The Golden Circle in Iceland is the country’s most popular scenic self-driving route, taking travelers on a 229 km (142 mile) loop through some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.
The entire Golden Circle route in Iceland is paved and can be driven in about three hours, making it ideal for a day trip from Reykjavík. Whether you’re traveling by car or camper van, the route offers a perfect mix of waterfalls, geothermal areas and historic sites that showcase the island’s dramatic and stunning landscape.
What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
Iceland’s Golden Circle is a circular driving route that begins and ends in Reykjavík, connecting three of Iceland’s most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. In addition to these main highlights, the route features several lesser-known but equally stunning stops—like Kerið crater and Faxafoss waterfall—that make the journey just as memorable as the destinations.
Because of its accessibility and variety, the Golden Circle is often travelers’ first introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and cultural heritage. It’s a must-do road trip for first-time visitors and a favorite even for returning travelers.
Top Stops on the Golden Circle in Iceland
Now that you know what the Golden Circle is and the major attractions it connects, let’s take a closer look at each stop along the route. Whether you drive clockwise or counterclockwise, the following highlights offer breathtaking scenery and a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Kerið
If you choose to start driving south, you will be driving on the Ring Road until you arrive at road 35 on your left. That’s 55km (31miles) from Reykjavík and it takes you around 45 minutes before you have to turn left. After you have driven on road 35 for 10 minutes (12.8km/8miles), you will reach, on your left, the beautiful crater Kerið. Kerið is one of the major primary stops on the Golden circle.
Gullfoss & Faxafoss
69 km (43miles) further on you will reach the majestic waterfall Gullfoss in all its splendor. There are two parking spots there. During off-season, there might be warning signs, even signs forbidding people from walking down to the waterfall due to dangerous conditions, such as extremely icy roads. Please obey the warnings and/or stop signs.
You should also take the opportunity to stop at Faxafoss, another waterfall along the way. You will have it on your right side, 21km (13miles) before you arrive at Gullfoss.
Around Gullfoss & Faxafoss you have benches where you can have lunch. If you choose to rent a camper, you have a fridge and cooking gear in the van so you can really enjoy your time around the waterfalls. Faxafoss usually has more privacy than Gullfoss, so it’s a good idea to have your lunch there before continuing.
Read more: Travel apps for Iceland
Geysir – Strokkur
The next big stop, equally popular as Gullfoss, is the geothermal area where you find the big hot spring known as Geysir. It’s a 9.7km (6miles) from Gullfoss to the Geysir area which lies in Haukardalur.
It is a rare occasion that Geysir erupts nowadays, but its smaller sister Strokkur erupts every 6 to 10 minutes. When it erupts, make sure you are standing upwind so you will not be showered with scalding hot water.
At Geysir, they have a huge tourist center where you can buy souvenirs and refreshments.
When you are finished with Gullfoss and heading west, in the direction of Reykjavík, you will arrive at the little village of Laugarvatn. That’s a 29.5km (18miles) drive from Gullfoss. There you can stretch your legs, have a bath in the hot spring and pool they have there. They also have a campsite just before the village, on your right side, where you can camp out for the night if you so wish.
Þingvellir National Park
If you choose to continue driving west on road 365 (turns to road 36) you will arrive in Þingvellir National Park. It’s a 31.7km (20miles) from Laugarvatn. If you want to camp at Þingvellir, you have a wonderful campsite there with all the facilities you need. You will also have the chance to enjoy many of the beautiful hikes in and around the national park.
Peningagjá and Silfra are two of the big attractions there with Silfra being classified as one of the world’s top ten diving sites. The water there is surreal due to its clarity and it literally feels like flying while on the surface.
The lake itself is an excellent spot for fishing. There are a few different species of Arctic char and you also have massive trout there. Inquire at the service facilities for a fishing license and to get the latest fishing reports.
The scenic route back to Reykjavík
If you have time, the weather is good (not recommended when there is snow), we suggest you take the scenic route back to Reykjavík. You continue to drive west on road 36 for 7.5km (4.6miles) until you come to road 360, where you turn left and continue another 11.2km (7miles). Soon you will be driving through epic natural scenery. A stunning ride, up and down, taking you past some really wonderful places.
Stay on road 435 at all times. At one point, you’ll drive alongside the main warm water pipe serving Reykjavík. When you reach the end of 435, you’ll reconnect with the Ring Road, where you turn right and head back to Reykjavík. It is 27.2km (16.1miles) from the crossroad to road no. 1 the Ring Road.
Read more: Campsites in Iceland
Tips for the Golden Circle
A little planning goes a long way on the Golden Circle. Keep these tips in mind to enjoy a smoother, more memorable road trip.
- Start early. If you’re driving the full loop in one day, leaving Reykjavík early gives you the best chance to enjoy the major sites before the crowds arrive.
- Stock up on groceries. If you plan to camp, do your shopping at Krónan or Bónus before hitting the road. Eating out along the way can get expensive quickly, so make use of your camper’s cooler and cooking gear.
- Top up your fuel. There’s a gas station at Geysir, but starting with a full tank ensures you won’t run low in more remote stretches.
- Explore beyond the main stops. The area south of Laugarvatn is full of wonderful places to visit, including Flúðir, Sólheimar, The Secret Lagoon, Reykholt and Skálholt. A little extra research can help you tailor the route to your interests.
- Park safely for photos. You’ll pass plenty of scenic spots worth capturing. When you stop, always pull over to a safe parking area—never the middle of the road.
Whatever route you choose, take your time, enjoy the drive and travel carefully.
Explore the Golden Circle Your Way with Rent.is
The Golden Circle is a road trip you’ll never forget, filled with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable stops along the way. Traveling by camper gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, stop at hidden gems, and truly soak in Iceland’s natural beauty.
With Rent.is, exploring the Golden Circle and beyond has never been easier. If you’re ready to start your adventure, check out our Iceland camper rental options and find the perfect vehicle for your journey.
Happy Camping! #WohoCamper
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