golden circle tour iceland tui

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Golden Circle

Price (per adult), pickup at hotel.

• Stay Apartments Einholt - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• Travel Inn guesthouse - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Local Apartments Reykjavik - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• OK Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• B14 - Rooms and Apartments, Bankastræti - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• 101 Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• 22 Hill Hotel
• 1912 Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Sif Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 12 (Höfðatorg)
• Apartment K - Ingólfsstræti 1a - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Apartment K - Skólastræti 1 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Black Pearl Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 - Miðbakki
• Forsæla Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Sandhotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Reykjavik Residence Suites - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• CenterHotel Skjaldbreid - Please wait at bus stop 14 (Skúlagata)
• Central Premium Luxury Apartments - Laugavegur 86-94 - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• BUS STOP 3 - Lækjargata
• Hostel B47 - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Guesthouse Lena - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Bolholt Apartments
• 105 A Townhouse Hotel
• B18 Apartments
• Lighthouse Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 (Miðbakki)
• Villa Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Guesthouse Anna - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Ice apartments, Laugavegur 1 - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Reykjavík Marina, Berjaya Iceland Hotels - Please wait at Bus Stop 15 (Mýrargata)
• Castle House Luxury Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The Pond)
• Circle Hostel
• Bergstaðarstræti Aparments - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The pond)
• Guesthouse Snorri - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Ion City Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 Skúlagata
• Gray Tower - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Laugavegur 40 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• City Comfort Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• Storm Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 12 (Höfðatorg)
• Planet Apartments - Please wait at Bus Stop 15 (Mýrargata)
• Freyja guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• *Accommodation Unknown - Will be added later
• Gallery Central Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 - Miðbakki
• BUS STOP 2 - Tjörnin (The Pond)
• Apartment K - Lindargata 60 - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Butterfly Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Centerhotel Grandi - Please wait at Bus Stop 15 (Mýrargata)
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Laufásvegur 6 - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The Pond)
• Fosshótel Rauðará
• Skuggi Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Hótel Óðinsvé - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Kvosin Downtown Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Rádhúsið - City Hall)
• Loft Hostel - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• B14 Hostel (Faxafen)
• Von Guldsmeden - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Hotel Metropolitan - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Grand Hotel Reykjavik
• Reykjavík Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
• Fosshotel Lind - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• BUS STOP 13 - Rauðarárstíg
• Apartment K - Bergstaðastræti - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The pond)
• Stay Apartments Grettisgata - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Stay Apartments Njálsgata - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Apartment K - Hverfisgata 14 - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Hilton Reykjavik Nordica
• Brilliant Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• Hotel Holt - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The Pond)
• Ambassade Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The Pond)
• Alfreds's Apartment - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Guesthouse Galtafell - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Oddsson Midtown Hotel (Grensásvegur 16a, 108 Reykjavik)
• Iceland Parliament Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Rádhúsið - City Hall)
• Thor Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Hotel Reykjavík Centrum - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Rádhúsið - City Hall)
• Ísland Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Three Sisters Guesthouse - Please wait at Bus Stop 15 (Mýrargata)
• Grettisborg Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Phoenix Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• Odinn Reykjavík Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• 27 Soley - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Centerhotel Midgardur - Please wait at BUS STOP 13
• BUS STOP 4 - Miðbakki
• Nordurey Hotel - Hrisateigur 14
• BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Downtown Reykjavík Apartments
• Reykjavík EDITION - Please wait at BUS STOP 5 (Harpa concert hall)
• BUS STOP 11 - Austurbær
• Guesthouse Von - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• 101 Skuggi Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Oddsson Downtown (Háteigsvegur 1, 105 Reykjavik)
• Apartments Aurora - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Guesthouse Andrea - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• BRIM Hotel (Previously Reykjavík Hotel Center)
• Reykjavik Harbour Apartment - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 (Miðbakki)
• Hotel Lotus
• Álfhóll Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 - Miðbakki
• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• REY Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Laugabjarg Guesthouse
• Fosshotel Reykjavik - Please wait at BUS STOP 12 (Höfðatorg)
• Apartment K - Laugavegur 85-86 - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Captain Reykjavík Bergstaðastræti - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Guesthouse Aurora - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Centerhotel Klöpp - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Guesthouse 101 - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Saga Studios by Ylma - Bus Stop 11 (Austurbær)
• Guesthouse Pávi
• BUS STOP 9 - Snorrabraut
• Reykjavik Hostel Village - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Centerhotel Thingholt - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Apotek Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Fosshotel Barón
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Baldursgata 36 - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Guesthouse Sunna - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Hotel Leifur Eiríksson - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Hótel Ísland
• Old Charm Reykjavik Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Hotel Klettur
• Mengi Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Centric Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• 41-A Townhouse Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Local 101 - Please wait at bus stop 4 ( Miðbakki )
• Eyja Guldsmeden
• Cabin Hotel
• Reykjavik Downtown hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 at Hallgrímskirkja
• Nordic Hostel - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• Laekur Hostel
• 101 Hostel - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Northern Comfort Apartments
• Central Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Miðstræti 4 - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin)
• Laugavegur Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 13 (Rauðarárstíg)
• Dalur HI Hostel / Camp Site Laugardalur
• Swan House Reykjavík Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Our House - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• BUS STOP 12 - Höfðatorg on Þórunnartún
• BSÍ Bus terminal
• 4th floor Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Reykjavik 4you Apartments - Bergstaðastræti 12 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Apartment K - Laugarvegur 46 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Hotel Örkin
• Captain Reykjavík Ránargata - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Centerhotel Laugavegur - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Central Guesthouse Reykjavik - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (The pond)
• Konsulat Hotel by Hilton - BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Black Tower - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Hotel Borg - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá - Please wait at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Nordurey Guesthouse (Snorrabraut) - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Snorrabraut)
• BUS STOP 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Pávi Apartments
• Alfreds’s Studios - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 - Skúlagata
• Hotel Hilda - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Ráðhúsið)
• Gestinn Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Apartment K - Thingholtsstraeti 2-4 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• BUS STOP 6 - Safnhúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Eric The Red Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 8 (Hallgrímskirkja)
• Radisson Blu 1919 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• 100 Iceland Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Reykjavik Domestic Airport
• Skólabrú Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Student Hostel - Gamli Garður
• Apartment K - Hverfisgata 37 - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Exeter Hotel - Please wait at Bus Stop 4 - Miðbakki
• Tower Suites Reykjavík - Please wait at BUS STOP 12 (Höfðatorg)
• Alda Hotel Reykjavik - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Room with a View - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Embassy Luxury Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Rádhúsið - City Hall)
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Spítalastígur 1 - Please wait at BUS STOP 2 (Tjörnin - The Pond)
• BUS STOP 5 - Harpa concert hall
• Domus Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 14 (Skúlagata)
• Igdlo Guesthouse - Please wait at BUS STOP 11 (Austurbær)
• House of the Spirits - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 (Miðbakki)
• Ocean Comfort Apartments - Please wait at BUS STOP 4 - Miðbakki
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll - Please wait at BUS STOP 5 (Harpa concert hall)
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Amtmannstígur 5 - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Harbour - Cruise Ship - Skarfabakki
• Centerhotel Plaza - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Ráðhúsið - City hall)
• Galaxy Pod Hostel
• BUS STOP 1 - Ráðhúsið (Reykjavík city hall)
• Atlantic Apartments and rooms
• Hotel Frón - Please wait at BUS STOP 6 - Safnahúsið (The Culture Museum)
• Reykjavik Lights Hotel
• Reykjavik 4you Apartments - Laugavegur 85 - Please wait at BUS STOP 9 (Snorrabraut)
• Chez Moniquie - Please wait at BUS STOP 1 (Ráðhúsið - City Hall)
• City Center Hotel - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• Hotel Reykjavik Saga - Please wait at BUS STOP 3 (Lækjargata)
• BUS STOP 15 - Mýrargata
• BUS STOP 7 - Mýrargata
• Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, Suðurlandsbraut 2
• Part of Reykjavik Apt. (Hverfisgata 57-59), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Apartment K (Bergstaðastræti 3), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Nordic Hostel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11
• Port: Skarfabakki (cruise ship terminal), Skarfagarðar 8
• Kerno Apt., pick up at Circle Hostel / Subway, Hringbraut 121
• Guesthouse Andrea, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Bus Hostel Reykjavik
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel (Hafnarstræti), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Laekur Hostel, Laugarnesvegur 74a
• Hótel Garður (Gamli Garður), Hringbraut 29
• Villa Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Hotel Lotus, Álftamýri 7
• Arcturus Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Guesthouse Turninn, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• The Flying Viking, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Apartment K (Aðalstræti 12), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Guesthouse Sunna, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Stay Bolholt Apartments
• Guesthouse Óðinn, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Luna Hotel Apt. (Baldursgata), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Hótel Borg, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Glæsibær main entrance (Tokyo Sushi), Álfheimar 74
• Captain Reykjavik (Bergstaðastræti 60), pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Downtown Reykjavik Apt, Rauðarárstígur 31
• Hótel Ísland Spa&Wellness, Ármúli 9
• Hótel Leifur Eiríksson, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Guesthouse Anna, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Blue Luxury Apt. (Bergstaðastræti 44), pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Kex Hostel, Skúlagata 28
• Sandhotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Apartment K (Þingholtsstræti 2), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Luna Hotel Apt. (Amtmannsstígur 5), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut /Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Embassy Luxury Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Rey Apartments (Veltusund), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá (Tjarnargata 46), pick up at Gamli Garður (Hringbraut 29)
• Luna Hotel Apt. (Spítalastígur 1), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Old Charm Reykjavik Apt., pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Centerhotel Plaza, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Forsæla Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Árni's Place, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Travel Inn, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Reykjavik4you Apt, (Bergstaðastræti 12), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Black Pearl Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking Lot by Geirsgata)
• BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Local Apt. Reykjavík (Hverfisgata 100), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut (corner w/Hverfisgata)
• Centerhotel Klöpp, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Snorris Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Hotel Cabin, Borgartún 32
• Apartment K (Hverfisgata 14), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Apartment K (Hverfisgata 37), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Port: Korngarðar (cruise ship terminal), pick up at bus parking lot by pier exit, Skarfagarðar 8
• Hotel Alda, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg (opposite Storm Hotel)
• Skuggi Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Northern Comfort Apt. / REK Inn, Skipholt 15
• Room With A View, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Ísland Apartments, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Reykjavik Rental Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Kvosin Downtown Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Aurora Museum, Fiskislóð 53
• Guesthouse Skólabrú, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Reykjavik Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
• Castle House Luxury Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Reykjavík Campsite, Sundlaugavegur 32
• Theater Row Apt., pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Guesthouse Ísafold, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Central Guesthouse Reykjavik, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Olís Sæbraut, Sundagarðar 2, 104 Reykjavík
• Grettisborg Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Hlemmur Square, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Not sure yet, I will contact you later to let you know.
• Apartment K (Lindargata 60), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• 105 - A Townhouse Hotel, pick up at Fosshótel Rauðará, Rauðarárstígur 37
• Ice Aparments, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Apartment K (Skólastræti 1), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Guesthouse Thor, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Fosshótel Lind, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 13, Rauðarárstígur (Laugavegur 120)
• Centerhotel Miðgarður, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 13, Rauðarárstígur (Laugavegur 120)
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá (Laufásvegur 41), pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Home Luxury Apt. Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Reykjavik Domestic Airport, Reykjavíkurflugvöllur, Þorragata 10
• Von Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Alfred's Studio Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Lóa Lóa Guesthouse, pick up at Bus Hostel / Reykjavik Terminal, Skógarhlíð 10
• Port: Miðbakki, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Tour Bus Stop 3, Lækjargata (Lækjargata 4)
• Tour Bus Stop 15, Mýrargata
• Grandi by Center Hotels, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 15, Mýrargata
• I sleep Reykjavik Guesthouse, pick up at Fosshótel Rauðará, Rauðarárstígur 37
• Alba Guesthouse, pick up at Bus Hostel / Reykjavik Terminal, Skógarhlíð 10
• Iceland Parliament Hotel (Curio Collection by Hilton), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið / City Hall
• Guesthouse Lena, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Luna Hotel Apt. (Laufásvegur 6), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Chez Monique, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Grimur Hotel, Grímsbær - Efstaland 26
• Eric The Red Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Briet Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Domus Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Apartment K (Laugavegur 46), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrimskirkja (Eiríksgata 2)
• Reykjavik Hostel Village, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Hótel Klettur, Mjölnisholt 12-14
• Room 13 - A Townhouse Hotel
• Tour Bus Stop 14, Skúlagata (Klapparstígur 5)
• The House of Publishers, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Star Guesthouse, Miðtún 46
• Atlantic Apartments & Rooms
• Aurora Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Hotel Muli, Hallarmúli
• Guesthouse Bina, pick up at City Garden Hotel (Hrísateigur 14)
• 22 Hill Hotel / Hotel Björk, Brautarholt 22
• Brilliant Apartments, Brautarholt 2
• Freyja Guesthouse & Suites, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Oddsson Hotel, Grensásvegur 16a
• R13 - A Townhouse Hotel
• OK Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Hótel Frón, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• B28 Apartments, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Grettisgata Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Part of Reykjavik Apt. (Týsgata), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• N1 petrol station, Ártúnshöfði, NOT Strætó / City Bus stop
• Planet Apt., pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Grettir Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• The Swan House, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Hotel Von, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Sport Hostel, pick up at Glæsibær main entrance (Tokyo Sushi), Álfheimar 74
• Laugabjarg Guesthouse, pick up at City Garden Hotel (Hrísateigur 14)
• G-Unit, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Storm Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg (opposite Storm Hotel)
• Loft Hostel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Heida's home, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 5, Harpa Concert Hall (Faxagata)
• Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Perlan - The Pearl (front entrance), Varmahlíð 1
• Fosshótel Barón (Skúlagata side), Barónsstígur 2-4
• Bed and Books, Þjórsárgata 3
• 101 Hótel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Reykjavik City Hostel, Sundlaugavegur 34
• City Center Hotel, , pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Vintage Hotel Apartments, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Reykjavik Downtown Hostel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Centerhotel Laugavegur, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Centerhotel Thingholt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Reykjavík Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Dalur - HI Hostel
• Dalur - HI Hostel & Cafe, Sundlaugavegur 34
• Icelandair Hotel Natura, Nauthólsvegur 52
• Downtown Guesthouse Reykjavik, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 3
• Hostel B14, pick up at Gló entrance, Fákafen 11
• Hótel Óðinsvé, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Brim Hotel / Reykjavik Hotel Center, Skipholt 27
• Rey Apartments (Grettisgata 2), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Igdlo Guesthouse, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Reykjavík Marina Residence, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Konrads Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Grand Hótel Reykjavík, Sigtún 28
• 27 Sóley Hotel Apt, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Stay Apt, Einholt 2
• Luna Hotel Apt. (Miðstræti 4), pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Guesthouse Pavi, Brautarholt 4
• Apartments Aurora, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut (corner w/ Hverfisgata)
• Hotel Reykjavik Saga, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• GestInn Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• HOSTEL B47, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• B14 City Center Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Fosshótel Reykjavík, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg (opposite Storm Hotel)
• Reykjavik Lights Hotel, Suðurlandsbraut 12
• Subway, Hringbraut 121
• Canopy by Hilton Hotels, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Tour Bus Stop 13, Rauðarárstígur (Laugavegur 120)
• Our House, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Tour Bus Stop 5, Harpa Concert Hall (Faxagata)
• Hotel Ørkin, Brautarholt 29
• Part of Reykjavik Apt, Brautarholt 2
• Fosshótel Rauðará, Rauðarárstígur 37
• Guesthouse Galtafell, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Hótel Holt, pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal (Front / Taxi side), Vatnsmýrarvegur 10
• Galtafell Apt., pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Ambassade Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Hotel Metropolitan, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Exeter Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, Brautarholt 10
• Hótel Hilda, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 1, Ráðhúsið - City Hall (Vonarstræti side)
• Central Luxury Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Apótek Hótel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 2, Tjörnin - The Pond (in front of Mæðragarðurinn)
• Arctic Comfort Hotel
• Stay Brilliant Apartments
• City Garden Hotel, Hrísateigur 14
• Bus Hostel / Reykjavík Terminal, Skógarhlíð 10
• Bryggjan Brugghús, Grandagarður 8
• Bolholt Apartments, Bolholt 6
• 4th Floor Hotel, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Centerhotel Skjaldbreið, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 6, Safnahúsið - The Culture House (corner of Hverfisgata/Ingólfsstræti)
• Tour Bus Stop 4, Miðbakki (Parking lot by Geirsgata)
• Loki 101 Guesthouse, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Alfred's Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 9, Snorrabraut / Hlemmur (Snorrabraut 24)
• Reykjavik Rental Apt, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 8, Hallgrímskirkja (Eiríksgata side)
• Arctic Comfort Hotel, Síðumúli 19
• Atlantic Apt, Grensásvegur 14
• Kvikk on the go / Orkan, Kringlan, Miklabraut 100
• Thomsen Residence Suites, pick up at Tour Bus Stop 11, Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37)
• Gló entrance, Fákafen 11
• Reykjavík Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels – Nauthólsvegur 52
• Bus Stop #04 – Miðbakki
• Bus Stop #09 – Snorrabraut
• Hótel Ísland Spa & Wellness - Ármúli 9
• 22 Hill Hótel – Brautarholt 22-24
• Bus Hostel Reykjavík – Skógarhlíð 10
• BSÍ Bus Terminal (By the taxi stand)
• Grand Hótel Reykjavík – Sigtún 38
• Hilton Reykjavík Nordica – Suðurlandsbraut 2
• To Be Announced
• Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels – Suðurlandsbraut 12
• N1 Gas Station – Ártúnshöfði
• Skarfabakki 312 Cruise Terminal (Pre-Booked Tours Pick Up)
• Bus Stop #12 – Höfðatorg
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel – Brautarholt 10
• Dalur Hostel – Sundlaugavegur 34
• Bus Stop #01 – In front of the City Hall
• Bus Stop #06 – Safnahúsið (The Culture House)
• Cabin Hótel – Borgartún 32
• Klettur Hótel – Mjölnisholt 12-14
• Arctic Comfort Hótel – Síðumúli 19
• R13 - A Townhouse Hotel - Ármúli 13a
• Gray Tower - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Kvosin Hotel - Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• The Reykjavik EDITION - Go To: Bus stop 5. Harpa
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá - Tjarnargötu 46 - Go To: BSÍ Terminal
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá - Laufásvegi 41 - Go To: BSÍ Terminal
• Apartment K – Hverfisgata 37 - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Reykjavik Saga Hotel
• Gest Inn - Pick up at Bus Stop 8
• Centerhotel Klöpp - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Bus stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• 101 Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• 4th Floor Hotel - Bus stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Iceland Parliament Hotel – Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Apartments Aurora – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Bus Stop #8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Harbor - Sundabakki
• Island Apartments – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Farfuglaheimilið - Sundlaugavegur 34
• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina
• KEX Hostel - Pick up at Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Reykjavik4you Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Alva Hotel - Ármúli 5
• Apartment K - Bergstaðarstræti 12 - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Reykjavik4you Apartments Laugavegur - Pick Up at Bus stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Hótel Borg - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Fosshótel Barón - Barónstígur 2-4
• Central Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin – The Pond
• Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Reykjavík Centrum Hótel - Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Centric Guesthouse - Pick up Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Kvosin Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• REKinn - Skipholt 15
• Skuggi Hotel
• Reykjavik Hostel Village - Pick up at Bus Stop 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• City Center Hotel - Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Cabin Hótel - Borgartún 32
• SUNNA Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Laugavegur 86 - Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Exeter Hotel - Bus Stop 4 - Miðbakki
• Black Pearl Hotel - Pick up at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Apartment K - Skólastræti 1 - Go To:Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• 22 Hill Hotel - Brautarholt 22-24
• Bus stop 12. Höfðatorg
• Orkan, Austurströnd, Seltjarnarnes
• Embassy Luxury Apartments Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Grandi by Centerhotels - Go To: Bus Stop 15. Vesturbugt
• Storm Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 12. Þórunnartún
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Spítalastígur 1 - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin – The Pond
• Bus stop 5. Harpa
• Hotel Reykjavik Grand
• Alda Hotel Reykjavik
• Hótel Frón – Go To: Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Harbor - Skarfabakki
• Guesthouse Álfhóll - Pick up at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Apartment 37 – Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Galaxy Pod Hostel - Laugavegur 172
• Fosshótel Lind - Go To: Bus stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• Klettur Hotel
• Hotel Local 101- Pick up at Bus stop 1-City Hall
• Villa Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Reykjavik Lights Hotel - Suðurlandsbraut 12
• ION City Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Klettur Hótel - Mjölnisholt 12-14
• Grettisborg Apartments - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrimskirkja
• Hótel Holt - Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Fosshotel Baron
• Student Hostel (Gamli Garður)
• Mjódd Bus Station- Olis Gas station Alfabakki 2
• Hótel Leifur Eiríksson - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• 201 Hotel Kopavogur
• Orkan Gas Station - Kringlan/Miklabraut
• OK Hotel – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• Canopy Reykjavík | City Centre - Go To: Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Guesthouse Aurora - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Bus Stop 12 - Höfðatorg
• Hilton Reykjavík Nordica - Suðurlandsbraut 2
• City Center Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Hlemmur Apartments – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Apartment K - Bergstaðarstræti 3 - Pick up Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Downtown Reykjavik Apartments - Pick up at Bus Stop 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• Downtown Guesthouse Reykjavik - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Local 101 - Go to: Bus stop 4. Miðbakki Harbour
• Hotel Reykjavík Saga - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin - The Pond
• Radisson Blu Hótel 1919 - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• -I will Email Tröll my pick up location at least 48 hours before tour starts-
• 101 Hótel - Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Skuggi Hótel – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Hótel Örkin - Brautarholt 29
• Igdlo Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Reykjavik Downtown Hostel - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Bus Stop 4 - Miðbakki
• Alfred's Studios - Go To:Bus stop 14, Skúlagata.
• Heida's Home – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Pick up Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• House of Spirits - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Apartment K – Laugavegur 74 – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• 101 Hótel - Go To: Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Bolholt Apartments- Bolholt 6
• Centerhotel Miðgarður - Pick up at Bus Stop 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• Gest Inn - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Grettisborg Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• 1912 Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Loft Hostel - Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Northern Comfort Apartments - Skipholti 15
• Radisson BLU Saga
• 100 Iceland Hotel - Pick up at Bus stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Apartment K - Bergstaðarstræti 3 - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Reykjavik Hostel Village - Go To: Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• 100 Iceland Hotel - Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Centerhotel Skjaldbreið – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Hótel Óðinsvé - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Skarfabakki Harbour - Go To: Terminal 312 pick-up point
• Hótel Holt - Go To: BSÍ Terminal
• Grandi by Centerhotels
• Reykjavik Centrum Hotel
• Apartment 37 – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Reykjavik Residence Suites – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Oddsson Downtown Hotel - Háteigsvegur 1
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel – Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Black Pearl Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Apartment K - Lindargata 60 - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Downtown Reykjavik Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• Sand Hotel by Keahotels
• Stay Apartments Bolholt - Bolholt 6
• Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Our House Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Grayline Bus Terminal - Skógarhlíð
• B14-Hostel Fákafen 11
• Reykjavik Residence Suites – Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Guesthouse Álfhóll - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Guesthouse Von – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Bus Stop #15 – Vesturbugt
• Freyja Guesthouse - Go to: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• KEX Hostel - Skúlagata 28
• Stay Apartments - Bolholt 6
• Von Guldsmeden Hotel - Go to: Bus stop 9. Snorrabraut
• BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center
• Guesthouse Turninn - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Olís near Suðurlandsvegur, Reykjavík
• Fosshótel Lind - Pick Up at Bus top 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• Elding Whale Watching - Go To: Bus Stop 4. Miðbakki Harbour
• Grand Hótel Reykjavík - Sigtún 38
• Centerhotel Plaza - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Hótel Ísland Comfort - Hlíðasmári 13 - Kópavogur
• Ísland Apartments – Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Grindavík Swimming pool parking lot (ONLY FOR VOLCANO TOUR)
• Ambassade Apartments - Pick up at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Bus stop 2. Tjörnin – The Pond
• Sand Hotel - Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Hótel Ísland Comfort - Hlíðasmári 13 Kópavogur
• Hótel Borg - Pick up Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Ocean Comfort Apartments - Pick up at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Loft Hostel - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina- Pick up at Bus stop 15
• Lighthouse Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Bus Terminal – Klettagarðar 4
• Stay Apartments Laugavegur – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Guesthouse Pávi - Brautarholt 4
• Eric The Red Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Hótel Leifur Eiríksson - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Guesthouse Odinn - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Norðurey Hotel City Garden
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Laufásvegur 17 - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin – The Pond
• Ocean Comfort Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Guesthouse Butterfly - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll - Go To: Bus stop 5. Harpa
• Bus stop 14. Skúlagata
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Amtmannsstígur 5 - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin - The Pond
• Hótel Ísland - Ármúli 9
• Apartment K – Laugavegur 85-86 – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Apotek Hotel by Keahotels - Pick up at Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Tröll Headquarters - Fiskislóð 45G
• Storm Hotel - Þórunnartúni 4 - Bus stop 12
• Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• The Swan House Reykjavík Apartments - Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Hótel Von- Pick up at Bus Stop 9
• Sand Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Lækur Hostel - Laugarnesvegur 74a
• Icelandic Apartments, Urðarhvarfi
• Alda Hotel Reykjavik – Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Olís Gas Station - Rauðavatn
• Oddsson Hotel - Grensásvegur 16a, 108 Reykjavík
• Circle Hostel, Hringbraut 121
• Dalur HI Hostel - Sundlaugavegur 34
• Island Hotel
• Dalur - Hi Eco Hostel - Sundlaugavegur 34
• Rey Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Reykjavik Campsite - Sundlaugavegur 32
• Bus stop 15. Vesturbugt
• Hostel B47 - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Apartment K - Ingólfsstræti 1a - Go To: Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Travel Inn - Pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Fosshótel Barón - Pick up at Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Apartment K - Hverfisgata 14 - Go To: Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Mengi Apartments - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Iceland Parliament Hotel - Pickup at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Old Charm Reykjavik Apartments – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Hotel Kriunes, Kríunes, Kópavogur, Iceland
• A Part Of Reykjavik Apartments - Brautarholti 2
• Reykjavik4you Apartments - Laugavegi 85 - Go To: Bus stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Baron's Hostel - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Reykjavik Downtown Hotel - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Guesthouse Pávi - Go To: Bus Stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• Reykjavik Downtown Guesthouse - Egilsgata 1 - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• 101 Guesthouse - Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Bergþórugata 23 - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel - Hafnarstræti 17-19 - Pick up at Bus stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Iceland Comfort Apartments Hamraborg
• City Comfort Apartments – Pick up Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Centerhotel Plaza
• Hótel Metropolitan - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Storm Hotel
• Exeter Hotel
• Centerhotel Þingholt - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Centerhotel Thingholt -Pick up Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Bus Stop 15 - Vesturbugt
• Guesthouse Anna - Pick up at BSÍ Bus Terminal
• Noatun 17,105 Reykjavik
• Mengi Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• 201 Hotel - Hlíðarsmári 5
• Room With A View – Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Rey Apartments - Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Hostel B47 - Pick up at Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Room 13 - A Townhouse Hotel - Ármúli 13a
• Domus Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Bus Stop by Landakotskirkja, the Catholic Church
• Alda Hotel Reykjavik – Go To: Bus stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Skuggi Hótel – Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Hótel Örkin – Brautarholt 29
• 1912 Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Hotel Grímur - Efstaland 26, 108 Reykjavík
• Brim Hotel - Skipholt 27
• Bus stop 6. The Culture House / Safnahusid
• Fosshótel Reykjavík - Go To: Bus stop 12. Þórunnartún
• 41 – A Townhouse Hotel – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Bus Stop 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• Bus Hostel - Skógarhlíð 10 (Reykjavik Terminal )
• Villa Guesthouse - Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Centerhotel Skjaldbreið – Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Bus Stop #08 – Hallgrímskirkja
• Fosshotel Reykjavik
• Centerhotel Grandi - Pick up at Bus Stop 15 - Vesturbugt
• Central Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Eric The Red Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Room With A View
• Sunna Guesthouse - Pick up at Bus Stop 8
• Hótel Óðinsvé - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• 22 HILL HOTEL
• Stay Apartments - Einholt 2 - Pickup at Bus Stop 13 Rauðarárstígur
• Loki 101 Guesthouse - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Dalur - HI Hostel & Cafe
• SIF Apartments- PICK UP AT BUS STOP 12- Höfðatorg
• Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Hótel Reykjavík Centrum - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• What´s On - Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Black Tower - Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Castle House Luxury Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 2. Tjörnin – The Pond
• Tower Suites - Go To: Bus stop 12. Þórunnartún
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Laugavegur 37 - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Alfred's Apartments - Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Arctic Comfort Hótel - Síðumúli 19
• Embassy Luxury Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• City Comfort Apartments – Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Centerhotel Plaza - Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• CenterHotel Midgardur
• Forsæla Apartmenthouse - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• The Swan House Reykjavík Apartments -Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Reykjavík Konsúlat Hótel - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Fosshótel Reykjavík - Pick up at Bus Stop 12- Höfðatorg
• Guesthouse Baldursbrá - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Chez Monique - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Fosshótel Rauðará - Pick Up at Bus Stop 13 - Rauðarárstígur
• OK Hotel – Pick up Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Baldursgata 39 - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Apotek Hotel - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Stay Apartments Einholt - Go To: Bus Stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• Reykjavik Natura - v/Hlíðarfót
• Stay Apartments Grettisgata - Go To: Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• Tower Suite Reykjavik - Katrínartún 2 101 - Pick up at Bus stop 12
• Inga's New Guest Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura
• Canopy Reykjavík | City Centre - Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• 3 Sisters Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel - Brautarholt 10-14
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll
• Reykjavík Marriott Edition Hotel - Pick up at Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Gray Tower - Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Centerhotel Laugavegur - Go to: Bus stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Oddsson Hotel - Grensásvegur 16a
• Centerhotel Klöpp - Pickup atBus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Gallery Central Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Hotel Reykjavík Saga - Pick up at Bus Stop 3 - Lækjargata
• Planet Apartments - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel - Pick up at Bus stop 3, Lækjargata
• Vintage hotel Apartments – Pick up Bus Stop 14 - Skúlagata
• Centerhotel Miðgarður - Go To: Bus stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• Reykjavik Marina - Go To: Bus Stop 15. Vesturbugt
• Orkan Gas Station, Grjótháls 9
• Bus stop 9. Snorrabraut
• Central Apartments -Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Room With A View –Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Hotel Vera- Pick up at Bus stop 9
• Guesthouse Snorri - Go To: Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• Hamraborg Bus station, Kópavogur
• Fosshótel Rauðará - Go To: Bus stop 13. Rauðarárstígur
• North Star Apartments - Pickup at Iceland Comfort Apartments Hamraborg
• Apartment K - Þingholtsstræti 2-4 - Go To: Bus stop 3. Lækjargata
• Centerhotel Laugavegur - Pickup at Bus Stop 9 - Snorrabraut
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll - Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Iceland Football Association (ONLY FOR VOLCANO TOUR)
• Loki 101 Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 8. Hallgrímskirkja
• Hótel Lotus - Álftamýri 7
• Bus Stop 4. Miðbakki Harbour
• Hótel Frón – Pick up Bus Stop 6 - The Culture House
• Bus stop 11 Austurbær (ONLY FOR VOLCANO TOUR)
• Atlantic Apartments and Rooms - Grensásvegur 14
• Luna Hotel Apartments - Grettisgata 53b - Go to: Bus stop 11. Austurbær
• Hotel Viking - Strandgötu 51
• Castle House Luxury Apartments -Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Baron's Hostel - Pick up at Bus stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Centerhotel Laugavegur
• Icelandair Hótel Reykjavík Natura - Hlíðarfæti
• Hótel Hilda - Go To: Bus stop 1. Ráðhúsið - City Hall
• Capital Inn - Suðurhlíð 35d
• The Swan House
• Alba Guesthouse - Pick Up at Bus Hostel
• Blue House B&B Iceland- PICK UP TIME: 10 MINUTES BEFORE departure time stated on your voucher!
• 4th Floor Hotel - Go To: Bus Stop 9. Snorrabraut
• 101 Skuggi Guesthouse - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Guesthouse Aurora - Pick up Bus Stop 8 - Hallgrímskirkja
• Black Tower - Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• Reykjavík4You Apartments Bergstaðastræti - Pickup at Bus Stop 1 - City Hall
• Apartment K – Laugavegur 46 – Go To: Bus stop 14, Skúlagata
• 27 Soley - Pick up at BSI Bus Terminal
• Central Guesthouse - Pick up Bus Stop 1 - City Hall

Tickets option

Activity languages, our recommendations in  golden circle.

TUI Golden Circle Tour

Tick off three of Iceland's must-see attractions on this full-day tour of the world-famous Golden Circle. First up is a trip to Thingvellir National Park, the perfect spot for a selfie amongst a backdrop of glistening lakes and forest. Then, you'll stop by Geysir to watch Europe's only erupting hot springs. You'll round the day off with a visit to one of the country's biggest waterfalls - Gullfoss.

Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon admission tickets with Kerid Volcanic Crater

Visit Iceland's Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon in one day with admission tickets included. Stop at the spectacular Kerid Volcanic Crater.

Golden Circle tour and Blue Lagoon admission

Book this Golden Circle tour with Blue Lagoon admission for a day full of excitement and relaxation taking in some of Iceland's most famous sights.

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Golden Circle tour and secret lagoon

Book this Golden Circle tour to see the best of Iceland's nature before enjoying a relaxing visit to the Secret Lagoon, a hidden geothermal hotspot.

Golden Circle tickets and tours

Golden Circle and farm visit small group tour

Join in an unforgettable expedition with a small group to explore the famous golden circle, including the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area and much more.

Golden Circle and Langjökull snowmobiling tour

Combine the Golden Circle tour with a one-hour snowmobile ride and enjoy an adventure of a lifetime. Admire Langjökull glacier, Þingvellir National Park and the geothermal area.

Tour of the Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater

Join the tour and visit the most iconic natural sights in Iceland in a single day.

Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon day tour

Enjoy a relaxing bath in the famous Secret Lagoon. See the magical nature of Iceland and admire geysers and waterfalls on the Golden Circle Tour.

Golden Circle full-day tour from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle tour shows you the best natural sights of Iceland. See the geysers, volcanic crater lakes, hot springs and waterfalls with an expert guide.

Small group Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour with admission ticket

Join this small group tour of the Golden Circle combined with a bathing experience in the Blue Lagoon for the ultimate Icelandic experience.

Golden Circle and snowmobile glacier tour

Explore the Golden Circle and then drive an ATV on the black beaches of Iceland.

Small group Golden Circle tour with Kerið crater and Friðheimar farm

Join this small group tour for a more intimate experience when exploring the Golden Circle's attractions and some of Iceland's best natural landmarks.

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Reviews  golden circle.

Our tour guide, Darren, was absolutely entertaining, knowledgeable and very easy to understand. He gave us very clear instructions on what to explore ...

Peccato per il clima freddo e la pioggia che non ci ha fatto godere a pieno un tour meraviglioso. Ma questo non è certo colpa dell' agenzia alla quale ...

Went to 5 places, our driver Sindri was great. It's an do our own kind of tour. The driver gives you so history about the places and you decide hiw fa ...

Our trip on the Golden Circle & the Kerid volcano Crater was fantastic. It was unfortunate that we couldn't visit the Blue Lagoon however it is anothe ...

Iceland Golden Circle Tours and Driving Tips

Home | Travel | Europe | Iceland | Iceland Golden Circle Tours and Driving Tips

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular routes in Iceland, a country we never get bored of visiting due to its incredible landscapes and northern lights.

We are lucky enough to be able to travel to the island every year to run our Iceland photo tours , and there isn’t a year where we don’t book a few days to drive the Golden Circle .

If you plan to visit Iceland, you shouldn’t miss the Golden Circle route . You can drive the Golden Circle yourself or take a Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik . There are a lot of very interesting stops on the Iceland’s Golden Circle, and once you complete the loop, you will have a general idea of how beautiful this country is.

In this guide to the Golden Circle, Iceland, I’m going to give you all the information you need to plan your tour to the Golden Circle . You will also find a Golden Circle Iceland map to help you find all the tourist attractions worth visiting.

Ready to plan your Iceland’s Golden Circle route ? In this article you will find:

• What is the Golden Circle of Iceland

Unmissable Iceland Golden Circle stops

• Best Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik

Tips for driving the Golden Circle in Iceland

• Best Iceland’s Golden Circle hotels

Best Golden Circle restaurants

Iceland Golden Circle map with stops

What is the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland. It is a road route of about 186 miles that starts from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and goes around the island. In fact, even though there are a lot of things to do in Reykjavik , most tourists decide to take a tour or rent a car to do the Golden Circle route in one or two days and thus discover the best that the Land of Fire and Ice has to offer.

It’s definitely one of the most beautiful tours from Reykjavik that you can take, and I recommend it, especially if you don’t have enough time to travel around the country. On the Golden Circle , you will find some of the most important natural wonders to see in Iceland : waterfalls, geysers, lakes, volcanoes, geothermal areas…

You can do the Golden Circle route in one day , although I recommend spending two days exploring the area thoroughly and staying overnight in one of the Golden Circle hotels that I will tell you about later. To explore it, you can rent a car or take one of the many tours to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik. Both options are good, although I prefer to drive the Golden Circle of Iceland Route to have more freedom and stop at each of the following tourist attractions of the Golden Circle when I feel like it.

There are a lot of unmissable Iceland Golden Circle stops , but if you only have one day, don’t worry. Of the 10 places to visit in the Golden Circle that you will find in our guide, the first 6 stops make the best Golden Circle 1-day itinerary.

In fact, all Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik include, at a minimum, the top 4 Golden Circle attractions you’ll see below.

1. Thingvellir National Park, a must-stop at the Golden Circle Route

The Thingvellir National Park is an essential Iceland Golden Circle stop . This is the area where you will have to spend the most time in the Golden Circle, at least a couple of hours, but it is very worth it.

It is 24 miles from Reykjavik and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. It’s undoubtedly one of the main tourist attractions of the Golden Circle and Iceland, because this is where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia separate. In addition, since these plates separate an average of one inch each year, you can currently walk through the Almannagjá , which is the rift where you can see the fractures that have occurred in the earth due to this separation.

One of the most popular activities in the Golden Circle is to snorkel in the Silfra fissure , where you can dive between two continents and explore the canyon walls, learn about the flora and fauna of the place, and go through Silfra Hall, the widest crack. If you are interested, I recommend you book this tour . Here, you can also visit the beautiful Silfra Cathedral.

In addition, in Almannagjá, you will see a cluster of rocks with a raised flag. This is “The Rock of Law,” where the first Icelandic and world parliament, Alþing , was set. It was founded there in 930 AD and gave its name to Thingvellir, the “esplanade of the assembly” in Icelandic. You can also enjoy Öxarárfoss waterfall , Pingvallavatn lake , and Thingvallakirkja , one of the first churches to be built in the country .

2. Gulfoss waterfall, the most popular Golden Circle waterfall

Gullfoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and one of the places to visit in the Golden Circle that you cannot miss.

This waterfall is also known as the Golden Waterfall and is located in the course of the mighty Hvítá river. When you get to it, it will give you the impression that the river disappears into the depths of the earth, as the flow continues practically perpendicular to the waterfall, creating a unique visual effect. This occurs because Gullfoss emerged after a crack in the Earth’s crust, creating an impressive waterfall that you won’t find anywhere else in Iceland.

If you look closely, you will see that there are actually three drops: a small one of 36 feet, a second of 69, and the third, the most impressive, of 104 feet, which crosses a canyon of about 230 feet. Without a doubt, an authentic wonder of nature that deserves to be among the most important Iceland Golden Circle stops .

The only downside to this place is that it’s excessively touristy and usually crowded. However, it is one of my favorite places to see Northern Lights in the Golden Circle of Iceland, and luckily, there is never anyone at night.

3. Geysir Hot Spring Area & Strokkur

The Haukadalur Valley , better known as the Valley of the Geysers or Geysir geothermal area , is the best area to discover Iceland’s great telluric force. Geysir, the geyser that gave the phenomenon its name, as it was the first geyser to be discovered, is here.

Unfortunately, it has been dormant for quite some time, so Strokkur , another geyser 0.3 miles from the previous one, has become the main point of interest in this area. I didn’t get a chance to see Geysir in action, but I assure you that Strokkur is fascinating, and it’s no wonder that even with his older brother inactive, this area is one of the most popular Golden Circle tourist attractions .

Strokkur launches, up to 100 feet high, steam and water jets at 200 ºF, not much compared to the 260 feet that Geysir eruptions used to reach. However, it’s still a place worth stopping in the Iceland Golden Circle . Also, eruptions happen every 5 or 10 minutes, so whenever you go, you can enjoy this show.

If you want to get a different view than the one from the base of Strokkur, there is a path that allows you to observe this geothermal phenomenon from above. My favorite time to visit is at sunrise.

4. Kerid Crater, one of the best things to see in the Golden Circle

Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice for places like Kerid Crater , another of the Golden Circle attractions that you have to visit. This crater stands out for its aquamarine lake, which forms an authentic natural masterpiece.

When you see it in person and view its perfect circular shape, reddish hues, the green moss that grows around it in summer, and the turquoise blue of the lake, it is impossible not to fall in love.

The crater is on a private property, and although you used to be able to visit it for free, the landowners now charge an entrance fee of ISK 400 (about $4). Not all tours include a stop at this crater, even though it is one of the most impressive places to visit in the Golden Circle. So if you are going to take a Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik , make sure you book a tour that stops there .

5. Bruarfoss, the most beautiful waterfall in the Golden Circle

A few years ago, Bruarfoss was one of the most popular stops on the Golden Circle, as it’s called the bluest waterfall in Iceland. However, the landowners, whose land you have to pass through to get to the waterfall, got tired of the hundreds of tourists who visited it every day on the Golden Circle Route and decided to close off access.

Luckily, you can still visit Bruarfoss, and, in fact, it’s one of the most important things to do in the Golden Circle for me. However, what previously consisted of a 5-minute walk now takes 45 minutes one-way, since you’ll have to walk upstream along the bank of the Brúará river. Still, it’s one of the most beautiful hikes in Iceland.

This means that not everyone who drives the Golden Circle of Iceland visits it, allowing those who consider it a must-see stop of the Golden Circle to enjoy it practically by themselves. It’s totally worth the walk, and you will also pass by two other very beautiful waterfalls on your way there.

Take into account that there is no signposting and it’s very easy to get lost, so I recommend downloading our tourist map of Iceland , where I have marked the route. In any case, don’t try to get to Bruarfoss in the rain or if it has rained recently, as a lot of mud usually forms and the terrain becomes very slippery. But if the conditions are favorable, it’s one of the essential stops on the Iceland Golden Circle.

6. The Secret Lagoon, a great thing to do in the Golden Circle

Relaxing in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon is one of my favorite things to do in the Golden Circle . Although it’s considered the oldest pool in Iceland, until a few years ago, it was only frequented by locals. But a farmer bought the land, in the heart of the Golden Circle, to equip it with new changing rooms and showers and popularize it among travelers. Nowadays it’s one of the most popular thermal pools in Iceland.

The thermal waters of the lagoon are between 100 and 104 ºF throughout the year, so, in winter, you don’t get cold, even if you are surrounded by snow. The views from the lake are mind-blowing, and you can even see a small geyser that erupts every 5 minutes from the water.

What I like most about this lagoon is that it isn’t overcrowded compared to Iceland’s Blue Lagoon , although you should book well in advance , as it’s very cheap and tickets sell out frequently.

I definitely recommend planning your visit to the Secret Lagoon to finish your Golden Circle route , since I assure you that you will leave these hot springs so relaxed, you’ll be unable to drive the Golden Circle.

7. Fontana Geothermal Baths, A must-visit in the Golden Circle

Didn’t manage to get a reservation at the Secret Lagoon? The Fontana Geothermal Baths is also a very good option and a stop that I recommend you do on your Golden Circle trip if you fancy relaxing.

7. Fontana Geothermal Baths, a must-visit in the Golden Circle

Its location is also excellent, between the Geysir geothermal area and Thingvellir National Park. So after a long day visiting some of the most important tourist attractions in the Golden Circle , you can take a little breather in this complex of natural geothermal waters .

From the facilities, you will have stunning views of Lake Laugarvatn . However, the resort is very modern and lacks the natural charm the Secret Lagoon or other Icelandic hot springs have. Still, if you don’t want to miss an essential thing to do in the Golden Circle (relaxing in one of its hot springs), you can book it here.

8. Langjökull Glacier, an interesting place to visit in the Golden Circle

The glacier Langjökull , with its 350 mi 2 , is the second-largest glacier in Iceland after Vatnajökull. This glacier is not always included among the main stops in the Golden Circle , although I think it is worth visiting if you have time.

To get to know it, you must take one of the tours that leave from the Gullfoss Waterfall cafe and cover the glacier on a snowmobile like this. From there, you will ride in a special snowmobile until you reach the glacier base camp, where your snowmobile will be waiting for you.

However, if you can afford it, it’s worth taking this tour, since you will visit the famous Langjökull ice cave , which, although it was built artificially in 2015, is quite shocking. The most interesting thing is that from inside, you can hear the sound of ice moving above your head.

In any case, whatever tour you choose, if you are doing the Golden Circle route in two days , touring the Landjokull Glacier is a great plan that I recommend doing the morning of your last day in the Golden Circle.

9. Sólheimar, the eco-village of Iceland

Sólheimar is not one of the most popular Golden Circle stops , although if you have time and you are going to do the route over several days, I recommend visiting it.

It is a sustainable eco-village in the heart of Iceland, and it’s actually the largest and oldest in Europe. According to registered data, 100 people live in this place and also work together. But what most caught my attention in this village is that they live off the grid and use only geothermal energy , making this place one of the most ecological places in the world . They also follow the sustainable philosophy in everything they do, from the care of their greenhouses to the construction of schools and other buildings.

If I recommend you include this place among the Golden Circle attractions that you should visit, it’s because you should see that it’s possible to live a life that’s respectful of the environment and the planet in general. A visit that will certainly give you food for thought.

10. Skálholt, a historical place to visit in the Golden Circle

Skálholt is my last recommendation for points of interest to visit in the Golden Circle . It’s a very brief but interesting historical Golden Circle stop.

In this town is Skálholt Cathedral , which was built between 1956 and 1963 and played a fundamental role in the Christianization of Iceland.

In addition to the church, the town of Skálholt is known for having been a cultural and political center during the Middle Ages. The first school was built here.

Currently, in addition to the cathedral, only a few small houses remain, although at one point in history, it was the most populous city in Iceland. If you like history and want to know more about the island, it’s a stop you cannot miss on the Golden Circle .

Best Golden Circle Tours from Reykjavik

Not driving shouldn’t be a reason not to visit Iceland’s Golden Circle , especially considering the number of tours to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik and how varied they are.

Visiting Iceland without a car is possible, since numerous tours depart from the capital to all the tourist attractions of the island and especially to the Golden Circle of Iceland,.

I advise you to book your tour to the Golden Circle of Iceland as soon as you know the dates of your trip, since, being so popular, the best tours fill up right away. Specifically, you will need to book in advance if you are interested in the best Golden Circle tours below:

1. Cheap Iceland Golden Circle tour

If you want to do the basic Icelandic Golden Circle route , I recommend this tour , since you will spend the day visiting the highlights of the Golden Circle at the best price. In fact, this tour is considered the cheapest Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik .

During the tour, which lasts approximately 8 hours, you will visit the Geysir geothermal area , the impressive Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir). Also, this is one of the few tours that stop at Kerid Crater . Without a doubt, one of the best Golden Circle full-day tours to take if you are on a budget.

• Highlights : Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Kerid Crater.
• Duration : 8 hours.
• Price : $57.20 ( check availability )
• Description : Enjoy the main Golden Circle stops and some of the most beautiful Icelandic landscapes, among which there is no shortage of geysers, waterfalls, and volcanoes.

2. Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour

The Blue Lagoon , along with the wonders of the Golden Circle, is one of the most distinctive places to visit in Iceland. In fact, it isn’t uncommon to hear the question: Is the Blue Lagoon in the Golden Circle? Although it’s relatively close, the Blue Lagoon is not in the Golden Circle, although there are plenty of Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle combo tours. Of all of them, this small group tour with tickets included is undoubtedly the best option and the best way to visit the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon in one day .

You will visit Thingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , Kerid crater , and the Blue Lagoon , where you can enjoy a relaxing bath. I advise you to bring swimwear to bathe in the lagoon so you don’t have to rent it there. What the ticket does include are towels, soap, and shampoo. You can check our guide to the Blue Lagoon here.

• Highlights : Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Kerid Crater, and the Blue Lagoon.
• Duration : 11 hours.
• Price : $229.16 ( check availability )
• Description : Get to know some of best points of interest in the Golden Circle and relax in the Blue Lagoon. The price includes entrance to the Kerid crater and to the Blue Lagoon. It doesn’t include swimsuit rental, but it does include towels, soap, and shampoo.

3. Small group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon is the oldest hot spring pool in Iceland, so it’s worth visiting and taking a dip in it. In addition, it’s a good option if you want to relax in one of the many hot springs that are in Iceland, but you don’t feel like going to the Blue Lagoon because it is too touristy.

It’s also a good option if you think the extra cost of visiting The Blue Lagoon isn’t worth it, since taking a tour of the Golden Circle with access to the Secret Lagoon will be much cheaper and much more original in my opinion.

With this tour that departs from Reykjavik , in addition to enjoying this beautiful lagoon, you will also discover some of the most distinctive Golden Circle stops, such as the Geysir geothermal area , Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park .

They will give you an hour and a half to take a relaxing bath in the Secret Lagoon and then, you will visit the most popular places to visit in the Golden Circle. This is undoubtedly the best small group Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour .

• Highlights : Secret Lagoon, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
• Duration : 10 hours.
• Price : $91.59 ( check availability )
• Description : This tour includes the entrance to the Secret Lagoon for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Then you will visit the Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Thingvellir National Park.

4. Golden Circle & Snorkeling in Silfra Combo Tour

Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure is a unique experience and a different thing to do in the Golden Circle that is increasingly popular. The intensely blue water of the glaciers reaches the Silfra fissure, filling it and forming a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet.

To visit it, I recommend this tour , since it includes underwater photographs taken while diving in what is considered one of the most spectacular sites in the world, the Silfra fissure , in Thingvellir National Park.

In addition, you will also visit the most distinctive stops of the Golden Circle , such as Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area . Definitely a good way to get to know the Golden Circle of Iceland with a tour from Reykjavik .

• Highlights : Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Price : $206.34 ( check availability )
• Description : Snorkel in the Silfra fissure and see some of the Golden Circle’s attractions, such as Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. The tour includes a guide and the necessary equipment to dive in Silfra, free photos during the tour, and hot drinks and cookies at the end of the trip.

5. Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobiling tour

If you are looking for a Golden Circle full-day tour that includes a snowmobile ride on the imposing Langjoekull glacier, I recommend this tour.

You will be picked up at your hotel in Reykjavik first thing in the morning to begin your Golden Circle of Iceland Route. Once there, you will visit Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area , and Gullfoss waterfall.

At Gullfoss, you will get aboard a custom-made super truck to reach the Langjökull glacier base camp, where you can explore the glacier in the best possible way, on a snowmobile.

I haven’t been able to do this tour yet, but I will book a day on my next trip to Iceland to do it, since I can’t think of a more fun way to do Iceland’s Golden Circle Route.

Going over ice and snowfields at full speed and discovering landscapes that only a few people have seen is one of the best things to do in the Golden Circle .

• Highlights : Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Snowmobile Tour of the Langjökull Glacier.
• Price : $249.90 ( check availability )
• Description : Get to know Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and tour the Langjökull glacier on a snowmobile. The tour includes all tickets, the snowmobile trip (2 people per vehicle), and the necessary equipment to carry out this activity. It also includes an audio guide that is available in 10 languages.

6. Golden Circle and Northern Light Tour

Seeing northern lights is one of the best experiences you can have in this country, so I advise you to take a look at our guide on how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, and if you travel from September to April, don’t miss them.

Although there are plenty of Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik, if you’re interested in touring Iceland’s Golden Circle as well, you can save some money by combining these two tours and doing them on the same day.

Of all the Golden Circle and Northern Lights combo tours , this is the one I recommend . In the morning, you will visit the main tourist sites of the Golden Circle, such as Thingvellir National Park , Strokkur , Gullfoss waterfall , and Kerid crater, and you will end the day enjoying the magic of the Northern Lights . This is certainly one of the best excursions to the Golden Circle of Iceland if you have never seen the northern lights before.

• Highlights: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, Kerid crater, and northern lights tour.
• Duration: 9 hours.
• Price: $91.20 ( check availability )
• Description: With this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit four essential places on the Golden Circle: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall and Kerid crater. In addition, you will go on a northern lights hunt with a guide.

7. Iceland’s Golden Circle & Whale Watching Full-Day Tour

Whale watching in Iceland is one of the best things you can do on the island, and you can combine it with a Golden Circle tour to do both excursions on the same day and save time and money.

This tour is my favorite , and it’s divided into two parts. In the early morning, you will take a boat from Reykjavik to see humpback whales, porpoises, and dolphins, which are the species that are usually in the area. Later, in the afternoon, you will visit some of the main tourist attractions of the Golden Circle , such as Þingvellir National Park , where you will see Alþingi, the first parliament in the world; Gullfoss waterfall; and the Geysir and Strokkur geothermal area . You will also pass through Hveragerði before returning to Reykjavik.

The truth is that I consider this tour of the Golden Circle from Reykjavik an excellent option if you are short on time and don’t want to leave Iceland without seeing whales. However, I think it is better to dedicate a day to seeing whales and exploring Reykjavik and another day to doing the Golden Circle of Iceland route combined with some other activities (Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Snorkeling in Silfra, snowmobile excursion on the Langjoekull glacier or Northern Lights).

• Highlights : Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Strokkur, Hveragerði, and whale watching tour.
• Price : $181.12 ( check availability )
• Description : You will take a whale watching tour in the morning. Then, you’ll visit some of the main points of interest on the Golden Circle, such as Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir and Strokkur geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the town of Hveragerði.

8. Rafting in the Golden Circle

If you travel to Iceland in summer, you won’t be able to see the northern lights, but there are other highly recommended activities that you can only do during this time of year. For example, rafting in the Golden Circle . Specifically in the Hvítá River, which is a beautiful light blue color.

This is the same river that runs down the Gullfoss waterfall, although don’t worry, rafting is done downstream of the waterfall. On this tour , after

discovering the walls of the beautiful Brúarhlöð canyon and jumping into the water from one of its cliffs, you can relax in a sauna before visiting the most interesting stops of the Golden Circle of Iceland: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir.

Please note that this is not a tour to Iceland’s Golden Circle that is suitable for everyone. Children under the age of 11 cannot go on it, since, although you have guides that take care of your safety, it’s still an extreme sport, so I also advise you to buy the best travel insurance .

• Highlights : Hvítá River, Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir National Park.
• Price : $ 158.20 ( check availability )
• Description : you will raft in the Hvítá river and then relax in a sauna. After lunch, you will do the Golden Circle route and see Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and end in Thingvellir National Park before returning to Reykjavik.

9. Golden Circle and South Iceland tour

As I mentioned, the best thing is to spend one or two days doing the Golden Circle route, but if you don’t have enough time, I recommend taking the opportunity to see the best of Iceland in just 11 hours: the Golden Circle and South Iceland in a day .

I only recommend this tour if you are going to spend a single day in Iceland. If you have more time, spend at least one day in each of these areas. But if you are making a stopover or just don’t have time to see everything you would like to see, this tour concentrates the best of Iceland into the shortest time possible.

You will head towards the South of Iceland very early in the morning, where you will see the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, the Solheimajökull glacier, the black beach of Sólheimasandur , and, finally, the beautiful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls before starting your Iceland Golden Circle route .

In the afternoon, you will visit the most interesting points on the Golden Circle, Gullfoss , Geysir , and Thingvellir , to then return to Reykjavik in record time after enjoying the best of Iceland in one day. The tour is not cheap, but as the saying goes, time is money and you cannot leave Iceland without touring the Golden Circle.

• Highlights : South Iceland (Eyjafjallajökull, Solheimajokull, Sólheimasandur, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss) and Golden Circle (Gullfoss, Geysir and Thingvellir).
• Price : $355 ( check availability )
• Description : The most complete tour you can do in Iceland in a day, where you will visit the most important attractions in both South Iceland and the Golden Circle, including the black sand beach of Iceland, the popular waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir.

10. Golden Circle Helicopter tour

The Golden Circle helicopter tour is a good option if you have even less time, or if you are passionate about photography and nature like us.

From the air, the Golden Circle looks different, and the views you get from taking this tour are just magical. There is no better way to see the wonders of the Golden Circle route hides.

You will get spectacular aerial views of such remarkable places as Gullfoss waterfall and the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur. You will also enjoy incredible volcanic landscapes of lava and ice. You will also see the Langjokull glacier from above and get views of spectacular glacial lakes.

You can know more about the Iceland helicopter tour we took in this article.

• Highlights : Gullfoss waterfall, Glymur waterfall, Langjökull glacier, and other places. Aerial view.
• Duration : 180 minutes.
• Price : $ 1100 ( check availability )
• Description : You will fly over the Golden Circle and see the main places of interest from a bird’s eye view, including Gullfoss waterfall, Glymur waterfall, and the Langjökull glacier .

If you are planning a Golden Circle road trip so you don’t depend on buses or have pre-established schedules or stops, I advise you to take a look at our guide on how to get cheap rental cars and our article on best tips for driving in Iceland. For me, this is one of the best ways to get to know a country like Iceland, where each curve presents a new opportunity for you to admire the views.

In general, driving in Iceland is not dangerous, although I recommend always checking the state of the roads on Road.is , especially in winter. If you decide to drive the Golden Circle , my recommendation is that you first check that all the roads you are going to drive are in good condition and that you can make the most of daylight hours.

If you are wondering how much time you need to drive the Golden Circle , I can assure you that you can do the entire loop in one day. However, if you want to stop at each of the tourist attractions of the Golden Circle , I advise you to spend at least two days on it. That way, you will drive during the day, and at night, you can stay in one of the Golden Circle hotels that I will recommend later.

What kind of car do you need to drive the Golden Circle?

If you decide to drive the Golden Circle, Iceland, you have to know that the roads that make it up, although narrow, are perfectly paved, so you can drive any type of vehicle.

If you plan to drive on an F-road, you will need a 4wd, but these roads are located in the Highlands of Iceland. If you do the basic Golden Circle route, you won’t go on any unpaved roads. In any case, if you are going to drive the Golden Circle of Iceland in winter, remember that a 4×4 car will always be safer.

However, take into account that gas is quite expensive in Iceland, so you may want to look for a fuel-efficient vehicle when renting a car for the Golden Circle if you’re traveling on a budget.

How to drive the Golden Circle in Iceland

The best way to drive the Golden Circle is clockwise, that is, visiting Thingvellir first, where you will need to spend the most time, then going to the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall, and, finally, making a short stop at Kerid crater before returning to Reykjavik.

If you are going to drive the Golden Circle in two days , do it the same way and stay in one of the hotels of the Golden Circle near Strokkur. You’ll be able to see the sunrise from this geyser and take some of the excursions that depart this area the next day, such as the Langjökull glacier tour or rafting down the Hvítá river, in addition to visiting Gullfoss and the Kerid Crater.

Is Driving the Golden Circle dangerous?

I do not consider driving the Golden Circle of Iceland dangerous . The roads on this route are paved, and the journey can be done with any type of vehicle. Of course, I always advise driving at a reasonable speed, regardless of the time of year, and checking the condition of the roads and the weather before leaving.

If you visit Iceland at off-peak times, you won’t find any traffic, so it will be quite comfortable to drive through the Golden Circle. But if you travel during peak tourist season, both the parking lots and the roads themselves may be somewhat crowded. This doesn’t mean that driving the Golden Circle is dangerous , just that you have to be more cautious because the roads are narrow.

As you can see, driving the Golden Circle is quite safe if you do it at the right speed.

Driving the Golden Circle in Winter

If you’re going to drive the Golden Circle in winter, you must check the weather forecast and the state of roads in Road.is before leaving. If there is a severe storm or snow forecast, stay in your hotel. The wind in Iceland can also be quite dangerous if you’re driving.

Even if you think there is good visibility, always keep your lights on, and don’t drive at the maximum speed of 90 km/h (55 mph) on paved roads. You should drive slower in case there is “black ice”, which you won’t be able to see with the naked eye but could be very dangerous when driving the Golden Circle or anywhere else in Iceland.

Even if you are not going to drive on any F-roads, renting a 4×4 to tour the Golden Circle in winter is the most sensible choice. By this, I mean that you can drive around the Golden Circle in winter with no problems, but a 4wd car will make your route much safer .

Best Iceland’s Golden Circle hotels

If you can spend more than one day visiting the Golden Circle and are looking for hotels to stay in the Golden Circle , then you will find the best accommodations in this section. That way, you can do the Golden Circle tour at your leisure and enjoying all its wonders. Of course, I advise you to book early, especially if you are going to travel during peak toursit season.

1. Hotel Grimsborgir – Your Golden Circle Retreat

The Hotel Grimsborgir is one of the best hotels in the Golden Circle , although I have to admit that it’s pretty pricey. It is 10 minutes from Kerid Crater and half an hour from Thingvellir, so its location is excellent.

The best thing about the hotel is that they have hydromassage bathtubs with views of the sky and the mountains, which you’ll especially appreciate after a long day touring the Golden Circle because being able to relax with good views is a luxury. And best of all, if there are northern lights that night, the hotel has a wake-up service so you can see them. This also makes it one of the best hotels to see Northern Lights in Iceland .

It also has quite a good restaurant and a buffet breakfast that is a real wonder. So overall, I consider this to be the best Golden Circle hotel if you can afford it.

2. Litli Geysir Hotel

We stayed one night at the Litli Geyser hotel on one of our last trips and we saw one of the most beautiful sunrises of the year there. Also, its location is excellent, just 600 feet from the Geysir geothermal area and a 10-minute drive from Gullfoss waterfall.

Although we didn’t book them, the hotel runs quite interesting excursions and activities in the area. It also has a restaurant and free parking for guests. It’s a hotel in the Golden Circle without too many luxuries, but is a very good option for its location.

3. Hotel Gullfoss

If you are on a tight budget, I recommend staying at the Gullfoss Hotel . Don’t let its price fool you; the hotel is very well located, as it’s a 10-minute drive from Strokkur, 35 minutes from Thingvellir National Park, and just 5 minutes from Gullfoss waterfall. So it’s another excellent option if you are looking for well-located hotels in the Golden Circle .

The rooms are very well equipped, and the restaurant serves traditional Icelandic dishes with lamb and seafood. The only drawback is that, due to its good price, you will have to book many months in advance if you want to find a free room.

4. Guesthouse Fludir – Grund

At Guesthouse Fludir you can choose between a room with a private bathroom or a shared bathroom. It’s a good option if you are looking for something cheap or traveling in a group, since they have up to two-bedroom apartments.

The location is very good, since it’s a 20-minute drive from Gullfoss and Geysir and 0.6 miles from the Secret Lagoon. In addition to providing free parking, this accommodation has a restaurant, and it’s a good option to stay in the Golden Circle for groups .

Regardless of how many days you’re going to spend in the Golden Circle of Iceland , you will have no problems with meals, since there are numerous restaurants along the way and some of them are very good.

Efstidalur Farm , which is also a hotel and ice cream parlor, is one of my favorite ones. Here, you can taste a wide variety of Icelandic dishes, which are always made with local products and by real chefs. In addition, they have plenty of vegetarian options. The restaurant is located in Laugarvatn, making it ideal for having lunch between Thingvellir and Geysir and Gullfoss. In fact, it’s the restaurant in the Golden Circle where we stop every year during our photo tours.

Another recommendation is the Geysir Restaurant , which is the restaurant of the hotel I have recommended in front of Strokkur, the Litli Geyser hotel . It has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, which makes it a very good place to stop. On the menu, you will find everything from light meals to more hearty ones with seafood or meat. All the products they use are local, and it’s one of the Golden Circle restaurants that I am sure you will like.

And my last recommendation is the Gullfoss Kaffi , a cafe and restaurant in the Golden Circle located a few feet from the waterfall. This is another of the places to eat in the Golden Circle of Iceland where we stop every year. There is certainly nothing like their soup to warm you up, especially in winter. They also have vegetarian options and even group menus .

If you want to find the main attractions of the Golden Circle, there is nothing better than a map. You’ll find a very visual map of the Golden Circle below where you can quickly locate the main tourist attractions. In this way, you can plan your Golden Circle itinerary quickly.

But if in addition to the Golden Circle, you want to visit other places in this beautiful country, download our tourist maps of Iceland , where you will find everything you need, including the Iceland Golden Circle map with stops.

Iceland Golden Circle FAQs

To finish, here are some frequently asked questions about the Golden Circle of Iceland in case there is still something that we haven’t covered in this guide.

The Golden Circle is one of  the most popular routes in Iceland .

Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle departs from  Reykjavik , the capital of Iceland, which is located in the southwest of the island, and goes inland.

How far is the Golden Circle from Reykjavik?

The Golden Circle  begins right after leaving Reykjavik  and runs for 200 miles.

Is the Golden Circle worth it?

The Golden Circle is very worthwhile, since, in a very short time, you can get to know the best of Iceland. It’s ideal to get an idea of ​​the type of landscapes and places you can find in the country. If you have very little time and you can’t visit other areas of Iceland, it is worth doing the Golden Circle of Iceland Route, but even if you have more time, you should still do it.

What are the stops on the Golden Circle?

The must-see Golden Circle stops are  Thingvellir  National Park , Geysir  Geothermal Area ,  Gullfoss  Waterfall ,  and  Kerid  Crater .

When should you visit the Golden Circle?

The route can be done at  any time of the year . If you are going to do the Golden Circle Route in winter, it is safer to drive a 4×4 car, but it is not mandatory.

How long is the Golden Circle?

The total route of the Golden Circle is about  190 miles .  However, there are some stops outside the basic Golden Circle itinerary that may extend the tour.

How long does it take to do the Golden Circle?

You will need at least one day to  visit the Golden Circle ,  although it’s recommended to spend two days on this route.

Can you drive the Golden Circle yourself?

roads are paved, and although they are narrow, they aren’t dangerous if you check the weather and road conditions on Road.is before you drive.

Do you need a 4x4 car to drive the Golden Circle?

Unless you head to the Highlands and take an F- road ,  a 4wd car is not necessary .  However, it may be advisable to rent a 4×4 car to tour the Golden Circle in winter.

Can you drive the Golden Circle in winter?

Yes , you can drive the Golden Circle in winter, as long as you check the weather and road conditions on Road.is .  If you want to drive the Golden Circle in winter in a safer way, renting a 4wd is a good decision.

Is the Golden Circle free?

The Golden Circle route is free , but there are places where you must pay an entrance fee, such as in the Kerid Crater.

Is the Blue Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?

No , the Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle, since it’s located more to the southwest, on the Reykjanes peninsula. However, the Blue Lagoon is close to the Golden Circle, so they can be visited on the same day.

If you have any questions when planning your Golden Circle road trip , leave a comment and we will be happy to help you.

Whether you are going to take a Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik or you are going to drive the Golden Circle on your own, I hope you have a very good trip.

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ Iceland Golden Circle Tours and Driving Tips ”

Hello, What about Nesjavellir view point, in Gloden Circle?

Hi Jose Antonio, It’s not part of the Golden Circle, but you could make a detour to see the Nesjavellir viewpoint after visiting the Þingvellir Church. After seeing the viewpoint, you can head back to the Golden Circle route and continue on your way to Reykjavik.

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The Golden Circle

Golden circle iceland, geysir, gullfoss and thingvellir.

The Golden Circle is by far Iceland's most famous attraction. A short drive from the capital city, you see the most stunning sights at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall - all in one day!

Reykjavik Excursions offers a great selection of Golden Circle tours with extra options to please every traveller, such as a visit to Friðheimar greenhouse, a snowmobile ride on Langjökull glacier, horseback riding, a relaxing visit to Fontana Geothermal Spa, and much more. Find your Golden Circle tour from the list below.

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Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobiling

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Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Detailed Guide, Itinerary and Map for Your Trip!

Last updated: September 12, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 11 Comments

One of the most popular scenic routes in Iceland is the Golden Circle. This is a fantastic introduction to the country, and it lets you see many of the natural wonders that Iceland has to offer.

These include waterfalls, geothermal activity, spas, volcano craters and even a UNESCO world heritage site!

Even better, Iceland’s Golden Circle is an easy day trip from Reykjavik , making it accessible even if you’re on a short trip to Iceland.

In this post, we’re going to share with everything you need to know about Iceland’s Golden Circle, based on our time travelling in the country in both summer and winter.

This post includes what to see on the Golden Circle, the best ways to travel around the Golden Circle, other nearby attractions and lots more besides! Let’s get straight into it.

Table of Contents:

What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle is a circular route in southern Iceland that stretches for around 300 km / 186 miles and starts and ends in Reykjavik.

The route is popular, either as a day trip from the city, or as a precursor to exploring Iceland’s south coast. Often, instead of returning to the city, travellers continue along the south coast and then on around Iceland’s Ring Road .

The popularity is largely down to the easy accessibility of the route from the capital, and the fact that many of Iceland’s top attractions can be found along the route. We definitely recommend the Golden Circle to anyone visiting Iceland.

Why is it called the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle gets its name from Gullfoss, one of the major waterfalls on the route. Gullfoss means Golden Falls in Icelandic. The circle part of the name is simply down to the route that you follow being roughly circular.

The name is also a clever bit of marketing as it sounds pretty cool. In the north of Iceland you can also find the Diamond Circle, another circular driving route which visits a number of popular attractions.

How Long Does it Take to Drive the Golden Circle?

The total driving time for the Golden Circle is just under four hours if you start and end in Reykjavik. Of course, this doesn’t include any stopping time or sightseeing.

For most visitors to Iceland, the Golden Circle is done either as a full day trip or a half day trip from Reykjavik, and we suggest allocating between 6 and 10 hours to the circuit.

Can I do the Golden Circle as a Day Tour from Reykjavik?

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular day tours from Reykjavik, so yes, you absolutely can.

We recommend some more tours at the end of the post, but here are a few quick examples to give you an idea of what’s available.

• An 8 hour tour of the Golden Circle which includes the major highlights plus Kerid Crater.
• A full day tour of all the highlights of the Golden Circle , which includes the option to visit the Blue Lagoon as well.
• A private full day tour of the Golden Circle which includes all the highlights as well as Kerid Crater, Faxi waterfall, and time for ice cream at Efstidalur II.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of choice, whether you want a private tour or a group tour.

When to Visit Iceland’s Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle can be visited year round. Most of the attractions here are open year-round and the roads are open and well-maintained in both summer and winter.

It’s also one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, meaning it can get quite busy.

Most of the tours from Reykjavik depart in the morning between 8am and 10am. Some half-day tours also depart in the afternoon, between midday and 2pm. The majority of all the tours are back in Reykjavik in the early evening.

The three most popular stops for tours are of course the highlights, which are Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Expect these locations to be busy from 10am until 6pm. In winter, due to the reduced hours of daylight, these locations will likely be busy from 10am until around 4pm.

If you want to avoid the crowds on the Golden Circle, the best option is to drive yourself, and to visit outside of the busy times. If you are visiting Iceland in summer, you will have almost unlimited hours of daylight at your disposal, so if you toured the highlights before 9am or after 6pm, you are likely to be visiting with fewer people.

However, we would say that you shouldn’t let the possibility of crowds put you off. The attractions are all fairly large with plenty of space, and are all worth seeing even if they are a bit busy when you visit.

Highlights of the Golden Circle in Iceland

The Golden Circle has three major highlights that you should visit, as well as a number of other attractions. We’re going to go through the three major highlights in the order you might visit them, and then share an example itinerary for visiting the Golden Circle.

Almost all Golden Circle day tours will include all three of these sites.

Þingvellir National Park

The first attraction you will come to on the Golden Circle, assuming you are driving it in a clockwise direction, is Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir in English).

This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and was Iceland’s first national park. It’s important from both a cultural point of view, and also from a geological point of view.

Suffice to say, you won’t want to skip it!

Thingvellir was the location for Iceland’s first parliament, known as the Althing, which first met on this site in 930 AD. This was around fifty years after Iceland was first settled. Thingvellir continued to be used as the parliament’s meeting location until 1798.

Thingvellir was chosen as the location for the parliament as it was deemed to be relatively easy to reach from all the different regions of Iceland. Parliamentary meetings were held over the warmer summer months, and it was a major focal point for the Icelandic people.

Laws were passed, judicial hearings took place, and the basis for Iceland’s present day cultural roots and heritage were essentially formed.

This would make Thingvellir National Park worth visiting alone, but there’s more to see here.

As you may know, Iceland sits right on the middle of two continental plates, the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate. These plates are slowly drifting apart from each other, and Thingvellir is found in the rift valley of these two plates.

This means that you can see and even walk in the cracks that have opened up in the earth as these massive plates move apart from each other. You can even go snorkelling or diving in these fissures , for a truly unique experience.

Fans of Game of Thrones will also be excited to visit Thingvellir, as a number of scenes from the show were filmed in the park.

Most recognisably, the so called Bloody Gate, which forms a part of the path to the Eyrie, was filmed here for Season 4 of the show. More on this, and lots more other locations for the show, in our guide to Game of Thrones locations in Iceland .

Thingvellir National Park is also home to a lovely waterfall, Oxararfoss. This is a ten minute walk from the parking lot, and is a gorgeous waterfall that is well worth the visit.

As you can see, there is plenty to see and do at Thingvellir, so expect to spend at least an hour to 90 minutes here. There are also more walking trails and sights to see if you want to extend your visit.

Visiting Thingvellir is free, however if you are driving yourself there is a small parking charge. This is valid for all the parking lots for the day, and payment is accepted by credit or debit card. Read more on the fees and how to pay here .

Haukadalur Geothermal Field

The next major highlight after Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle is the Haukadalur Geothermal Field,  also referred to as the Geysir Geothermal Area.

This is around an hours drive from Thingvellir, and is home to a range of geothermal wonders. These include mud pots, fumaroles and hot springs, as well as two of Iceland’s most famous geysers – Strokkur and Geysir.

Geysir (the name means “to gush”) is where our modern day word geyser comes from, and Geysir was the first geyser ever to be described in print.

If you want to see geothermal activity in Iceland, then the Haukadalur Geothermal field is a must-stop on the Golden Circle.

The two main geysers are Strokkur and Geysir. Of late, Geysir has been fairly dormant, although as he’s believed to have been erupting for at least 10,000 years, we think taking a break from time to time is only natural. When he does go off though it’s spectacular, with eruptions of boiling water and steam reaching over 400ft.

The good news though is that Strokkur, which is around fifty metres from Geysir, is far more reliable, usually erupting every five to ten minutes. This eruption is not quite as big as Geysir, generally averaging around 50ft in height, but it is still very impressive.

It’s free to visit Haukadalur Geothermal Field, and there’s free parking on site too.

Just be aware that this is an active geothermal area with thousands of gallons of boiling water pouring out of the ground, so take care when visiting and stay to the marked paths. Keep a close watch on children.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The last of the three major highlights of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss, which means golden falls, is where the name of the Golden Circle comes from.

Gullfoss is a truly spectacular waterfall, and is one of our favourite waterfalls in Iceland .

The waterfall, which is on the Hvítá river, is found around ten minutes drive from Haukadalur. There are two main parking areas which offer different views of the falls, one at a lower elevation, and one at a higher elevation.

The views from both locations are worth seeing, and a set of steps links the two. It’s also possible to walk along the edge of the river above the falls for different views.

The falls themselves are across two stages, with the first around 36 feet in height, and the second around 70 feet in height. Before these stages there’s a wide three-step drop that spans the width of the river. The falls are impressive due to their large volume of water, with approximately 4,900 cubic feet of water passing over the falls each second in summer.

Gullfoss is beautiful in both summer and winter. In summer, it’s surrounded by lush green vegetation, and there’s a good chance of seeing rainbows in the spray if you visit in the afternoon, as we did. In the winter, it’s a whole different scene, with snow covered landscapes stretching off into the distance.

The Falls have a visitor centre, shop, and cafe on site. It is free to visit and park here.

As well as being an impressive sight in of itself, Gulfoss is also the starting point for a number of experiences that many visitors to Iceland are interested in doing.

For example, you can book a tour to an ice cave and glacier , or you can take a snowmobiling tour on a glacier . These are seasonal tours, but might be worth considering if these activities are on your wishlist.

Other Attractions On or Near the Golden Circle

As well as the three major attractions along the Golden Circle, there are a number of other stops that you might consider. Some tours will include some of these locations, whilst others will require you to drive your own car, and even to do a short hike.

These attractions are listed in the order that you would encounter them if you depart from Reykjavik and drive the Golden Circle in a clockwise direction. Some of them do require taking a small detour from the main Golden Circle route.

þórufoss, or Thorufoss, is just a five minute detour from the Golden Circle route, and we think is a detour that is very much worth doing.

The waterfall is just off Route 48, and there’s a small parking lot off the road. Note that you can’t see the falls from the roads, and there’s not much in the way of a sign, meaning many visitors miss it.

From the small parking area, it’s a five minute walk across flat ground to a viewpoint, where you can see the falls. You can also descend down the fairly steep path to the pool at the base if you are so inclined, but we thought the view was just fine from the viewing area.

The falls are not huge, but they are very picturesque. They have around a 54ft drop and are around 100 ft wide. They were also used as a Game of Thrones filming location . A good stop if you have an extra 15 minutes or so.

Laugarvatn Fontana

When you visit Iceland, the chances are high that you will want to take a soak in some sort of geothermal spring. Iceland has no shortage of these, from the famous Blue Lagoon , to hot rivers, and everything in between.

On (or near) the Golden Circle, there are at least three places for you to stop off for a refreshing soak, and the first of these is Laugarvatn Fontana .

The natural geothermal springs here have been a popular attraction since 1929. There are a series of experiences you can have here, including steam rooms, and warm pools that overlook the lake. There’s also a hot tub and sauna.

Those of you feeling brave can even take a refreshing dip in the lake itself, which is accessible from the bathing area.

Another reason to visit Laugarvatn Fontana, even if you aren’t planning on using their spa facilities, is for their famous lava bread. They bake their own bread using geothermal heat (a process that takes around 24 hours) and the end result is delicious.

Laugarvatn Fontana is in the town of Laugarvatn, which is on the Golden Circle between Thingvellir National Park and Haukadalur Geothermal Field. There’s free parking on site, but entry to the spa itself does have a fee, which you can see on their website here .

Towels are available for hire, so we recommend packing a travel towel like this to save on that fee.

They also have a nice on-site cafe which serves traditional Icelandic fare and snacks, including that delicious lava bread.

If you’re looking for a tour that includes time at Laugarvatn Fontana, this is a good option .

Faxi (also known as Vatnsleysufoss) is another beautiful waterfall on the Golden Circle, found on the Tungufljót river. It’s not a very high waterfall at around 22 ft, but it is 300ft wide, and is unusual enough to warrant a visit we think.

You can either view the falls from the road above them, or drive down to the parking lot at the base. It’s a popular place for salmon fishing, so expect to see fishermen during the fishing season.

The falls are around a five minute detour off the Golden Circle route, and if you have the time are worth visiting for some photos. There’s also a restaurant on-site here, Vid Faxa, which offers meals with nice views.

This private tour includes a stop at Faxi.

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring

The Secret Lagoon Hot Spring is the second of the geothermal baths you can visit whilst travelling the Golden Circle. Despite the name, it must be said that the secret is definitely out on this one.

The Secret Lagoon dates from 1891, making it the oldest man-made swimming pool in the country. However, it fell into disuse until around 2005, when the present owner started to use it himself as a private pool, and hence it got its name.

Today the pool is open to all for a fee, and offers a lovely bathing experience. It’s part of a larger geothermal area, so you can also see a baby geyser (Litli Geysir) as well as boiling pools.

It’s around a 10 minute detour from the main Golden Circle route to get to the Secret Lagoon, which is found in the town of Flúðir. There’s a fee to use it, and you can opening hours and prices on the official website here . You can also buy your tickets in advance online here .

Your entry ticket includes access to the segregated changing rooms, lockers and showers. Towel and swimsuit hire is available as an extra charge, so we recommend bringing your own .

Note that in Iceland it is required to shower fully naked prior to bathing, and whilst the changing rooms and showers are normally segregated, there are not usually private shower cubicles. So do keep this in mind prior to booking any spa experience.

The Secret Lagoon can be visited on a self-drive trip.

Kerið Crater

Kerið Crater, also called Kerid Crater, is a lovely volcano crater and crater lake just off the Golden Circle as you return to Reykjavik.

The crater is one of the best examples of its type in Iceland. It only formed around 3,000 years ago, so weathering and erosion have not had too great an impact, meaning it’s very visually recognisable.

When you visit, you have the option of walking around the crater, and you can also descend the approximately 200 feet down to the lake itself if you wish. It’s a lovely colourful red color with a fairly circular lake inside it, and makes for a great stop.

There’s a small entry fee of 400 ISK (as of June 2019) to visit the crater and park here. It’s also included on this tour , or this private tour .

Bobby Fischer Center

Those of you with an interest in chess will likely be interested in visiting the Bobby Fischer Center , one of the few museums in the world dedicated to a world champion chess player!

This is found in the town of Selfoss, and would be around a five minute detour from your Golden Circle route.

Here you can learn all about Bobby Fischer, often regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Bobby was originally from Chicago in the USA, but lived the last years of his live in Iceland, largely as a way to avoid deportation to the USA following his violation of US sanctions in Yugoslavia.

There’s a small entry fee, and the museum is open from mid-May to mid-September. See the official website for opening times.

Horse Riding

Iceland is home to the beautiful Icelandic horse, a tough breed which has a wonderful flowing mane.

Many people want to meet, take photography with, learn about, and of course, ride, an Icelandic Horse when in Iceland.

When driving the Golden Circle, one option is to visit Friðheimar . You can pre-book a visit to the stables, and in the summer months they also run a horse show.

It’s also possible to take a tour of the Golden Circle which includes visiting a horse stable , or a tour of the Golden Circle which includes horse riding .

Reykjadalur Hot Spring

Last, but by no means least, on our list of attractions near the Golden Circle, is the Reykjadalur Hot Spring. Unlike the other geothermal springs in this guide, this one is entirely free to visit, and is also a largely natural feature.

This one is just off the Golden Circle, with the parking lot for the hike around a five minute detour through the town of Hveragerði.

Hot water bubbles out of the ground and joins a natural river, and you can get into the river at different points and relax in the pools. To adjust the temperature, you’ll just want to go up or downstream!

There are of course a few caveats to this natural attraction. First, it’s about a 1 hour walk each way from the parking area to the bathing area. The path is well marked and fairly easy to follow, but it does go uphill for quite a while.

Second, there are no formal changing areas, showers, toilets, or anything like that. There is just a wooden boardwalk area with wooden modesty panels, but they are not enclosed.

So if you are nervous about getting undressed in public, you may want to put your swimsuit on underneath your clothing before you start the hike.

There’s also no shelter here for your or your stuff. So if it’s raining, you’ll want to be sure to have some sort of waterproof cover for your gear.

We advise against visiting in winter or when there is a lot of snow or ice on path as it can be more difficult to follow the path and to distinguish safe and unsafe areas.

All that said, this is a really wonderful natural bathing experience, especially in nice weather. If you are driving the Golden Circle in the summer months when you have lots of light, it would make a great last stop on your adventure!

Itinerary for Iceland’s Golden Circle

If you are planning on hiring a car and driving the Golden Circle, we’ve put together this quick suggested 1 day Golden Circle itinerary that departs from Reykjavik in the morning and returns to Reykjavik in the afternoon / evening.

It could also be used as the starting point for a longer trip in Iceland, and for some inspiration in that department, see our itineraries for 3 days in Iceland , 7 days in Iceland , and the Iceland ring road .

Stop 1: þórufoss

Our first suggested stop on your Golden Circle trip is þórufoss. It’s a pretty waterfall and it’s not usually too crowded. Depending on the traffic out of the city and where you are leaving from, expect this to take you around 40 minutes of driving. You shouldn’t need more than 10 – 15 minutes here.

Stop 2: Thingvellir

From þórufoss it’s about a 20 minute drive to Thingvellir National park. There’s a lot to see and do here. Don’t forget to pay for your parking! Highlights include Þingvallakirkja (the church), Lögberg (rock formations), the various fissures, and the Öxarárfoss waterfall.

You can also book snorkelling here . You’ll want to book this in advance and expect to allocate at least 2 – 3 hours to them if you choose to do those, which will impact how much you can see over the rest of the day.

Otherwise, we’d suggest scheduling around 90 minutes for Thingvellir.

Stop 3: Lunch at Efstidalur II.

By now you might be getting hungry. Our suggestion for lunch is the restaurants and farm shop at Efstidalur II, which is around a 40 minute drive from Thingvellir.

They have delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients, and we really enjoyed their burger. They are also famous for their ice cream, so even if you are travelling on more of a budget and are rocking a packed lunch, we highly recommend indulging in some ice cream anyway!

Expect to spend 45 – 90 minutes here if you have the full lunch, or a 15 minute break for ice cream.

Stop 4: Haukadalur Geothermal Field

After lunch, it’s a 15 minute drive to Haukadalur Geothermal field where you can see the bubbling mud points, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers.

This is a wonderfully photogenic location and is a lot of fun to visit. Expect to spend around 30 minutes – 45 minutes on site.

Stop 5: Gullfoss Waterfall

From Haukadalur it’s just a short 10 minute drive to Gullfoss, which is often the major highlight for most visitors touring the Golden Circle.

It’s not hard to see why, and this waterfall is truly impressive. There are a plethora of photo opportunities here, so expect to spend at least 30 – 45 minutes on site. There’s also a gift shop, cafe and restrooms here.

Stop 6: Faxi waterfall

It’s time to turn around and start heading back to Reykjavik. If you’re still keen on seeing some waterfalls, then a stop at the quieter Faxi waterfall, 20 minutes drive from Gullfoss, is worth it.

It’s just off the road, and shouldn’t take up more than 10 – 15 minutes of your time.

Stop 7: Kerið Crater

From Faxi, continue on Route 35 for around half an hour until you come to Kerid Crater. This is another very worthwhile stop on the Golden Circle, giving you the opportunity to explore a real volcano crater up close.

You can spend a fair amount of time here if you choose to hike around the crater and go down to the crater floor, or you can just swing by and take a few photos. We’d suggest allocating between 15 minutes and an hour here, depending on your interest level.

Stop 8:  Choose a Hot Spring

If you are interested in visiting a hot spring in Iceland, the Golden Circle provides three options for you.

The two hot springs on the way around the Golden Circle, Laugarvatn Fontana and the Secret Lagoon, are very easy to visit as you travel round, and there are tours available which stop at one or the other.

See this tour which includes Laugarvatn Fontana..

Another option, if you are driving the Golden Circle over the summer months and want a bit of a hike to end out your day, then we definitely recommend taking the time to visit Reykjadalur Hot Spring.

It will take you around 25 minutes to drive to the parking lot here from Kerid Crater, after which you’re looking at at least an hours hike each way to reach the bathing area.

After all that hiking, you’ll likely want to enjoy the pools, so expect to spend around an hour lazing around. We’d not recommend doing this in winter, or if you need to get back to Reykjavik to return your hire car by a certain time.

From Reykjadalur to Reykjavik it’s about a 45 minute drive.

Another option is to add on a visit to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon at the end of your trip. The Blue Lagoon is closer to the airport, whilst the Sky Lagoon is closer to Reyjkavik city centre. If you are driving yourself, neither are too great of a detour.

The Blue Lagoon makes for a good option if you are flying out the following day as the Blue Lagoon is close to the airport, and there are hotels in this area you can overnight at.

It’s also possible to take a Golden Circle tour which includes a trip to the Blue Lagoon at the end of the trip.

Total driving time on the Golden Circle: ~ 4 hours Total sightseeing time on the Golden Circle: 3 – 8 hours, depending on sights and activities

Overall time for the Golden Circle 7 – 12 hours.

Map of Iceland’s Golden Circle

To help you visualise the Golden Circle and plan your route, we’ve put together this map. This has the standard Golden Circle Driving Route, as well as the major highlights and other attractions marked. You can see also see this on Google Maps here .

Where to Stay on the Golden Circle

The majority of travellers driving the Golden Circle do it either as a day trip from Reykjavik , day tour, or as the start of larger trip around the country.

However, you can also stay on the Golden Circle too, and thus not feel rushed to get back to the city.

If you have more time in Iceland, you can easily split it up into 2 much more manageable days and have more time to explore this route, with plenty of time for side attractions, day-hikes and thermal baths!

We’ve stayed at a few properties on the Golden Circle itself, as well as in Reykjavik, and wanted to share some options to help you plan.

Accommodation on the Golden Circle

• Héradsskólinn Guesthouse – A great value and well reviewed hostel close to the Laugarvatn Spa. There’s an on-site restaurant, and rooms range from dorms to private accommodation.
• Efstidalur Farm hotel – A lovely option that is close to both Haukadalur Geothermal Field and Gullfoss. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, a geothermal outdoor hot tub, and they offer Icelandic horse riding in the summer
• Fludir Icelandair Hotel – We stayed here once during a trip around the Golden Circle and it was very comfortable, with an on-site restaurant.
• Garður Stay Inn by the Secret Lagoon – This is a well reviewed property which is very handy for the “Secret Lagoon”
• River Hotel – Located by the Ranga River next to the town of Hella, this hotel offers dining, an open-air hot tub, bar and free wifi.
• Midgard basecamp – Found in Hvolsvöllur, this highly rated hostel is a great budget option with a hot tub
• Skyr Guesthouse – An excellent option just a couple of minutes drive from the Reykjadalur Hot Spring hike start point. We stayed here for a night and enjoyed the comfortable rooms and delicious food in the on-site restaurant

Accommodation in Reykjavik

• Galaxy Pod Hostel – A well located hostel offering dormitory accommodation with a twist – each bed is in a self-contained pod, offering more privacy than a normal hostel. Pods vary in standard, but most come with TV’s, power and WiFi.
• Reyjkavik Natura Icelandair Hotel , this hotel offers free parking, a free city bus pass to all guests, on-site restaurant and spa facilities. We stayed here on our first visit to Reykjavik.
• Guesthouse Galtafell  – A good value option around ten minutes walk from the city center and quick walk from the BSI bus station. Offers both guest rooms in the main house as well as apartments that come with a small kitchenette. We’ve also stayed here.
• Grand Hotel, around 1.2 miles from the city center, offering four star accommodation, free wifi, spa & fitness center and free parking. We’ve also stayed here.
• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina – a very central 4* hotel right on the Marina within a short walking distance of the highlights of the city. Rooms are all en-suite, some have balconies, and there’s a gym and restaurant on site.

Options for Visiting the Golden Circle

You have two main options for visiting the Golden Circle – you can drive yourself, or you can take a guided tour.

Guided tours are a very popular option, and because so many companies offer them, prices are competitive so you can get a full day tour at a good rate. See the next section for some of the tours and companies we suggest you look into for touring the Golden Circle, which includes both group and private tours.

The closest guided tour we found to the itinerary we put together is this full day tour .

The other option is to rent a car and drive yourself. There are a number of options for car rental in Iceland, but we recommend you check either Discover Cars here or on Northbound here .

Discover Cars compare a number of providers in the country so you can find the best price for you.

Northbound is based in Iceland, and they also search a range of providers with the added advantage that you can add the various insurances that are unique to the country should you so choose. This can help avoid the hard sell that you will otherwise likely get for these insurances at the checkout counter when you pick up your car.

See more on insurance in Iceland, plus general advice for driving in the country, in our tips for driving in Iceland post .

The Golden Circle follows good paved roads, so you won’t need a 4×4 for the Golden Circle. However, if you are doing it as part of a longer trip and are driving in winter, or are planning any time in the highlands in summer, you might consider a 4×4 vehicle.

At around 300 kms, the Golden Circle is easily driveable as a day trip from the city. Whilst gas is expensive in Iceland, you won’t need more than a tank to drive the whole distance.

That said, if you are travelling on your own or even as a couple, and budget is a consideration, you might find that a tour works out to be more cost effective than the cost of vehicle rental, insurance, and gas. This is because Golden Circle tours are really well priced in Iceland.

For budget tips, see our guide to travelling Iceland on a budget for more lots of tips on saving money in the country.

Best Tours of the Golden Circle

As already mentioned in the post, one of the most popular ways to experience the Golden Circle is on a tour. There’s a wide variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from, and taking a tour means you can just enjoy the sight-seeing without having to worry about the driving or other logistics.

Here are some suggested tours of the Golden Circle to consider, all of which depart from Reykjavik.

• An 8 hour tour which includes the three highlights of the Golden Circle plus Kerid Crater. One of the lower cost Golden Circle tours.
• A year round 9 hour tour which covers all the Golden Circle highlights and also includes time at the Laugarvatn Fontana.
• A 10 hour full day tour of the Golden Circle which also includes snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure
• An 11 hour tour of the Golden Circle which includes all the highlights, as well as an Icelandic Horse Riding experience

See many more tour options on  GetYourGuide here and Viator here .

Further Reading

That summarises our guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle. We’ve visited Iceland a number of times in both summer and winter, and have put together a number of detailed guides to help you plan your own trip. Here are some we think you will find useful:

• We have a detailed guide to the best day trips from Reykjavik , if you choose to base yourself in the city and explore from there
• We also have a guide to the best group tours of Iceland , if you want a longer guided experience. These range from a few days to a few weeks and cover all budgets
• For overall planning, see our guide to planning a trip to Iceland
• If you are looking for a self guided road trip in Iceland, we have some suggested itineraries. These include a 3 day stopover itinerary , a 5 day Iceland itinerary , a 7 day Iceland winter itinerary , and an Iceland ring road itinerary
• Iceland has lot of attractions to suit different types of traveller! For some specific advice on different sights, see our guides to finding puffins in Iceland , Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland , and waterfalls in Iceland
• If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, we have a winter packing list for Iceland , suggested winter activities in Iceland , and tips for driving in Iceland in winter
• A popular attraction in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon – we wrote a whole guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon to help you plan your visit and make the most of your time there
• Iceland is a fairly expensive country to visit. To help you save money, we put together a guide to visiting Iceland on a budget
• If you’re lucky, you might see the northern lights in Iceland if visiting in winter. See our guide to photographing the Northern Lights for some tips on getting great shots
• Speaking of photography, we have a guide to the best photography locations in Iceland , as well as a guide to finding the Iceland plane crash , which is a popular photography location

And that’s it for our post on visiting Iceland’s Golden Circle! As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and answer any questions – just use the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

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There are 11 comments on this post

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Anne Campbell says

11th February 2023 at 1:01 pm

Thank you so much for this excellent post about the Golden Circle! I haven’t found anything else online that compares to it. My husband, 15 year old son and I are going to be visiting Iceland on a 2-day layover to London in May and we have the Golden Circle planned for our second day in Iceland. With this post, I feel confident that I know what we will see and do, and we can’t wait!

Laurence Norah says

12th February 2023 at 10:32 am

Thanks very much Anne! Have a great time in Iceland and let me know if you have any questions!

Roy Hays says

23rd July 2022 at 2:58 pm

When is the best time to visit the golden circle?

24th July 2022 at 7:25 pm

If you mean by time of the year then honestly it depends! Summer you get lovely long days and green landscapes, whilst in winter you get shorter days but lovely snow covered landscapes. We’ve been at both times of year and they are both lovely, but it really just depends on whether you prefer a summery experience or a wintry experience!

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Neil Swinyard-Jordan says

12th August 2021 at 8:33 am

Good morning, I’ve just finished reading your website pages and so far it’s the best I’ve come across for details and things to do in Iceland and I’ve sent the address to several friends who are also planning trips to Iceland. Personally, I’ve booked a trip with my wife and two older parents in October, for 9 days. Keen to see the Golden Circle, our first 2.5 days will be staying to the south west of the circle at the Fire and Ice Hotel. I’d love to do the snorkelling at Silfra, perhaps the afternoon after we arrive in the morning but then wondered what you recommend for the best route to see the areas you write about above (clockwide /anti-clockwise, half one day, half the next)? We want to do the hot river soak, get to the far north for Gullfoss and see the main sights. Is it all doable in the time we have? Many thanks Neil.

12th August 2021 at 12:50 pm

Thanks very much, it’s great to hear from you.

So the hotel you have picked, (which I think is the Frost & Fire hotel in Hveragerði), is definitely well located, and just a four minute drive or 30 minute walk to the start of the Thermal River walk. It is definitely all possible in the time you have. I’d suggest:

The hot spring soak on the day you arrive. This isn’t time sensitive and doesn’t need a booking, so you don’t need to feel rushed about getting here should you have a flight delay. It’s about an hour’s walk each way from the start point, plus however long you choose to stay, so this could easily take up most of that afternoon if you choose.

The following day I would recommend the Silfra snorkelling experience and time exploring Thingvellir, including þórufoss. On the way back you could stop at Kerid Crater.

For your third day you could do the highlights around Gulfoss, including Faxi and Geysir.

This will give you plenty of time to see everything without being rushed at all. You could in theory do everything quicker (many people do the Golden Circle in a day), but going at a more leisurely pace will let you really enjoy everything.

I hope I’ve interpreted your request correctly in terms of the number of days you have, but do let me know if not and I can offer a revision 🙂

Have a great trip!

12th August 2021 at 6:18 pm

Laurence, That’s great and you interpreted everything exactly as I’d hoped. Your ‘programme’ will work for us and to do it at a leisurely pace will be ideal for the two parents… Many thanks, Neil

Kelly Brennan says

8th August 2021 at 2:08 am

Wonderful and very helpful article. I was wondering if you could give some advice? We are travelling with our kids (21&18) on the Disney cruise. (August 2022) We plan on renting a car. We would like to see the Golden Circle, Hike the Steamy Valley to the river hot-springs and go to the Blue Lagoon. We would like to see a bit of Reykjavik as well. We arrive at 1:00 pm and depart the next day at 5:00 pm. We can leave/return to the ship at anytime. Is this possible?? Thank you in advance. Kelly.

8th August 2021 at 12:39 pm

Great to hear from you and thanks for your kind words. I’d be happy to help. Sounds like you have an awesome trip coming up. So I would say that your plan might be pushing it a little in terms of getting everything in, although it depends on how fast you move and how early / late you are willing to travel. As you are visiting in August and the sun doesn’t set until around 10pm, you do have lots of daylight time to play with!

The drive out to Reykjadalur Hot Spring (I’m assuming this is what you mean for the steamy valley) is about 45 minutes each way from the city, and then it’s about a 1hr walk each way to the bathing area, plus however long you want to spend in the river itself.

The drive out to the Blue Lagoon from Reyjkavik is about 40 minutes each way.

I think you might have to decide between the Blue Lagoon and the Reykjadalur Hot Spring, unless you are planning some early starts or a late night.

An itinerary could look as follows:

Day 1: Spend a couple of hours sightseeing in Reykjavik on Head out to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring OR the Blue Lagoon between 3pm and 4pm.

Day 2, focus on the Golden Circle.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to be out too late, you could do the hot spring or the Blue Lagoon on day 1, then do the Golden Circle in the morning of day 2, followed by spending the remainder of your time sight seeing in Reyjkavik.

I hope this helps!

8th August 2021 at 3:27 pm

Thank you! I thought we were pushing it. The plan looks great. Have a fantastic day. Kelly.

8th August 2021 at 3:30 pm

My pleasure! Have a great trip 😀

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GOLDEN CIRCLE CLASSIC - (Guided in 10 languages)

Price from kr 11,990 approx € 80

See the erupting geyser & hot springs, experience the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall and follow in the footsteps of Vikings when walking down the lava canyon where the American and Eurasian continents have dramatically pulled apart in Þingvellir National Park. All this in just seven and a half hours!

STARTING POINT

Pickup available

Guiding language

Guided language, in-bus-audio guide.

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Visit Iceland´s most popular natural attractions including Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, expertly guided in 10 different languages!

The Golden Circle Classic Tour

OUR BEST-SELLER, GUIDED IN 10 LANGUAGES! The Golden Circle Classic is our bestselling day tour ! This outstanding tour offers a collection of sights - not to be missed by any visitor to Iceland. Behold the iconic erupting geyser & hot springs, experience the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, and sense the ancient history of the Vikings as you follow in their footsteps down a lava canyon in Þingvellir - where the continents are being pulled apart.

We welcome you on board our all-new bus fleet that is equipped with WiFi-connected computer tablets in each seat. On the tablets, you can use our GPS Sensitive In Bus Audio Guide , available with a choice of several languages. So if you wish to know interesting facts about Iceland and the places you will visit on the tour, in a language you are comfortable, that is very possible! On the bus, there will also be a professional tour guide , ready to answer any questions that you might have about our peculiar country. In each seat, you will also conveniently find a USB Charger.

The tour starts with a stop in Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing and the birthplace of the oldest existing parliament in the world. This is also where the gigantic tectonic plates of America and Eurasia have pulled apart and the resulting rift valley is right there before your eyes on the shores of Iceland’s biggest lake .

The next stop is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders: Geysir Hot Springs , the home of the one-and-only original geyser. Here the ground trembles and steaming hot water spouts spectacularly skywards from the famous Strokkur Geyser every few minutes.

Now for a leisurely walk down to Gullfoss Waterfall , which is an impressive sight to behold. Here a powerful glacial river cascades down 32 meters on two levels and into a narrow canyon with a thunderous roar.

Simply put, if you only do one tour in Iceland, then this should be the one!

• Þingvellir:  the rift valley and the site of the oldest modern parliament.
• Geysir:  hot spring & geothermal area and home to Strokkur, the erupting geyser.
• Gullfoss Waterfall:  the powerful glacial waterfall known as the 'Golden Waterfall' in English.
• GPS synced audio guide:  will give you all the information you need for your journey. 

Reykjavik Terminal

Tours depart from the Reykjavik Terminal located at Skógarhlíð 10. Please be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure along with a printed or digital copy of your ticket/voucher.

If you have booked a hotel pickup with SmartBus™, please be at your chosen pickup location 30 minutes before the departure of the tour. Look for the Green SmartBus™ which will be outside your accommodation within 30 minutes of pickup. 

Þingvellir National Park

Located on the northern shores of Þingvallavatn (Iceland's largest lake), Þingvellir (anglicized as 'Thingvellir') is the national pride of Iceland and our first National Park. It is, for one, a key location in Icelandic history as the oldest existing parliament in the world was first assembled there in 930 AD. For this reason, Þingvellir has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is, therefore, a protected national park due to its unique geology and natural features. From the viewing area, the Almannagjá canyon between two tectonic plates can be seen, a visual representation of continental drift.

As the first stop along the tour, you will have an opportunity to walk through the park and use the restroom if needed.

Geysir Geothermal Springs

A favorite stop along the Golden Circle is the highly active Geysir Hot Spring Area with boiling mud pits and the lively Strokkur which spouts water 30 meters (100 ft) into the air every few minutes. The area became active more than 1000 years ago and comprises more than a dozen hot spring holes. Although one can only see steam emerging from the surface of Geysir these days, its name was adopted to represent spouting hot springs all over the world.

Along the tour, the newly opened Geysir Center offers guests and travelers a chance to use the restroom and to catch some refreshments as well as lunch.

Gullfoss Waterfall

As one of the most popular attractions in all of Iceland, Gullfoss is a waterfall located in the canyon of Hvítá river in the southwest of the country. The beautiful Hvítá river rushes southward in three steps into a narrow canyon with a breathtaking roar and grandeur. Furthermore, on clear days the magnificent Langjökull glacier, Iceland's second largest glacier, can be seen in the distance.

Guests and Travelers may use the restroom and purchase food and refreshments at this location as well.

Important information

• Please show up at our Reykjavik Terminal (located at Skógarhlíð 10) 15 minutes prior to the departure time . We kindly ask you to be ready at your pick-up point with your voucher, either in digital or printed form.
• If you have booked a hotel pickup with Smartbus™, please be at your chosen pickup location 30 minutes before the departure of the tour. Look for the Green Smartbus™ which will be outside your accommodation within 30 minutes of pickup.
• You will be traveling in a coach that holds approximately 40-65 people, but is very spacious and comfortable. The bus offers free wifi and USB charging ports.
• Lunch is not included. There are stops in Geysir & Gullfoss where you can buy food and drinks.
• Bring with you: Dress according to the weather. In Iceland, it is always wise to dress in warm, waterproof clothes. Weather changes can be sudden so expect the unexpected. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, headwear and gloves. Good outdoor shoes are recommended.
• In-Bus-Audio-Guide: We recommend that you bring your own headphones, simply because they will fit you best. It is also great for the environment. If you don’t have your headphones, with you or forgot to bring them, no worries we sell earphones on board.
• The tour is available all year round (depending on weather conditions)
• Prices: Teenagers 12-15 years 50% discount & children 0-11 years old free.
• Min: No minimum number of participants.
• Age limit: No age limit.
• The tour is Approx. 7,5 hours including a minimum 45 minute stop at Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park . 
• Total distance covered during tour: 290 km.

What’s included

• In-bus audio guide with a choice of 10 languages  (English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Finnish)
• Knowledgeable local guide
• Admission to the sights
• Free Wi-Fi and USB-charger for each seat

Friendly cancellation & refund policy

Full refund if cancelled due to weather. Cancellation fee can be witheld if cancelled with short notice.

• 1 day notice: 100% charge

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Þingvellir - Winter

Price: kr. 9.990

• Location: Reykjavík
• Length: 8 Hours
• Availability: All Year

Your Golden Circle Full Day Tour Minibus

Join us for Your Golden Circle full-day tour, our best seller from the very beginning. We will tell you everything you need to know about Iceland and do our best to make your day unforgettable.

On our way, we will stop at all the main places: Geysir  geothermal area,  Gullfoss waterfall, and  Þingvellir  National Park, the place where you can see the American and Eurasian tectonic plates pulling apart. We also have an extra stop at the beautiful waterfall  Faxi . On all our tours we do have free wi-fi, we give you a taste of Icelandic snacks and play Icelandic music in between.

Let’s see the best places to visit Iceland for your Golden Circle full-day tour.

We pick you up at your hotel, guesthouse, or at one of the bus stops downtown Reykjavík in the morning ( Click here  to see a list of bus stops). The pickup is always between 8:00 and 8:30, but you have to be ready at 8 o’clock. After the pick up we head out of town and the guide introduces him/herself.

Hveragerði is a small town located about 45 minutes south of Reykjavík. This is our first stop of the day. There is a great bakery for coffee and you can take a look at an earthquake exhibition free of charge. There are also restrooms there, free of charge.

The wonderful Gullfoss is in our opinion one of the most beautiful waterfalls on earth. It is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland and there is a beautiful story about the waterfall which your guide will tell you.

When Canadians and Americans go there they call it “the mini-version of Niagara falls”, we don’t know if we agree on that though, if you ask us it’s even prettier. The waterfall is located close to the second biggest glacier in Iceland, Langjökull, and you will see the fresh glacier water falling down 32 meters total into the canyon.

Gullfoss is beautiful from all angles, from above it looks perfect with the Icelandic nature around. In the summertime, it is possible to walk all the way down to Gullfoss and feel its power and spraying water in the air.

Geysir is the most famous hot spring in the world, no doubt. It’s so famous that people from other countries talk about “Geyser” when talking about erupting hot springs. Geysir is located only 8-minute drive from Gullfoss and is our third big attraction of the day.

Geysir is the father of all the hot springs in the area, and first erupted hundreds of years ago. The “golden age” for Geysir was in the beginning of the last century when it erupted up to 80 meters every half an hour. Geysir fell asleep late last century but woke up again after the earthquakes in the Haukadalur area in the year 2000. It was erupting for 4 months, with a little help from the locals who put soap in it to make it erupt. They stopped doing that due to environmental reasons, of course. Geysir has been sleeping since the fall of the year 2000.

The only active erupting hot spring in the area is “the son of Geysir”, called Strokkur. Strokkur erupts every 3 to 8 minutes and goes as high as 35 meters. Strokkur is a spectacular hot spring, seeing this active hot spring erupt just a few kilometers from the glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This is our longest stop of the day, where we have lunch and also time to experience the hot spring area (no bathing allowed!).

There are restaurants in the Geysir area where you can have burgers, salads, traditional Icelandic meat soup (our favorite), and much more. If you want to bring your own lunch with you, we let our customers eat in the bus, especially if the weather is bad.

THINGVELLIR

The last stop of the day is the national park Þingvellir, which is full of history and natural beauty. It has a special place in the hearts of all Icelanders, all the way back to the Viking time when they founded here the first parliament in the world.

We will have enough time to walk around and explore this wonderful place. We will have the opportunity to walk in the rift valley, where the tectonic plates are pulling apart. This is the closest you can get to being on two continents at the same time since under the national park the Eurasian plate and the American plate are separated by 2 cm every year.

Þingvellir was designated as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 2004.

We usually stop here for 45-60 minutes. In the area, there are restrooms and coffee shops for visitors.

Click to know about the Accommodation on your memorable tour.

• Icelandic snacks
• Icelandic music
• Certified driver/guide
• Free WiFi on board
• …and a lot of fun

What to bring

• First of all, you have to bring the good mood
• Warm clothes, weather in Iceland changes quickly
• Dress like the weather
• There is not much hiking in this tour, but always good to bring good shoes with you

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

• Full refund if canceled due to weather. The cancellation fee can be withheld if canceled with short notice.

– 1-day notice: 100% charge

WHAT IS THE PICKUP TIME?

• Pickup starts at 8:00 for all our tours so be ready then. Usually, we come between 8:00 and 8:30.

WHEN WILL WE BE BACK IN REYKJAVÍK?

• Your South Coast tour is approx. 10 hours, so we will be back in Reykjavík between 18:00 and 18:30.

DO YOU PICK ME UP FROM MY HOTEL?

• We pick up from most hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavík. If you are staying downtown, within the area restricted to busses, we will ask you to go to the closest bus stop (see list of bus stops here ). If your accommodation is not on the pickup list, please drop us a line.

DO YOU PICK ME UP FROM THE AIRPORT?

• No, we don’t do it in our regular pickup. If you want a private transfer from the airport to your hotel, drop us a line and we will send you a quote.

DO YOU HAVE AN AGE LIMIT ON YOUR TOURS?

• Yes, the age limit is 2 years old. If you are traveling with a child, please let us know so we can arrange a booster or child seat.

I’M A VEGAN

• Unfortunately, we do not offer any special snacks for vegetarians or vegans. At Geysir and Reynisfjara there are quite a few options for all needs.

IS LUNCH INCLUDED?

• No, our lunch breaks in the Golden Circle tours are at the Geysir area – there are a couple of very nice restaurants there. On the South Coast tour, the lunch break is in Reynisfjara.

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Golden Circle Iceland is operated by eTravel ehf which is a licensed tour operator founded in 2014

Best Golden Circle Tour From Reykjavik: Geysir, Gullfoss and Thingvellir

Experience the sheer beauty of Iceland in a single day with the Best Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik. Dive into history at Thingvellir National Park, marvel at the raw power of the Gullfoss Waterfall, and witness nature's fury at the Geysir geothermal area. Expert guides, coupled with convenient transfers, make this tour a must-do Icelandic adventure!

Uncover Iceland's Natural Wonders: The Ultimate Golden Circle Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes with our comprehensive Golden Circle Tour. This full-day adventure takes you across the central and southern region, stopping at some of the most iconic and beloved attractions that Iceland has to offer.

Why the Golden Circle is Popular for a Day Trip

The Golden Circle, a popular tourist route in southern Iceland, is often favored for day trips due to its close proximity to Reykjavik and its stunning natural beauty. The 300-kilometer loop encompasses several iconic Icelandic landmarks, including the Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park.

These attractions offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland's landscapes, from erupting geysers to thundering waterfalls and historic sites. The ease of access and the opportunity to witness such unique geological phenomena within a day make the Golden Circle an ideal choice for those seeking a quick yet enriching Icelandic adventure.

Tour Highlights

• Visit to Thingvellir National Park
• Sightseeing at Geysir Geothermal Area
• View Gullfoss Waterfall
• Knowledgeable tour guide offering insights into Icelandic history and culture
• Comfortable coach transportation with onboard WiFi
• Options for additional activities like geothermal bathing and glacier hiking
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off service
• Cultural storytelling and fun facts from your guide
• Ample photo opportunities of Iceland's natural beauty
• Lunch stop at a local restaurant (meal costs not typically included in tour price)

Þingvellir National Park: A Testament to Iceland's Heritage

Þingvellir National Park, one of the most significant historical and geological sites in Iceland, stands as a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and dynamic natural beauty. Located just 49 km east of Reykjavík, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an essential stop on the world-renowned Golden Circle tour.

Historically, Þingvellir (translating to "Parliament Plains") served as the site where the Althing, an open-air assembly representing the whole of Iceland, was established around 930 AD. This assembly, which initially met annually, saw lawmakers from all over the country - the South Coast, the Westfjörds, the North, and the East - congregating to set laws and settle disputes. This tradition continued for centuries, marking Þingvellir as the birthplace of Iceland's democracy and making it a place of national importance.

The park is also a haven for geology enthusiasts. It sits in a rift valley caused by the separation of two tectonic plates – the North American and Eurasian plates. Visitors can walk between these two continents, experiencing the slow but constant process of continental drift. The Oxarárfoss waterfall and the beautiful Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, add to the park's scenic charm.

Read More: Complete Guide To Thingvellir National Park

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Spectacle

Nestled in the heart of the Hvítá river canyon in southwest Iceland, Gullfoss Waterfall , affectionately known as 'The Golden Falls', offers a spectacle of nature's grandeur and power that is simultaneously humbling and inspiring. As part of the famous Golden Circle route, this iconic waterfall is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the natural wonders of Iceland.

Gullfoss is not just a single waterfall but a series of two cascading falls. The upper one drops 11 meters, while the lower one plunges 21 meters into a rugged canyon, whose walls reach up to 70 meters in height. This dramatic descent of water creates a mesmerizing display of raw power and beauty, culminating in a rainbow-filled mist on sunny days - a sight that rivals even the renowned Northern Lights.

Located approximately 107 km from Reykjavík, or about a 1.5-hour drive, Gullfoss is easily accessible for a day trip. The journey carries you through some of Iceland's most stunning barren countryside, immersing you in the country's unique landscapes.

The significance of Gullfoss extends beyond its natural beauty. The waterfall stands as a monument to one of Iceland's most impactful environmental protests. In the early 20th century, plans were underway to harness the waterfall for hydroelectric power. However, Sigriður Tómasdóttir, the daughter of the waterfall's owner, fought fiercely to preserve the site. Her determination led to the preservation of Gullfoss for future generations to appreciate.

Don't Miss Out: Golden Circle Classic and Northern Lights Mystery

Geysir Geothermal Area: An Erupting Marvel

Our Golden Circle Iceland tour concludes at the geologically vibrant site of the infamous Geysir hot spring, also known as Strokkur. The Geysir Geothermal Area, part of Iceland's illustrious Golden Circle route, is a marvel of natural phenomena that invites visitors to witness the raw power and beauty of Earth's geothermal activity firsthand.

Situated 100 km away from the capital city of Reykjavík, the area spans approximately 3 km² (1.1 sq mi), with most of the springs aligning along a 100 m (328 ft) wide strip. This vast geothermal field lies in the Haukadalur Valley, a location renowned for its geothermal activity, making it a must-visit destination for any Icelandic tour.

At the heart of this geothermal valley is the Great Geysir, a famous hot spring that has lent its name to all other geysers worldwide. Although Geysir is currently dormant, it was known to spout water every third hour up to the beginning of the 19th century. Today, while the Great Geysir may be idle, its sibling, Strokkur, steals the show by reliably erupting every 6-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20 meters into the air.

The geothermal field is situated at the northern edge of the southern lowlands, at an altitude of 105-120 m above sea level. It rests on the slopes of the Laugarfjall lava dome, which is also home to the Strokkur geyser, located about 50 meters south.

Visiting the Geysir Geothermal Area provides a unique opportunity to experience and appreciate the dynamic forces that shape our planet. The geysers' eruptions, the bubbling mud pots, and the steam vents create a landscape that seems otherworldly, a testament to Iceland's moniker as the 'Land of Fire and Ice.'

Included in the Golden Circle Tour

• Bus transportation
• Professional tour guide
• English language tour
• WiFi on board
• Visit to Geysir Geothermal Area
• Visit to Gullfoss Waterfall
• Educational content on Icelandic history and culture
• Meals and beverages
• Personal expenses
• Optional activity costs
• Gratuities for tour guide
• Pick up from locations not specified
• Entry fees to additional attractions not on the itinerary

Tips for making the most out of your Golden Circle Trip

• Start early to avoid crowds at Thingvellir National Park and Geysir geothermal area
• Wear warm, waterproof clothing for the weather at Gullfoss Waterfall and other sites
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the natural beauty along the route
• Keep your camera ready for photos of the Hvita River
• Take time to explore each attraction for a full experience
• Engage with tour guides for insights into Icelandic history and culture
• End the day with a soak in a natural hot spring like the Blue Lagoon
• Use free WiFi on coaches to share moments live
• Consider additional activities like horseback riding offered by tour operators

Can I do the Golden Circle in one day?

Yes, you can absolutely do the Golden Circle in one day. The Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik usually takes about 4 hours to reach your destination and the round-trip is only about 3 hours driving time. This makes it very feasible to complete in a single day.

When is the best time of year to go on a Golden Circle tour?

The best time of year to go on a Golden Circle tour really depends on what you want to see. If you want to see the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall frozen, winter is the best time. But if you want to walk between the Eurasian tectonic plates in the Thingvellir National Park Geysir geothermal area, summer would be the best time.

What are the best stops along the Golden Circle Iceland?

The best stops along the Golden Circle include Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. These are all the main attractions that have a rich history and showcase the natural beauties of the country. Other attractions that are worth visiting include the Secret Lagoon and Langjökull Glacier.

Can you do the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon in one day?

It's possible to do the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon in one day, but it would be a full day with a lot of driving. It's best to start early and plan your day accordingly. It's also important to note that while the Golden Circle can be done with a small group or even solo, the Blue Lagoon usually requires a booking in advance.

What to bring with you on your Golden Circle tour?

When going on your Golden Circle tour, it's important to dress warmly and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Also, don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!

What is so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

The Blue Lagoon is a world-famous geothermal spa located in southwest Iceland. The lagoon is fed by water from the nearby geothermal power plant, which is rich in minerals such as silica and sulphur. These minerals are said to have beneficial effects on the skin, and many visitors come to the lagoon to enjoy the spa's renowned mud masks. Some versions of the Golden Circle tours in Iceland include the Blue Lagoon visit.

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What our customers say.

This tour was a wonderful experience.  I wanted to make an observation because, on the way back, the bus driver didn't leave me at the same point where he picked me up. This caused me a problem, as I had to walk ....

Our private tour was WONDERFUL!!  The tomato farm is a must see and a wonderful experience.  We were waited on by the owners 16 year old son, who was charming.  The greenhouse ....

We went with Arctic Adventures. Our guide was Andre and he made our trip fantastic. Mini bus was great, places great. Secret lagoon was very hot, careful if kids are getting in. All the other stops were fun and a hood 8 hours spent.

Brilliant tour. Tour guide was very informative and funny. Told you plenty of things about each site you visited. Definitely recommend

I would do it again & take more time at the geyser & the Fontana Thermal baths.Restroom / WC stops at all locations.Food & snacks too.Geyser, National Park Falls & Thermal Spa were all top notch & bucket list items.Just no chain hotels close, except for school during the summer, or yerra we saw on the way 99 minutes outside of Reykjavik to get back to hotel.

Franklin from Your Day Tours drive and guided all day today, and it was an amazing and enjoyable moment. Great job Franklin. Much appreciated

Professional tour operator with comfortable bus and also expert tour guide. I highly recommend you to visit Golden Circle as your first priority on your Iceland tour.It took less than 8 hours and it will be great if you finish your day by swimming in Sky lagoon.

This tour consists of 3 natural splendors namely Thingvellir National Park,Gullfoss Waterfall and Iceland Geysers. This tour is worth the time and money spend. Highly encourage this tour on your next visit to Reykjavik in Iceland.

Great service and an even better stay.

Join the best Golden Circle tours with us

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

14 Best Golden Circle Tours In Iceland Worth Your Money

June 28, 2020 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Golden Circle Tours are a great way to see Iceland and take the stress out of driving. If you are thinking of taking a guided tour you have come to the right place. In this article, we will walk you through the best Golden Circle Tours in Iceland so you can make the best decisions for your circumstances and budget.

The Golden Circle is a 190 mile (approx) route that takes in some of the most spectacular landmarks Iceland has to offer.  The classic route takes in the three most popular tourist attractions; Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park. However, there are lots more things to see off the popular tourist route. 

Planning your Golden Circle visit at the last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! The Golden Circle is popular and hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for the Golden Circle!

Top Golden Circle Experiences And Tours:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Golden Circle + Kerid Crater + Blue Lagoon Tour (Likely to sell out!)
• Glacier Snowmobile And Golden Circle Tour (Unique experience)
• Secret Lagoon, Golden Circle, And Kerid Crater (Local hot spring!)

Top Golden Circle Hotels:

• Blue Hotel Fagrilundur (Amazing Golden Circle location!)
• Hotel Gullfoss (With traditional Icelandic restaurant)
• Hotel South Coast (Close to the Ring Road)
• Hotel Geysir (Steps from the famous Icelandic Geysir)

The Golden Circle is named after its main attraction, the Gullfoss (Golden) Waterfall which is an awe-inspiring sight, especially if you are lucky to see a rainbow arch over it in the Summer.

The Thingvellir National Park is Iceland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. As well as being the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, thanks to the Vikings, it’s where the tectonic plates of America and Europe collide.

Geysir Geothermal Area contains Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every few minutes up to heights of 35 meters.

Going on one of these Golden Circle tours allows you to walk in the footsteps of Vikings, see the ground gurgle and bubble and experience a glacial river cascade 32 meters into a narrow canyon.

The Golden Circle is a great way to get a glimpse of the sights of Iceland and experience the majestic scenery this country is known for. 

A Golden Circle Tour in Iceland is well worth it and you will be left with memories to last a lifetime. Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Why Take A Tour Of The Golden Circle?

There are many reasons you may prefer to take one of the Golden Circle tours rather than drive.

Firstly the obvious is that you don’t have to drive and you can relax and let someone else do all the work while you just sit back and enjoy the scenery. You are likely to also learn more and see more as the experienced guides escort you around the various locations.

Golden Circle tours often tend to not work out that expensive when you add up the cost of renting a car and fuel. Most of the tours leave from Reykjavik and you can often get picked up from your hotel.

Golden Circle Iceland tours are the best way for you to enjoy your holiday with none of the stress and pressure of having to organize and plan.

The Iceland weather is also very unpredictable, especially in winter and traveling on a guided tour will mean you are safe at all times and don’t have to worry about driving in bad weather or worry about exploring places that might be dangerous in slippery conditions.

Participating in one of The Golden Circle Tours will allow you to see what you need to in a relaxing, comfortable, and informative environment.

Make sure to check out our post about Where To Stay In The Golden Circle if you are planning your trip!

We have listed below the best Golden Circle tours in Iceland for your perusal, some just take in The Golden Circle and some combine the Golden Circle with other attractions.

Whichever tour you decide to take we know you will have an incredible time and we can’t wait to hear all about it on your return. These are truly some of the Best Tours In Iceland!

Please note that most of the Golden Circle tour Iceland do not include food, so be prepared for that and bring some form of payment.

Also, make sure you read all the information linked to each tour. Some require you to bring particular items, such as a swimming suit, or have certain conditions for those bookings. We want you to enjoy your Golden Circle tours, so please plan ahead. 

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour (6.5-7 hours)

This Golden Circle full day tour takes in all the main sites of The Golden Circle. It’s one of the best Golden Circle tours in Iceland if you want to take in the main attractions.

You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir, see the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall and visit two geothermal geysers, Geysir and Strokkur.

You will be able to marvel at the breathtaking tectonic plate scenery of Thingvellir, feel the mist of  Gullfoss and see spouting hot springs

Transportation is on a first-class bus, starting and ending in  Reykjavik and you will have English speaking commentary throughout.

A great way to see the main sights of The Golden Circle.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour

Golden Circle Afternoon Tour (8 hours)

Another variation on the classic Golden Circle Tour. On the Golden Circle Afternoon Tour , you can see where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet at Thingvellir, visit Gulfoss and see the Geysir area.

You will visit the geothermal area of Geysir first and see the spouting hot springs. Then make your way to the Golden Falls, Gullfoss before finishing up at Thingvellir.

This tour offers hotel pickup and commentary.

Book Here: Golden Circle Afternoon Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Reykjanes Tour (11 hours)

On the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Reykjanes Tour you visit Thingvellir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir area. You then head on to the Reykjanes Peninsula.

This small group tour takes in the classic sights of The Golden Circle but adds on an optional stop at The Blue Lagoon (costs extra) and a visit of the often-overlooked alien landscape of Reykjanes peninsular.

Those that have tickets for the Blue Lagoon depart the bus to spend 2-3 hours at the Lagoon. The others explore the Reykjanes area on a sightseeing tour; this area is known for old craters, fissures, and bubbling, geothermal mud pools.

You will visit the lava rock pool Brimketill, the mud pools at Gunnuhver, and the area around Reykjanesvit. If time allows a drive towards the “Bridge Between Continents” the boundaries between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. You then return to the Blue Lagoon and head back to Reykjavik.

This tour picks up from the hotel and there will be no more than 19 people on your tour.

Book Here: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Reykjanes Tour.

Golden Circle Small Group Tour with Secret Lagoon Experience ( 8 hours)

This Golden Circle Small Group Tour with Secret Lagoon Experience allows you to see the main sights of the Golden Circle and bathe in a secret lagoon, so make sure you bring your swimsuit.

This tour departs at mid-morning, which often means you can visit theses natural wonders without the crowds.  

You will visit Gulfoss waterfall, one of Europe’s largest waterfalls and Iceland’s pride, stand next to Strokkur geyser as it spouts water 30 meters high, and walk between tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park.

On this relaxed tour, you visit these attractions after the morning crowds have gone. 

After you have taken in The Golden Circle you will visit the hot spring pool where you can relax in the warm waters of a natural bath. It’s a great way to finish off this more relaxing way to see the sights.

This tour offers local hotel pick up. The secret lagoon admission is included and you will be on a small tour with no more than 19 people.

Book Now: Golden Circle Small Group Tour with Secret Lagoon Experience.

Small-Group Premium Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik (8 hours)

This Small-Group Premium Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik comes with a professional guide and a 300km loop from Reykjavík to central Iceland and back.

This tour promises spectacular natural formations, geysers, waterfalls, lakes, and more. Just a normal day in Iceland, then. Of coarse you visit the iconic Golden Circle places but you also get to visit a traditional Icelandic horse stable and enjoy a unique show.

The tour takes in Thingvellir before a stop at Fríðheimar farm. The farm, besides growing tomatoes and cucumbers, is passionate about horses. And you get to visit the Icelandic horses close up.

After having lunch ( at your own expense) you move on to visit Geysir and it’s brother Strokkur, which erupts every 3-4 minutes with spouts as high as 30 meters. You then move onto the majestic Gullfoss and get a glimpse of Kerid, a crater filled with a lake of milky blue/green water surrounded by black and red slopes, an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Admission to all attractions is included. This is one of the Golden Circle tours with some amazing added extras. 

Book Now: Small-Group Premium Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik .

Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Waterfalls Small Group Tour (9 hours)

If you like your Golden Circle tours with added waterfalls then this one is for you.

This Golden Circle and Waterfalls Small Group Tour goes off the beaten track a little taking in the Friðheimar tomato farm and Kerid crater mentioned above.

You also discover some hidden gems like Efstidalur Farm and the Laugarvatn area of Bruarfoss, Oxararfoss, and Fax.

This intimate small tour makes a great family day out.

Book Now: Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Waterfalls Small Group Tour

Golden Circle & Silfra Snorkeling Small Group Tour (9 hours)

If you like your Golden Circle tours with some added extras this Golden Circle & Silfra Snorkeling Small Group Tour might be for you.

You will explore the Geysir, the stunning rivers, and lava fields of Thingvellir National Park and see Gullfoss but you will also get to snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Silfra Fissure.

The Silfra Fissure really is an experience.  Silfra is a rift formed in the divergent tectonic boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates and the water is such a vivid blue color. It’s like nowhere else. Drysuits are provided and they will keep your warm in the 2 degrees Celsius water. A real experience for those wanting a bit more.

Book Now: Golden Circle & Silfra Snorkeling Small Group Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour with Blue Lagoon Visit & Entry ( 13 hours)

If you want your Golden Circle tour to be on the more relaxing side the Golden Circle Tour with Blue Lagoon Visit & Entry is maybe what you are looking for.

This tour includes all the popular sights of the Golden Circle followed by a dip in the healing relaxing waters of the Blue Lagoon.

You get at least 45 minutes at the major stops, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and Strokkur Geyser. You then get a 30-minute break in Reykjavik before hitting the road to ride to The Blue Lagoon where you get to spend 3 hours relaxing in the mineral-rich water while enjoying the view.

A perfect way to end an enjoyable day. All admission included and hotel pick-up, you will also get a silica mud mask and a drink at The Blue Lagoon.

Book Now: Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour with Blue Lagoon Visit & Entry .

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour ( 11 Hours)

Visit the Golden Circle and ride a snowmobile through what is known as one of Europe’s last great wilderness areas.

Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour leaves Reykjavík early to catch the morning sun on a bus that has computer tablets in each seat. First, you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park then move onto Geysir Hot Springs. You then drive to snowmobile base camp at the foot of Langjökull Glacier where you will ride across the ice fields on one of the biggest glaciers in the world.

This tour is a real gem and a great way to experience Iceland at its best.

Hotel pick ups available and all necessary equipment included.

Book Now: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour ( 10 hours)

A real once in a lifetime experience. You travel in a specially modified super truck and visit the famous Golden circle and a natural ice cave.

Your Golden Circle & Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour starts when you meet your jeep driver. You stop at the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the jeep allows you to adventure off the beaten track. You then visit the ice cave in Langjokull glacier. The colors on the cave walls are breathtaking and this experience is incredible.

You can have an optional snowmobile ride to the glacier. Then if daylights and time permits you make a short stop at Thingvellir National Park on the way back to Reykjavik.

This tour is a small group and admissions are included.

Book Now: Golden Circle & Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

Golden Circle and South Shore by Luxury Jeep ( 11 hours)

Golden Circle and South Shore by Luxury Jeep really does cram a lot in.

This Golden Circle tour takes in the Golden Circle and more including Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Eyjafjallajokull, Solheimajokull, and the black beaches at the South Shore.

Leaving from Reykjavik you head off to The South Shore seeing farmlands and a recently-erupted volcano.

You see a lot on this tour including Eyjafjallajökull, an ice cave with a volcano at the summit and Solheimajökull, a blue ice-colored glacier in Myrdalsjokul . Also marvel at the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, the black beach of Sólheimasandur, and all the Golden Circle Sights. One of the Golden Circle tours that really does offer a lot.

Book Now: Golden Circle and South Shore by Luxury Jeep.

Reykjavík City Sightseeing & Golden Circle Express ( 10 hours)

If you are short of time then this Reykjavík City Sightseeing & Golden Circle Express might be the one for you. You get to see the sights of  Reykjavik city and the stunning scenery of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

You start your tour in Reykjavik visiting the Presidential Residence at Bessastaðir and Hafnarfjörður. Take in the incredible view over Reykjavík from the Perlan Restaurant 360° observation deck. You’ll also visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, the University area, and the Old Town Center, where you can see the Alþingi–Iceland’s Parliament.

After some free time in Reykjavik you go on your Golden Circle tour taking in all the sights and the incredible scenery.

Save time and see the sights of Reykjavik city and the stunning volcanic scenery of Iceland’s Golden Circle with this combined tour.

Book Now: Reykjavík City Sightseeing & Golden Circle Express

Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Black Beach ATV Tour ( 10 hours)

The Golden Circle and Black Beach ATV Tour what’s not to love. 

You will see the erupting geyser and a variety of hot springs. Learn about Vikings in the Thingvellir National Park and experience the magnificence and power of the Gullfoss Waterfall.

After seeing the must-see attractions you get behind the wheel of an all-terrain vehicle for an unforgettable ride along Iceland’s South Coast black sand beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

This is a tour filled with views and adrenaline.

Book Now: Golden Circle and Black Beach ATV Tour

Iceland’s Golden Circle & Whale Watching Full-Day Tour ( 10 hours)

The Golden Circle and Whale Watching Full-Day Tour has to be a tour made in heaven.  In the morning take a cruise to observe humpback whales, harbor porpoise, and white-beaked dolphin before taking an afternoon express tour of The Golden Circle.

This incredible tour shows you whales in their native environment and if you are lucky you may also see puffins, arctic terns, gannet, and many varieties of gull.

You are then picked up at the harbor for your Golden Circle Tour taking in Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the spouting hot springs of Geysir and Strokkur.

This really will be an unforgettable experience.

Book Now: Golden Circle and Whale Watching Full-Day Tour

We do hope you have found the perfect tour for you in these golden circle Iceland tours. Whichever one you pick you won’t be disappointed and the scenery is breathtaking. Taking one of these Golden Circle tours truly is an unforgettable experience.

You might also be interested in The Complete Guide To The Blue Lagoon Iceland and 7 Helpful Things To Know About Money In Iceland

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

Description

Join this afternoon tour to explore the wonders of Iceland's Golden Circle. On this tour, you'll visit the beautiful sites of Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. This trip is perfect for those keen to explore Iceland's beautiful Golden Circle in an afternoon.

Throughout your Golden Circle tour, you'll get to witness the inspiring and beautiful landscapes of the picturesque nature: rolling farmlands, distant mountain tops, trickling rivers and stunning valleys. Keep your camera at the ready not to a miss a snap along this beautiful trail in Iceland's nature.

Your first destination on this trip is the incredible Geysir geothermal area, a natural spectacle unique to the nature of Iceland. The area is made up of deep bubbling mud pools and towering spouting hot springs, the most famous of which are Geysir and Strokkur. The former no longer erupts, but the latter is a mighty one, erupting every 4-8 minutes and reaching on average 15-20 m (65 ft) into the air; sometimes it will reach the incredible height of 40 m (131 ft). Keep your finger on your camera shutter as you stand around the edges of Strokkur, to catch the perfect shot of its incredible eruptions.

Next, you'll visit the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, on the famous rafting river Hvitá. It plummets 32 m (104 ft) into the river gorge and you can get close enough to feel the water spray on your face. This is Iceland's most famous waterfall and definitely one of the most beautiful. Nothing can quite describe the roar that comes with such a thunderous cascade, and if you're lucky enough, you may also catch a glimpse of a rainbow.

Your final stop on the tour will be the richly diverse Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Here, you will walk between the continents of Europe and America. Þingvellir was also the founding site for Iceland's national parliament (Alþingi), the first of its kind, in 930 AD. Of particular interest is the impressive Almannagjá canyon, marking the eastern boundary of the North American tectonic plate.

Don't miss your chance to get on this tour and see some of Iceland's most famous natural, historical and cultural sites. Check availability by choosing a date and book your trip to the Golden Circle.

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Golden Circle Tours: Visit Iceland's Most Popular Attractions

Join our iconic golden circle tours with friendly guides, you will see stunning geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, and ancient sites..

Golden Circle Tours Iceland

Top 3 Most Popular Golden Circle Day Tours

Classic Golden Circle Full Day Tour

Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon

Golden Circle Afternoon Tour

Main golden circle attractions.

Thingvellir National Park

• UNESCO World Heritage site where the ancient parliament Althing met over 1,000 years ago. Walk along the rift valley between two continents.

Gullfoss Waterfall

• One of Iceland’s most powerful cascades - "the Golden Falls". View the majestic two-tiered waterfall from up close.

Geysir Geothermal Area

• Geothermal area with Geysir, the original geyser that gave its name to all others. Watch eruptions and explore hot springs and fumaroles.

Kerið Crater

• Volcanic crater lake with blue-green water and red rock walls. Walk around the crater rim and descend to the lake.

Golden Circle Route Map With Main Sights

View the Golden Circle sightseeing route map to get an idea of the journey. Starting from the Reykjavik city , the usual base for this scenic drive, you will find other major natural attractions and the return way to the capital.

Our tours guarantee exploration of these essential stops of the Golden Circle's top sights , with the addition of the unmissable Kerið crater on the return trip.

Preparing for your own adventure? Get more information and a free downloadable Iceland’s Golden Circle map with stops .

Best Golden Circle Tours from Reykjavik

Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small group tour

3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

Golden Circle & Snorkeling

About the golden circle in iceland.

The Golden Circle is Iceland's most iconic and easily accessible tourist route ! In Icelandic, it is called Gullni Hringurinn . This fantastic 186-mile (300 km) loop from Reykjavik takes you to three of the country's most mind-blowing natural wonders in the Southwest region.

Travelers love the Golden Circle because it allows you to see the country’s history, nature, and geology in one trip. It's like a crash course in what makes Iceland so unique.

Each of the three main stops is one of the most significant sites in Iceland.

Thingvellir National Park is the first major stop on the trail. Source: Arctic Adventures.

Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park is where the tour goes first. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site , but it’s also the spot where you can practically see the earth’s tectonic plates drifting apart! This rift valley is all about history, being the site of the world's first parliament, the Althing.

Next up is Geysir Hot Springs , the geothermal area that gave all geysers their name. Here, you can watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 98 ft (30 m) into the air – an incredible sight you won’t forget!

Finally, there's the mighty cascade Gullfoss , the " Golden Waterfall ," where you’ll witness rushing glacial waters plummeting into a deep canyon, creating a misty, magical view.

But that's not all — the most famous sightseeing circuit has even more locations. The favorite attraction on the way back to the capital is the Kerid Volcanic Lake . Also, while en route, you can visit geothermal lagoons, hot springs, small farms , and other amazing scenery.

This trip is perfect for anyone visiting Iceland! Whether you're exploring in summer or winter, there are plenty of options for how you want to travel, and our expert guides are here to show you around.

Golden Circle Combo Tours

Golden Circle, Super Truck & Snowmobiling

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Golden Circle & Whale Watching Tour

Golden Circle Aurora Surprise

Is the golden circle tour worth it.

Absolutely! Iceland’s famous circle is a must-do if you're visiting Iceland because you can see amazing places like waterfalls, geysers, and a national park all in one day. The tour guides also tell exciting stories about each place, so you can learn a lot. Plus, it's super easy to reach all the attractions from Reykjavik with just a short drive, making it a convenient day trip. The incredible sights and experiences make it worth it!

Are Iceland Golden Circle Tours operating?

Yes, Golden Circle tours are operating and as popular as ever! Whether you prefer a guided tour, a private experience , or driving yourself , there are plenty of options available year-round. So, go ahead and book your spot for a fantastic adventure!

What is included in the Golden Circle tour?

On our classic Golden Circle one-day tour , you'll visit the amazing Gullfoss waterfall, the powerful Geysir geothermal area, and the historic Thingvellir National Park. On the way back to the capital, you'll also explore the stunning Kerid volcanic crater. We provide transfers to and from Reykjavik, a certified English-speaking guide, and Free WiFi on board.

We also offer various combinations, extra stops, and optional activities such as snowmobiling , snorkeling , or relaxing in a geothermal lagoon .

For multi-day excursions that include the Golden Circle, our packages also cover accommodation with breakfasts, additional activities, and visits to many more locations.

What is the Golden Circle known for?

The Golden Circle is famous as Iceland's most popular sightseeing trail, celebrated for its accessibility and the three iconic attractions it includes. This scenic loop is a convenient way to experience some of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders in a single, unforgettable day.

Why is it called the Golden Circle Iceland?

The name "Golden Circle" for Iceland's famous route has a few intriguing theories. One idea is it could be named after Iceland's majestic "Golden Falls," Gullfoss, whose golden-hued spray catches sunlight. Another theory suggests it represents the route's economic value to Iceland's tourism. Lastly, some see it as symbolizing the circle's historical and cultural significance, similar to a ring of gold in Icelanders' and tourists’ hearts.

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

Tours of the famous Golden Loop usually take the whole day, from 6 to 12 hours. The duration will depend on the itinerary, extra stops, or experiences you choose. Our classic Golden Circle tour takes 8 hours, so you will return to Reykjavik by the evening.

Which Golden Circle tour is best?

The best Golden Circle tour depends on your interests! The classic small group tour is ideal for those seeking a comfortable and educational journey. Consider the Northern Lights combo if you're visiting in winter and want to maximize your experience . Each option has its unique perks, ensuring you'll have an excellent adventure. If you prefer a later start, our Golden Circle afternoon tour departs at 12 p.m. and is also one of the best choices.

Can I do the Golden Circle on my own without a tour?

Yes, you can do the Golden Circle on your own. Rent a car, use our PDF map with attractions (or GPS), and hit the road. It’s a straightforward drive with well-marked roads, and you can explore at your own pace. However, this is best done in the summer when the weather is good. Attempting this legendary drive in winter can be risky due to icy roads and unpredictable conditions, so joining a guided tour during the cold season is safer and more convenient.

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

Not really! While there is some walking involved, most of the main attractions are easily accessible with short walks from the parking areas. At Gullfoss, you’ll have a short but slightly steep walk to get the best views of the waterfall. The Geysir geothermal area involves a leisurely stroll to see the erupting geysers. Thingvellir National Park has a bit more wandering if you want to fully explore the rift valley and historical sites, but it's mostly flat and manageable for all fitness levels. Overall, the walking is minimal and suitable for everyone, making the tour enjoyable without being too strenuous.

Can you see the Northern Lights from the Golden Circle?

Yes, you can definitely see the Northern Lights on this trail . Since the Golden Circle attractions are in natural, wide-open spaces, you've got a good shot at seeing the auroras, especially between September and April. If your main goal is to see the lights, joining a guided Golden Circle tour is your best option. Guides take you to darker spots where you've got the best chance of catching them. Plus, if you don't see the lights on your first try, our tours give you unlimited chances over three years to see them, so you won't miss out.

What not to miss on the Golden Circle?

You absolutely can't skip the must-see highlights that define this epic route! Stand at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall , catch the thrilling eruptions of geysers , and explore the fascinating history of Þingvellir National Park - these attractions are the heart and soul of the Golden Circle.

When you join our guided tours, we ensure that you experience all these iconic wonders. We might even take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like the Kerid Volcanic Crater or charming towns and hot springs along the way.

Are there restrooms on the Golden Circle route?

Yes, restrooms are available at all the main stops along the drive. Your guide will provide all the information. However, some smaller or more remote stops may not have facilities, so it's best to plan ahead and use the washrooms whenever they are available.

How far is the Golden Circle from Reykjavik?

Iceland's famous sightseeing circuit is conveniently close to Reykjavik , only a short drive of about 45 minutes to an hour to the first stop. The route covers approximately 190 miles (300 kilometers) in total. The farthest point on the Golden Circle from Reykjavik is Gullfoss waterfall, located approximately 96 miles (155 kilometers) east of the capital city.

How much is the Golden Circle tour?

A standard Golden Circle tour typically costs around $87-$90 per person. It involves a standard minibus and no additional activities. For a more complete experience that includes an aurora hunt or a visit to a geothermal pool, prices can range from around $100 to $200 per person. Getting a package tour is a smart way to get more out of your trip while saving money on both experiences!

Is the Golden Circle a day trip?

Yes, the Golden Circle is perfect for a day trip in Iceland. You can easily visit all the major attractions in a single day, take detours, and have plenty of time to enjoy each location. It’s a fantastic way to experience a lot of Icelandic beauty in a short time. However, this loop trail is also frequently part of longer travel itineraries, such as those combined with the South Coast . In these cases, the excursions extend beyond a day, offering excellent value for your time and money.

How far is Blue Lagoon from Golden Circle?

The famous Blue Lagoon spa is not on the sightseeing circle. The renowned spa is about an hour's drive southwest of Reykjavik. That's in the opposite direction of the Golden Circle, which goes east. With a package tour of the spa and sightseeing , you get included tickets to the lagoon and transfers to and from Reykjavik. This allows you to easily visit both attractions in one day.

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Why travel with us, stunning golden circle iceland photos.

Browse our image gallery of spectacular Golden Circle sights to see what awaits you on the trip!

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The Ultimate Private Golden Circle tour in Iceland

Discover the best of Iceland’s Golden Circle with our exclusive Private Golden Circle Tour Iceland . Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, this private tour is customizable to meet your every need. You’ll visit the main highlights, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss waterfall, and more. Enjoy a stop at a cattle farm for delicious ice cream, visit a tomato cultivation center to taste freshly prepared dishes, and take a stroll around a 5000-year-old volcanic crater. Join us for an unforgettable adventure!

What will we see on this PrivateGolden Circle tour?

Þingvellir national park.

Start your day with a short drive from Reykjavik to Þingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers the chance to see Thingvellir lake, Iceland’s second-largest lake, and walk in a rift where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This park is also the site of Althing, the world’s first parliament established in 930 AD. If time allows, our guide will walk you to the Öxarárfoss Waterfall, which merges with Thingvellir lake.

Laugarvatn Fontana Spa

Our next quick but fascinating stop is Laugarvatn Fontana Spa, where you can explore how traditional geothermal bread is made. Although tasting is not included in the tour price, it can be arranged upon request.

Efstidalur Dairy Farm

Visit Efstidalur Farm, operated by the same family since 1750, to see Icelandic cattle and enjoy locally made ice cream. This delightful stop is perfect for ice cream lovers, and you can choose any flavor you like – it’s on us!

Haukadalur Geysir Geothermal Area

A short drive will bring you to the Haukadalur Geysir Geothermal Area, home to Iceland’s most active geyser, Strokkur. Watch as Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water 20-30 meters into the air. Be cautious of the wind direction to avoid getting soaked and enjoy the unique sulfuric aroma that fills the air.

• Gullfoss Waterfall

Continue your journey to Gullfoss waterfall, Iceland’s second-largest waterfall. A short walk from the parking lot brings you to a stunning viewpoint. In summer, adventurous hikers can walk closer to the falls to feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the cascading water.

Fridheimar Tomato Cultivation Farm

Travel south to Fridheimar Tomato Cultivation Farm, where you can taste a variety of tomato-based dishes and perhaps enjoy the best Bloody Mary cocktail in the world. See how tomatoes are grown in the greenhouse, and if you’d like a proper lunch stop here, let us know in advance so we can adjust the itinerary.

Brúarfoss Waterfall

A lesser-known waterfall characterized by its unique, fragmented streams that cascade into bright blue pools. It’s reached by a scenic hike and is prized for its peaceful, hidden-away charm.

• Kerid Crater

End your tour with a visit to Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic caldera about 5000 years old. Admire the vivid red and orange rocks, lush green moss, and bright blue water, creating a breathtaking landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tour highlights.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Geysir Hot Spring
• Efstidalur Farm
• Fridheimar Cultivation Farm

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Does it include a lunch stop?

We usually make a lunch stop at Geysir Geothermal Area or Gullfoss Waterfall, both offering canteen-style food and snacks. A lunch stop at Fridheimar Tomato Farm requires advance notice due to limited seating and reservation requirements. Food or drinks are not included in the tour price.

Can I add additional stops on this tour?

Yes, all our private tours are customizable. Please send your request to [email protected] .

Can I book this tour on short notice?

Yes, we will do our best to accommodate last-minute bookings. For bookings within 24 hours, please contact us at [email protected] or call +354 556 6868

Can I customize this tour?

Our private tour is fully customizable to your needs. The driver can adjust the itinerary and accommodate lunch breaks as per your request. Book now to experience the Golden Circle like never before!

Do you offer combo tours?

Yes, you can check our other Golden Circle tour options .

What is the cancellation policy?

• No cancellation fee if canceled more than 48 hours in advance (96.5% refund).
• 100% cancellation fee if canceled within 48 hours of the tour date.
• 100% refund if the tour is canceled by us due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
• 3,5% is non-refundable merchant fee.
• Departure From Reykjavik
• Departure Time 9:00 AM
• Return Time Approx. 4 PM
• Included English speaking guide Transportation Admission to the sights Ice cream at Efstidalur Farm
• Not Included Food & Drinks

Got a question?

Similar tours.

Semi-Private Family River Rafting from Fludir

Into the glacier tour from Thingvellir National Park

Small Group Golden Circle & Kerid Volcano

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THE TRAVEL BLOG FOR HIKING LOVERS AND AESTHETIC TRAVEL GUIDES

Iceland · June 7, 2024

The Ultimate Guide To Driving The Golden Circle

Buckle up, fellow adventurers, because we’re about to embark on an epic journey through one of Iceland ‘s most iconic road trip routes – the Golden Circle!

Picture this: geysers shooting hot water skyward, majestic waterfalls crashing into ancient riverbeds, and tectonic plates doing a slow-motion dance that’s been going on for millennia. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a first-time visitor to the Land of Fire and Ice, driving the Golden Circle is a must-do adventure that promises jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating history, and a whole lot of fun.

In this ultimate guide, I’ll show you how to make the most of your Golden Circle adventure. From navigating the route like a pro and discovering hidden gems along the way, to insider tips on the best photo spots and where to grab a delicious Icelandic hot dog (trust me, it’s a thing), I’ve got you covered!

So grab your camera, crank up your favorite road trip playlist, and get ready for an unforgettable ride through the heart of Iceland’s natural wonders. Let’s hit the road and explore the Golden Circle like never before!

What’s The Golden Circle in Iceland?

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes , offering an incredible showcase of the country’s diverse natural beauty and geological wonders.

This approximately 300-kilometer (186-mile) loop from Reykjavik takes travelers through three of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, each providing a unique and memorable experience.

And while most Golden Circle tours focus on visiting just the three main sights, there are so many more gorgeous places to discover along this short stretch in Iceland!

In this article I’ll even share one of the most beautiful waterfalls that’s located right outside of the Golden Circle but definitely worth the short detour!

The best time to drive the Golden Circle

The best time to drive the Golden Circle in Iceland depends on the type of experience you desire, as each season offers unique advantages .

Summer (June to August) provides nearly 24 hours of daylight, mild temperatures, and lush green landscapes, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so attractions can be crowded.

Autumn (September to November) offers fewer crowds, stunning fall colors, and cooler weather, along with increasing chances of seeing the Northern Lights as the nights grow longer. Do know that even at the start of November snowfall can already occur.

Winter (December to February) transforms the Golden Circle into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes and frozen waterfalls, offering a serene experience with excellent opportunities to view the Northern Lights. However, driving conditions can be challenging due to icy roads and limited daylight.

Spring (March to May) sees the landscape coming to life with budding trees and early wildflowers, moderate crowds, and milder temperatures, making it a pleasant time for exploration. Regardless of the season, starting your journey early, dressing in layers, and checking weather and road conditions are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.

How long do you need to drive the Golden Circle?

This totally depends on how much time you have to spend in Iceland in total. If you’re only here for 1 week you can even tick off the main attractions of the Golden Circle in half a day. Leaving you with enough time to explore the Icelandic Ring Road or the Icelandic Highlands .

The loop is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) and can be driven in about 3.5 to 4 hours without stops. However, to fully enjoy each site, plan for a total of 6 to 8 hours, including travel time .

If you’re in Iceland for 2 weeks I recommend spending two days exploring the Golden Circle. This way you’ll have enough time to explore all of the highlights and include some of the lesser known but equally epic sights! You’ll have enough time to incorporate some beautiful hiking trails and can even go scuba diving between the tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park!

💡 TIP – Begin your trip early in the morning to maximize daylight hours, especially in winter.

Best attractions along the Golden Circle

1. thingvellir nationaal park.

Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, established in 930 AD. This historical site holds immense cultural importance as the birthplace of Icelandic democracy.

The park is situated in a rift valley caused by the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates . You can actually walk between the plates at the Almannagjá gorge , witnessing the impressive geological formations and understanding the dynamic processes shaping the Earth.

Þingvellir is home to Silfra , a crystal-clear fissure filled with glacial meltwater, making it a world-famous spot for snorkeling and diving. The visibility in Silfra can exceed 100 meters, offering an unparalleled underwater experience. One of the most popular activities in Thingvellir National Park is to go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Silfra fissure.

And then there is Öxarárfoss , a beautiful and historically significant waterfall located within Þingvellir National Park. The waterfall is fed by the Öxará river, which flows through the park and cascades over the Almannagjá fault.

2. Bruarfoss Waterfall

Brúarfoss Waterfall is a true hidden gem on the Golden Circle and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. The waterfall is renowned for its vibrant blue color , which is especially vivid in sunny conditions. The hue comes from the glacial water flowing through the river Brúará, creating a mesmerizing sight as it cascades over the falls.

The hike to Brúarfoss starts from a parking area near the Brekkuskógur summerhouses. The trail is about 7-kilometer (4.4 miles) in total and a stunning hike in Iceland .

The hike is relatively easy and follows a path along the river, offering beautiful views of the Icelandic countryside.

Geysir, located in the Haukadalur Valley of southwestern Iceland, is one of the country’s most famous geothermal areas and the namesake of all geysers worldwide.

The Great Geysir, the original geyser, has been active for over 10,000 years and can occasionally spout boiling water up to 70 meters (230 feet) into the air , though its eruptions have become infrequent.

Nearby, the more active Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes , shooting water up to 20 meters (65 feet), providing a reliable and spectacular display for visitors. The geothermal area is also home to numerous hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, showcasing the intense geothermal activity of the region.

Gullfoss, known as the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls , located on the Hvítá River in the southwestern part of the country. The waterfall features a dramatic two-stage drop, first plunging 11 meters (36 feet) and then another 21 meters (69 feet) into a rugged canyon.

The powerful cascade creates a stunning display of mist and rainbows on sunny days, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Today, Gullfoss is protected and celebrated as a symbol of Icelandic natural heritage . The site is well-equipped with viewing platforms and walking paths, allowing visitors to experience the waterfall from various angles. The nearby visitor center offers information about the falls, as well as dining and shopping facilities.

5. Faxafoss

Faxafoss, also known as Faxi or Vatnsleysufoss, is a charming waterfall located on the Tungufljót River in southwestern Iceland. It is situated a short drive from the main Golden Circle route , making it an excellent addition to your itinerary when exploring the area. Unlike some of Iceland’s more dramatic waterfalls, Faxafoss is known for its broad, gentle cascade and tranquil surroundings.

There are well-maintained paths and viewing platforms that allow visitors to get close to the waterfall and enjoy different perspectives. The area is relatively flat and easy to navigate, suitable for visitors of all ages.

6. Hrunalaug Hot Spring

Hrunalaug Hot Spring is a charming and secluded geothermal pool located near the village of Flúðir in southern Iceland. Known for its serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Hrunalaug offers visitors a unique and intimate hot spring experience, away from the more crowded tourist spots.

This hidden gem provides a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the tranquility of the Icelandic countryside.

The main pool at Hrunalaug is a small, stone-lined basin fed by a natural hot spring. The water temperature is typically around 38-40°C (100-104°F), making it perfect for a relaxing soak.

7. Kerid Crater

Kerið Crater is a stunning volcanic crater lake renowned for its vivid blue-green water and striking red volcanic rock walls. This approximately 3,000-year-old crater is a caldera formed by the collapse of a magma chamber after a volcanic eruption , making it geologically unique. The vibrant colors of the lake and surrounding moss-covered rocks create a picturesque scene, especially during summer, offering excellent opportunities for photography and exploration.

Visitors to Kerið can enjoy a variety of activities, including walking along the crater rim for panoramic views and descending to the lake for a closer look. The crater is easily accessible, situated about 15 kilometers north of Selfoss and a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik, with facilities including a parking area and well-maintained paths. A small entrance fee helps maintain the site .

Places to visit that are close to the Golden Circle

If you have two days to explore the Golden Circle you might have some extra time on your hands to also include one of these beautiful places close by. My guess is that if you calculate in 3 days you’ll have plenty of time to explore all of the places listed below as well .

Haifoss, located in southern Iceland near the Þjórsárdalur Valley, is one of the country’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls . Plunging approximately 122 meters (400 feet) into a dramatic canyon, Haifoss, which means “High Falls,” offers a breathtaking view of cascading water surrounded by rugged cliffs and verdant landscapes. The waterfall is fed by the Fossá River, and nearby, you can also find the smaller yet equally stunning Granni waterfall, which translates to “Neighbor,” creating a captivating twin waterfall scene.

Accessible via a gravel road that requires a 4×4 vehicle , Haifoss remains relatively less crowded compared to other Icelandic tourist spots. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the top of the canyon or embark on a hike to the base for a closer look at the waterfall’s immense power.

2. Þjóðveldisbærinn

Þjóðveldisbærinn, also known as the Commonwealth Farm, is a fascinating open-air museum in Iceland that offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s Viking Age past. Located in the Þjórsárdalur valley near the Hekla volcano, this museum features a meticulously reconstructed turf house, replicating the traditional building style of Icelandic settlers from the 9th to 11th centuries.

The turf house, built using materials and techniques authentic to the era, provides insight into the daily lives, architecture, and agricultural practices of early Icelandic communities.

Visitors can explore the interior of the turf house, which includes a living area, kitchen, and sleeping quarters, all furnished with period-appropriate artifacts and tools. Guides often provide informative tours, sharing stories and details about the Viking Age lifestyle, social structures, and the challenges faced by early settlers.

3. Hjálparfoss

Hjálparfoss is a captivating twin waterfall located in the Þjórsárdalur valley in southern Iceland. The waterfall is where two streams from the river Fossá converge and cascade over a lava rock formation into a serene, wide pool below. Surrounded by basalt formations and lush greenery, its unique formation and the serene pool at the base provide an ideal location for relaxing and photography.

Accessible via a short drive from the main routes, Hjálparfoss is relatively easy to reach and is often less crowded than other more famous waterfalls in Iceland. The area around Hjálparfoss offers picnic spots and opportunities for exploration, making it a great stop for a leisurely visit.

Where to stay when driving the Golden Circle

When driving the Golden Circle in Iceland, you’ll find a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly options. Here are some recommended places to stay, conveniently located near the main attractions along the route.

Reykjavik – Starting and ending your Golden Circle journey in Reykjavik offers a wide range of accommodation options and easy access to the route.

Laugarvatn – Situated between Þingvellir and Geysir, Laugarvatn is a convenient and scenic place to stay, known for its geothermal spa.

Selfoss – A larger town on the Golden Circle route, offering a variety of amenities and accommodations.

Hveragerði – Known for its geothermal activity and hot springs, Hveragerði is a relaxing place to stay near the Golden Circle.

Geysir – Staying near the Geysir geothermal area allows you to be close to one of the Golden Circle’s main attractions.

Flúðir – A small village known for its hot springs and proximity to the Secret Lagoon.

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Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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