Iceland's Golden Circle: A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

Iceland’s famed Golden Circle is a must-do for anyone visiting the island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, this route covers some of the most iconic landscapes and sites in Iceland. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Golden Circle offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase Iceland’s unique geology, history, and culture.

This post will take you through a detailed guide on how to explore the Golden Circle, including some of its hidden gems, from the powerful waterfalls and steaming geysers to rich historical landmarks and local food experiences.

1. Þingvellir National Park: A Journey Through Iceland's History and Nature

Your first stop on the Golden Circle is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir National Park. Located about 40 kilometers from Reykjavík, this park is not only a place of immense natural beauty but also a significant historical site. Þingvellir is where Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, was established in 930 AD, making it the oldest existing parliament in the world.

Öxarárfoss Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in the Park

Nestled within the park is Öxarárfoss, a picturesque waterfall fed by the river Öxará. The waterfall cascades down basalt cliffs, offering a serene and beautiful view. Öxarárfoss is relatively easy to reach via a short hike, making it a perfect stop to soak in Iceland’s rugged beauty. The surrounding area is rich in history, and walking along the paths, you can almost imagine the early settlers gathering for their parliamentary meetings.

Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure

For those looking for a unique experience, snorkeling in the Silfra fissure is an absolute must. Located in Þingvellir, Silfra is a crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, filled with glacial water that has been filtered through lava rocks for decades, making it one of the clearest bodies of water in the world.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters with where you can snorkel in visibility that extends over 100 meters. It's a surreal experience, as you float between two continents in waters that maintain a constant temperature of 2-4°C (35-39°F) year-round. 

Walking in the Rift Valley: Between Continents

Þingvellir is also one of the only places on Earth where you can walk between two continental plates. The Almannagjá gorge, which forms part of the boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates, offers visitors the opportunity to hike through the rift valley created by tectonic forces. The paths are well-marked and easy to navigate, and the views along the way are stunning.

2. Geysir Hot Spring Area: Witnessing Iceland's Fiery Heart

The next stop on the Golden Circle is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Geysir hot spring, from which all geysers take their name. While Geysir itself has been largely dormant in recent years, nearby Strokkur is a highly active geyser that erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters (100 feet) into the air.

Walking through this geothermal area, you’ll feel the power of the Earth beneath your feet as the ground bubbles and steams. The smell of sulfur hangs in the air, reminding you of the volcanic forces at work beneath Iceland’s surface.

3. Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse and Restaurant: A Culinary Delight

A true hidden gem on the Golden Circle route is the Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse and Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a unique farm-to-table experience in a cozy greenhouse filled with rows of vibrant tomato plants. What’s special about Friðheimar is that they use geothermal energy to grow their tomatoes year-round, despite Iceland’s cold climate.

The highlight of your visit will be the restaurant, where you can taste freshly made tomato soup, tomato-based cocktails, and even tomato ice cream. However, it’s essential to make a reservation well in advance, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

4. Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Falls

No visit to the Golden Circle is complete without a stop at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The name "Gullfoss" means "Golden Falls," and it’s easy to see why. The Hvítá River cascades down in two stages into a dramatic canyon, creating a thunderous roar and a mist that often forms rainbows on sunny days.

Standing at the edge of the falls, you’ll feel the raw power of nature as thousands of tons of water crash into the gorge below. There are several viewing platforms, offering different perspectives of this majestic waterfall.

5. Kerið Crater: A Burst of Color in Iceland's Landscape

Just a short drive from Gullfoss, you’ll find Kerið Crater, a stunning volcanic crater lake. Unlike most of the other sites on the Golden Circle, Kerið is known for its striking red volcanic rock, which contrasts beautifully with the deep blue-green water in the crater.

Kerið is about 55 meters (180 feet) deep, and visitors can walk around the rim or hike down to the water’s edge. The crater was formed about 3,000 years ago, and its vibrant colors make it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

6. Brúarfoss Waterfall: The Blue Jewel of Iceland

Although lesser-known compared to Gullfoss, Brúarfoss is often referred to as one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls. The vibrant turquoise blue color of the water, which flows over dark volcanic rock, gives Brúarfoss a unique and ethereal quality.

The waterfall is relatively small but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty. It’s located off the beaten path, requiring a short hike to reach, but the stunning sight of the crystal-clear water tumbling over black lava fields makes it well worth the effort.

7. Fontana Spa and Geothermal Bakery: Relax and Indulge

After a day of exploring, head to Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn, where you can soak in natural geothermal baths and enjoy the soothing warmth of Iceland’s geothermal energy. Fontana Spa is the perfect place to unwind, offering a variety of hot pools, steam rooms, and even a cold lake for those brave enough to take a dip.

One of the unique experiences at Fontana is their geothermal bakery, where they bake traditional Icelandic rye bread in the hot ground. The bread is buried in the earth and left to bake for 24 hours using the natural heat from the ground. Tasting this freshly baked rye bread, served with Icelandic butter, is an experience not to be missed.

Extended Version: Hidden Gems Beyond the Main Route

If you have extra time or are looking to venture beyond the usual Golden Circle stops, there are a few more hidden gems to add to your itinerary.

Hjálparfoss Waterfall: A Peaceful Stop 

Located in Þjórsárdalur valley, Hjálparfoss is a beautiful, lesser-known waterfall where two streams of water meet before plunging into a serene pool below. The basalt formations surrounding the falls give it a unique character, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Gjáin: A Lush Oasis

Just a short distance from Hjálparfoss, you’ll find Gjáin, a hidden valley filled with lush greenery, small waterfalls, and volcanic rock formations. Gjáin feels like a fairytale landscape, with its moss-covered rocks, crystal-clear streams, and vibrant vegetation, offering a peaceful retreat from the more tourist-heavy stops on the Golden Circle.

Háifoss: Iceland’s Second-Tallest Waterfall

If you’re looking for even more waterfall magic, head to Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. At 122 meters (400 feet), Háifoss offers a dramatic view as it plunges into a deep canyon. The surrounding area is remote and rugged, providing an excellent opportunity for hiking and exploring Iceland’s wild nature.

The Golden Circle Awaits

Exploring the Golden Circle is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty and rich history. From the powerful waterfalls and geysers to the unique cultural experiences like Friðheimar and Fontana Spa, this route offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re embarking on a short day trip or extending your journey to explore some of the lesser-known sites, the Golden Circle is sure to leave you in awe of Iceland’s wonders. Enjoy your journey through one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth.