What are the main stops on the Golden Circle route in Iceland?

Thingvellir National Park

There are three national parks in Iceland and this one is a UNESCO World Heritage Site not only for its physical appearance but also for the contribution it makes to the country’s cultural heritage. Stroll down the steep-sided Almannagjá gorge. A few minutes in and you’ll reach the spot where the Althing, Iceland’s first parliament, met for centuries and a flag flutters to mark the likely spot where ancient chieftains and law-makers gathered.

The place is also situated on a plate boundary, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly diverging. This location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is why Iceland experiences so much volcanic activity and earthquakes. It’s a fascinating sight, and you should also call in to the visitor centre to learn more about the processes which have created this jaw-dropping gorge.

Geysir Geothermal Area

The Golden Circle drive in Iceland really comes into its own once you reach Geysir Geothermal Area. As you enter the site, rivulets of boiling hot water meander across the bare ground and mineral stains add a splash of colour to the area. It’s home to a number of hot springs and steam rises off the site as a reminder that nature’s still sculpting this place.

The main draw here is Strokkur, whose name translates as “The Churn”. A crowd of people form a ring around it as they watch with anticipation for signs of activity. This geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes or so, meaning there’s not a lot of patience required. The telltale signs begin with a shiver on the surface of the water, which rises to form a turquoise dome. Finally, a jet of superheated water and steam bursts upwards, often many metres in the air, to the delight of the audience that’s gathered.

Gullfoss waterfall

Rounding out the trio of headliners is Gullfoss waterfall. It’s one of the country’s largest and most powerful waterfalls, which will become evident the moment you park your MyCar rental and stroll up to the edge of the gorge. This mighty falls cascades down a double step in the Hvitá River and its power is immense.

Amble along the path that leads up beside the waterfall. As you do so, you’ll be able to appreciate the volume of water that tumbles over the rock here. Look back and you’ll also see how the forces of erosion have carved a steep sided canyon just downstream of the falls.

Here are a couple of local favorites to visit along the Golden Circle?

Amazing though they are, Iceland’s Golden Circle has far more to offer than its three headline attractions. One of the joys of spending time in this part of the country is to discover some of its other attractions and overlooked gems. With your MyCar rental vehicle, getting around to these tucked away sights is really straightforward.

A popular stop is at Friðheimar, where tomatoes are grown. This might seem a little strange in a country as chilly as Iceland, but in fact the geothermal heat is harnessed to keep the greenhouses warm enough to make the process economically viable. After you’ve had a nose around, stay for lunch – the tomato soup’s a must.

If you’re a passionate foodie, you’ll also want to call in at Efstidalur II. This dairy farm has made quite the name for itself with the deliciously creamy ice cream that’s churned on the premises. It can trace its story back to the mid-18th century. Older still is the history behind Skálholt Cathedral. Though the current place of worship dates back to 1963, it’s the tenth church to be built here since the first was erected in the 12th century.

In addition you might consider donning a drysuit to snorkel through Silfra Fissure. Relatively few travellers do so, largely in their hurry to move on. Nevertheless, the chance to swim through the crystal clear, cold water between the tectonic plates is something you shouldn’t pass up. The water is filtered by the volcanic rock to remove its impurities. If you’d like to extend your trip further, you might consider an iceland 8 day self-drive tour, which allows you to combine the Golden Circle with other regions of Iceland.

What are the geothermal lagoons like within or near to the Golden Circle?

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths

Located at the heart of the Golden Circle, this is an easy stop before or after you visit Geysir Geothermal Area. The baths are perched on the shore of Laugarvatn and bathers can cool off in the water of the lake if they choose as there’s direct access from the spa. There’s a choice of places to soak, but the thing that sets this place apart isn’t the baths themselves. During your visit, be sure to join the geothermal baking activity where you’ll learn how rúgbrauð (rye bread) is cooked using the earth’s natural heat and get to taste the results.

Gamla Laugin

A twenty minute drive south of Geysir is Gamla Laugin, the oldest still-functioning baths in the country. This pool was established back in 1891 but some decades later fell into disrepair. For a while it was ignored, which explains why people call it Secret Lagoon. Fully refurbished, it’s now a super place to take a dip. The pool takes advantage of a continuous stream of hot water from Vaðmálahver, Básahver and Litli Geysir (an active geyser which erupts every few minutes).

Laugarás Lagoon

Its opening date has been pushed back a few times but it looks like this brand new luxury geothermal lagoon will make its debut in September 2025. When it does open, it will be the swankiest of the hot springs and spas in the Golden Circle region. This architect-designed space is stylish and sophisticated, meaning that it’s likely it will more than hold its own when compared to market leaders such as Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik and Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes peninsula.

Reykjadalur geothermal river

The town of Hveragerdi sits to the south of the Golden Circle and juts outside it you’ll find the Reykjadalur geothermal river. To reach it involves a bit of a hike on foot. Facilities when you reach the warm stretch of this waterway are rudimentary – expect wooden boardwalks and screens but no fancy changing rooms and showers. Yet the chance to enjoy a geothermal bath in the outdoors surrounded by nature is one you won’t want to pass up.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs

It takes about half an hour to drive from Thingvellir National Park to Hvammsvik Hot Springs, which lies at the head of Hvalfjörður north of Reykjavik. Even if it involves a detour on your way back to the capital, this delightful place is worth a stop. It boasts a rustic-chic vibe, with eight hot springs of varying temperatures spread out beside the fjord and on the black sand beach. The views are to die for.

Should you schedule your Golden Circle drive in Iceland for summer or winter?

In short, either. The roads to and within the Golden Circle region are accessible year-round except in extraordinary circumstances. There are a few differences between the seasons: you’ll have a better chance of fine weather in summer but also experience higher visitor numbers, particularly at the three main stops.

In winter, you’re far more likely to have space around you as you marvel at the scenery. Ice on the ground, especially at Gullfoss waterfall, can make paths slippery – bring crampons to pull on over your shoes to give you extra grip. Note that the path alongside Gullfoss is also partially shut in such conditions. But the Golden Circle has a magical quality in winter sunshine, so don’t rule out a road trip at this time of year.

How long should you allow for exploring the Golden Circle?

Many people just visit the Golden Circle for a day. In fact, express bus tours will have you back in Reykjavik by early to mid afternoon. However, as with many parts of Iceland, the longer you’re able to stay, the more you’ll get out of your visit. Plan to spend a night within the region so that you can spend time exploring off-peak – early mornings and late afternoons are less crowded.

It’s much more fun to explore at your own pace. If you’re considering a Golden Circle drive in Iceland, rent a car from MyCar. Particularly if you’re keen to soak in one of the area’s geothermal baths or try an activity such as snorkelling, be sure to allow plenty of time in this captivating part of Iceland. Adventurous drivers might even extend their journey north to explore the scenic tröllaskagi peninsula, a region known for its mountains, fishing villages and coastal roads.