As the most popular day tour from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle offers visitors the best of Iceland. Stunning natural scenery, Viking heritage, hot springs, and roaring waterfalls all collide and make for an incredible excursion. Here’s everything you need to know about visit the golden circle in Iceland and which detours to take if you want to extend your trip.
Golden Circle FAQ: Route from Reykjavik + Attractions
● How long is the Golden Circle route? The Golden Circle is a 300-kilometer (186-mile) loop that begins and ends in Reykjavik.
● How long does it takes to drive the Golden Circle? It takes an average of 3 to 4 hours to complete the Golden Circle, although you can easily stretch it into a full day or even an overnight if you make enough stops along the way.
● Which rental car is the best option for driving the Golden Circle? Both 2WD and 4WD vehicles are good options for circumnavigating the Golden Circle. We recommend renting a cheap 4×4 during the harsh, Icelandic winters as road conditions can be precarious.
● What are the main attractions along the Golden Circle route? There are three main attractions and places to see along the Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, The Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. While all of these are a worthwhile road trip, there are also lots of smaller sights to see and hot springs to take a dip in.
What is the Golden Circle? Worth the Visit?
What exactly is the Golden Circle, and is it worth adding to your Iceland itinerary? This famed route is not just a journey through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes; it’s an adventure into the heart of the country’s natural beauty, rich Viking history, and geological marvels.
As you embark from Reykjavik, each segment of the Golden Circle introduces you to experiences that are both visually stunning and steeped in cultural significance.
From the historical depths of Thingvellir National Park to the explosive wonders of the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the thunderous beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall, the Golden Circle showcases a compact yet comprehensive snapshot of what makes Iceland a bucket-list destination.
With Firefly Car Rental as your companion on this journey, you’re not just traversing a route; you’re unlocking the essence of Iceland, making every mile an emphatic “yes” to whether the Golden Circle is worth the visit.
A Map of the Golden Circle in Iceland
Choosing the Right Rental Car for Your Golden Circle Adventure
When planning your journey around Iceland’s Golden Circle, selecting the right vehicle from Firefly Car Rental can make all the difference. Considering Iceland’s dynamic weather, a budegt 4×4 rental car is your go-to for winter months, offering better handling and safety on snowy or icy roads. However, during the summer, a comfortable 2WD will suffice for the well-maintained routes. Remember, no matter the season, ensuring you have a vehicle that matches your travel needs is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Navigating Iceland’s Road Conditions
Iceland’s roads can be as unpredictable as its weather, particularly when you’re venturing into the stunning landscapes of the Golden Circle. Be prepared for everything from winding roads to sudden weather changes. Firefly Car Rental provides vehicles equipped with GPS and recommends downloading the Iceland Road Guide app for real-time updates on road conditions and weather forecasts. This way, you can focus on the breathtaking views rather than worrying about what’s around the next bend.
What are the three main attractions of the Golden Circle?
1. Thingvellir National Park
Interested in Iceland’s rich Viking history? You’ve come to the right place. Your first stop along the Golden Circle is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and once the meeting place of the Iceland’s Viking clans.
The first council was held in 930 AD to discuss Norwegian rule and to form their own government. Clans would continue to meet here for hundreds of years and Thingvellir was frequently featured in the Viking sagas.
Aside from incredible history to discover, Thingvellir also happens to be where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart each year. You can actually walk between the plates, touching either side as you follow the trail, and even scuba dive and snorkel in the Silfra Fissure!
2. Geysir Geothermal Area
The second stop along Iceland’s Golden Circle is the Haukadalur Geothermal Area. You might be familiar with Yellowstone’s Old Faithful as the most famous geyser in the world, but did you know that the word “geysir” is actually Icelandic? All of the world’s geysers are named for Geysir, which unfortunately almost never erupts these days, although every once in a while an earthquake will cause it to spew geothermal water.
If you’re feeling a little disappointed that Geysir no longer erupts, nearby Strokkur shoots into the sky like clockwork every ten minutes and reaching skyward up to 40’. Starting to feel your stomach grumbling? The Geysir Geothermal Area also has a few shops and restaurants where you can fuel up to continue on your way along the Golden Circle.
3. Gullfoss Waterfall
You can’t visit Iceland without seeing one the country’s incredible waterfalls. Tucked at the end of the Golden Circle, Gullfoss is a roaring behemoth of water. Leave your car at the parking lot and make the short trek to the viewing area which is equally as impressive in winter when the falls partially freeze.
In the summer months over 140 cubic meters of water a second gush into the canyon below. You can warm up from your chilly adventures, watching the mesmerizing Gullfoss, with a steaming bowl of lamb stew back at the visitor’s center near the car park.
What else can you do when visiting the Golden Circle?
So, you’re excited to see the three main sights of the Golden Circle. But isn’t there anything else to explore? There are a few extra detours you can take along the Golden Circle route if you want to make a full day trip or an overnight.
Visit the Secret Lagoon hot spring
Tacking on a visit to the Secret Lagoon is the best way to cap off your road trip around the Golden Circle. While Secret Lagoon hot spring itself is man made, the geothermal water are pumped from a naturally occurring hot spring. You can visit year round and the water remains a balmy 100°F no matter the season. The parking lot for these hot springs is about 30 minutes away from Gullfoss so it makes for the perfect pit stop.
If you want a more upscale experience you can also pop in to the sleek Fontana Spa or seek out the Reykjadalur to take a dip in the geothermally heated river.
Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure
While you can tick off walking between continents, why not take it up a notch and swim between them? Snorkeling or scuba diving the Silfra Fissure is a bucket list activity that you can’t miss if you’re planning on visiting the Golden Circle.
You’ll make your way between continents with your guide, swimming right in the middle of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The water is crystal clear and provides wonderful views of the canyon where the plates are pulling apart. If you’re worried about the freezing water, a wetsuit is provided to keep you toasty.
Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier
If you happen to be visiting Iceland in the winter months, you’re in luck! This is the only time of year when you can partake in the exhilarating experience of snowmobiling on a glacier. Not only will you get the chance to step foot on the Langjokull Glacier, but you’ll also get to fly across it by snowmobile, experiencing the landscape in a unique way.
You’ll need to book a tour with a local company for this experience, many of which also include fun additional stops like ice caves. Most tours leave from either Reykjavik or the Skjol Campground near Gullfoss.
Visit the Kerid Crater
Nestled a mere stone’s throw from the main Golden Circle path, Kerid Crater stands as a mesmerizing testament to Iceland’s volcanic activity. This breathtaking natural formation offers visitors the chance to gaze upon a volcanic crater lake, where the vibrant hues of red volcanic rock form a stark contrast against the serene blue of the water—or, in the colder months, against the stark whiteness of ice.
The crater, resulting from a collapsed magma chamber, is relatively young at approximately 3,000 years old. A walk around the rim provides panoramic views that encapsulate the dramatic beauty of Iceland’s landscape, making Kerid Crater an essential stop for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone captivated by the powerful forces that shape our planet.
Go see the Faxi Waterfall
While Gullfoss may capture the headlines, Faxi Waterfall offers a tranquil retreat that embodies the serene beauty of Iceland’s countryside. Situated just off the beaten path of the Golden Circle, Faxi, or Vatnsleysufoss, is a wide and majestic waterfall that gently cascades into the calm waters below. Its serene setting is ideal for those seeking a moment of peace amidst Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
The area around Faxi is perfect for picnics, offering visitors the chance to relax to the soothing sounds of falling water while taking in the scenic vistas. The waterfall’s accessible nature makes it a hidden gem for families and those looking to immerse themselves in Iceland’s natural tranquility without the crowds.
Visit the Efstidalur Farm
A visit to Efstidalur Farm offers a delightful pause in your Golden Circle adventure, providing a taste of Iceland’s agricultural life. This family-run farm specializes in dairy products and is renowned for its ice cream barn, where visitors can indulge in homemade ice cream while watching the farm’s cows through large windows.
Efstidalur’s commitment to farm-to-table principles extends beyond ice cream to a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, offering a culinary experience that’s both authentic and sustainable. The farm’s picturesque setting, with views of rolling hills and lush landscapes, makes it an ideal stop for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Efstidalur Farm not only offers a chance to enjoy delicious Icelandic produce but also to connect with the country’s rural heritage and the hardworking people who sustain it.
Making the Most of Your Rental Experience
With Firefly Car Rental, you’re not just renting a car; you’re unlocking an adventure. Here are a few tips to make the most of your rental experience:
- Early Booking: Secure your vehicle early, especially during peak travel seasons, to get the best selection and rates.
- Insurance: Understand your Iceland car insurance options. Iceland’s unique conditions might require additional coverage, such as gravel protection.
- Fuel Efficiency: Consider fuel efficiency when choosing your vehicle. While 4x4s are great for winter, they consume more fuel, so plan accordingly to keep your travel costs down.
- Stay Connected: Opt for Wi-Fi in your rental car to stay connected. This can be a lifesaver for navigating, looking up local spots, or translating Icelandic signs.
A map guide to Golden Circle Iceland
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s best self driving trips. A quick drive from the capital of Reykjavik, you can see some of the best sights in the country in only a day.
Book a cheap rental car through Firefly Iceland Car Rental and get to exploring the Land of Fire and Ice – on a budget!
