About This Experience

The Golden Circle is the route everyone does first in Iceland, and for good reason. In roughly 230 kilometres of driving from Reykjavik and back, you hit three of the country's most iconic sites: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

We drove it ourselves rather than joining a tour, and that made all the difference. Starting early meant we had Þingvellir nearly to ourselves — walking between the tectonic plates with only a handful of other people felt properly cinematic. By the time we reached Geysir around midday, the crowds had arrived, but Strokkur erupts so regularly (every 5-10 minutes) that everyone gets a front-row view eventually.

Gullfoss was the standout. We'd seen photos, but nothing prepares you for the sound — a deep rumble you feel in your chest as the Hvítá river drops 32 metres in two stages and vanishes into a canyon. We stood at the lower viewpoint getting soaked by spray and didn't care one bit.

What to Expect

The drive is easy and well-signed on Route 35 and Route 36. Most people follow the loop counterclockwise: Þingvellir first, then Geysir, then Gullfoss, returning to Reykjavik via Route 35. The whole loop takes about six hours including stops, but you'll want a full day to avoid rushing.

At Þingvellir, the main walk through the Almannagjá rift takes about 30-40 minutes. The visitor centre gives context on the Althing — Iceland's parliament, founded here in 930 AD. At the Geysir area, a paved path loops around several hot springs and Strokkur itself. And at Gullfoss, there are two viewing platforms — the upper one gives you the wide view, the lower one puts you right next to the cascade.

We added a detour to Kerið, a volcanic crater lake about 15 minutes off the main route. It costs about 400 ISK to enter, and the vivid red-and-turquoise colours are worth the short stop.

Practical Tips

• Drive it yourself — car rental gives you flexibility to start early and avoid tour bus timing
• Leave Reykjavik by 8 AM to beat the midday crowds at Þingvellir
• Counterclockwise (Þingvellir → Geysir → Gullfoss) worked best for us
• Gullfoss spray is real — bring a waterproof jacket even on sunny days
• Pack lunch or eat at Gullfoss Café; food options are limited on the route
• The Geysir parking lot has clean toilets and a gift shop
• Allow 6-8 hours for the full loop without rushing
• Kerið crater is a worthwhile 20-minute add-on (400 ISK entry)
• Winter driving is fine on these roads — they're well-maintained even in snow