The Golden Circle Iceland
Are you unsure if you want to drive the Golden Circle independently or book a day tour? Or do you want to know all the best locations on the Golden Circle route so you can plan your perfect trip? Well, look no further! In this complete travel guide, we will highlight all of the top locations on the Golden Circle route and their locations on Google Maps so you can pin them for later! We will also highlight our favourite day tours that we think are hard to beat! Alongside this, we will discuss the best times to visit, where to stay in Iceland and some top travel tips for each location! Let’s dive in!
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You Can Also Check Out Our Ultimate Guide To The Golden Circle On YouTube:
We Value Your Time
We value your time! So, if you already know why you are here and want to look at the best tours to visit the Golden Circle, then we have included our top picks below:
However, if you would like to look at each location in more detail and plan your own trip, then we hope you enjoy exploring our full travel guide.
Where Is The Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a popular route for many travelers located in southwest Iceland. Approximately 300 km in length, The Golden Circle forms a loop from Reykjavik into the inland region and back.
This compact circular route allows visitors to conveniently experience some of Iceland’s most stunning natural attractions within a relatively short distance from Reykjavik, making it an extremely popular day trip or short excursion.
What Does Iceland’s Golden Circle Include?
The Golden Circle has to make it onto our list of best things to do in Iceland. This renowned sightseeing route comprises three major natural attractions – Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. We have also added a noteworthy addition, the Kerid Crater, as this can be completed as part of the same route and is definitely worth a visit.
The Golden Circle Self Drive Itinerary
If you would prefer to hire a car and complete the Golden Circle route independently then look no further! Below we highlight each location, what to expect and how to find it so you can plan your own perfect trip!
A Cheaper Way To Rent A Car In Iceland
Renting a car in Iceland provides ultimate freedom and flexibility but it can be expensive! To cut down costs we suggest having a look at GetRentacar.com. This site is a car-sharing market place that allows travelers to rent cars from a community of local car owners. This can allow you to rent a car at up to 50% off the average market price!
You can compare the prices above to one of the more well know car rental providers, Rentalcars.com. Use the widget below to check prices and find your best deal.
Kerid Crater
Kerid Crater is a stunning volcanic crater located in the Grímsnes area of southern Iceland. Although it is not traditionally part of the Golden Circle tour, it has become a popular stop as it is conveniently located between Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. We have highlighted Kerid Crater’s location on google maps below so you can pin it for your trip.
Formed around 6,500 years ago during a volcanic eruption, the crater is approximately 270 meters across, 55 meters deep and 170 meters wide. Its striking features include vibrant red volcanic rock slopes surrounding an opaque, milky-blue crater lake at the bottom.
Kerid Crater is unique in its remarkably well-preserved caldera and the vivid contrast between the red rocks, green moss, and brilliant blue-green water. You can hike along the crater’s rim or descend down a path to the lake’s shore. In winter, the lake freezes over, and you can venture out onto the ice!
With its otherworldly beauty and convenient location, Kerid Crater offers travellers an easily accessible and awe-inspiring glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic origins. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland that perfectly complements the natural marvels along the iconic Golden Circle route.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss, a unique and renowned waterfall, is nestled in the Hvítá river canyon in southwest Iceland. It stands out with its two-tiered structure, the first cascade descending 11 meters (36 feet) and the second, more imposing one, plunging a staggering 21 meters (69 feet).
Below we have highlighted Gullfoss Waterfall on google maps so you can pin its location for your trip!
Gullfoss’s sheer force and power are awe-inspiring, with an average of 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of glacial water thundering over the falls every second during summer. This incredible volume of water creates a vast spray that frequently produces brilliant rainbows on sunny days, earning Gullfoss its name, which translates to “Golden Falls”.
Gullfoss is a centrepiece of the Golden Circle. Its stunning beauty and historical significance, including the efforts of Sigríður Tómasdóttir to preserve it from industrialization in the early 20th century, have made Gullfoss a beloved and natural wonder and one of the best things to do in Iceland.
However, be warned!! This was one of the windiest places we have ever visited… No, seriously, it was insane!!! Pictures cannot do it justice but below is Beth leaning her whole weight into the wind:
Gullfoss waterfall is fed by the Hvítá River, which originates from the meltwater of the Langjökull glacier, Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. As the wind blows across the vast, open landscapes and over the Langjökull glacier, it creates a phenomenon known as katabatic winds or glacier winds. These intense winds are caused by the dense, cold air accumulating on the glacier’s surface.
As this heavy air flows downslope, it accelerates rapidly due to gravity, resulting in powerful gusts that can reach remarkably high speeds. The funnelling effect of the Gullfoss Canyon further amplifies these katabatic winds, creating localized areas of extreme windiness around the waterfall.
The wind was so intense that it literally took people off their feet during the day! So, even in summer, wrap up warm and be prepared for a very blustery experience when visiting this iconic waterfall.
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Geysir
The Geysir geothermal area in southwest Iceland is home to the famous Geysir hot spring, which gave its name to all spouting hot springs worldwide. Although the Great Geysir is currently dormant, the area boasts the highly active Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes.
When Strokkur erupts, it unleashes a mighty column of boiling water, soaring up to 30 meters (100 feet) into the sky. This breathtaking display is a result of superheated water surging through a narrow tube, with the immense pressure causing the water to explode into vapor at the surface.
Below we have highlighted the Geysir geothermal area on google maps so you can pin its location for your trip!
The Geysir area is a geothermal hotspot, with numerous hot springs, fumaroles (steam vents), and mud pots dotting the landscape. This Iconic attraction offers a unique glimpse into the powerful geothermal forces that shape Iceland’s incredible landscapes. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Iceland, showcasing the island’s volcanic and seismic activity in a truly mesmerizing way.
Top Tip: Wrap up warm as you will likely have to stand pretty still for up to 10 minutes to catch the explosion. If you see people leaving in mass, it likely means an explosion has just happened and that’s a good time to go and secure a perfect spot to watch the spectacle.
Warning!!!
Do NOT step off the paths!! This area is full of boiling hot springs that can lay just beneath innocent looking grass!
If you need further convincing, this actually happened to Ed Sheeran during his trip to Iceland. He slipped and his foot landed in a boiling hot spring leading him to need skin grafts!
It feels like we are giving lots of warnings haha! But Iceland’s climate can be very unforgiving, so knowledge is power and all that!
Þingvellir National Park
Last but not least for The Golden Circle is the Þingvellir National Park.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its geological wonders and historical significance. It lies within the rift valley, marking the boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates and providing a unique opportunity to witness the visible effects of continental drift.
Below we have highlighted Þingvellir National Park on google maps so you can pin its location for your trip!
The park is home to the Almannagjá Gorge, a dramatic fissure formed by the gradual separation of the tectonic plates over millennia. Visitors can walk along the gorge and even dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, surrounded by the rocky walls of the continental divide.
Historically, Þingvellir was the site of the Alþingi, Iceland’s ancient parliament founded in 930 AD, where the nation’s most pivotal decisions were made, including the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD. The Lögberg (Law Rock) and ruins of ancient booths and shelters serve as reminders of this rich cultural heritage.
With its awe-inspiring geological features, deep-rooted historical significance, and breathtaking natural scenery, Þingvellir National Park offers visitors an unparalleled experience at the intersection of nature’s forces and Iceland’s storied past, making it another one of the best things to do in Iceland!
The Best Golden Circle Tours
If you would like to book a tour to experience all 4 of these amazing places in one day you can pick from these options below. We have chosen tours that visit the Golden Circle and the Kerid Cater because all four attractions are a must!
Where To Stay In Iceland
The most popular place to stay in Iceland is in Reykjavik. This is the capital and where nearly all day tours operate from. Likewise, it is close proximity to the airport, lots of shops and lovely local restaurants. If you are doing a shorter trip to Iceland, Reykjavik is the perfect place to stay and provides easy access to some of the popular day tours including the Southcoast, Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Golden Circle. Equally, Reykjavik is the perfect start point for those looking to take a campervan around Iceland’s famous 800-mile loop!
Here are some of our top recommendations for places to stay in Reykjavik. We have included a number of options depending on your budget and type of vibe you are going for!
Hostels:
Love a social vibe? Here is our top hostel recommendation for a livelier atmosphere. Kex Hostel is also where Beth stayed on her first trip to Iceland!
Here are some other top hostel recommendations in Reykjavik:
Hotels:
Looking for a more relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of hostels? Here are our top hotel recommendations in Reykjavik from Agoda:
The Best Time To Visit The Golden Circle
The best time to visit The Golden circle depends very much on the type of scene you would like to experience on your visit. The summer months between June and August bring warmer, more predictable weather and beautiful greenery! However, bear in mind that this period also sees a surge in tourist activity, resulting in larger crowds and increased accommodation prices.
The winter months showcase a winter wonderland and this is also the best time to see the Northern lights, as these months offer longer nights and darker skies, which are ideal conditions for seeing the aurora. The peak months are typically March and September due to increased solar activity around the equinoxes.
You can read our complete guide on the Northern Lights Here: How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland | 10 Crucial Tips
There is an argument that Iceland requires two visits as it is an entirely different country between summer and winter. Some incredible waterfalls freeze over in the winter and look just as stunning! We have included a table below showing the average monthly snowfall and average monthly temperature to help you decide.
Average Monthly Snowfall In Iceland
Hover over the bars to see average monthly temperature.
Daylight Hours: Something else to consider when planning your trip to the Golden Circle is the daylight hours. During summer months, especially around the summer solstice in late June, Iceland basks in the “midnight sun” phenomenon, where the sun remains visible for nearly 24 hours a day. This provides endless daylight, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy outdoor activities at any hour. Conversely, in the heart of winter around the winter solstice in late December, Iceland only receives a few hours of daylight, with the sun barely peeking above the horizon for 4-5 hours.
The Wind: Lastly, the wind in Iceland is No Joke!!!
On a regular day, wind speeds can range from 10-15 mph (16-24 km/h), considered breezy. However, it’s relatively common for winds to pick up to 20-40 mph (32-64 km/h) and higher. Additionally, Iceland experiences frequent strong wind gusts, with some reaching gale force levels above 40 mph (64 km/h). In extreme cases, wind speeds over 100 mph (160 km/h) have been recorded, like the staggering 141 mph (227 km/h) gust on the south coast in 2015.
The combination of strong winds and lack of natural windbreaks like trees and forests means the wind’s full force is felt across the island, especially in coastal areas and along the Ring Road. High winds can make driving conditions hazardous, with the potential for vehicles to be blown off the road. Authorities advise against driving when winds gust over 50 mph (80 km/h). Wind is a constant factor to consider when planning outdoor activities and travel in Iceland, as the weather can change rapidly from mild to stormy conditions.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to self-drive the Golden Circle at your own pace or opt for the convenience of a guided tour, this iconic route promises an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders. From witnessing the raw power of Gullfoss to marvelling at the explosive Geysir of Strokkur and exploring the geological marvel that is Þingvellir National Park, the Golden Circle encapsulates the rugged beauty and volcanic forces that have shaped this incredible island nation.
As always don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love
Beth and Denz