The Best One Day Iceland Golden Circle Route From Reykjavik

The Iceland Golden Circle is one of the top day trips to do from Reykjavik. It’s an easy day trip from the city that takes you to some of the top attractions in Iceland. This was my one day Golden Circle itinerary, where I stopped at the top three things on the Golden Circle route, with some extra worthwhile stops along the way.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

How To Get Around The Iceland Golden Circle?

There’s no way around it, the best way to see the Iceland Golden Circle is with a car. You can either rent a car and drive it yourself, or go on an organized tour. Each of course come with their own set of pros and cons…

The main difference is the balance between how stressful vs. how flexible you want your day to be. Driving will be more stressful but also more flexible. And going on a tour is the complete opposite!

P.S. Take some of the stress out of planning your trip to Reykjavik with my printable Iceland travel guide – includes checklists for top things to do, buy, eat, and more!

Driving The Golden Circle From Reykjavik

If you’re planning on self driving the Iceland Golden Circle, you will definitely need to rent a car. I rented my car from the airport at Blue Car Rentals (and I would highly recommend them). But there are also rental companies in Reykjavik if you’re looking for renting for one day at a time. I always opt for Enterprise when I can, and they have a location just outside the city centre.

Driving in Iceland was one of the better driving experiences I’ve had in Europe (which did come as a surprise!). And driving the Golden Circle route was no exception. You have to add extra cost for gas and some parking lots were paid along the Golden Circle route as well.

One of the main benefits of driving the Golden Circle route is that you can get to the popular attractions before the crowds arrive.

Read more: Renting A Car In Iceland: The Who, What, Where, Why &… Why Not! Or 10 Important Tips You Should Know Before Driving In Iceland

Iceland Golden Circle Organized Tours

If you aren’t comfortable driving in Iceland (which is very understandable) you can opt to go on an organized tour of the Golden Circle instead, like this one on Viator.

Booking an organized tour is way less stressful, but of course you lose some of that flexibility in your itinerary for the day. Your whole day will be completely planned out for you.

On the positive side, the Iceland Golden Circle is such a popular thing to do from Reykjavik, there are quite a few tours to choose from, each with a slightly different schedule. All the Iceland Golden Circle tours will bring you to the three main attractions though (more on those in a bit!). The differences will be the extra stops along the way, giving you some flexibility based on what you want to see.

For example, this one from Viator adds the Secret Lagoon at the end of your day. Or, this one from Viator that stops at the Fridheimar greenhouse. Or even this one from Viator that takes you horseback riding! See all your Golden Circle tours options from Viator.

How Much Time Do You Need For The Golden Circle Route

You can drive the Golden Circle route in as quickly as three hours. But I recommend taking the entire day for the route. There are so many places to stop, more than just the top three! I spent more than my fair share of time at each location, and added a lot more stops on the way.

Let’s just say, I left my hotel at 7:30 in the morning, and was only back at 7:30 that evening!

If I can recommend anything it’s to get an early start to your day if you’re driving yourself. This way, you can beat some of the crowds (as I said, this is one of the most popular routes to drive in Iceland!).

Read more: 10 Amazing Things To Do In Reykjavik Iceland Your First Time

What Is The Famous Golden Circle Route? (The Three Main Attractions)

As I said, there are three main stops on the Iceland Golden Circle route: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir (Strokkur), and Gullfoss falls in Iceland. In fact, the Golden Circle was made to connect these three stops. And to confuse you just a bit, they don’t even make a circle… (but don’t worry, I have stops for your route back!).

But essentially, these are the three stops you cannot miss and your route should essentially be planned around seeing them.

Drive The Golden Circle From Reykjavik: The Route!

Here are the top places to stop on the Golden Circle from Reykjavik, to make sure you don’t miss a spot, use my Reykjavik printable travel guide.

Stop 1: Thingvellir National Park (Must See)

Thingvellir National Park is the same as Þingvellir and Þingvalla. This is probably one of the biggest stops on the Golden Circle route, so you’ll want to allocate enough time to see everything. I spent the most amount of time here out of any of the stops.

Thingvellir National Park is a historical stop, but also just might be the scariest as well! It’s home to the site of the oldest parliament in Iceland (they began meeting here in 930 AD!). But it’s also home to Peningagjá, one of the best spots to see the fissures, a separation of the tectonic plates in Iceland. There are tons of these fissures throughout the park, so it’s important to stay on the trail (because you don’t want to fall in!).

This is also one of the spots where you can go scuba diving between two continents in Iceland (you will have to book a tour in advance to do this!).

I recommend walking from Oxararfoss (waterfall), pass the old Parliament, and end up at Peningagjá. The entire walk (there and back) will take about an hour and a half (not including stops for pictures).

Pro Tips For Visiting Thingvellir National Park

If you’re driving the Golden Circle from Reykjavik, stop at the visitors centre before heading in to the park. Here, you’ll want to pick up a park map, and ask an employee can properly show you the walking route if you’re interested. Plus, you can also pick up some food, souvenirs, and go to the bathroom!

If you’re short on time (or want to save your energy for later), you can actually drive instead of walking through the park. Start by parking in P2, where you’ll have a short walk to Oxararfoss Waterfall. Take in the views and then walk back to the car where you can then drive to P5 (instead of walking!).

From P5, you can walk straight to the second viewpoint (Peningagjá). You’ll walk past the bridge to a small walking trail along the river. You’ll see the church, and the old parliament in the distance before reaching your final viewpoint So essentially, instead of walking from P2 to P5, I drove this section and simply parked again.

For this driving hack to work, you’ll have to get here early (I arrived just before 9:00 A.M.). By the time I made it to P5, the lot was almost full already! Keep in mind, you also have to pay for parking, but it will carry over to the second parking lot (you don’t have to pay twice!).

Be aware that you’ll miss walking by the old parliament by driving, but today it’s really just a mound with a flag on top (we saw it in the distance and that was good enough for us!).

Stop 2: Caves of Laugarvatn (Most Unique Stop & My Favourite!)

I wasn’t sold on this stop before getting it, but it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip to Iceland! The Caves of Laugarvatn is a cave that was used as a house, not once, but twice!

The only way to go inside the house cave is by booking a tour. The tour is only about 20 minutes and gives you good taste of Icelandic folklore and beliefs which was neat (yes, there are hidden people stories involved!). Recently, they have added private tour options with Icelandic food tasting if you’re interested.

You might also be interested in: 23 Icelandic Food You Need To Try Or Skip Entirely

Tips For Getting To The Caves of Laugarvatn

The Cave People is about a 5 minute drive off the main road,on dirt and gravel. So, if you don’t have a raised car, I would recommend skipping this stop (but also recommend getting a raised SUV for driving in Iceland!).

This is one of those occasions were Google also might try to drive you off the road entirely. The original route was a sharp turn off the highway onto a dirt road. As it turns out, this was the old road which was mostly closed… and no one uses anymore! You can pretty much take the highway the entire way there. There will be signs for the Cave People museum leading up to the correct turn.

Stop 3: Laugavartn Fontana Bread & Spa (Optional)

This is one of those multi-faceted stops along the Golden Circle drive. There are two main attractions here: the bread and the spa itself. Now you probably never thought you’d see those two in the same place!

So, let’s start with the bread. Rye bread is one of the top things to eat in Iceland. As it turns out, this spa has a very unique way of baking that bread, although these days it’s more of a gimmick than practical. They bake the rye bread by digging a hole in the sand and using the geothermal heat from the ground to cook it. Neat right!

They offer tours to show you how they make the bread, with tasters at the end. They only run two to three tours a day though, so be sure to book in advance. If you miss the tour, you can still walk out to the beach to see the bread mounds by yourself and buy the bread to taste it. There’s also a plaque on the beach describing the entire process (so I’m not really sure how necessary the tour really is!).

As I said, you can also go to the spa here which is located on the lake! They also use the heat from the lake as their source for the sauna. You can also just dip your toes in the lake where they bake the bread! P.S. there will be another chance for a spa later in the day as well!

But depending on when you started your day, this is a good spot for lunch! They have an unlimited soup option and delicious rye bread of course! The next two stops will also have food and bathrooms as well if you aren’t ready for lunch just yet!

P.S. This tour on Viator is a full day trip from Reykjavik to the highlights of the Golden Circle with a stop at Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal spa.

Stop 4: Geysir Hot Springs (Strokkur) Main Stop!

If you want to see a Geysir explode in Iceland this is the place to come. Although, don’t expect to see the namesake Geysir (yes, Geysers got their name from this Geysir in Iceland).

Geysir used to go off every three hours. Now, it hasn’t gone off for 5 years… and I don’t think they’re expecting anything to happen any time soon.

But not to worry! There’s another geysir called Strokkur just a short walk away that goes off every 3-10 minutes.

And as I mentioned, this is another good spot for lunch, bathrooms, and souvenir shopping.

Fun Fact: Strokkur actually stopped erupting as well after an earthquake. They had to drill a hole into it to get it to explore again. I guess they had all this infrastructure set up here for Geysir, and people wanted to see a show when they came!

Stop 5: Gullfoss Falls In Iceland (Main Attraction!)

Gullfoss Falls in Iceland is THE main waterfall in Iceland … well one of them at least! You’ll see the rushing river go down into two disjointed waterfalls. Sometimes you might even get lucky and all the mist will create a beautiful rainbow.

I found that the best view of the falls was when you walked down the stairs and turned right (there were way less people there). Plus, this way you also won’t get wet from the falls.

This might also be your last chance for bathrooms and food, depending on where you’re stopping next (and you can also pick up an iconic souvenir from Iceland!).

Fun Fact! Gullfoss means golden waterfall in Icelandic, and gives the name to the Iceland Golden Circle.
An Even Funnier Fact: If you haven’t already noticed, Gullfoss isn’t in the circle at all, it’s the only part of the Golden Circle route that requires some back tracking.

Stop 6: Brúarhlöð (Optional)

Brúarhlöð is a quick pit stop for the views of the rushing glacier river through the Icelandic landscape. There’s a free parking lot and then it’s a short walk to the main viewpoint. It’s also good rest spot if you need a bit of a break on your drive. We saw people sitting here with a book and it looked quite relaxing.

If it works out in your schedule, I think this can be a nice spot for a picnic lunch (or snack!) away from all the crowds. If you don’t have a packed lunch, you can even pick up some food from Gullfoss and bring it here to enjoy.

This is also a good spot to actually see and appreciate the colour of the water in Iceland. It’s all melted glacier water which gives it a greenish blueish hue. If you can believe it, this is the same water that came from Gullfoss and goes all the way to Selfoss before meeting the ocean!

Read more: The Best 13 Iceland Souvenirs To Bring Home

Stop 7: Faxafoss (Optional)

Faxafoss is another optional waterfall stop on the Golden Circle route. I actually skipped this one because we just felt a tad waterfall-ed out at this point. Especially after seeing the main waterfall in all of Iceland.

But just a heads up if you are interested in stopping here, apparently, there is a small fee to pay for parking.

Stop 8: Friðheimar (Optional, But Another Favourite!)

I’d say this is another must stops on your Golden Circle route, and you’ll want to make sure to come here with an appetite. Friðheimar is a unique restaurant experience that focuses on everything tomatoes!

But the best part? you’re actually eating in the greenhouse where they grow their vegetables!

There are actually three restaurants at Friðheimar. The main restaurant is in their working greenhouse, and it’s a sit down meal. If you’re interested in eating here, I recommend making a reservation in advance. Also it’s important to note that this section of the greenhouse closes at 4:00 P.M.

I did not make a reservation, and came a bit too late so ate at your second option. It’s still the greenhouse, but instead of sitting down with table service, head to the bar. There aren’t any official opening hours, but it tends to stay open an hour or two later than the restaurant!

Although it won’t be a full menu, you can’t still get a cup of their delicious tomato soup at the greenhouse bar. And you have to make sure to try one of their tomato drinks. My partner ordered a tomato beer, and I ordered an Icelandic Birch Schnapps… which was served in a tomato! I can’t say I’ve ever had a drink out of a tomato before!

And if you’re only able to make it to Friðheimar after 5:00 P.M., you can head to the third restaurant, Vínstofa Friðheima. This is their winebar and bistro, in their oldest greenhouse on the farm, and it’s a lot more casual. They open at 12:00 P.M. and only close at 10:00 P.M.. They have tapas, and of course, classic cup of soup.

Vínstofa Friðheima is the perfect stop for food, a light drink, and to get off the road for a bit before you continuing your drive back to Reykjavik.

P.S. Book a Golden Circle Tour with a stop at Friðheima: If you’d prefer booking an organized tour, this simple full day tour from Reykjavik takes you around all the main sites on the Golden Circle, including a stop at Friðheima Greenhouse.

Stop 9: Secret Lagoon (Optional)

The Secret Lagoon is a second option if you wanted to visit a lagoon on your Golden Circle itinerary. Although it’s a tad out of the way, it still makes a nice circle (and an even nicer evening stop). You can also relax here for a few hours before continuing your drive back to Reykjavik, or you can even opt to stay the night. P.S. The Secret Lagoon is actually the oldest lagoon in Iceland.

You can book your entrance ticket in advance. Or check out Garður Stay Inn is right next door for an overnight stay – check out rates and availability on Booking.com.

Book An Organized Tour: If you’re interested in booking an organized Golden Circle tour that stops at the Secret Lagoon, check out this one on Viator.

Nearby: Hrunalaug Hot Spring

You can also opt to head to the even more natural hot spring, Hrunalaug. This is actually on someone’s farm, so please be respectful and also pay the small donation fee they ask for!

Stop 10: Kerid Crater (Optional)

Kerid Crater is another stop on the Golden Circle route that you can make as quick or as long as you want it to be. There is a small entrance fee to pay, but it’s worth it to see this wonder.

They’re not actual sure what the Kerid Crater formed from, but it’s a part of a series of craters in the area. The rocks are a unique red, purple and orange colour. And the water is a vibrant blue at the bottom – which shines even brighter when the sun is out.

You can actually walk all the way down to the crater, and all around it if you have the time, otherwise, I just walked to the base and then back up.

If you aren’t driving, there are actually tons of organized tours offering a stop at Kerid Crater.

This was my last stop on our Iceland Golden Circle drive before heading back to Reykjavik for the night. But, I’ll give you a few more options if you aren’t ready to head back just yet…

Stop 11: Selfoss (Optional)

On your way back to Reykjavik, you’re actually driving right through Selfoss. Depending on the time of day, you might be able to enjoy the Skyrland museum. It’s a short self guided museum that brings you through the history of Skyr, Iceland’s unique superfood as they call it!

At the end of the museum, you also get a delicious taster! The museum closes at 6:00 so be mindful of the time if you want to make it here!

Selfoss is also a great place to stop for dinner with a food hall and some restaurants!

P.S. If you’re into chess, you can also check out he Bobby Fischer museum in Sefloss.

Stop 12: Reykjadalur Valley Hot Spring Hike (Optional)

This is one of the best experiences in Iceland. It’s a hike to a natural hot springs in the mountain!

I’m only adding it to my Golden Circle route because, again, you’re driving right by the parking lot on your way back to Reykjavik. But, this can be a day trip from Reykjavik on its own. Otherwise, if you want to include a stop at Reykjadalur when visiting the Golden Circle, please be mindful of the time. You will need at least three hours for this activity (it’s an hour hike each way!).

You can read my full guide for what to expect on the Reykjadalur hike. And if you w

Stop 13: Open Air Museum (Optional)

The Open Air Museum is a museum with different examples of Icelandic homes and buildings that have been rebuilt to create the museum. Apparently this was the school trip for many Icelanders growing up!

It’s also very close to Reykjavik, so if you have time before arriving back in Reykjavik, you can check it out. And it makes a great thing to do if you’re traveling with kids in Iceland!

Back In Reykjavik – Need A Place To Stay?

I stayed in Reykjavik our whole time in Iceland at the Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels. They offered free parking (upon availability), breakfast, and a modern room. Check updated prices and availability on Booking.com.

If you’re interested in spa services at the tip of your fingers, ( I mean, you’re in Iceland after all!), stay at Midgardur by Center hotels. My parents stayed here and highly recommend it. Check updated prices and availability on Booking.com.

If you’re staying in Reykjavik for one night before heading out to drive the Ring Road, my sister stayed at the Hotel Frón and would recommend it for a one night stay. Check updated prices and availability on Booking.com.

Or, check out more hotel options on Booking.com in Reykjavik, Iceland

My Iceland Amazon Must Haves

There are a few things I recommend bringing on a trip to Iceland. I see them as necessities for you successful trip. It’s no surprise that most of the activities in Iceland are outdoors, with a high chance of rain or waterfall mist. So I made sure to pack both a packable rain jacket AND rain pants to stay dry. But I also bought a waterproof phone case to still be able to take pictures and keep my phone safe!

Some other Iceland travel essentials were my waterproof Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots. They’re perfect for city walking to rugged Iceland hikes, all while keeping my feet dry! I also bring my reusable Thermoflask water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day! And because your days in Iceland can be long, without going back to your hotel, I kept my phone charged with an external battery.

Read More Related Posts

• 10 Easy Day Trips From Reykjavik In Iceland
• Reykjadalur Hot Springs: How To Hike It & Is It Worth It?
• 10 Important Tips You Should Know Before Driving In Iceland
• 23 Icelandic Food You Need To Try Or Skip Entirely

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