden Circle Route: Recommendations & Map

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Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle is an excellent opportunity to explore local food and other activities along the way. Here are some of my favorite foodie stops along the famous route. Make sure you don't miss out!

Chances are, since you’ve found your way to this blog, that you’ve heard of  the Golden Circle . One of the most popular attractions in all of Iceland, the famous driving route takes tourists on a journey through  Þingvellir ,   Geysir ,  Gullfoss   and many more stunning locations.

The total route is 237 km (147 miles) long and, non-stop, can be driven in just over three hours. However, you’ll definitely want to stop and experience both the breathtaking views and fantastic food. So, even if you are going for a one-day trip to the Golden Circle , there are plenty of stops to surprise you.

So, where’s the best place to stop for something to eat along the route? This is a very common question that I am asked all the time. For someone like me, a complete foodie who loves to eat, the Golden Circle is a great opportunity to sample local food , explore new restaurants and enjoy fun activities along the way. 

Below are some of my favorite foodie stops along the Golden Circle , where you’ll find great food, grown, caught, and prepared by locals.

Without any further ado, let’s explore the best cafés and restaurants along the Golden Circle.

Braud & Co Baked Goods

With so many good options to choose from when it comes to bakeries, it’s hard to pick just one. But it’s impossible to go wrong with  Braud & Co , also known as The Cinnamon Bun Bakery. Found on Frakkastígur 16, in one of the most colorful houses in all of Reykjavík.

Colorful Fasade on the Building

There isn’t a huge selection of produce, but everything is freshly made and mouth-wateringly delicious. And if you haven’t already guessed by now, you NEED to try the cinnamon buns. This bakery is the perfect option for a quick breakfast before you hit the road.

Restaurant Geysir Glíma

Located near the famous Geysir, this place is all about celebrating Iceland's national sport of "trouser grip" wrestling, known as Glima. 

Geysir Glíma embraces the local culture and features statues and pictures of Glima wrestlers, immersing visitors in the rich history of this tradition. The restaurant has unique decor with tables made from ancient German trees, a mesh sculpture of wrestlers, and an Icelandic design. The atmosphere is warm and cozy despite the chilly climate outside.

And trust me, the spacious restaurant is not just about wrestling and ancient trees—it's got so much more to offer.

This is one of the top spots on the Golden Circle if you want to try traditional Icelandic and Scandinavian delicacies. And you don’t have to be a wrestling enthusiast to have a blast here!

Héraðsskólinn Restaurant And Bistro

Photo from Héraðskólinn Facebook Page

Héraðsskólinn is actually a boutique hostel, but its restaurant serves quality food. Located in Laugarvatn, halfway between the Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir, the hostel’s restaurant boasts a great menu selection with everything from trout to reindeer on offer. With such a large menu, you’ll definitely find something to your liking.

The building used to be a county school but has since been redeveloped into a hostel and restaurant. The hostel’s green roof and crisp white walls mean it’s easily spotted from the road.

Situated in Laugarvatn, about 100 km from Reykjavík , Lindin is a cozy restaurant that instantly makes you feel at home as soon as you walk in the door. The expertly-cooked, delicious fare is renowned across Iceland and is popular with tourists and locals alike. Open from noon until about 10 pm, t here is no excuse not to visit!

Chef Baldur is not only a world-class cook but an expert when it comes to chocolate. After dinner, make sure you sample some dessert, you won’t regret it. After an intense Golden Circle exploration, this might be just the meal you need.

Icelandic Soup

The name might be a bit obvious, but Súpa is Icelandic for soup and, unsurprisingly, that’s exactly what this homely restaurant serves.

This health-conscious restaurant is located in the service centre at Geysir and serves six different soup options – three vegan and three vegetarian –all of which are delicious. All the soups are served with homemade bread and butter and are a perfect, inexpensive bite to eat on the Golden Circle.

Drumboddstaðir

Drumboddstaðir often called Drumbó

Drumboddstaðir, often called Drumbó, sits on the bank of the Hvítá River and is best known as the basecamp for white water river rafting in the south . But did you know it’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a local beer and a BBQ?

When planning your itinerary, make sure to stop by, as the atmosphere is hugely fun and energetic, making it a great place for a bite to eat – with or without rafting. However, sitting on the banks of the river watching all the f un, ca n get a little tiresome . Drumboddstaðir also recently opened a new bar with a fantastic selection of beers, the perfect treat after a trip down the river.

Efstidalur II

If you haven’t guessed by now, we love ice cream in Iceland. There’s no excuse to refuse a bowl of creamy, frozen goodness, so visiting Efstidalur farm is imperative.

A farm hotel with an outstanding restaurant and ice cream shop, it’s not to be missed. All the ice creams are made using only local ingredients , a nd the stunning location is the perfect setting for enjoying a scoop or two.

Kids, in particular, will love being on the farm and seeing the animals up close!

Græna Kannan Organic Café

You won't believe it, but Sólheimar is considered the world's oldest eco-village. It has such an incredible history. It was initially established as a children's home 80 years ago and has evolved into a close-knit community. Your Golden Circle tour has just become even better!

What's excellent about Græna Kannan is that they offer a range of mouthwatering treats made in their all-organic bakery, food processing unit, and greenhouses. From freshly baked cakes, pies, and bread from their bakery to delightful homemade marmalade, jam, chutney, salsa sauces, and soups, your taste buds are in for a treat.

It's not just about delicious food and drinks—it's about supporting a community dedicated to positively impacting the environment and providing opportunities for everyone. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and the warm-hearted atmosphere. You won't regret it!

Flúðasveppir Farmers Bistro

Farmers Bistro

You have to check out Farmers Bistro in Flúðir! It's an absolute gem in this beautiful town, famous for its fantastic weather and a prime spot in the middle of the Golden Circle. This farm in South Iceland is all about mushrooms. And trust me, tourists from all over, both local and international, flock to this place.

The owners, Georg and Emma, are incredible people. Flúðasveppir is the only mushroom farm in all of Iceland. Try their gourmet buffet, with dishes made of delicious white and chestnut mushrooms—they're absolutely out of this world. One of the specials is their portobello burger and mushroom ice cream!

Additionally, at Flúða-Jörfi, their impressive horticulture farm, they grow the freshest bell peppers and tomatoes you can imagine.

So at Farmers Bistro they're all about that farm-to-table experience and local ingredients. Georg and Emma make sure to bring the best of their farms straight to your plate. Enjoy locally-grown mushrooms, vibrant bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and a whole array of farm-fresh veggies. It's an authentic taste of Flúðir, and it's fantastic.

So, when you're near Flúðir, make sure to swing by Farmers Bistro. It's a local favorite and for good reason. The flavors, the freshness, and the passion behind it all—it's an experience you won't want to miss.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm

I’m sure visiting a tomato farm wasn’t on your original list of priorities when planning a visit to Iceland, but a trip to Bláskógabyggð isn’t complete without sampling something from the farm’s tomato -i nspired menu.

At Friðheimar , visitors will have a wide selection to choose from, with everything from the all-time classic tomato soup to tomato ice cream on offer – It sounds strange I know but trust me, it’s delicious!

Having Beer in Lagoon

If you are lucky enough, you may catch the horse show on your way in or out. Visitors can watch the Icelandic horses show off their unique tricks. Don’t miss the gift store either – personally, I make sure to never run out of their jams. This is a perfect stop after Gullfoss Waterfall and close to the Secret Lagoon.

Farm To Fork At Restaurant Kaffihús Grund

Restaurant Grund is located in a small guesthouse in Flúðir and is a popular restaurant that prides itself on using only fresh ingredients from the farm. This farm-to-fork experience is not to be missed and is a great pl ace on the Golden Circle to gr ab a hearty bite to eat after taking a dip in the Secret Lagoon

Hot Dog Stand Pylsuvagninn

Is there a more authentic Icelandic duo than hot dogs and ice cream? When traveling around Iceland, why not sample some of the hot dogs at Selfoss’ famous hot dog stand Pylsuvagninn. Grab a perfectly cooked hot dog or t wo (or even three!) with all the toppings, before heading to Huppa ice cream parlor.

Don’t worry if you’re full – you’ll soon find room for dessert. At Huppa , customers choose three different types of candy to mix into their ice-cream, making an already tasty treat even better! Our favourite combinations are:

• Oreos, Tromp & Þristur
• Strawberries, Nóa kropp & Toblerone

Take it from us and our extensive first-hand research that these combinations are oh-so-amazing!

Kaffi Krús in Selfoss

Kaffi Krús is located in Selfoss and boasts an extraordinary amount of positive TripAdvisor reviews, which only cements its stellar reputation for good food.

The restaurant serves hearty fare, such as pizza, pasta, and burgers, meaning you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. To sum up, the food is exceptional, the portions are big, and the cakes are delicious, what more can you want?

Restaurant Þrastarlundur

Situated by the river Sog, and about five minutes from Kerið, Restaurant Þrastarlundur recently underwent a massive redevelopment and is now one of the most popular restaurants in the Golden Circle area.

The perfect option for brunch or even a relaxed late-night pizza dinner, the menu is extensive and has something for everyone.

If you’re staying in an Airbnb, it’s possible to pick up groceries or even a selection of cheeses to take home with you. Whatever your food needs, this restaurant certainly doesn’t disappoint!

Við Fjöruborðið

Bucket of Lobsters Drenched in Garlic Butter

Fancy a bucket of lobsters drenched in garlic butter? Of course, you do! Við Fjöruborðið is Stokkseyri’s best seafood restaurant and is a must-visit for any seafood lovers. The restaurant’s magical langoustine soup is a particular favorite with customers and is reportedly made with cream, tomatoes, charm, and passion.

Anyone visiting the restaurant should try one of their classic homemade cakes for dessert. These always remind me of the cakes my grandma used to make and taste wonderful. Because this place is so popular, it’s always best to call ahead and make a reservation.

Rauða Húsið

Red House Restaurant in Eyrarbakki

Also known as Red House , this restaurant is located in, you guessed it, a red house in Eyrarbakki – a charming coastal town in south Iceland, which is home to 570 people.

This place is yet another one of Iceland’s top restaurants that serve amazing seafood. I can’t eat here without ordering the lobster tails. Made using 100% Icelandic and locally-caught lobsters, this dish is one mouth-watering and one of the most popular on the menu. Another recommendation is the lobster soup, which is also delicious.

Restaurant Varmá

Food cooked in Iceland’s famous hot springs

Varmá is something of a celebrity when it comes to restaurants in the south and for good reason. Located in the charming hotel of Frost og Funi (Frost and Fire), Varmá specializes in food cooked in Iceland’s famous hot springs.

Try the Icelandic lamb or the duck breast – it takes roughly 18 hours to slow-cook these dishes, which is what makes them so unique and tasty. A visit to Restaurant Varmá is an experience like no othe r, and it will leav e your taste buds tingling.

African Restaurant Serving Ethiopian Cuisine

Located in Flúðir, Minilik is a unique place to eat on the Golden Circle and overall in Iceland, as it is an African restaurant serving Ethiopian cuisine. It offers something different from the usual lamb and fish dishes found in Iceland, with a mix of meat, vegan, and vegetarian options.

Adventurous foodies will enjoy this stop on their trip. The meals are cooked as you order, so make sure you have time to spare before eating here. But the wait is worth it!

For those seeking a complete experience, Minilik invites you to partake in a customary Ethiopian coffee ceremony after your meal. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as you savor the aromatic brew and engage in the age-old ritual of coffee roasting.

Ölverk Pizza & Brewery

Ölverk Pizza & Brewery is tucked away in Hveragerði, a small town only 35 minutes away from Reykjavík conveniently positioned at the heart of the famous Golden Circle. This local brewery embraces the power of geothermal energy to craft unique and flavorful beers alongside a delectable menu of wood-fired pizzas with traditional and unique toppings (banana, seaweed, coconut, and more). 

Prepare to be delighted by the unconventional and mouthwatering combinations that this brewery has to offer. Their beer selection encompasses various styles, including IPAs, sour beers, pilsners, and seasonal offerings.

Their wood-fired pizzas are expertly cooked in their on-site pizza oven. The combination of finely-crafted beer and mouthwatering pizza delivers an authentic local experience.

Laufey and Elvar, the owners of Ölverk, also cultivate chili peppers in nearby greenhouses, using them to create flavorful hot sauces that add a distinctive touch to their dishes.

Pizza in Golden Circle

As you can see, there is no need to go hungry when exploring the Golden Circle. Finally, if you are back in Reykjavik and haven’t quite gotten your fill, check out these go-to places for food in the city . And if you are headed out to explore further, check out places to eat on the South Coast of Iceland and where to grab a bite on the Snaefellsness Peninsula .

For information on the Golden Circle, read how to get the most out of The Golden Circle , our definitive guid e. Even with just a few days to spend in Iceland, you can never go wrong by choosing the Golden Circle tour!

Want to explore the Golden Circle for yourself? Many of our self-drive tours include the option to travel on this famous route.

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10 Best Places to Eat in Reykjavik

Where to eat in reykjavik, iceland.

Now we go deep into the foodie world of Reykjavík. Find out what and where to eat while staying in Reykjavík, Iceland. Both fancy and budget-friendly - eating out in Reykjavik is a worthy experience either way. Let's see the best food place...

Where to Eat on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Top restaurants and food spots in snæfellsnes peninsula.

Wherever you stop on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, pure beauty and magnificent silence are your constant companions. A few guest houses, hidden in the middle of nowhere, offer first-class service and gourmet local food. Adorable, tiny fishing ...

Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tour

Live & love & laugh for a whole day with local legends, lineup of day  .

The day begins with a drive through high temperature area with view of the magnificent landscape traveling on a mountain road with a overview of Lake Þingvallavatn and the Nesjavellir geothermal power plant in the mountains. We’ll drive towards the national park along the second largest lake in Iceland towards our next destination Alþingi, the oldest parliament in the world, which was established in 930 AD and a UNESCO World Heritige Site.

At Thingvellir we have a presentation of the historical significance of the area and then we will take a walk between the Eurasian and North-American tectonic plates along the famous drowning pool towards one of our favorite location of the natinoal park the waterfall named Öxarárfoss.

We continue the tour through the national park towards the Laugarvatn hot lake and from there we continue to the geyser area. At the famous hot springs we will take a walk through this high temperature area and one of them, called Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, is a perfect Kodak moment of Iceland.

Our next stop is Gullfoss, or the Golden waterfalls- one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. We continue to the south coast and take a short stop at an old explosive crater called Kerið (the Tub) and then we drive towards Reykjavík city, bypassing a few small fishing villages overviewing the coastline, which has truly spectacular scenery, a mixture of black desert and the raw Atlantic ocean.

This tour is always customized based on your interest but also we have secret spots we will share on route that will make this day one you wont forget.

SIGHTS VISITED 

Þingvellir National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site – Öxarárfoss – Efstidalur II Icelandic Farm. – Laugavatn Warm Lake our secret spot. – Famous hot springs of Geysir. – Gullfoss or the Golden Watefalls – Secret hot spring lagoon (entrance fee is included with Towels) – Greenhouse visit Friðheimar .

Meet the “Fantastic 4! Every single Private Gourmet Tour is a unique adventure.

Live & Love & Laugh with Local Legends! We are humble, happy and proud of what we do. Our “job” is to have fun and make sure that everyone else has great fun!

We truly are FOODIES and as such, NIceland is a little “gourmet heaven” that is so much fun to enjoy. We love challenges and we can assure you that any type of food preferences will be met with joy and passion, and here we quote our good friend Pat Benatar: “Hit me with your best shot!”

It takes at least two to tango and we have the fortune of meeting great people from all over the world that allow us to dance like there is no tomorrow! Like one of our fellow “tango partners” put it: “This wasn’t a tour so much as it was an experience”.

The combined “superpowers” of the Fantastic 4 include:

Maximising joy every moment of “this thing called life”.

Passion for sharing our story, food, nature and culture with our fellow travellers.

Curiosity about the culture and personality of our “fellow travelling earthlings”

Bathing in a hot natural pool, THE best Tomato Soup & Bloody Mary from and IN the greenhouse, Gullfoss Waterfall & Geysir performs for us. We visit “no mans land” at Þingvellir national park. Locally made Hamburgers, Carpaccio and Ice Cream from a farmer… and a LOT more gourmet food & drinks during the day!

WHAT TO BRING 

Good shoes for walking or hiking – Fully charged battery – Hat and gloves – Your good mood – Your voucher

YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE THIS TOUR

We personalize tours based on each family member’s interests because we understand that each family is different.

We work closely with you to ensure that your itinerary balances sophistication and fun, time together and time apart, and that it features activities that suit the interests and needs of everyone, be they toddlers, college-age children or great-grandparents.

Our travel specialists will find the perfect balance for your trip.

Let us make your day perfect!

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LUXURY TRAVEL IN ICELAND

I celimo Luxury Travel is a privately owned tour operator and pioneer of luxury transportation in Iceland since 1998.We are a small company by choice focusing on genuine life experiences sharing the natural beauty that Iceland has to offer to our growing family of customers.

H aving pioneered unforgettable trips on behalf of exceptional individuals, we now bring you a honed couture of travel experiences, crafted with flair and finesse entirely around your dreams.Our team includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise sharing all the same passion creating inspiring moments.

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Our travel designers and expert guides will plan everything in detail based on your needs and wishes with one goal in mind: to make you experience Iceland in a unique and memorable way.You can contact us by mail [email protected] Call us at +354 5544000 ,Connect on Whatsapp +354 8473883 or Click here below on live chat to answer your questions.

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We understand that each family is different so your Iceland family tours and itineraries are based on each family member’s interests. We work closely with you to ensure that your itinerary balances sophistication and fun, time together and time apart featuring activities that suit the interests and needs of everyone. From toddlers, college-age children or great-grandparents.

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Icelimo really made our trip fantastic. There is no other way to experience Iceland as far as I am concerned…

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Home » Tours » Iceland » Reykjavik » Iceland – Gastronomy, Northern Lights and the Golden Circle

Iceland – Gastronomy, Northern Lights and the Golden Circle

• Expert Opinion
• Dates & Price

Accommodation

• Personalise Tour

Iceland, the North Atlantic's volcanic gem, is an island world-renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and the chance to see the Northern Lights. It also has an amazing gastronomy scene with international influences, exciting fusions, and a strong local food culture.

This four-night holiday combines cuisine, exploration, and the Northern Lights. You'll enjoy a guided foodie tour of Reykjavik, trying various flavour-filled dishes, as well as having the chance to dine at some of the most renowned restaurants in the city. Explore the culture and history of Iceland with a visit to the whale museum and experience the dramatic landscapes and stunning beauty that surrounds Reykjavik with a tour of the famous Golden Circle.

Iceland sits in prime Northern Lights territory, so we have made sure to include two nights dedicated to searching for the Aurora Borealis. First, you will travel by bus into the countryside, away from any light pollution, searching the skies for the mystical Northern Lights. Then, you will switch from land to sea, enjoying a Northern Lights cruise which provides a unique perspective of the night sky, as you sail across the cool, dark waters that surround this island. Iceland really is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.

Image credits: DMC North, Food Cellar (Matarkjallarinn)

Once your plane touches down at Keflavik International Airport, you will transfer via the scheduled Flybus service to your hotel. The world’s northernmost capital city is small but perfectly formed, with museums, galleries, and a plethora of bars and restaurants to entertain visitors of all kinds. After checking in at the Exeter Hotel, the harbourside hotel which will serve as your home for the next four nights, your first night has been left free for you to explore.

Please note: no meals are included today, but reservations at restaurants can be arranged.

Included Meals:   None

Although your stay at the Exeter hotel includes a buffet breakfast, we wouldn’t recommend you fill up too much this morning. At 11:30am, a local guide will collect you from the hotel and take you on a 3-hour walking food tour of Reykjavik, introducing you to a range of local foodie haunts. Dishes can include lobster soup, Icelandic pancake, Skyr cake, Icelandic hot dogs and rye bread ice cream (a delicacy far more delicious than it sounds) to name but a few – and enjoy learning about the city from an expert guide. Reykjavik is renowned for world-class food and this foodie tour will give you a fantastic taster experience of Iceland’s specialities and international cuisine: it really is gastronomy heaven!

The rest of your afternoon is free to spend enjoying Reykjavik’s city centre, which has a wealth of museums and galleries, as well as the architectural marvel that is Harpa concert hall.  Opened in 2011, this cultural hub hosts art exhibitions and a wide variety of theatrical performances and concerts including the Reykjavik Jazz festival every September. The first building to be completed in Iceland in the aftermath of the 2008 economic recession, it doubled as a beacon of hope to local residents as the construction industry restarted.

Tonight, you will head out in search of the Northern Lights via bus, departing at approximately 9pm. Travelling through the Icelandic wilderness, you’ll be out for roughly 3 hours tonight; hopefully, luck will be on your side and you’ll catch sight of the Aurora Borealis

Warm clothes, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring a winter hat, scarf, mittens/gloves, and warm socks, and ask the guide about your camera settings!

Included Meals:   Breakfast, Lunch

Take advantage of the hotel’s gym and sauna facilities this morning, and be nice and refreshed for your 12pm lunch at   Food Cellar , where you can sample Icelandic Cuisine with a modern twist .

Following lunch,  your af ternoon takes you to the harbourside where you will experience  all of Iceland.  Using state of the art technology, from your seat suspended before a 20-metre spherical screen, you will feel as if you are literally ‘flying over Iceland’ as you explore the vast glaciers, majestic fjords, dramatic ravines and many other attractions.   Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience.

Your evening meal will be held a t  Höfnin , which roughly translates to ‘the port’ .  Höfnin  is a  family run restaurant  with a beautiful seasid e view overlooking the Old Harbour.

If you can manage the fifteen-minute walk back to the harbour after so much delicious food, your evening will close with a Northern Lights Cruise, which departs at 9pm. With heated inside areas, an onboard café and a 360° viewing platform to ensure panoramic views, hunting for the Aurora via cruise ensures a truly unique experience. The expert Aurora guides on board help you enjoy the lights by giving you information about the Auroras as well as answering any questions you may have. They even take pictures on the tour which you can request by email when you get back home! You can borrow one of the overalls to keep warm, just remember to bring a hat and gloves.

Note: you must be at the pier minimum of 15 minutes before departure.

Included Meals:   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will enjoy a tour of the famous Golden Circle via bus. The golden circle combines some of Iceland’s most popular natural attractions, including Þingvellir National Park, the geyser geothermal area and the Gullfoss waterfall.

Þingvellir National Park was Iceland’s first National Park and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It was the first area of Iceland to be inhabited and later became the sight of the world’s first parliament. Geology enthusiasts may already be familiar with this area as it is the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which creates some stunning geological sights.

The Geyser geothermal area is located in the Haukadalur Valley and at this site, you will find two remarkable geysers which have been active for around 10,000 years. Great Geysir only erupts every few months at most, so you will need to be exceptionally lucky to catch that one, but nearby Strokkur geyser erupts every 6-10 minutes and can shoot hot water as high as 40 metres into the air.

Finally, on your tour, you will visit Gullfoss waterfall. This is one of Iceland’s most iconic and most photographed attractions. The waterfall has two ‘drops’ which together total 32 metres. The power of the water is mesmerising and on sunny days it is possible to view rainbows shooting from the spray.

During your tour, you will also make a stop at the Fontana Wellness Spa, a natural hot spring, which is also used as a natural, local bakery for the village. You’ll learn about the methods used to bake their famous rye bread in a hot spring and watch while they dig up a freshly-baked sample for you to taste.

After that, you’ll have time to take a dip in the hot springs and enjoy the spectacular views, so don’t forget to bring your swimming costume! Today’s tour will last approximately 9 hours. Lunch is not included, but there are several places to buy lunch along the way.

After returning to Reykjavik, you will dine at Restaurant Monkeys, where a table has been reserved for you at 7pm. This restaurant offers a fantastic selection of fusion dishes and is the perfect place to enjoy your final evening in Iceland.

Included Meals:   Breakfast, Dinner

Sadly, today marks your last day in Reykjavik. Enjoy breakfast and pick up something in the in-house Deig Bakery to take to the airport, as well as some knitted souvenirs. Your scheduled bus transfer to the airport will drop you off two hours before your departure flight, giving you plenty of time to clear check-in and reflect on a wonderful holiday.

Included Meals:   Breakfast

What's included?

• Return airport transfers
• 4 nights in a standard twin or double room in the Exeter Hotel
• 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
• Reykjavik Walking Food Tour
• Northern Lights Hunt by Bus
• Lunch at Food Cellar
• Fly Over Iceland Tour
• Dinner at Höfnin
• Northern Lights Cruise
• Golden Circle Tour with a stop at Fontana Natural Wellness Spa
• Dinner at Monkeys
• Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
• 24/7 assistance from our UK-based operations team and in-destination support from our local partners

Dates and Prices

Exeter Hotel sits in an ideal location, within easy walking distance to a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars, offering a fantastic choice of cuisine and atmosphere. Situated close to the old harbour, there are several museums and galleries nearby, giving you the chance to soak up the culture of this fascinating city.

It is a modern, comfortable hotel, built with style and relaxation in mind. The on-site bakery is the perfect place to grab some freshly cooked delights, open daily from 7am-4pm. Make use of the hotel’s sauna and unwind after exploring Iceland by day.

• Your meals are all served in the restaurant in the main building. You will enjoy a variety of local dishes and more international cuisine in the evening menus (which are typically two courses and served as a hearty buffet). Breakfasts are typically Scandinavian in style and provide you with the fuel that you need for a day of adventure
• The restaurant is situated on the upper floor of the main hotel building and offers panoramic views over the bay while you tuck into your delicious meal The lodge also has a fully stocked bar and pretty impressive wine cellar for any enthusiasts staying A short walk from the restaurant building, there is also a sauna and hot tub for guests to enjoy. Indulging in a sauna, after an exhilarating day in the great outdoors is just the perfect way to unwind and the hot tub is the cherry on the cake! This is bookable locally and charges apply
• The lodge also has a fully stocked bar and pretty impressive wine cellar for any enthusiasts staying A short walk from the restaurant building, there is also a sauna and hot tub for guests to enjoy. Indulging in a sauna, after an exhilarating day in the great outdoors is just the perfect way to unwind and the hot tub is the cherry on the cake! This is bookable locally and charges apply
• A short walk from the restaurant building, there is also a sauna and hot tub for guests to enjoy. Indulging in a sauna, after an exhilarating day in the great outdoors is just the perfect way to unwind and the hot tub is the cherry on the cake! This is bookable locally and charges apply

Additional Info

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Booking conditions click here

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wareontheglobe

Europe is always a good idea., a gourmet foodie tour of the golden circle in iceland.

Dan and I went to Iceland exactly one year ago, in February 2020 over Valentine’s Day(!), and despite being kept inside for an entire day due to Storm Dennis , we had a fantastic time. Since our main hobby is eating and drinking, we obviously joined a food tour in Iceland – 2 in fact! One of these was a full day private Golden Circle Gourmet tour with Magical Iceland. This tour is most certainly the most expensive food tour I have ever done (and probably will ever do), but everything in Iceland is expensive and I found it to be worth the hefty price tag. Booking was easy via email correspondence with the owner and main tour guide, Ymir. And, when our original date had to be rebooked due to Storm Dennis, Ymir was quick to reach out to us and reschedule (or refund if we preferred).

Views driving through Iceland.

As promised in a detailed email, Ymir picked us up at hotel at 7:30 AM. It was still completely dark. Like middle of the night dark. The sun rises late and sets early in Iceland in February. Per Ymir’s email suggestion, we skipped breakfast. Good thing – because Ymir had picked a selection of four of the best smelling pastries, as well as smoked trout and butter, for our drive to the first stop on the tour in Ymir’s luxury SUV. We tried a few of the pastries as we drove to our first destination. I would like to say the drive was pretty, but it remained  dark most of the way. The pastries were absolutely delicious in taste and smell, and we had to stop ourselves from eating too much. If you are planning to take this tour, do pace yourself. There is more food that you can imagine throughout the day.

The best breakfast pastries. Butter in glass container & smoked trout in jar with red checks.

About 1.5 hours later, around 9 AM, we arrived at our first stop – the Secret Lagoon! While you have all heard of the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon is, clue the name, less well known and way less visited than the Blue Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon is a natural thermal pool in a gorgeous mountain setting. The water in the Secret Lagoon is clear with a brownish tent, and its super warm and totally fabulous ( it reminded me of Furnas in the Azores ). And, as a plus for Magical Iceland tours, we entered the Secret Lagoon 1 hour before it opened to the public – meaning that we had the entire lagoon entirely to ourselves for an hour! This was amazing and totally luxurious!!

Sunrise at the Secret Lagoon.

Me with some Portuguese sparking wine in the Secret Lagoon.

Dan and I with the Secret Lagoon all to ourselves with Portuguese sparking wine. Perfection. The outside temperature was approximately freezing.

As you can see from the pictures, while we were enjoying the entirety of the Secret Lagoon by ourselves, Ymir cooked breakfast for us to enjoy during our swim. First up was Portuguese sparkling wine from Quinta do Poco do Lobo in Bairrada. This was a delicious sparking and received bonus points from us since it is Portuguese (one of our very favorite places and where we married ) and from Bairrada! If you find wine from Bairrada, buy it. You will not regret it.

The Sparkling Portuguese wine. It was really good.

After pouring our wine, Ymir boiled eggs in one of the small geothermal pools surrounding the Secret Lagoon! He prepared the eggs with a bit of salt and pepper; they were super tasty. The eggs were served with a mini-sandwich of smoked lamb topped with a pea and carrot salad and an adorable Icelandic flag! Not pictured, we were also served smoked ram, Icelandic chocolate paired with a local stout beer, some pesto based delicious “bite” that Ymir’s wife prepared. The only thing that I did not love was the smoked ram, but I am not a huge lover of smoked meats. My favorite thing we ate at the Secret Lagoon was definitely the salad on top of the mini sandwiches and the “bite” prepared by Ymir’s wife. I wish I had taken a picture!

The cutest breakfast sandwiches with the most delicious salad on top.

Those eggs. Tasted as good as they look.

After finishing our food and drinks, we departed the Secret Lagoon around 10:15 AM, shortly after it opened to the public (in our case, two British school groups). Our next stop was a short drive away to a tomato farm named Fridheimar. Fridheimar is a well-known and super popular farm that grows tomatoes year round in greenhouses on the property. Fridheimar also has a restaurant in one of its greenhouses that makes totally amazing tomato based foods. Here, we had a lot, and I mean A LOT, of delicious tastings, starting with a Bloody Mary for me and a Happy Mary (made with Gin) for Dan. We sipped these as we were given a short tour of the greenhouse by one of the guides.

Fridheimar.

Very cute inside.

The greenhouse restaurant.

Bloody Mary and Happy Mary.

After our short tour, we were seated at a private table and brought some really delicious, homemade bread. OMG. That bread. It was amazing, and it was served with the best olive oil. Once again, you need to pace yourself on this bread. We failed to heed this advice. Shortly after the bread, tomato soup with kebab of cheese were brought to our table. I LOVE a good tomato soup, so this was perfect. Of course, there was also a bowl of just plain cherry tomatoes on the table, too.

Bread and olive oil.

Cheese kebab for the tomato soup.

Tomato soup with lots of kebab cheese in there!

The third course, which I didn’t even realize was coming, was a stone baked tortilla with tomato, mozzarella and basil. I topped mine with Fridheimar’s homemade pesto and it tasted so good. Along with the third course is what I would call the fourth course, cheese ravioli with a warm tomato sauce for dipping! I was impressed with the cooking of the pasta here at a restaurant in Iceland; it was perfectly prepared. These dishes were served with Fridheimar’s own tomato beer – a pilsner and a stout. The beer was interesting. Not the best but not bad either. I thought the mimosa style drinks were much better. I was also probably a bit too stuffed for beer at this point in the meal…

Tortilla pizza-style dish with pesto.

The final product.

Ravolis with tomato dipping sauce. These were prepared so well!

Lunch at Fridheimar ended with the most, MOST gorgeous dessert – a flower pot filled with homemade tomato ice cream and red and green tomato sauces. My only regret is that I was not hungrier! On our way out, we stopped by the gift shop to bring some souvenirs home and peeked at the Icelandic ponies on premises! If you visit Fridheimar on your own, I believe they are usually only open for lunch and you moat certainly need to make a reservation.

Tomato ice cream dessert. The prettiest dessert and actually really tasty and sweet.

Totally and completely full, our next stop was a non-food related at Gullfoss waterfall, and we were really happy to have a brief respite from food. Gullfoss waterfall is a quite well-known stop on the Golden Circle and most visitors to Iceland will make a stop here. You probably only need about 20 minutes to view the Gullfoss waterfall, but it was quite the sight and a very cool thing to see.

Gullfoss waterfall.

Surrounding area.

Back in our car after viewing Gullfoss waterfall, there was a box of treats waiting for us. Still stuffed from lunch, we both tried the chocolate and licorice candy bar – a super popular flavor combination in Iceland. There were also beers in the trunk (which according to Ymir you can dink in the car if you’re not driving), but we skipped those in favor of more food.

Icelandic snacks in the car.

Our next stop was a very short drive away at the Gyser Hot Spring Area. For the second time on this tour, this reminded me a lot of Furnas, Azores . We got really lucky and saw the Gyser erupt three (yes, 3) times in a row, and the first eruption was  super crazy tall. According to our guide, this is incredibly rare and was really cool to watch. Unfortunately, it was difficult to get a good photograph and my phone died, so I only have the scenery pre-eruption.

A nd after seeing those cool sites, it was back to eating and drinking. This time, at a family run dairy farm called Efstidalur II. Efstidalur II is actually a farm, restaurant, hotel, horse rental business, and ice cream cafe, but it started as a farm and branched out into other industries as tourism boomed in Iceland. We stopped at Efstidalur II for what I guess would be called second lunch or dinner (who knows at this point). We were seated in the barn-style restaurant, which has pretty views from the windows and a view of live cows in the back (kind of weird to look at the cows as you are eating beef…but I digress).

Said cows from the dining room.

Our “lunch” began with rare, thinly sliced steak served with Hollandaise sauce and topped with a bit of Icelandic salt. This was an awesome dish and was prepared super rare (at our request), just like we like it! Our meal was paired with another delicious Portuguese wine, this one a red from the Douro Valley – another of our FAVORITE places. Highly recommend the Douro if you have not been, for wine as well as relaxing and sightseeing.

Rare steak appetizer.

Danny & steak.

Delicious Douro red wine.

Our next course was Efstidalur II’s famous burger. Now, I am not a burger fan at all, but these were pretty damn tasty and were prepared on buttery buns with bacon, lettuce, onion, and a Big-Mac style sauce. The burgers were paired with delicious french fries.

The burgers & fries.

The meal ended with Efstidalur II’s famous ice cream. We tried the Mango, Sea Salt Caramel, Blueberry, and one other that I can’t remember. Oddly, the Mango, a flavor I wouldn’t normally choose, was my favorite!

Totally stuffed from lunch, our final stop was at Þingvellir National Park. Þingvellir National Park is a gorgeous and huge park not too far from Reykjavik that lies in a rift between the North American and European tectonic plates. Þingvellir is also home to Alþing (Althing), the site of Iceland’s parliament from the 10th to 18th centuries and more interesting to me, the walk leading to the Vale in Game of Thrones (I swear we don’t just go around to GoT filming sites …).

Dan and me in Þingvellir National Park.

We arrived back in Reykjavik in the early evening and did our final tasting – a shot of Brennivin alcohol straight from the bottle cap. There was also the option to try dried shark with it but since we had already tasted that, we skipped it.

All in all, this was a fantastic tour. We had amazing food and saw some amazing Golden Circle sites, all perfectly organized by our expert guide, Ymir. As mentioned, this tour was very expensive, but it was all inclusive and everything in Iceland is insanely expensive. Email Ymir early if you’re looking to take this tour, especially in the summer, as it does book up!

STEAL OUR TRIP

Magical Iceland Tours : Contact Yvir for tours through this website for information and to book tours. All of his tours are upscale and catered specifically to your party.

The Secret Lagoon : Hvammsvegur, 845 Flúðir. Open daily 10:00 – 20:00 during summer, shorter hours off season. 3000 ISK per adult, 2200 ISK for seniors and free for children. Bathing suit and towel rentals also available.

Fridheimar : Reykholti, Bláskógabyggð, IS-806, Selfoss. Open daily 12 – 16h. Reservations essential via the directions on the website.

Gulfoss : Open 24 hours. Free Good website for all sorts of information.

The Gyser : Open 24 hours. Free. English website.

Efstidalur II:  Bláskógabyggð, 801 Laugarvatn, Iceland. Restaurant open 8:00 – 20:00. Reservations recommended. Information on the farm’s other website on the website.

Þingvellir National Park : Always open. Review the linked informative website for the most up-to-date information.

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Private Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour

• Private tour
• Transport by private vehicle
• National Park fees
• Light refreshments
• Food tasting
• Professional guide and driver
• Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• Entry/Admission - Thingvellir National Park
• Entry/Admission - Laugarvatn
• Entry/Admission - Fridheimar
• Entry/Admission - Selfoss
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Pick-up is offered from your accommodation in Reykjavik
• Skarfabakki Harbour, 544P+F35, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland
• Korngarður, Cruise Terminal, 542Q+CPG, Korngarðar, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Thingvellir National Park Stop: 20 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Efstidalur II Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 Gullfoss Waterfall Stop: 40 minutes See details
• 4 Geysir Stop: 40 minutes See details
• 5 Fridheimar Stop: 40 minutes - Admission included See details
• 6 Turf House Stop: 70 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• 11Cab11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Southern Iceland tour is a must! Brilliant day - Karen was our your guide and apart from being an excellent driver, her commentary and sharing of local knowledge really added to the day. We highly recommend this tour, loved the Black Sand Beach especially, and really appreciated the amounts of time allocated to each stop - we never felt rushed. Read more Written May 2, 2024
• Rimski81 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Amazing sights to see. Must do! Bus was not good. Microphone was not working. There was very little to enthusiasm throughout the bus ride. Read more Written May 1, 2024
• james_porto 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles nice long trip without food or water ... is that normal? Nice trip BUT ... no water and no food given on the tour we were looooooong time in the countryside they could have at least offered a energy bar and water... For the price it is a little for the value like everything we did up there. Get a doggy bag from the hotel!! including water Read more Written April 30, 2024
• Pioneer21708465520 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Snowmobiling on Langjökull spoiled by disorganisation and lack of communication by Mountaineers of Iceland. We booked snowmobiling with Mountaineers of Iceland via Grey Line after the Golden Circle tour, on Monday 22nd April. The snowmobiling itself was amazing and our guide on that was great. However, at the end of the trip, we had to wait around an hour to get our belongings back, which we'd had to leave on the truck. We were told they were down at the waterfall car park but they weren't. We were then told they were on their way to us and would be 15 minutes. An hour later I managed to get the truth out of an employee, I think Kristov or something like that, who admitted that our belongings were up at the glacier base camp and on their way down! We actually drove past where our belongings were before we left the glacier! All this meant that the Grey Line bus which was taking us back to Reykjavik was held up by an hour or so, and the people on that bus were not happy either. Read more Written April 28, 2024
• Pioneer21708465520 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour and value for money A 10-hour tour so you see plenty of this part of Iceland. From the various waterfalls, the beach and the glacier streaked with volcanic ash; all amazing. Our guide, Jon, was excellent. Thoroughly recommend this trip. Read more Written April 28, 2024
• Pioneer21708465520 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Racist tour guide Went on the tour on Tuesday 23rd April and saw the Aurora. It was amazing and something I'd always wanted to see. So satisfied that I finally managed to. However, I wasn't satisfied by a racist comment by the tour guide who was called the Icelandic equivalent of Oliver. He started talking about immigrants coming to Iceland in a very derogatory way. Not a good look for Grey Line or Iceland. The tour guide also went into a very thorough explanation of what caused the aurora, which I'm sure went over the heads of everyone on the bus, unless they were astrophysicists! Read more Written April 28, 2024
• CaroM7819 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Classic tour from Reykjavik Astonishing landscapes from Thingvellir and the encounter of tectonic plates, the Gulfoss waterfalls and geysir park. We also stopped to see some Icelandic horses (cute and docile). Read more Written April 24, 2024
• 933hany 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome trip Tour guide and driver -Darren & Helgi -are professional, good recommendations for the route to let us to take many photos and back to the group on time. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• AllrounderEngland 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A good Icelandic view. This was an excellent tour, led expertly by Beggi and driver Piotr, who both made it seemless and a very relaxed day. All of the stops were well worth seeing, the volcano crater, waterfall, and national park especially. I've visited before and this time found the geyser area now way too commercial, the facilities and cafe at the waterfall stop far are better. Beggi's hot chocolate recommendation there was spot on, superb. Read more Written April 19, 2024
• rakele a 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing service Pick up didn’t happened, not sure what happened we were definitely waiting and there! Saw no green bus as the agent mentioned and definitely no pick up for me and my daughter :( So we didn’t get to do any activities of the planned and paid tour of the golden circle. No refund offered, only option to rebook the following day with any consideration of existing plan we had. I Was made to feel it was our fault, like we were lying and felt completely abandoned. Only option offered by the agent on the phone was to still attend the blue lagoons, this too did not go well, we were simply emailed the time to be at the bus station, we were told to be sure to be at 17:20 at the bus station only to be told when we arrived that the bus was not departing before 18h so we had to wait 40m! No other instructions given by the Grey line’s agent on the email I had to request, only the time and wished us a good day! It’s hard to enjoy THE day when you paid €200 for a tour that didn’t happen! To continue what was already a extremely stressful and disappointing day, when we arrived at the blue lagoon we were told they had no booking with our name, probably because we should have been part of a group, but no trace of the group name either! We spent the next 30m trying to call Grey line without success as they were already closed. Only got a called back had to email them asking for the booking reference for the lagoon entry. By then the lovely lady at the lagoon reception who had also tried multiple time to call them, could see on our tour tickets that i paid the entry and she could see my distress at the situation allowed us in anyway. She even offered a drink to my daughter. The only good interaction i had with Grey line was from an agent called Paul whom replied to my first email and called me back at the lagoon. For the rest I feel cheated of €200! Which as a single mother is lot of money! We Did not see the golden circle and I ended up with a very disappointed daughter :( We had two tours with Artic adventures and everything was 10 stars and smooth but sadly i cannot say the same of Grey line. Read more Written April 15, 2024
• lornacP8518SY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic golden circle and secret lagoon experience My girlfriend and I had a fantastic experience! Originally we were booked on golden circle and Fontana baths, but due to an issue (before we even flew) the operator upgraded us to golden circle and secret lagoon. Christina and Herman kept us company during the golden circle. Christina was an amazing guide and super funny, while also keeping us all on time. Favourite stop was definitely Gullfoss! We were then dropped off at the secret lagoon for a fantastic experience. It was so relaxing, really nice atmosphere and perfect to have a soak after such an early start. We were picked up from secret lagoon by Darren and helgi, who made us feel welcome immediately and were so helpful to us figuring out where their new additional passengers needed to be dropped. We were very lucky to have not one fantastic but two fantastic tour guide and driver teams. Everything was very clear throughout the process - the only difficulty we had was the pick up bus said blue lagoon and airport which was confusing but a quick word with the bus driver and that was all sorted. Thanks for helping us to make so many amazing memories! Read more Written April 12, 2024
• Megan F 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Golden Opportunity This tour is a must! Þingvellir National Park is absolutely gorgeous, the Geysir Hot Springs are almost ethereal, and Gullfoss is breathtaking. My only regret is that the tour wasn’t longer because I enjoyed it so much! The tour guide- Darren- was absolutely amazing. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. He knew just where to go to get the most out of each stop. Food: wait to eat until Gullfoss and enjoy their Traditional Icelandic Lamp Soup. It’s delicious! Read more Written April 12, 2024
• 562liuy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful day out Darren and Helgi are great hosts for our Golden Circle tour. Darren shared with us many local insights, food recommendations and stories. Both Darren and Helgi went above and beyond in ensuring us a pleasant and comfortable journey. Despite hiccups along the way, they worked together and tried their best to resolve them at minimal inconvenience to the passengers. It was a great experience with them as our hosts. Read more Written April 10, 2024
• nicta2017 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Darren and Helgi - dream team! My family and I had the pleasure of joining Darren and Helgi for the Golden Circle Classic tour. Darren was a fantastic host, he kept us entertained between trips by filling us in on lots of details about the Icelandic lifestyle, culture, the Vikings and so much more - I learnt so much! What I also found helpful was the way Darren set the right expectations with the group around times to get back to the coach and also his recommendations for the best food and toilet stops during the trip. Helgi was a superb driver, we felt safe and that everything was under control in his capable hands. Finally, it goes without saying that the locations themselves were absolutely out of this world! Prepare yourself for some breathtaking views and an enjoyable coach experience on your way round! Read more Written April 9, 2024
• vvnc69 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great views , great guide Daren & smooth driver Helgi Great tour! Due to cancellation by different tour company , booked this last minute. We were so lucky to have a fantastic driver Helgi & a very funny & entertaining tour guide Daren, they made the journey so much more enjoyable!! The views were just amazing, you really need to see them up close , photos don’t do it justice unless you have an amazing camera. Iceland is definitely a must do, a once in your lifetime experience! Read more Written April 7, 2024

More to explore in Reykjavik

Private Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour provided by Gray Line Iceland

Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tour

Live & love & laugh for a whole day with local legends .

We will talk about the REAL Iceland, the people, the culture, the humour, the food, the fun, the past, the future, the LOVE, the hidden people, the LIFE…

8 hours of FOOD & FUN !

Bathing in a hot natural pool, THE best Tomato Soup & Bloody Mary from and IN the greenhouse, Gullfoss Waterfall & Geysir performs for us. We visit “no mans land” at Þingvellir national park. Locally made Hamburgers, Carpaccio and Ice Cream from a farmer… and a LOT more gourmet food & drinks during the day !

What we need from you

Come with an empty stomach and an open mind and a BIG SMILE… AND bring your swim suit !

What you need to know

PLEASE do not think about making a dinner reservation the evening of our adventure as you will be in a comfortable “food coma” ?

We always tailor each tour to your requirements. The price varies depending on your requirements and the number FOODIES in your party / family. Email us at  [email protected] for price quotes and availability

Note: This is a PRIVATE tour

• Airport Transfer
• Keflavik Ruta
• Private Tours
• Groups & Coach Rental
• Special Offers

Golden Circle Tours

Golden Circle Iceland Tours

The powerful Gullfoss, the explosive Geysir, and the historic Thingvellir National Park. Choose from a wide variety of Golden Circle tours and visit Iceland's most popular destinations featuring incredible waterfalls, breathtaking tectonic plates, and bursting geysers. Rich in culture, riveting history, and spectacular nature, a visit to the Golden Circle will create memories that last a lifetime. See below for all of the essential information on the Golden Circle .

Golden Circle Tour

Visit the essential sights and learn about the riveting history of the Icelandic Golden Circle with our best professional guides.

Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour

An adventure-packed day is discovering the legendary sights of the Golden Circle followed by a soak in the spring-fed Secret Lagoon under the open sky.

Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Tour

Head on the classic Golden Circle tour and end this amazing trip with a soak in warm milky blue water at the Blue Lagoon Iceland.

Golden Circle & Fontana Geothermal Bath Tour

Explore Iceland‘s most popular landmarks on the Golden Circle Tour and enjoy a relaxing visit to the natural Icelandic steam baths at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa.

Golden Circle & Sky Lagoon Bathing Experience

Combining the Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon, this breathtaking tour takes you on a wondrous journey through Iceland’s staggeringly raw beauty. It ends with the ultimate Icelandic indulgence: a luxurious soak in Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa where the ocean meets the sky. Go on a journey that brings you the experiences of walking among geologic marvels, witnessing an erupting hot spring, discovering a magnificent waterfall, and unwinding in an outdoor geothermal spa.

Golden Circle + Sleipnir Red Monster Glacier Truck Tour

Experience two tours in one day! Begin by exploring the Golden Circle's iconic sights, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir erupting hot spring, and Gullfoss waterfall. Continue then on an exhilarating journey to Langjökull, Iceland's majestic glacier with the Sleipnir Monster truck.

Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobile Tour

Make the most of your day on this popular tour that combines our best-selling Golden Circle day tour with an amazing snowmobile tour.

Golden Circle Classic & Glacier Ice Cave

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure like no other on the Golden Circle Tour and Glacier Ice Cave Tour. Prepare to be blown away as we venture through Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes, immersing ourselves in the raw beauty and untamed power of nature.

Golden Circle & Viking Horseback Riding Tour

Ride an Icelandic Viking Horse in an idyllic landscape before visiting Thingvellir park, Gulfoss waterfall as well as Geysir and Strokkur hot springs on our Golden Circle & Viking Horseback Riding Tour.

Golden Circle Super Jeep & Snowmobile Tour

Experience the highlights of the Golden Circle in a Super Jeep, travel up to the isolated highlands of Iceland, and try out snowmobiling on a glacier!

Golden Circle Private Tour

Visit some of Iceland’s most significant landmarks along the Golden Circle with a knowledgeable Iceland Tour Expert leading the way and your friends & family besides your on this private tour.

Golden Circle, Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Monster Truck

Journey along the Golden Circle with its outstanding sights of Þingvellir National Park, where the first parliament was held in Iceland and the continental drift is visible. From Gullfoss, start your ultimate Glacier and Natural Ice Cave adventure in one of the Largest Glacier Trucks!

Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

Come for the Golden Circle and stay for the Northern Lights. Join us on this day-and-night combo tour and discover the essence of Iceland.

All About Iceland: The Golden Circle Tour

The golden circle tour— þingvellir national park (a unesco world heritage site), gullfoss waterfall, and geysir geothermal area—no visit to iceland is complete without touring the main sites along this famous route. if you have questions about iceland's most popular and most visited places, look no further. this is your complete guide to the golden circle route., what is the golden circle tour in iceland.

The Golden Circle Tour is the name given to the route taken to the most popular sites in Iceland — Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss (Golden Falls), and Geysir geothermal area. Hit all these spots, and you’ve done the Golden Circle Iceland Tour. Typically experienced as a day tour, this journey not only covers these iconic attractions but also offers insights into their historical significance, guided by experts who bring the past to life. Keep reading to learn more about the history of Golden Circle Route and all the main attractions!

Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir) stop on the Golden Circle Tour

Thingvellir National Park became Iceland’s first national park in 1930. It is also a designated UNESCO world heritage site due to its historical, cultural, and geologic significance to the Icelandic people and the world. To walk through Þingvellir National Park is to walk the fields where one of the oldest parliaments in the world first convened in 930 AD. Þingvellir National Park lies in a rift valley created by the tectonic plates of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, slowly drifting apart. It is also home to Iceland’s largest natural lake, Thingvallavatn. It is a must see attraction in Southwest Iceland.

Geological Features of Þingvellir National Park

Apart from its historical significance, Þingvellir National Park is also a geological wonderland. The park is located in the rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. These plates are constantly shifting, creating a unique landscape that is both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.

As you explore Þingvellir, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and vast lava fields. The Almannagjá gorge, with its towering walls, is a testament to the powerful forces of nature. Walking through the park, you can literally step between two continents, as the rift valley provides a clear visual representation of the ongoing tectonic activity.

One of the park's most famous geological features is the Silfra fissure. This underwater canyon is filled with crystal clear glacial water, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The visibility in Silfra is unparalleled, allowing you to see up to 100 meters ahead. It's a surreal experience to swim between the continents, surrounded by the pristine waters and vibrant marine life.

Gullfoss Waterfall on the Golden Circle tour

Gullfoss (Golden Falls) is a waterfall and gets its name from the golden color of its water as it churns up silt and sediment. The magnificent waterfalls lie in the Hvita River and are fed by Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. In total, Gullfoss is 32 meters high, falling two tiers that are 11 and 21 meters high, respectively. Gullfoss is also at the center of one of Iceland’s most famous acts of environmental activism. Back in the early 20th century, developers wanted to damn the mighty waterfall to generate electricity, but through the will and determination of Sigriður Tómasdóttir, Gullfoss was saved. Thanks, Sigriður!

The significance of Gullfoss Waterfall in Icelandic culture

Gullfoss Waterfall holds great significance in Icelandic culture, not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical and mythical associations. The waterfall has long been regarded as a sacred site, often referred to as the "Golden Falls" due to the golden-hued mist that is frequently seen rising from the cascading water.

According to local folklore, Gullfoss has a fascinating origin story. It is said that a farmer's daughter named Sigríður Tómasdóttir fought to protect the waterfall from being exploited for hydroelectric power in the early 20th century. Legend has it that she threatened to throw herself into the waterfall's depths if her pleas to preserve the waterfall were ignored. Her bravery and determination ultimately led to the preservation of Gullfoss, making her a national hero and an inspiration for environmental conservation efforts in Iceland.

Today, Gullfoss Waterfall stands as a symbol of Iceland's natural heritage and the country's commitment to preserving its pristine landscapes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our natural wonders for future generations to enjoy.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Geysir geothermal area is located in the Haukadalur Valley and is the scenic home of the infamous Geysir hot spring. To visit is to pay your respects to the progenitor of all geysers as Geysir is the geyser for which all others are named. Geysir doesn’t erupt often but is surrounded by bubbling cauldrons of superheated mud, steaming pools, and Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 6-10 minutes. The smells, colors, and eruptions at this popular destination are a window into all the geothermal activity happening across (and beneath) Iceland, making all those hot tubs, swimming pools, greenhouses, and geothermal energy possible.

Exploring the Surrounding Hot Springs and Mud Pots

The Geysir Geothermal Area is not just about geysers; it is also home to a variety of hot springs and mud pots. These natural wonders add to the overall beauty and uniqueness of the area.

One of the notable hot springs in the area is the Great Hot Spring, which boasts crystal clear turquoise water. The vibrant color is a result of the minerals present in the water, creating a visually stunning contrast against the surrounding landscape.

Mud pots, on the other hand, provide a different kind of experience. These bubbling pools of mud are formed when hot water mixes with clay-rich soil, creating a thick, viscous substance. The sight of mud pots bubbling and gurgling is both intriguing and slightly eerie.

Exploring the hot springs and mud pots in the Geysir Geothermal Area allows you to witness the diverse range of geothermal activity in the region. Each hot spring and mud pot has its own distinct characteristics, making it a fascinating adventure to discover them all.

Unique Flora and Fauna in the Geysir Geothermal Area

Despite the extreme conditions created by the geothermal activity, the Geysir Geothermal Area is home to a surprising variety of flora and fauna. The area's unique ecosystem has adapted to thrive in this geothermal environment, creating a harmonious balance between nature's power and delicate life forms.

The hot springs and geothermal pools provide a habitat for a variety of algae and bacteria, which contribute to the vibrant colors seen in the water. These microorganisms play a crucial role in the ecosystem, forming the basis of the food chain for other organisms.

Visitors to the Geysir Geothermal Area may also encounter various bird species, including ducks and geese, which are attracted to the warm waters and abundant food sources. The surrounding vegetation, although sparse, showcases resilient plant species that have adapted to the harsh conditions.

Exploring the unique flora and fauna of the Geysir Geothermal Area offers a glimpse into the incredible resilience and adaptability of life in extreme environments.

Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle route is in southwest Iceland, just outside of the city of Reykjavik. The nearest site Thingvellir National Park is only 43 minutes (47.4 km/29.4 miles) away from Reykjavik, and Gullfoss waterfall is the furthest out at 1 hr 44 min (125 km/77.6 miles) away. The site's proximity to Reykjavik makes touring the Golden Circle a perfect day trip.

How to get to Iceland´s Golden Circle?

Getting to the Golden Circle is easy, thanks to the various tours offered by Gray Line Iceland. They have a range of Golden Circle tours that will take you to the main attractions, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning Icelandic landscapes. With knowledgeable tour guides who are experts on the Golden Circle, you'll receive insightful commentary and interesting facts about the region throughout the tour. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, Gray Line Iceland has a Golden Circle tour that suits your preferences and ensures a memorable experience. Gray Line Iceland has several Golden Circle tours to choose from that will take you to the main attractions, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery instead. We’ll get you there and back again, and all of our tour guides are Golden Circle experts—full of stories and fun facts on the region.

Instagram Alert! Get your camera ready for the Golden Circle!

Iceland´s Golden Circle is a photographer’s paradise. Everywhere you turn, there’s another stunning vista. But if you want to really be in the moment and only take out your phone or camera for the best shots, we’ve compiled a list of the most Instagram worthy photo ops on the Golden Circle tour.

Highlights of the Main stops on the Golden Circle Route

Þingvellir national park.

●    Almannagjá gorge leading down to the fields of parliament ●    Thingvallakirkja, the church at Thingvellir ●    The Icelandic flag flying in the middle of the areas of parliament ●    Öxarárfoss waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss is a broad tiered waterfall, falling two “steps” before plummeting into the gorge below. But thanks to viewing platforms and a path that goes from the top of the falls to the bottom so you can hit all the angles. 

●    View from the top ●    View from the bottom ●    Rainbows on top of rainbows (if it’s a sunny day)

●    Steaming Geysir (Geysir last erupted in 2016, but you might get lucky) ●    Strokkur erupting (every 10 minutes or so) ●    The mineral deposits in this geothermally active area can come in some pretty exciting colors and make for cool abstract photos.

When is the Best Time to Do Iceland´s Golden Circle Tour?

Anytime! But many visitors like to make several trips around the Golden Circle tour Iceland at different times of year to bear witness to the changes in the Icelandic landscape throughout the seasons. Thingvellir National Park, in winter, is often snow-covered. In the spring, its trees are budding, and its wildflowers are in bloom. Come summer, everything turns green, and in fall, the trees put on their fiery autumn colors. Just don't forget that Icelandic weather can change three times in 10 minutes, and so, always have a good and warm clothes with you.

All the seasons bring out something uniquely beautiful in the Golden Circle sites. When to visit is really up to your personal preference. Please note that daylight is limited at the height of the midwinter, and there is 24-hour sunlight in midsummer.

Preparing for the Golden Circle Tour Iceland

What to wear on the golden circle tour.

Wearing layers is rule number one for dressing on Iceland´s Golden Circle. You can experience all the seasons in one day, that is just as the weather in Iceland is. A good rule of thumb is always to wear three layers: 

Long-sleeved shirt 

Warm fleece 

Waterproof parka 

Those more susceptible to cold may want to add wool leggings and a thermal undershirt. Warm socks, waterproof hiking boots, gloves, and hat are also a must.

What to Bring on the Golden Circle Tour

Snacks . You will be doing a fair amount of walking and a little bit of climbing. You don’t want a rumbling tummy to get in the way of getting the most out of your trip.

Water bottle . Fill up your reusable water bottle from the tap before you begin your trip and keep it handy to refill when you can. In Iceland, the bottled water and the water from the tap are the same. Stay hydrated.

An adventurous spirit and the ability to adapt . Icelandic weather is unpredictable and doesn’t always cooperate. Remember, you are in Iceland getting to see spectacular natural wonders. Enjoy it!  

●     Maps . If traveling with a Gray Line Iceland tour, you won’t need a golden circle map, but if you venture out on your own, it’s a good idea to have a good road map. Mobile phones die (especially in the cold), and you don’t want to be without backup.

The Perfect Guided Golden Circle Tour for You from Reykjavik

Looking for a Golden Circle tour that includes extra attractions? Want to add a little more excitement or relaxation to your Golden Circle Adventure? Gray Line Iceland has a variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from, making it easy to find the one that’s perfect for you. All of our Golden Circle tours include a tour guide to tell you about the rich history of all the natural beauties that you will see along the way and off the beaten track.

Golden Circle Classic is perfect for families.

Nature lovers & honeymooners will enjoy soaking in a geothermal pool out in the Icelandic landscape on the Golden Circle & Sky Lagoon Tour

Whale Watching & Golden Circle Tour and Viking Horse & Golden Circle Tours are ideal for animal lovers who want to get to know the animals of Iceland.

Bundle up couples, and get a dose of the ethereal Northern Lights with your Golden Circle experience on the Golden Circle Classic & Northern Lights Tour

Golden Circle Private Tour is great for groups wishing to visit the Golden Circle.

Combine the Golden Circle Tour with a visit to the World Famous Blue Lagoon in the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Tour . The Perfect way to add a Blue Lagoon stop to your Iceland Holiday! Admission is included in the tour price.

Relax at the Secret Lagoon with our Golden circle and Secret lagoon tour . The Secret Lagoon is the oldest pool in Iceland. Break up your Golden circle tour with a stop at the Secret Lagoon and soak in the warm water!

Traveling Iceland´s  Golden Circle is an exciting way to get to know Iceland. We offer pick up locations across Reykjavik, Iceland´s Capital City. Book your Golden Circle Tour today with Gray Line Iceland, one of Iceland´s oldest tour operators. If you have already experienced the Golden Circle, we highly recommend exploring more of Iceland´s South Coast with one of our South Coast Tours .

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know about Iceland Golden Circle Tours

To provide you with even more information about the Golden Circle and the tours offered by Gray Line Iceland, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions:

1. What is the duration of the Golden Circle tour?

The Golden Circle tour is popularly experienced as a 'day tour', offering a comprehensive journey through Iceland's iconic landscapes within a manageable timeframe. Typically lasting between 6 to 10 hours, these day tours are designed to maximize your experience, covering key attractions such as Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. With transportation from Reykjavik included, travelers can enjoy insightful commentary from knowledgeable tour guides, enriching the journey with historical and cultural context. This format ensures a full day of exploration, combining the convenience of guided tours with the depth of personal discovery.

2. Are Gray Line Iceland tours guided?

Yes, all Golden Circle tours offered by Gray Line Iceland are guided. Their knowledgeable tour guides are experts on the Golden Circle and provide insightful commentary throughout the tour, sharing interesting facts and stories about the attractions and Iceland's history.

3. Are stops made for food and restroom breaks during the tour?

Yes, there are designated stops along the Golden Circle tour for food and restroom breaks. The tour guides will inform you about the available facilities and ensure that you have ample time to refresh and refuel.

4. Can I combine the Golden Circle tour with other experiences?

Absolutely! Gray Line Iceland offers various combination tours that allow you to enhance your Golden Circle experience. Some options include combining the Golden Circle tour with whale watching, horseback riding, or a visit to Reykjavik city. These active tours golden circle and combination tours provide an opportunity to explore multiple aspects of Iceland's beauty and culture in one outing.

5. Can I customize a private Golden Circle tour?

Yes, Gray Line Iceland offers private Golden Circle tours that can be customized according to your preferences and group size. It's a great option for families, groups of friends, or those seeking a more personalized experience.

6. What languages are the Golden Circle tours conducted in?

The Golden Circle tours conducted by Gray Line Iceland are primarily conducted in English. However, depending on the specific tour and availability, some tours may also be available in other languages. It's recommended to check with Gray Line Iceland for language options when booking.

7. Can I book a Golden Circle tour online?

Yes, you can easily book your Golden Circle tour online through the Gray Line Iceland website. They provide a seamless booking process, allowing you to secure your spot in advance and guarantee a hassle-free experience.

8. Is hotel pickup available for the Golden Circle tours?

Yes, Gray Line Iceland offers hotel pickup and drop-off services for their Golden Circle tours. When booking your tour, you can select your hotel from the provided list, and the pickup details will be provided to you.

9. Is the Golden Circle tour suitable for children?

Yes, the Golden Circle tour is suitable for children. Gray Line Iceland offers family-friendly tours that cater to the needs and interests of all age groups. The tour guides are experienced in engaging with children and ensuring an enjoyable experience for the entire family.

10. Can I see the Northern Lights on a Golden Circle tour?

While the Golden Circle tour does not specifically include the Northern Lights, Gray Line Iceland offers combination tours that include both the Golden Circle and a Northern Lights experience. These tours provide a chance to witness the mesmerizing dancing lights in the Icelandic sky, adding an extra touch of magic to your Golden Circle adventure.

Embark on an Unforgettable Golden Circle Journey

The Golden Circle tour in Iceland is an incredible adventure that takes you through a land of unparalleled beauty and natural wonders. From the historical significance of Þingvellir National Park to the majestic power of Gullfoss Waterfall and the geothermal spectacle of the Geysir area, each stop on the Golden Circle route offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. With Gray Line Iceland as your tour operator, you can sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable moments that await you along the Golden Circle. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to embark on a journey you'll cherish forever. Join us on the Golden Circle tour and create memories that will last a lifetime. We know that there are many tour companies in Iceland and we appreciate the chance to be your tour operator!

Private Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour

Uncover the hidden culinary gems of Iceland with the Private Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour. As you savor each exquisite bite, you might not know that this exclusive experience goes beyond just tasting food.

The journey offers a secret encounter that will leave you craving more, promising a day filled with surprises and delights that will awaken your senses and culinary curiosity.

Join this tour and let your taste buds guide you through a world of flavors that will undoubtedly leave you wanting to discover the next culinary treasure that awaits.

Here's a few more nearby food tours and experiences that we've reviewed

• Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure – Local Evening Experience
• Private Walking Tour With Food – Otto the Viking
• Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
• Icelandic Food Tasting & City Walk – PRIVATE TOUR
• Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik

• Indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine at iconic Golden Circle sites
• Experience a culinary adventure blending food and nature seamlessly
• Enjoy tastings while exploring Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir
• Private guide shares insights into local cuisine and culture for a memorable journey

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
• Keflavik International Airport Private Transfer
• Golden Circle Private Tour Tomato Soup Lunch and Secret Lagoon With Photography
• 2-Day Thorsmork Exploration

Tour Overview

Set out on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s Golden Circle with the exclusive Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour. This culinary adventure combines the stunning beauty of Iceland’s local attractions with a tantalizing array of culinary delights.

Travelers will have the opportunity to indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine while visiting iconic sites such as the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal area of Geysir, and the historic Thingvellir National Park.

The tour not only offers a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes as guests explore the unique landscapes that define Iceland. Get ready to experience the perfect blend of food and nature on this gourmet tour of the Golden Circle.

Pricing and Duration

Discover the details of the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour, including its pricing and full day duration, for an exclusive culinary adventure through Iceland’s iconic attractions. The tour’s pricing starts from £505.19 and varies depending on the group size, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to each group’s preferences.

The full-day duration allows ample time to savor the gourmet food tastings, explore the Golden Circle attractions, and take in the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes. Plus, it’s important to note that the tour operates on a non-refundable policy, so participants are encouraged to check availability and book with confidence.

• Group Size: Pricing varies by group size
• Refund Policy: Non-refundable policy
• Duration: Full day tour

Uncover an array of enticing inclusions that await participants on the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour, ensuring a memorable and immersive culinary journey through Iceland’s renowned attractions.

This exclusive experience comes complete with a private guide who’ll provide insights into the local cuisine and culture, enhancing every stop along the way.

Travel in style and comfort with transport in a luxury vehicle , elevating the entire excursion. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day stress-free from start to finish.

Plus, entrance fees to the Golden Circle attractions are included, allowing guests to focus solely on indulging in the gourmet food tastings and soaking up the breathtaking surroundings.

Get set for a day filled with delicious delights and unforgettable moments.

Booking Details

For a seamless and enriching experience, guests can secure their spot on the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour by booking in advance. Here are some essential booking details to consider before embarking on this culinary adventure:

• Dietary restrictions : Notify the tour operator in advance of any dietary restrictions or food allergies to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.
• Group size restrictions : The tour can accommodate a maximum group size, so it’s advisable to check availability and book early for larger groups.
• Confirmation: Upon booking, guests will receive a confirmation with all the necessary details for the tour, ensuring a smooth start to this gastronomic journey.

Booking in advance not only guarantees a spot on this exclusive tour but also allows for a tailored experience that meets individual needs.

Additional Information

As guests prepare for the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour, a few additional details provide insights into enhancing this culinary journey.

The product details for this experience include the unique product code: 2970P93, ensuring a seamless booking process.

For those with dietary restrictions, rest assured that vegetarian options are available upon request, catering to various preferences.

This tour also boasts a Lowest Price Guarantee, assuring guests of a competitive rate for an exceptional culinary adventure.

Understanding the Terms & Conditions and how Viator works can further enhance the overall experience, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey through Iceland’s Golden Circle while indulging in gourmet delights.

For any queries or assistance, guests can always reach out to the Viator Help Center for support.

Navigating the route to the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour is a delightful journey filled with scenic landscapes and culinary anticipation. As participants make their way to this gastronomic adventure, they can look forward to experiencing the following:

• Immerse in the rich flavors of local cuisine.
• Indulge in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
• Discover the essence of Icelandic food culture through expertly curated tastings.

This tour not only promises breathtaking sights along the Golden Circle but also a deep dive into the heart of Iceland’s culinary scene. Participants can prepare to tantalize their taste buds and expand their knowledge of the local gastronomy during this unforgettable journey.

Customer Support

When seeking assistance during the Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour, participants can rely on the dedicated Customer Support provided by Viator.

Whether it’s questions about the food options available or inquiries regarding dietary restrictions, Viator’s Customer Support is there to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all guests.

If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, simply reach out to the Viator team in advance, and they’ll do their best to accommodate your requirements.

This personalized approach highlights Viator’s commitment to customer satisfaction, making sure that every aspect of the tour, including the culinary experience, meets your expectations.

Feel confident knowing that Viator’s Customer Support is just a message or call away, ready to assist you every step of the way.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Private Northern Lights Tour
• Icelands Gunnuhver: Fire Land Tour
• Private Blue Lagoon With 4hr Stopover – Admission Included
• Reykjadalur Hike, From Reykjavík – PRIVATE TOUR
• RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour From Reykjavik
• Golden Circle and Glacier Super Jeep Adventure

Common questions

Can Special Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated on the Gourmet Food Tasting Tour?

Yes, special dietary requirements can be accommodated on the gourmet food tasting tour. Whether guests have allergies or specific dietary restrictions, the tour offers options to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the culinary experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Food Tastings Included in the Tour?

When considering the number of tastings on the tour, guests can enjoy a variety of flavors and dishes. Dietary restrictions are accommodated upon request, ensuring all participants can indulge in the gourmet food experience without limitations.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour, Particularly for the Gourmet Food Tasting Experiences?

A dress code is not specified for the gourmet food tasting tour. Participants are advised to dress comfortably for the full day experience. Group dynamics are enhanced when everyone enjoys the gourmet experiences with an open mind and respect for tour etiquette .

Are There Any Opportunities for Souvenir Shopping During the Tour?

While enjoying the tour, guests can shop for souvenirs at various stops along the way. From traditional Icelandic crafts to culinary gifts , there are plenty of opportunities to find unique items to remember the experience.

Can Private Tours Be Customized to Include Specific Attractions or Experiences Along the Golden Circle Route?

Private tours can be customized along the Golden Circle route to create a custom itinerary and a personalized experience for guests. This allows for tailored attractions and experiences based on individual preferences and interests.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Private Golden Circle Tour With Local Guide From Reykjavik
• Northern Lights Private Tour Photos Included
• Landmannalaugar 4×4 Tour – Private
• Private Jeep Tour – Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
• Private Hiking Tour in the Valley of Thórsmörk
• Midnight Sun on ATV Quad
• Lava Tunnel & Caving Adventure
• Puffin Cruise With Expert Tour Guide From Reykjavik
• Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jokulsarlon From Reyjavik – Reykjavik
• Small-Group Snaefellsnes National Park Day Trip From Reykjavik
• Private Full-Day South Coast Tour up to 7 Passengers Included

Set out on a culinary journey like no other with the Private Golden Circle Gourmet Food Tasting Tour. Indulge in gourmet delights, explore iconic attractions , and learn about the beauty of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

With convenient transportation, personalized guidance , and all-inclusive pricing , this tour promises a seamless and unforgettable experience for all foodies. Don’t miss out on this luxurious adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and feed your wanderlust!

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Iceland's Golden Circle: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

• Things to See

How to Get There

What to expect and bring.

Whether you have one day to explore the Icelandic countryside or one week , the Golden Circle is a classic route that’s a must-see for every Iceland visitor. One of the most popular tours in Iceland , sites on the Golden Circle are open to visitors year round, though by far the most popular time to visit is during the summer months when temperatures are warmer and the road conditions are easier to manage.

There are three main stops on the Golden Circle: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal field, and the Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most impressive . In addition to these main sites you can customize your trip with a dip in a traditional thermal spring bath, a collapsed volcanic crater, thermal river, and even a Game of Thrones filming location. Here’s everything you need to know about Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Location of the Golden Circle

With its first stop only 40 minutes east of Reykjavik , a visit to the Golden Circle makes the perfect day trip outside of the city . From bubbling geysers and warm hot springs to the crossing of two continents and powerful waterfalls, this popular tour is the perfect way to get a breath of everything Iceland has to offer. Because of the distance and amount of things to see on this trip, schedule at least 7-8 hours to allow for enough time at each destination.

Things to See on the Golden Circle

Þingvellir national park.

The first stop on the Golden Circle outside of Reykjavik is Þingvellir National Park . One of the main attractions to this beautiful park is that it sits between the North American and European tectonic plates, meaning you can (technically) stand between two continents at once. If you’re feeling adventurous you can even snorkel or SCUBA dive between the plates themselves and bear witness to some of the clearest water in the world.

In addition to taking a dip in the clear waters, you can also hike up to the breathtaking Öxarárfoss waterfall for a view of where the main river plunges through the valley you walked through just minutes ago. Game of Thrones fans will be pleased to discover that just a few minutes to the right of the waterfall on Öxaárfoss Trail is the location of three scenes from season four: a Wildling camp where Ygritte and Tormund were filmed, and the famous Bloody Gate scene, the narrow path that Arya and the Hound take to visit her aunt.

• Cost & Hours: Full-day parking: 750 ISK (around USD $7). There are multiple parking lots throughout the park, so if you’re not up for hiking you can drive and park to see the main sites. Open 24 hours.
• Visit Length: 45 mins - 2 hours.

Geysir Geothermal Field

The next official stop on the Golden Circle tour is the Geysir Geothermal Field. One of the most popular stops on the tour (and definitely the most crowded), this historic site is the home of the well known Geysir, plus many bubbling and steaming hot pools. Although the original geyser is no longer active, the new spectacle, Strokkur, is the main attraction here. Erupting about 50 feet in the air every 10 mins, tourists tend to flock and crowd around this site searching for the perfect photo. Depending on how many eruptions you want to see, this can easily be a quick 20 minute stop before you set off on your next destination.

• Cost & Hours: Free; Open 24 hours.
• Visit Length: You can spend anywhere between 20 mins to 1 hour at Geysir, depending on how many times you want to see the geyser set off and if you want to climb up the mountain to get a more aerial view of the geothermal area.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Only 10 minutes away from Geysir is the enormous Gullfoss waterfall. There are two main viewing areas to see the falls and each has their own parking lot, so if you’re short on time it’s easy to see only one part (but we recommend seeing both!). The lower path of the falls leads to right up to the water; dress warmly or wear a raincoat here as you’ll be sprayed with constant mist and wind as the falls crash right in front of you. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting while the sun is shining, look out for rainbows as you descend for the perfect photo-op. Unfortunately this section is closed in the winter as ice can make the hike dangerous and slippery, so plan accordingly to your travel dates.

The second viewpoint is always opens and provides a much more expansive view of the falls and the narrow river it crashes into. On a clear day, look out for glaciers and more rainbows in the distance.

• Cost & Hours: Free; Open 24 hours
• Visit Length: 1 hour

Believed to have been formed about 6,500 years ago, this crater is what’s left of a volcanic cone that collapsed and filled with water. The crater is strikingly colorful, with green moss and red rocks contrasting with the bright blue water perfectly. Although it can be seen in a quick stop if you’re short on time on your way back to Reykjavik, a hike around the rim or down next to the lake is work the extra steps.

• Cost & Hours: Entrance Fee: 400 ISK (around USD $4) with parking included when staffed. Open 24 hours.
• Visit Length: 30 minutes. The area is small, so it doesn’t take long to walk the edge of the crater or hike down to the lake at the bottom.

Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

Although it is far from a secret, this relaxing thermal bath is a great way to break up your Golden Circle tour with a dip in the relaxing 100 degree waters. Only a 10-minute drive off of the main Golden Circle route, a dip in the waters of one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland is a great reward after hours of driving.

• Cost & Hours: Entry: Adults 3000 ISK, Children Under 14 Free. Open daily from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. during the summer months and is open 11-8 p.m. October-May.
• Visit Length: 1-2 hours.

Reykjadalur Thermal River

If you’re feeling more adventurous and have time for a hike, the trip to this warm thermal river is perfect for you. Just over a two-mile hike one way, this path is beautifully set between steaming hillsides, but because the area is so geologically active, it’s important to stay on the designated path. Once you arrive there are a few changing cabins and a café if you need to grab a bite before taking a dip in the shallow and warm waters.

• Visit Length: 2-3 hours. It’s an hour hike to the river, allow more time to soak and relax once you’re there and time to hike back

There are two main ways to tour the Golden Circle; self-drive or guided tour. If you’re short on time or traveling alone, scheduling a half- or full-day tour with one of the many available tour companies operating out of Reykjavik will be your best option. Although your time at each site will be limited to the pre-scheduled route, you’ll be able to see the main sites without the major stresses of planning your day and will be driven back to the city in time for dinner.

If you have more time to explore or are traveling in a small group, renting a car and driving the day-long tour yourself is another great and affordable option. There are two different routes you can take to get there from Reykjavik: a longer, more scenic route that takes Highway 1 and Highway 435 up and through a beautiful mountain range, and a shorter, more direct route through Highway 1 and Highway 36 if you’d rather head straight for the main sites.

If you’re driving the circle yourself, it’s important to fill up your gas tank before you leave the Reykjavik area. Although there are gas stations along the Golden Circle, most lie past the National Park, a good two-hours into the trip. Don’t leave yourself stranded without food and an empty gas tank.

If you’re planning to hike and get up close to the waterfalls, hiking boots and a hooded rain jacket are strongly recommended if you’re visiting in the summer months. If you’re traveling during the off-season months of fall and winter it’s important to have substantial boots and to bundle up for snow and slippery paths. Whatever month you’re planning to visit Iceland, it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected; because the weather in Iceland is always changing, be prepared with multiple layers that you can take off and adjust as the day gets warmer.

There are multiple food options at the gas stations in between the national park and Geysir and between Gulfoss and Kerið. There you’ll find famous Icelandic hot dogs, french fries, and even ice cream, each for the bargain price of $5 or less. If you’re traveling on a budget, stopping at a gas station for food is a great way to stock up on the necessities and treat yourself while avoiding the pricer cafes you’ll find at each of the main stops.

If you’re traveling with a tour you’re unlikely to stop at a gas station, so be prepared to stop at a grocery store of cafe before your tour so you can pack your own snacks or sandwiches. If you forget or don’t have time to prepare before, there are cafes with lunch options at each of the Circle’s main stops with different price points.

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Elite Golden Circle Tour Iceland with lunch at a farm & luxury geothermal sea baths

08:30-09:00

Lunch at farm, Sea baths admission, Free wifi

Max person:

What to expect on this tour

✅ You get to relax & soak in a warm geothermal sea bath by the North Atlantic ocean which will energize your soul, mind, and body afterward 💯 ✅ You can pay in your own currency(USD, EUR, GBP & more) you choose it in top right corner in booking process 💯 ✅ You get to bathe in luxury geothermal sea baths that focuses more on the experience than getting a mass of people in it. This means way fewer people and a more enjoyable experience for you 💯 ✅ You get to visit a local farm and taste their homemade products 💯 ✅ You get to see Iceland’s most popular sights 💯 ✅ You will get the worth of a 2-day package in a one-day trip so you can make the most of your time in Iceland 💯 ✅ This is a small group tour with a maximum of 14 people to make your experience the best 💯 ✅ You get the best service because everyone involved wants to make your experience the best possible 💯 ✅ This tour is run by a small family company 💯 Last but not least! ✅ For you to have the best possible experience, we have collected the elite of guides in Iceland, to make sure your experience will be unforgettable! 💯

• Hvammsvík geothermal sea baths

Golden Circle tour has probably the most spectacular sights in all of Iceland. There is a reason for its name. All the best places in Iceland are gathered in one circle.

Historical places, spectacular nature sights, bathing in a geothermal sea bath in pure Icelandic nature, visiting an Icelandic farm, meeting a really strange but awesome local Viking, tasting Icelandic delicacies and drinks. 

Come and join us on this 9-10-hour day tour from Reykjavik. Visit all the gems, learn & taste how Icelanders survived for centuries on this isolated island by tasting authentic homemade food made by local farmers. Soak in luxury sea baths and make new friends. The best thing about this tour is it always gets better with every location you visit.

How it works

• Your awesome guide will pick you up from your bus stop or accommodation between 08:30 and 09:00.
• From there, you will head out for your adventure in Iceland.
• First stop will be Thingvellir national park. This is where you can see North American tectonic plate and European tectonic plate move apart from each other.
• Next stop is the king of they Geysers in the world. The one and only, which all the other ones are named after.
• Next is Gullfoss waterfall, or the “Golden falls”.
• Next stop is the dairy farm. There you will have lunch and food tasting. – One of the farmers which are 3 sisters and 1 brother, will sit down with the small group and hold a presentation. – After the presentation, you will taste their homemade products. – For lunch, they have 2 options: a) Beef meat soup with beef from the farm. b) Mushroom soup with mushrooms from Iceland’s only mushroom farm. – For dessert, you will get homemade ice cream.
• After this delicious lunch you will finally go to the geothermal luxury sea baths. The water in it is a hot sea water coming straight from the ground. You will be bathing just next to the North Atlantic ocean and enjoying the sound of the ocean and the nature.
• These baths do not let more than 40 person in at once, so you get a way more relaxed and personal experience than in any other baths in Iceland.

If you are wondering how to dress for this activity, we always send out emails the day before about how the weather is going to be. But we highly recommend bringing rain gear to Iceland. Does not matter the time of the year.

In winter, bring rain gear and also warm clothes, cap, and gloves. You can also rent a parka for your tour. Also, remember to bring swimsuit. Not to mention your smile 🙂

Towels are included!

We look forward to seeing you on the tour.

Enjoy our best Glacier hiking tours:

1. Private South Coast Glacier Touch tour

2. Private South Coast tour with a glacier hike

GET 25% DISCOUNT BY USING PROMO CODE RO25

Book tour here.

FREE CANCELLATION

NO BOOKING FEES

QUALITY TOURS

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Tour Details

 20th of august – 24th of April

 FREE photos, Hot chocolate & traditional Icelandic pastry

20:30-21:00

Max 10 person

Free wifi, Hotel pick up & drop off, Pastries

09:30 – 10:00

 11-12 hours

Max: 14 person

 Lunch at farm, Sea baths admission, Free wifi

08:30 – 09:00

 Max 12 person

 2 course dinner, glacier gear, wifi

07:30 – 08:00

Max 14 person

Free wifi, Hotel pick up & drop off

09:30 – 10:00

 8 – 9 hours

 Chairs, drinks, Free wifi, home cooked meal, photos, winter jumpsuit

20:30 – 21-00

 Max 14 person

 Free wifi, Hotel pick up

08:00 – 08:30

11 – 12 hours

Free wifi bakery tour & bread

 7 – 8 hours

 Hvammsvík admission & lots of fun

18:30 – 19:00

 Packed lunch, wifi, lot of fun

Food and lots of fun

10:30 – Onwards

Max 16 person

 Ice cave and equipment required

09:30 OR 14-00

 Max 6 person

 Visit of the Ice cave and gear required

09:00 OR 12:00

All gear for snowmobile

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How to Drive Iceland's Golden Circle: A Complete Guide with Maps

What Is the Golden Circle?

Renting a car in iceland to tour the golden circle, how long does it take to self-drive the golden circle.

• Iceland's Golden Circle Map: The Classic Route

Golden Circle Routes and Itineraries

How to avoid the crowds, golden circle sights and attractions, 1. thingvellir national park, 2. geysir geothermal area, 3. gullfoss waterfall, get off the beaten path, where to eat on the golden circle, drive the golden circle like a local.

Learn everything you need to know about Iceland's Golden Circle, the most popular tourist route in Iceland. Explore the best Golden Circle attractions, like geysers, waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic craters. Learn where to eat, where to say, and whether a self-drive tour or guided tour is better for you. Choose the best route for your visit with our Golden Circle itineraries and maps. 

• Make the Golden Circle the first stop on your trip around the Ring Road with this 8 Day/7 Night Self-Drive
• Find out even more by reading the Ultimate Guide to the Golden Circle

If you're traveling to Iceland for the first time, there's a good chance you'll visit the Golden Circle . Even if you've been on a Golden Circle tour before, you might want to drive it again by yourself to explore the secondary locations along the way that the tour buses often skip. If you're planning on stay along this iconic route, make sure to book accommodation in the Golden Circle .

Top Golden Circle Tours

3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland, 10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes.

The short answer is that the Golden Circle is a scenic route between three beautiful natural attractions in Iceland. The main Golden Circle attractions include:

• Thingvellir National Park
• Geysir geothermal area
• Gullfoss waterfall

Instead of driving back and forth from Reykjavik the same way, people typically drive a short circle that's just under 140 miles (230 kilometers) in length.

The Golden Circle shouldn't be confused with the Ring Road , an 828-mile (1,332-kilometer) drive encompassing the entire island of Iceland. The latter can take several days to a week to complete.

There are hundreds of different Golden Circle tours to choose from, but if you'd rather drive this route yourself, then read on for tips on how to do it.

Self-driving the Golden Circle is a great way to see everything at your own pace. First, you'll need to find a rental car . You'll want to rent a four-wheel drive, jeep, or SUV if you plan on visiting during winter. 

A four-wheel drive is important to your safety on the road when there's heavy snow on the ground. However, the Golden Circle is the most popular route in the country, so if you were to find yourself stuck in a pile of snow, help wouldn't be far off.

In the summer, you might want to consider a camping car rental (a car with a tent on its roof) and spend a night at the campsite in Thingvellir National Park. 

• See also: Camping in Iceland - all you need to know

Top Self Drive Tours in Iceland

One of the benefits of driving the Golden Circle yourself is that you choose when to begin and how long you'll stay at each attraction. Since the Golden Circle is the most popular attraction in Iceland, hundreds of different tours go there every day. You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to picking the best Golden Circle sights. 

With the flexibility of having your own car, you can choose exactly how long you spend exploring these attractions and which route to take. There are many possibilities.

If you want to rest, you can do the circle in the afternoon or evening. During the summer, nights don't get dark, so you could even go at night and visit the attractions under the midnight sun .

Driving the 140 miles (230 kilometers) of the Golden Circle can take as little as three hours if you take the shortest route. So, you could do the whole circle in about five hours with stops, but most people prefer to spend a few days to a week to self-drive the Golden Circle. (Check out our Golden Circle map below.) 

To beat the crowds, get up at the crack of dawn and leave early so you can spend the full day exploring at a relaxed pace. Perhaps you'd like to visit these attractions like the locals, and then spend a night or two in the area. 

Thingvellir National Park has a great campsite and a modern and stylish hotel. The Geysir geothermal area also has a luxurious hotel and a campsite.

By Gullfoss , you can find another hotel and multiple summer cabins along the way that you can rent for a more private experience. Nothing beats being in the clean and quiet countryside while sitting in a private hot tub on the deck of a cabin.

You could also decide to add a hike to the warm river in Reykjadalur to your Golden Circle route, and then choose to stay at a lovely hotel in the village Hveragerdi or its beautiful campsite . 

• See also:  Where to stay in Iceland

Iceland's Golden Circle Map: The Classic Route

Below is a map of the most popular Golden Circle route.

The Golden Circle route is extremely popular, and there are hundreds of ways to explore it. If you're looking for a good place to start, here are five of the most popular routes. 

5. 10 Hour Golden Circle ​Tour with Snowmobiling on Langjokull

This tour has all of the best Golden Circle attractions for travelers on a budget and looking for adventure. It includes a visit to the Langjokull Glacier - the second-largest glacier in Iceland - and an excellent spot for a snowmobile trip!

4. Three-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland's Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

For travelers with more time to explore, a three-day tour will ensure you see all of the best Golden Circle stops. You'll also have the opportunity to do two of Iceland's most popular activities - exploring ice caves and taking a hike across glaciers. 

3. Small-Group Golden Circle Tour with a Visit to an Ice Cream Farm and Transfer from Reykjavik

Join this small-group tour to see all the most popular Golden Circle sights and attractions. This tour starts in Reykjavik and even includes a stop at an ice cream farm! 

2. Afternoon Six-Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

With only half a day, can you see the Golden Circle? Yes! Participants on this short and affordable tour will make sure you see the top sights in just an afternoon. 

1. Four-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with the Golden Circle, South Coast & Blue Lagoon  

A four-day tour is an ideal option if you have time and want to enjoy everything the Golden Circle has to offer. Stops include the famous Blue Lagoon, geysers, Iceland's black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and, if the stars align, the northern lights! 

If you're driving the Golden Circle, you're more likely to avoid crowds and thereby enjoy greater privacy along the way. Most Golden Circle tours leave in the morning from Reykjavik , between 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., with afternoon departures around noon and 2 p.m. Most of them are back in Reykjavik by 8 p.m. There are select midnight sun tours available in the summer.

The busiest times at the Golden Circle's major attractions of Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir are between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., although from October to February the long daylight hours in Iceland allow for longer viewing hours.

If you leave early in summer (or spend the night in the area), you can see the attractions in broad daylight before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m. These are perfect times to capture sunrise and sunset photos in the spring or fall or admire the northern lights during wintertime.

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

If you spend a night at one of the hotels or campsites in the summer, the midnight sun allows you to enjoy the area's natural attractions without too many other tourists around.

As we've mentioned, there are three main attractions on every Golden Circle itinerary. Let's look at each one more closely before sharing ways for you to go off the beaten path when visiting them.

The first stop on the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park, Iceland's first national park and the only one recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It's 29 miles (47 kilometers) northeast of Reykjavik.

The North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and form a rift valley here. Within the park, it's possible to take turns standing on the North American and Eurasian continents. Movement between the plates is ongoing, resulting in earthquakes that separate the plates by about two inches per year. 

As a result of this ongoing activity, a fissure, Silfra , opened in the ground in 1789. It has since filled with purified glacial meltwater and has become a popular snorkeling and diving destination.

The second significant stop on Iceland's Golden Circle is the Geysir geothermal area, about 38 miles (61 kilometers) east of Thingvellir National Park on Route 37. This area of geothermal activity is named after the 59-foot-wide (18-meter-wide) Geysir, whose activity dates back to at least 1294, when an earthquake hit the region.

Today, Geysir, derived from the Icelandic word meaning "to erupt," is rarely active. However, you can still see where it used to spout off, as well as other, more active geysers in the area. 

Strokkur is a geyser that became active following an earthquake in 1789. It erupts about every eight minutes, shooting a water column 82 to 115 feet (25 to 35 meters) into the air.

Six miles (10 kilometers) east of the Geysir geothermal area on Route 35 will bring you to the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall . This is the third major stop on the Golden Circle in Iceland. 

If you only see one waterfall in Iceland, make it Gullfoss. This natural wonder is fed by glacial waters from the Hvita River, which flow over the two stages of the falls at about 459 cubic feet (140 cubic meters) per second in the summer, and 358 cubic feet (109 cubic meters) in the winter.

The first stage of the waterfall is about 36 feet (11 meters), and it's followed by a second, more significant waterfall with a drop of 69 feet (21 meters). Thanks to the amount of mist kicked up by Gullfoss, rainbows frequently appear at the falls. 

Gullfoss Waterfall is open year-round, but the path to the lower level observation area is closed in winter due to icy conditions. 

Beyond the three main attractions, you can also visit other points of interest along the Golden Circle, such as: 

• Reykjadalur's hot river
• The Secret Lagoon
• Nesjavellir geothermal plant
• Kerid volcanic crater

It's always a joy to explore new corners of Thingvellir National Park. No matter how many times you visit, it's possible to see something new.

There's so much more to Thingvellir than just Almannagja , Peningagja (the Money Rift), Silfra, and Oxararfoss . 

Autumn is a favorite season to explore the park when the low shrubs covering the area turn multi-colored. The ground's red, yellow, and green colors contrast nicely with a fresh snow layer.

Tours will give you ample time at each location to see the main sights, but with your own car, you can choose to go for a short hike within the national park or perhaps bring a picnic and settle down in some mossy clearing with a view over the lake. 

Most people go to the same paths in only one section of the park, next to the information center. But the park is much larger and encompasses the entire lake of Thingvellir, which would take about an hour to drive around, or a one- to two-day hike (it's about 37 miles or 60 kilometers, but the route is almost flat).

When driving yourself, there are many options for where to eat. If you're a foodie, then you might want to stop at some of the great dining locations along the way and skip the overpriced sandwiches and road burgers commonly found in gas stations.

Some of the interesting options include the Frioheimar greenhouse for tomato soup with homemade bread and cucumber salsa. All the tomatoes and cucumbers are grown on the premises.

The Ethiopian restaurant Minilik in Fludir is also a fun find in the middle of the Icelandic countryside. It's an excellent example of how international cuisine has reached more remote areas of Iceland.

If you head to Solheimar Eco Village , you can get homemade cakes and delicious coffee at Graena Kannan cafe . 

Or, if you want to find local art or do some yoga, check out the ceramic studio and cafe Bragginn Clay & Coffee , an 8-mile (13-kilometer) drive from Fludir. They're only open during summertime. On weekends they offer yoga classes, and on Thursdays, they have Irish coffee evenings.

The traditional Icelandic meat soup served in Gullfoss cafe is also delicious, and they'll give you a free refill. There's also the ice-cream barn Efstidalur that's not to be missed.

Some hotels along the way have fine dining restaurants, such as the Geysir Hotel  and the  Silfra restaurant in the Ion Hotel.

If you make an extended Golden Circle trip, you could drive to Stokkseyri and enjoy some fine langoustine at Fjorubordid or go to Rauda Husid in Eyrarbakki.

Above is an alternative one-day drive of the Golden Circle, as a local might do it. This suggestion is mainly for spring, summer, and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the days are long. 

If you want to make this a two-day trip, we suggest camping in Thingvellir National Park. Although, of course, you can also choose to spend the night in a hotel somewhere along the way.

First, have breakfast at a  restaurant in Reykjavik and grab some snacks for the road. Our suggestion is to try Braud & Co for some fresh sourdough bread or a couple of cinnamon buns. 

If you plan on making this a two-day trip, then also buy some food for breakfast the next day, or get something to put on a barbeque for the evening (if you like - you can also decide to do that later on in the trip). Grab a tent ( or rent a tent ) and leave Reykjavik around 9 a.m.

Head towards Hveragerdi, but turn left onto Route 431, which turns into Route 435. Parts of this road are gravel, so take your time and go slowly. 

The route is beautiful, and you likely won't meet many others on the way. When you get to Nesjavellir Geothermal Plant , you might want to check out their geothermal exhibition.

Continue along Route 360, a stunning gravel road that goes through the less-visited Grafningur area of Thingvellir. The road is winding with plenty of cute picnic clearings and great views of the lake. It's an excellent area to park your car at the side of the road to take some pictures or breathe in the fresh countryside air.

There are a lot of summer cabins in this area. If you are driving in autumn (late August or even early September), you can also look for wild berries to pick.

At the end of Route 360, there's another geothermal power station, Ljosafossstod , that has a free, fun, interactive exhibition daily; it's worth checking out for half an hour or so.

Then head towards Skalholt on Road 36 and then 35. On the way, make a stop by the crater Kerid, which takes about half an hour to walk around. 

You can also stop by Skalholt if you like and visit its historical church and learn about this important location in Iceland's history.

When it's time for lunch, stop at either Bragginn, Fridheimar , Kaffi Klettur, or Minilik for a delicious meal. 

After lunch, head to the Secret Lagoon in Fludir and relax for a couple of hours in hot water while checking out the small hot springs by the pool. Aim to be at the Secret Lagoon before 2 p.m. at the latest for privacy's sake, as large tour groups arrive between 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Following a soak in the Secret Lagoon, head towards Gullfoss waterfall. It would be best to arrive in the afternoon as most tour groups will have left the area.

After admiring the powerful waterfall and walking down the hiking path to its rim, it's time to head towards Geysir, which should also be relatively quiet in the late afternoon/early evening. If you've become hungry for dinner, you could check out the menu at Hotel Geysir.

For dessert (or an appetizer in case you'll have dinner later), We suggest trying locally made ice cream in Efstidalur . If you only want this to be a one-day trip, then head to Thingvellir and go for a stroll there in the evening sun before making your way back to Reykjavik.

If, on the other hand, you want to camp for the night and you haven't had dinner yet, then shop for charcoal and something to put on a barbeque in the small village of Laugarvatn . The Icelandic lamb is highly recommended. 

Continue to the campsite of Thingvellir National Park (where there are barbeques available), pitch your tent, and prepare your feast.

After dinner, go for a stroll in the evening and listen to the local birds singing. The above picture was taken around midnight in June to give you an idea of how bright it's throughout the night.

The next day, you can get up early and enjoy the quiet morning before most people arrive or sleep in and go for an extended walk around the area in the afternoon. You could be back in Reykjavik in the early afternoon (from Thingvellir, it's only about a 29-mile or 47-kilometers drive to Reykjavik) or spend the whole day exploring Thingvellir National Park.

If you are looking for more activity, you could book a snorkeling tour in Silfra by Thingvellir or a horseback riding tour on the outskirts of Reykjavik and get back to the city in the late afternoon or early evening.

Grab a set of wheels, and you'll be on your way to exploring the Golden Circle firsthand!

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