The Ultimate One-Day Golden Circle Itinerary in Iceland
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes – and for good reason. Packed with stunning natural wonders and ever-changing scenery, it’s a must for any traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’re exploring at your own pace or joining a guided tour, the Golden Circle offers so much variety that no two days ever feel the same.
Stop 1: Þingvellir National Park
A truly unique and historic site, Þingvellir is where Viking settlers established the Alþing – the world’s oldest continuously operating democratic parliament – back in 930 AD. It’s also one of the few places on Earth where you can actually see (and stand between!) two drifting tectonic plates.
Here, the Eurasian and North American plates have been slowly pulling apart for around 11,000 years, shaping a dramatic landscape of rifts and cliffs. Þingvellir is also home to the Silfra Fissure, the only place in the world where you can swim or dive directly between the plates – a surreal “no man’s land” and a once-in-a-lifetime experience I can’t recommend enough. You can read more about it here.
Stop 2: Gulfoss Waterfall
You can either head to Geysir next, or continue on to Gullfoss first and circle back for lunch – which is what we did. Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls, plunging 32 meters in two dramatic stages.
There are viewpoints both above and below, each offering a different perspective of the falls’ sheer power. On sunny days, the mist rising from the cascade often creates vivid rainbows that arc across the gorge – a sight you won’t forget. And if you don’t mind getting a little wet, you can venture close enough to feel the thunderous force of the rapids up close!
Stop 3: Geysir
One of the true highlights of the Golden Circle is Strokkur, located in the Geysir Geothermal Area. This lively geyser erupts roughly every three minutes, shooting scalding water as high as 30 meters into the air! At one point, I even saw it burst three times in a row – an absolutely incredible sight. Each eruption is a bit of a surprise; you might catch a small splash or a massive explosion, so patience is key!
The rest of the geothermal area is also well worth exploring. With steaming vents, bubbling springs, and a viewpoint overlooking the entire field, the landscape feels otherworldly and endlessly fascinating.
Stop 4: Secret Lagoon
To wrap up the day, you can choose between visiting the Kerid Crater or unwinding at the Secret Lagoon. Since I was on a three-day tour, the decision was made for me – and it turned out to be the perfect way to end the day.
The Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool and a wonderful, budget-friendly alternative to the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon. Set amidst peaceful, untouched Icelandic nature, it offers a calm and authentic experience. Soaking in the naturally heated 38–40°C waters while surrounded by steam and scenery was pure bliss – a truly relaxing finish to a day full of adventure.
Choose your variation of the Golden Circle Tour!
Extra Stop: Icelandic Horses
A quick photo stop to admire the beautiful Icelandic horses grazing by the roadside! These remarkable animals are known for two rare gaits – the tölt and the skeið – believed to have evolved from a unique gene mutation.
When performing the tölt, at least one hoof always remains on the ground, creating an exceptionally smooth and steady ride that eliminates the typical bounce riders feel.
The skeið, or “flying pace,” is a much faster gait in which both legs on one side of the horse move together. At top speed, there are moments when none of the hooves touch the ground, giving the impression of the horse gliding effortlessly through the air.
After a full day of waterfalls, geysers, and natural wonders, the Golden Circle truly lived up to its reputation. Every stop offered something unique – from standing between continents at Þingvellir to feeling the mist of Gullfoss and watching Strokkur erupt in a burst of energy. Ending the day soaking in the Secret Lagoon was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on it all. Whether you’re driving yourself or joining a tour, the Golden Circle is an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s raw and breathtaking beauty.