My husband and I visited Iceland in August and took an amazing Golden Circle tour during our trip. It’s one of the most popular routes in the country and for good reason! You get waterfalls, geysers, craters, and even a chance to walk between two continents, all in one unforgettable day.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, this is one experience you absolutely can’t miss. And if you have a few extra days, I also recommend exploring the South Coast of Iceland — it’s just as incredible and feels like stepping right into a fantasy movie set.
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What Is The Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a scenic route that includes three of Iceland’s most famous attractions: Gullfoss, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park.
Many tours also include a few bonus stops like Kerid Crater, the village of Skalholt, Selfoss, or even a relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon.
It’s the perfect way to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes without having to drive long distances.
Short on time?
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Best Golden Circle Iceland Tours
Golden Circle + Blue Lagoon Tour
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Thingvellir National Park
Our first stop on the Golden Circle was Thingvellir National Park, and wow… it was even more incredible in person than I expected. The landscape looks like something straight out of another world, with rugged cliffs, crystal-clear water, and endless open space.
Thingvellir is actually one of the most historic places in Iceland. It’s where Iceland’s first parliament met way back in 930 AD, and they’ve kept the tradition going ever since (though meetings happen in Reykjavik now).
Because of its history and beauty, it’s even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes this place really special, though, is the geology. Iceland sits on top of two tectonic plates, the North American and the Eurasian, and Thingvellir is where they meet. You can literally walk between them!
Fun fact: those plates drift apart by about an inch every year, so the landscape is constantly changing.
My husband and I thought that was the coolest thing ever. Some people even snorkel or dive between the plates at Silfra, where the water is insanely clear.
Best Thingvellir Snorkeling Tours
These are the highest rated tours available for you to snorkel between the tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park! Book one now for a truly unique experience in Iceland!
We also stopped to check out Oxararfoss waterfall while we were there. It’s not one of the massive waterfalls Iceland is known for, but it’s absolutely beautiful and super easy to get to.
Thingvellir is such a peaceful and fascinating place. Between the history, the scenery, and that feeling of standing between continents, it’s definitely a must on your Golden Circle Iceland tour!
Geysir Geothermal Area
Watching a geyser erupt in real life is one of those things that never gets old. The Geysir Geothermal Area is home to bubbling pools, steaming vents, and Strokkur, Iceland’s most reliable geyser. And that’s what’s next on your Golden Circle Iceland tour!
Fun fact: this is actually where the word geyser came from! The original “Great Geysir” here was the first one ever described in print, and it’s the reason every other geyser in the world is called that today.
Unfortunately, the Great Geysir itself doesn’t erupt much anymore, but Strokkur makes up for it. It shoots hot water up to 130 feet into the air every few minutes, so you never have to wait long to see it in action.
When my husband and I were waiting for it to blow, we didn’t think about which way the wind was blowing, and got totally drenched. It was hilarious, and luckily the water cools fast enough that it wasn’t hot.
Still, learn from us and don’t stand downwind unless you’re up for a warm shower!
You can easily spend 30–45 minutes here watching a few eruptions, snapping photos, and walking around the steamy geothermal pools.
Gullfoss
One of the most breathtaking waterfalls I’ve ever seen, Gullfoss is the third stop on a Golden Circle Iceland tour.
Gullfoss is definitely my favorite waterfall in Iceland, and that’s saying a lot because this country has no shortage of incredible falls. The water comes straight from the Langjokull glacier and tumbles down in two giant steps, dropping about 105 feet.
You can feel the mist on your face long before you get close, and yes, we got a little soaked standing too near.
On sunny days, rainbows pop up over the falls, making it look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. My husband and I just stood there laughing, trying to take pictures while dodging the spray.
Expert tip: it’s basically impossible to stay dry, so embrace it. Waterproof jackets are your new best friend. This jacket is the one I wore to keep my clothes dry.
This is one of those spots where the photos don’t do it justice. Trust me, seeing it in person will absolutely make your jaw drop.
Kerid Crater
Kerid Crater isn’t technically part of the classic Golden Circle, but it’s a stop I definitely recommend if you have the time.
It’s believed to be a collapsed volcano, and the colors are unreal – red volcanic rock surrounding a bright blue lake in the middle. The contrast of it makes it look almost neon at certain angles.
Here’s the weirdest part: I actually saw little fish swimming in that crater lake. How the heck did fish get in a collapsed volcano? I have no idea, (and neither did my tour guide!) but it definitely made me do a double take. See if you can spot them when you go!
There’s a small entrance fee (about 400 ISK, or roughly $3), and it’s totally worth it. You can walk around the rim for panoramic views or even go down to the water if you want a different perspective.
My husband and I probably spent about a half hour just wandering and taking it all in.
Expert Tip: The paths can be a bit uneven, so wear shoes with good grip. And if you’re visiting in the summer, try to go early or later in the day to avoid the biggest crowds. Plus the light makes it extra photogenic.
The Blue Lagoon
While it’s not technically part of the Golden Circle, so many tours tack the Blue Lagoon onto their itineraries because it’s just that popular.
My husband and I visited, and it’s like stepping into a dreamy, otherworldly spa. The milky blue water is warm, silky, and packed with minerals that make your skin feel amazing.
Expert tip: The water is great for your skin but will wreak havoc on your hair. Keep it out of the water or put tons of conditioner in it (and don’t rinse it out) before you get in!
All visitors get a mud mask included with admission, and you can upgrade with extra masks, spa treatments, or even a drink while you soak. The water sits around 100°F, so it’s the perfect way to relax after a busy day of exploring Iceland.
There’s plenty more to do on site too: steam rooms, saunas, restaurants, a shop, and even lodging if you want to make a night of it.
Still Can’t Decide?
I suggest this Golden Circle tour. It has a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and takes you to all the best spots!
Wrapping Up Your Golden Circle Iceland Adventure
Iceland’s Golden Circle is one of those trips you just have to experience for yourself. My husband and I had such a blast exploring it.
Walking between tectonic plates at Thingvellir, getting soaked by Strokkur geyser, standing in awe at Gullfoss waterfall… it’s a full day of jaw-dropping sights.
We also loved visiting Kerid Crater and, of course, the Blue Lagoon if your tour includes it. It’s easy to see why so many people make this route a must-do on their Iceland trip.
A few tips from our trip:
- Bring layers and waterproof gear. Iceland weather can change fast.
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking near waterfalls and geysers.
- Take your time at each stop. You’ll want plenty of photos and chances to just soak in the views.
If you’re planning your own Iceland trip, check out my guides:
They’ll make planning so much easier.
And once you’ve done the Golden Circle, don’t miss these other Iceland adventures we loved:
- Iceland in Summer: 11 Unforgettable Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Amazing South Coast of Iceland Spots You Need to See
- The 10 Best South Coast Iceland Tours
- The Top 10 Best Iceland Blue Lagoon Tours
Honestly, Iceland is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. We can’t wait to go back and see even more.
