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A Golden Circle Tour is an essential activity on any trip to Iceland! Highlighted by stunning landscapes, rushing waterfalls and erupting geysers, an Iceland Golden Circle Tour is a full day adventure. Travelers can plan their own itinerary and design a self-drive route to the top sights. Alternatively, you can leave it to the professionals and hop on an organized Golden Circle Tour of Iceland.
Our first visit to Iceland was a wintertime trip. With landscapes blanketed in snow and limited daylight hours, we pondered the best way to see Iceland’s Golden Circle. Renting a car for a self-drive tour would allow the most freedom, but joining one of the organized day tours would be a stress-free way to see the top sights.
Deciding on an Iceland Golden Circle Tour
When planning a trip to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik, you first need to determine which sights to see. In order to help fellow travelers plan their best trip to the famous Golden Circle attractions, we are outlining the must-see sights and sharing our advice on how to see them.
What is the Iceland Golden Circle?
Iceland is a dazzling country that features amazing scenery. The Golden Circle connects three of the most magnificent natural attractions on a circumference route.
From the capital city of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle route encompasses 185 miles of road that makes the best sights easily accessible. The must-see highlights of an Iceland Golden Circle Tour are Strokkur Geyser at the Geysir Geothermal Area, the grand Gullfoss Waterfall and the exposed Eurasian Tectonic Plates at Thingvellir National Park.
Top Travel Tip: The iconic Iceland Ring Road is not the same as the Golden Circle. The Ring Road in Iceland is an 828-mile route that encircles the entire island nation.
How To Plan a Golden Circle Tour Itinerary
Whether self driving or taking a tour, planning an Iceland Golden Circle Itinerary is fairly straightforward. Generally speaking, the standard Golden Circle Day Tour will take as little 6 hours. Of course, on self-drive adventures, travelers have the ability to adjust to their personal interests or changing weather conditions.
Additional Golden Circle Iceland Stops
While the Golden Circle includes the three main attractions, there are other sights to see along the route. Travelers with a car can determine which additional stops to include on their Golden Circle route. Even those joining organized expeditions can choose one of the enhanced tours that include more than the top three attractions.
A few of the most popular additional Golden Circle stops are a thermal greenhouse, Icelandic horses, Kerid Crater and hiking trails. The Geothermal Park at Hveragerdi and Skyrland Yogurt Museum are two other places to visit along the route. With the extra stops, a Golden Circle Tour route can take 8 hours or longer.
Pro Tip: At the end of the article, we include a helpful Iceland Golden Circle Map.
Best Golden Circle Itinerary Route
While the three main sights on the Golden Circle are highlights of the trip, we believe it’s worth squeezing in a few more attractions. Personally, we were interested in seeing Icelandic horses and when we discovered that we could visit with them at the Fridheimar Thermal Greenhouse, we added the stop to our itinerary.
The route of our ideal Golden Circle Day Tour is as follows:
- Fridheimar Thermal Greenhouse and Icelandic Horses
- Geyser Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Thingvellir National Park
Must-See Sights on a Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle
To help fellow travelers determine which sights to include in their Golden Circle trip plan, we are sharing a bit about our experience and a few details about each of the sights.
#1 Geothermal Greenhouse and Horses
Iceland’s naturally abundant resource of geothermal energy is, quite literally, a hot commodity. The energy is harnessed by five power stations around the country and is used to heat 90% of the homes on the island. The same sustainable resource is used to heat greenhouses, allowing fresh vegetables to be grown indoors year-round.
At Fridheimar Geothermal Greenhouse, tomatoes are the main crop – but they keep Icelandic horses on the land as well. The greenhouse is ideally located for a first stop on a Golden Circle Tour Iceland.
Fridheimar Tomato Greenhouse
When we arrived at the first stop on our Golden Circle trip, the pre-dawn sky was just starting to show light and snow was falling. No, it wasn’t that early, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30am in late January!
We were welcomed into the humid and bright greenhouse and greeted by the distinct fragrance of tomato plants. A small restaurant features their in-house produce, such as tomato-based soups, sauces along with a wicked bloody Mary mix! We were not quite ready for lunch, so we bypassed the restaurant, but picked up a small container of ripe, just-off-the-vine piccolo tomatoes as a snack.
Icelandic Horses
Fridheimar also has a barn housing Icelandic Horses that visitors are allowed to see. The beautiful animals are rather friendly – and eagerly came to the fence to greet us.
This special breed of horses, known for its five gaits, was brought to the island with the first settlers more than a thousand years ago. When the initial government formed, one of the first laws was to ban any other horses from being brought onto the island. Therefore, the Icelandic Horses remain purebred to this day.
While all Fridheimar visitors are welcome to see the horses in pasture, guests can also book a Stables Visit (in advance). During the summer, they also host Icelandic Horse Shows.
#2 Strokkur Geyser and Geothermal Area
The second Golden Circle Route stop is Iceland’s famous Geyser Geothermal Area. Located in the Haukadalur Valley, boiling hot water bubbles up to the surface, putting on an exceptional show.
On our trip, we arrived just as the skies had turned overcast, making the frigid temperatures feel even colder. Steam was rising from small pools among the snow-covered land, creating an apocalyptic scene.
Famous Golden Circle Geysir: Strokkur
To reach the Strokkur Geyser, visitors follow a footpath passing gurgling streams and bubbling, turquoise water along the way. The water in the geyser hot springs can reach a temperature of 210 degrees Fahrenheit and the rising steam warms pockets of air as you pass.
It’s just a five-minute walk to the Strokkur Geyser, where crowds anxiously await the next eruption. Boiling hot water sprays straight into the air from Strokkur Geyser every 4-8 minutes. The water usually blows to a height of 50-65 feet, but can shoot as high as 130 feet high.
Just prior to an eruption, the calm water slowly begins to swirl. Finally, it bubbles up and then blasts into the sky, leaving a dense mist to settle back to the ground.
Top Travel Tip: In the steamy air, camera lenses fog up easily. Remember to bring a lens cloth if you want to take photos of the erupting geyser.
Geysir Center
Not a must-see on the Golden Circle tour, but the Geysir Visitor Center at Strokkur is a good place to stop by and warm up. The center has free, clean bathrooms, a nice gift shop and two restaurants. We grabbed an order of tasty Icelandic Soup for takeaway on our Geysir Walk.
#3 Gullfoss Waterfall
The next Golden Circle Route stop is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland, and let’s be honest, the island has a lot of spectacular waterfalls! In the Icelandic language, Gullfoss means Golden Waterfall. It’s uncertain how the falls got its name, but without question it is an astounding sight.
Best Golden Circle Waterfall: Gullfoss
Flowing as part of the Hvita River, Gullfoss consists of two waterfalls: the Upper Falls (with a drop of 36 feet) and the Lower Falls (with a plunge of 65 feet). The gorge, which is 1.5 miles in length and 230 feet deep, has hard lava rock on the banks, while the rushing water cuts through softer rock below.
When we visited Gullfoss, the snow flurries had ceased, allowing us to marvel at the falls from the platform. By the time we maneuvered through the snowy walkways to the second lookout point, the wind and snow had picked back up to the point it was nearly a whiteout. As much as we were tempted to wait it out, we could barely see it, so we retreated to the cozy warmth of the welcome center!
#4 Thingvellir National Park
Our final Golden Circle Iceland Tour stop is Thingvellir National Park – or Þingvellir National Park – and it’s a fascinating place to visit. The area is both a historic sight, as well as a natural geographical spectacle – plus, it’s a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We think a visit to the park is a must for all Iceland Golden Circle Tours. In addition to witnessing the stunning natural landscapes, visitors can learn about the country’s incredible history – and how it’s intertwined with the park.
Iceland Parliament
Long before Thingvellir was protected as a national park, the land held significant meaning to the local people. In fact, Thingvellir is the site of the original meeting place for the Icelandic Parliament. From the year 930 until 1798, laws were created outdoors and announced from a large rock, which now displays Iceland’s flag.
Thingvellir Tectonic Plates
Geographically, the park marks the location of the Eurasian and North America Tectonic Plates coming together. Separated by a 4.5-mile rift (and still pulling apart at a rate of about an inch per year), the edges of the plates are actually visible.
It is the only place in the world where the plate tectonic phenomenon can be observed above sea level. In the vast space between the plates is Iceland’s largest natural lake.
Map of Golden Circle Iceland
Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Golden Circle Map below. For an Iceland Golden Circle Route Map with Stops and Directions, use this map.
Golden Circle Tours vs Self-Driving
When we were planning our Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik, we encountered a few hurdles. As budget-conscious travelers, our standard approach to sightseeing is to find a do-it-yourself route. Ideally, we like to use public transportation or own two feet. Looking at an Iceland Golden Circle Tour Map, we quickly realized neither of those options were viable.
Instead we considered two alternatives: Rent a car to self-drive the Golden Circle or join an organized tour to see Golden Circle attractions.
Golden Circle Iceland: Self Drive Option
There are many benefits to Self-Driving the Golden Circle in Iceland. The best reason is the ability to create a flexible sightseeing schedule. However, we immediately dismissed the idea of a Golden Circle drive. In addition to our standard objection to driving in foreign countries, we had even more encouragement to forego the Iceland self-drive option: snowy, icy, wintery weather. Our trip to Iceland was in January – and we didn’t want to risk driving in inclement weather.
Pro Tip For Self-Drivers: Use our tips to find the best deals on rental cars – and don’t forget to purchase a driving map for your Golden Circle Tour in Iceland.
Reykjavik Golden Circle Tour
Numerous organized excursions usher tourists from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle sights – and we think they are a fantastic option for travelers who are not inclined to get behind the wheel. With a plethora of tour options, guests should be able to find an organized day trip with a Golden Circle itinerary that suits their interests.
One of the best things about taking an excursion from Reykjavik to Golden Circle is that an on-board guide shares interesting facts and information along the way. Tour participants are able to ask questions and gain better insight into living in Iceland.
We determined that a Reykjavik Golden Circle Day Tour was the best option for our trip. As we were visiting Iceland on a budget, we opted for an economical Reykjavik Bus Tour. However, rather than opting for the Golden Circle Classic Tour, we chose a route that included an additional stop at Fridheimar Greenhouse to see Icelandic Horses.
Details of a Golden Circle Reykjavik Tour Bus
Those who opt to take a Golden Circle Bus Tour might be wondering how the trip works, so we are sharing a few details from our experience.
The Reykjavik Excursions bus tour is a big bus experience, however, it didn’t feel impersonal. It was fun meeting fellow passengers and our guide was very informative and engaging.
Most Reykjavik sightseeing tours depart from the main BSI bus terminal. Guests can get their own transport to the bus station or meet at one of the shuttle pick up points in the city, which includes some Reykjavik Hotels.
At the end of our Reykjavik Excursions Golden Circle Tour, we were dropped off right in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. The drop off point was conveniently located just a short walk to one of our recommended Reykjavik Craft Beer Bars, Skuli, where they offer happy hour until 7pm!
Best Organized Golden Circle Tours from Reykjavik
We absolutely loved our Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik! While we rank it as the Best Golden Circle Tour Iceland, there are other options. To help fellow travelers pick the right Golden Circle Tour for their trip, we are highlighting some of the popular Reykjavik day trips.
Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Tour
On a Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle Tour, participants get to enjoy a full day of astounding sights and experiences. In addition to the geyser, waterfall and national park, you also visit the Kerid Volcanic Crater. The final stop is the famous Blue Lagoon Iceland, where guests have 2 hours to swim in the aqua waters. Find out more!
Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Day Trip
One of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik, this tour features the three main attractions on the Golden Circle and ends at Secret Lagoon – one of the oldest natural geothermal pools in Iceland. Get the details!
Afternoon Golden Circle Tour Reykjavik
In order to avoid the morning crowds, this 8-hour afternoon tour departs at 10:30am – but still includes all of the top Iceland attractions. See what’s included!
6-Hour Half-Day Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle Express Tour was designed for guests who are short on time – but want to see the top sights in Iceland. On a Golden Circle Half-Day Tour, guests can choose from various departure times. Get more info!
Small Group Golden Circle Tour
On this small group tour, participants travel around Iceland by minibus, rather than coach, to the prime sights. Guests have more personalized attention – and visit a few more places on this excursion. Learn more!
Private Golden Circle Tour Iceland
For a truly personalized tour of Iceland, hire a guide for a Golden Circle private tour! The tour takes guests to the main sights, but also a few lesser-known places to visit in Iceland. Find more details!
More Reykjavik Tours to Golden Circle
Still haven’t found the perfect Golden Circle Day Tour in Iceland? There are many excursions from Reykjavik – and we are certain you can find the perfect day tour for your trip. Start your search for the top Reykjavik tours on Get Your Guide!
Reykjavik Golden Circle Day Trip Travel Tips
Before you embark on your Reykjavik Iceland Golden Circle Tour, we have some additional advice for your day trip.
Golden Circle Iceland Weather
The weather in Iceland varies drastically by season, month, day…hour. Make sure you bring proper weather gear for all conditions.
Visiting the Golden Circle in winter will likely be cold – and may include some snow and ice. We recommend bringing a true winter coat, gloves and cap in the case of inclement weather during your Golden Circle winter visit.
On the other hand, the summer sun can be strong (even when the weather feels cool). Be sure to pack some sunscreen for your summertime day trip – and don’t forget your favorite sunglasses.
Golden Circle Restaurants
Restaurants are few and far between on the Golden Circle route – however, there are a few places where travelers can get a bite to eat along the way.
If the Fridheimar Greenhouse is a stop on your Iceland Golden Circle Tour, consider dining at the on-site restaurant (menu items are, naturally, tomato-based!).
Alternatively, pop into the Geysir Center at the Strokkur Geyser and eat at Supa. We opted for a cup of the iconic Icelandic Meat Soup, which was very tasty and very overpriced.
Top Travel Tip: Eat all the must-try Icelandic cuisine in our guide to Reykjavik Food.
What You Will Need for a Golden Circle Iceland Tour
As you prepare for your Golden Circle classic day trip from Reykjavik, don’t forget the essentials. In addition to warm clothing, a pair of durable travel shoes are needed. Waterproof boots are recommended in wintertime, but we managed wearing trail shoes by Merrell.
You will certainly want to capture the incredible Icelandic sights with a good travel camera! We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens that takes phenomenal photos. Also, be sure all of your electronic devices are charged – and carry a power bank portable charger for an extra boost late in the day.
On any outing, we believe a good travel day pack is a necessity. We like to wear small backpacks with zippered compartments so that we can be sure all of our belongings are secure yet easily accessible.
More Iceland Travel Guides
- Best 3-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary
- What and Where to Eat in Reykjavik, Iceland
- Best Icelandic Craft Beer
- Highlights of a South Coast and Vik Tour
- Experience the Northern Lights on a Tour
- Stay Organized with our Travel Planner
Start planning your trip to Iceland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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