This guide sets out what the Golden Circle route covers, how far each stop is from Reykjavik and how the stops can be visited through the year, so readers can decide for themselves.
What the route covers
The Golden Circle is a round trip that starts and ends in Reykjavik.
The three main stops are Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.
Thingvellir lies on the tectonic plate boundary of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Thingvellir is where the Althing, Iceland's assembly, was founded and met for centuries.
Strokkur's eruptions can reach as high as 30 metres.
Gullfoss drops in two stages into a canyon.
How far each stop is from Reykjavik
Thingvellir is about 48 km from Reykjavik, about a 45 minute drive without stops.
Geysir is about 115 km from Reykjavik, about a 1 hour 45 minute drive without stops.
Gullfoss is about 123 km from Reykjavik, about a 1 hour 50 minute drive without stops.
Visiting through the year
Thingvellir National Park is open around the clock with no entrance fee, but there is a parking fee.
The trails to the lower viewing platforms at Gullfoss are sometimes closed in winter because of ice and snow.
Planning the day
Use the Driving Distance Calculator to help plan your trip.
Comparing Golden Circle tours
You can compare Golden Circle tours to see the current options.
