If you’re planning on exploring Iceland, then you’re in for a treat!
Today, I’m going to take you on an unforgettable journey to check out the best of the Golden Circle Iceland stops, on one of Iceland’s most iconic routes. Picture this: stunning landscapes, powerful waterfalls, bubbling geysers, and rich history all packed into a single, amazing day trip from Reykjavik. Sounds incredible, right?
I spent a whole week in Iceland and absolutely fell in love with the place. One of the highlights of my trip was the Golden Circle, which I explored on a jeep excursion. The freedom of driving through these incredible landscapes, stopping whenever I wanted to soak in the views while the guide explained it all, made the experience even more special.
The Golden Circle is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the best of Iceland in a short amount of time. The route is about 300 kilometers (or around 190 miles) long and is super easy to navigate, thanks to the well-maintained roads. You don’t need to be a seasoned traveler to enjoy this trip; it’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from families with kids to solo adventurers.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the must-see stops along the Golden Circle, plus some hidden gems that are definitely worth a visit. We’ll cover everything from the awe-inspiring Þingvellir National Park to the thunderous Gullfoss Waterfall, the mesmerizing Geysir Geothermal Area, and much more.
By the end of this article, you’ll be all set to embark on your own Golden Circle adventure with a clear plan and plenty of excitement. So, buckle up and get ready for an epic journey through some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights.
The Golden Circle Iceland Stops
The Golden Circle is famous for its incredible sights, and although there are only three official stops, there are many other interesting spots I visited that showcase the best of Iceland’s natural wonders. As a whole, they offer a mix of stunning landscapes and fascinating history and interesting experiences.
The Official Golden Circle Iceland Stops
- Þingvellir National Park
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Geysir Geothermal Area
Extra Golden Circle Iceland Stops Worth Seeing
- Kerid Crater
- Bruarfoss Waterfall
- Efstidallur Dairy Farm
- Faxifoss Waterfall
- Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm
- Secret Lagoon
- Skálholt
- Sólheimar Eco-Village
- Reykjadalur Valley
Map of Golden Circle Iceland Stops
Should you Drive or Take a Golden Circle Tour?
When I visited the Golden Circle, I chose to join a fantastic tour (click here to see it) because I didn’t want to worry about driving a rental car. It was great to relax and enjoy the sights without having to worry about navigating. It was also a great way to see a bit of Iceland on a budget. The tour guide shared lots of cool facts and stories, which made the trip even more interesting.
However, if you prefer more freedom, renting a car could be a great option. It would allow you to spend as much time as you want at each stop and explore some hidden gems along the way. Both options have their perks, so it really depends on what kind of adventure you’re looking for!
If you are planning on spending more time exploring the Golden Circle or hunt for the Northern Lights, it’s a good idea to looking into hiring a camper van. Because the country is very expensive, hiring a premium 4×4 camper van in Iceland, will not only give you the freedom you need to explore at your own pace but also save you money on accommodation and food in the longer run. Cozy Campers have modern, new camper vans which are equipped for both off road and winter driving.
Iceland Golden Circle Route
When I explored the Golden Circle I felt I was taking a journey through some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes that Iceland has to offer. I absolutely loved the waterfalls, which reminded me of the waterfalls in Michigan, but bigger! Below, I’ll take you through each of the 12 stops on this iconic route, so you know exactly what to expect and why each spot is worth your time.
1.Thingvellir National Park
Our first stop was Þingvellir National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of the world’s first parliament in 930 AD, the Althing. The park sits in a rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, creating stunning scenery with dramatic cliffs and clear water fissures you can snorkel or even dive in. It’s a must-see for its historical significance and natural beauty. I loved walking between two continents!
2.Efstidallur Dairy Farm
Next, we headed to Efstidalur Dairy Farm, a charming spot where we took a break and enjoyed some delicious homemade ice cream. The farm has a cozy café with a view of the cows, and it’s a great place for a coffee stop. Kids would love seeing the farm animals up close, and the ice cream was a real treat!
3.Bruarfoss Waterfall
Our third stop was Bruarfoss Waterfall, often called the “Blue Waterfall” because of its stunning blue color caused by the glacier melt which feeds it. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, and can be reached by parking near the main road and hiking the 7 km Brúarfoss trail, or doing what we did and driving to the new parking lot which was recently opened right next to the falls. This allows you to see the falls in about half an hour as opposed to 2 hours.
The waterfall cascades over a series of small steps, creating a beautiful, serene scene that’s perfect for photos and is definitely worth the stop!
4.Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area was incredible, and is home to the famous geyser, Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters (100 feet) into the air. This area is full of geothermal activity, and I was amazed by the bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and hot springs.
We didn’t get to see the original Great Geysir, after which all other geysers are named, since it is mostly dormant. But we were impressed by the power of the Strokkur Geyser and got to see it erupt a few times during out visit. It’s a fascinating place where we really got to see the geothermal forces beneath Iceland’s surface.
5.Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss means “Golden Falls,” and is one of Iceland’s most famous and powerful waterfalls. I loved how the Hvítá river rushes southward and plunges in two stages into the canyon. The sheer force and beauty of the water crashing down the rocks was awe-inspiring!
It was a sunny day and we got to see a rainbow forming in the mist! What a magical stop! There are several viewing platforms around Gullfoss where you can take in different perspectives of the waterfall so make sure to visit a few of them.
6.Faxifoss Waterfall
Faxifoss Waterfall is a smaller but equally charming waterfall. I liked that it was less crowded than Gullfoss, making it a really peaceful spot to enjoy Iceland’s nature. There was also a salmon ladder here, which helped the fish climb up the falls. I loved this since I had never seen one! I found it so interesting to see!
7.Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm
At Fridheimar, we had lunch in a tomato greenhouse! The farm grows tomatoes year-round using geothermal energy, and their tomato soup was simply delicious. We also learned about Icelandic horses and even saw a horse show. This was a great way to mix things up a little.
8.Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon was my favorite stop and the perfect place to relax and unwind. We often visit hotsprings back in Wisconsin, but the Secret lagoon was just so much more exotic! The natural hot spring offered warm, thermal waters for swimming and was an incredible experience!
I felt it was less commercialized than the Blue Lagoon, giving it a more authentic feel, but it is still organized enough to make the experience feel like a spa. There were facilities like changing rooms and showers, which made it convenient for us, and would be perfect if you plan on traveling with children.
9.Skálholt
I really enjoyed our stop at Skálholt. It is a historic site with a beautiful cathedral that dates back to the 11th century. It was once one of the most important religious and cultural centers in Iceland. We loved the glimpse it offered into Iceland’s medieval history, and the cathedral itself was lovely to explore.
10.Sólheimar Eco-Village
Sólheimar Eco-Village is a unique and inspiring stop. We decided against this stop because time didn’t permit it, but would have loved to include it. This community focuses on sustainable living and environmentally-friendly projects.
I would have loved to have visited their workshops, see their organic gardens, and learn about their various initiatives. It’s a great place to see how people live in harmony with nature.
11.Kerid Crater
Kerid Crater is a striking volcanic crater lake with vivid red and orange slopes surrounding a bright blue lake. This was my favorite scenery since it was so incredibly colorful! I walked around the rim and down to the lake itself. The contrasting colors made it a spectacular sight and a great spot for photos.
12.Reykjadalur Valley
The last stop on my list is Reykjadalur Valley, known for its hot springs and hiking through scenic nature. I wanted to stop here since I love to hike in Wisconsin, but didn’t stop since we opted to stay longer at the Secret Lagoon. But if you’d prefer something that hasn’t been commercialized, this is a great option which is generally less crowded.
After a 45-minute hike through beautiful scenery, you’ll reach a hot river where you can wade in and relax. There is however no facilities or bathrooms here, so it’s not for everyone.
How long does it take to do the Golden Circle in Iceland?
One of the great things about the Golden Circle is that it can fit into almost any itinerary. If you’re short on time, you can see the main sights in about 6 to 8 hours. This includes driving time and a bit of time spent at each of the official stops: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area.
However, if you want to make the most of your trip and visit some of the extra stops like the Secret Lagoon, Kerid Crater, or Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm, you might want to plan for a full day, around 10 to 12 hours. This way, you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy a leisurely pace, soaking in the beauty of each location.
When I did the Golden Circle, we spent a full day exploring and still felt like there was more to see. So, my advice is to start early, take your time, and enjoy every moment. Whether you have half a day or a whole day, the Golden Circle is an unforgettable experience that’s totally worth it!
Best Time to Visit the Golden Circle Iceland Stops
Iceland is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit the Golden Circle really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular time to visit. The weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F), and the days are incredibly long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight. This is perfect for maximizing your sightseeing time. Everything is lush and green, and all the roads are easily accessible. However, it’s also the busiest season, so expect more tourists at the main attractions.
Fall (September to November): Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The landscape transforms into beautiful autumn colors, making it a great time for photography. The days start getting shorter, but you still have plenty of daylight to explore. Plus, this is the beginning of the Northern Lights season, so you might get lucky and see the aurora borealis. I chose to travel in Fall because I wanted to escape the high season and really wanted to see the Nothern Lights. Let me tell you: it doesn’t disappoint!
Winter (December to February): Winter in Iceland is magical, with snowy landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. The temperatures can drop below freezing, and the days are much shorter, with only about 4 to 6 hours of daylight. Roads can be icy and challenging to drive, so if you’re visiting in winter, a guided tour might be a safer option. The main attractions are less crowded, and you’ll get a unique perspective on Iceland’s beauty.
Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy longer days and improving weather. The snow begins to melt, and you can witness the landscape waking up from its winter slumber. Temperatures are gradually warming up, and it’s a great time for bird watching and seeing newborn lambs and foals on farms.
Where to Stay Near the Golden Circle
Choosing the right place to stay can make your Golden Circle adventure even more enjoyable. Whether you prefer a cozy guesthouse, a charming farmhouse, or a luxurious hotel, there are plenty of great options near the Golden Circle. Here are some recommendations to help you decide:
Reykjavik: If you want to keep things simple, staying in Reykjavik is a great choice. It’s only about a 45-minute drive to the start of the Golden Circle, and you’ll have access to all the city’s amenities, including restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Reykjavik offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to high-end hotels.
Apartments Reykjavik: Great budget option room in a flat which is very well located.
Alda Hotel Reykjavík: Beautiful mid-range design hotel in the center.
Selfoss: Located along the Golden Circle route, Selfoss is a convenient and popular place to stay. This charming town has several guesthouses, hotels, and Airbnb options. Staying here gives you a great head start for exploring the Golden Circle early in the morning. Plus, Selfoss has some lovely local restaurants and cafes to enjoy.
Golden Circle Domes – Lake View – an incredible experience sleeping in a beautifully designed dome by the lake!
Ásahraun Guesthouse: Glamping on a budget!
Hotel Selfoss: A great budget hotel with an excellent spa right downtown at the best possible price
Hella and Hvolsvöllur: These towns are a bit further along the route but offer a more peaceful, countryside experience. You’ll find cozy guesthouses, farm stays, and even some boutique hotels. Staying in Hella or Hvolsvöllur can give you a taste of rural Icelandic life and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Landhotel – Luxury hotel where the Northern Lights are the star of the show!
Aurora Lodge – Mid range hotel where you can watch the snowy mountains from the jacuzzi!
Laugarvatn: If you want to be closer to nature, consider staying in Laugarvatn. This small village is situated between Þingvellir and Geysir, making it an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle. There are several guesthouses and hotels here, and you can enjoy the Fontana Geothermal Baths after a day of sightseeing.
Farmhotel Efstidalur – Enjoy a farm stay and have the experience of a lifetime!
The Golden Circle Iceland Stops: The Wrap-Up
Exploring the Golden Circle is an unforgettable adventure that showcases some of the best natural wonders and cultural treasures Iceland has to offer. Whether you choose to drive yourself for the freedom and flexibility or join a guided tour for a hassle-free experience, the Golden Circle promises an incredible journey. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to experience the magic of the Golden Circle!
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