Overview
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland that covers approximately 300 kilometers and visits three primary attractions: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This route offers a glimpse into Iceland's natural wonders and historical significance.
Historical and natural significance, showcasing Iceland's geological activity and Viking heritage.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 65.27178639203731, 19.157777105787694
Neighborhood: Downtown
Coordinates
64.146583, -21.942415
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-August
Best Time of Day
Early morning 8-10am
fewer crowds, better lighting, and more accessible weather conditions
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild with occasional rain, longer days
- • wildflowers in bloom
- • waterfalls at full force
summer
mild to warm, long daylight hours
- • midnight sun
- • extended hours
autumn
cool and pleasant, shorter days
- • fall foliage
- • harvest displays
winter
cold, possible snow, shorter days
- • holiday decorations
- • winter illuminations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tours online in advance for best prices and availability
- Photography unrestricted but respect wildlife and environment
- Modest dress code not required, but appropriate for weather
- Cash needed for some vendors and local shops
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high - involves walking on uneven terrain and significant hiking
- • uneven surfaces
- • no shade in some areas
- • rapid weather changes
Medical facilities: First aid stations at major attraction points
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards, mobile payments
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear for hiking, Layers for changing weather, waterproof jacket, Comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes required for some areas, Flip-flops, high heels, inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 weeks recommended, especially for summer
- • official tourism websites or reputable tour operators
- • full refund 48-72 hours before
- • private tours or early morning slots
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Iceland Travel App
Size: 55 MB
Features: Interactive GPS map of the Golden Circle, Audio guide in multiple languages, AR geothermal activity information, Real-time weather and road condition updates, Digital ticket storage and tour booking
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Cafes, Some hotels along the route
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, Cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Keflavik International Airport
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 45-60 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 50 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Showcases Iceland's natural beauty and historical significance
Historical Significance: Þingvellir is the site of the world's oldest parliament, the Althing
Insider Tips
- Visit the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) for a less crowded hot spring experience
- Local farmers markets offer unique Icelandic products and food
- Some guided tours offer exclusive access to lesser-known geothermal areas
- The Icelandic Horse Park offers unique opportunities to see and learn about Icelandic horses
Local Recommendations
- • Try the famous Icelandic hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavik
- • Ask for local guides who can share insider knowledge and stories
- • Visit local cafes for traditional Icelandic pastries and coffee
- • Early morning visits to attractions are less crowded and more peaceful
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Icelandic, English, German, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Þingvellir National Park, Alkmannragar
Best Time: Golden hour (5-7pm in summer, 12-2pm in winter)
Tips: Shoot from low angle to capture the dramatic cliffs and rift valley
Result: Stunning landscape shots with dramatic light and colors
Gullfoss Waterfall
Best Time: Early morning for mist and reflections
Tips: Get close to the edge for dramatic waterfall shots
Result: Powerful waterfall shots with mist and rainbows
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Blue Lagoon
Distance: 35 km
Walking: not walkable, 30-40 minutes by car
Type: Geothermal Spa
Kerid Crater
Distance: 30 km
Walking: not walkable, 25-30 minutes by car
Type: Volcanic Crater
Reviews
Based on 20,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a guided tour for the best experience and insider knowledge"
- "Visit Þingvellir at sunrise for the most magical experience"
- "Bring a good camera and extra batteries for all the photo opportunities"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Golden Circle, Volcano Crater and Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour
Golden Circle Iceland: Full-Day Guided Tour from Reykjavik
Small Group: Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik Cruise Terminals
Classic Golden Circle & Kerið from Reykjavík in minibus
Golden Circle and Northern Lights Superjeep Tour from Reykjavik
Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon Geothermal Spa Tour from Reykjavik
Golden Circle and Laugarás Lagoon Small Group Tour
Golden Circle - Private Tour
Private Full-Day Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
Private Golden Circle Glacier Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik
Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle Wonders Tour with Kerid Crater
Golden Circle Adventure: Snorkeling at Silfra, Geysir & Gullfoss
Custom Private Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon & Friðheimar Tour
Super Jeep Golden Circle & Snowmobile on Glacier from Reykjavik
Golden Circle Classic in Small group - Also for cruises
Private Golden Circle with Geysers and Waterfalls
Private Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
Whale Watching and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
Golden Circle Tour
Golden Circle & South Coast Tour
Private Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Tour
Golden Circle and Glacier Super Jeep Adventure
Golden Circle with extra G
7 Hours Golden Circle Private Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
44
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
20,000
Adult Entry
Free to most natural attractions, guided tours $50-150