Explore Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle like a pro. Find out what’s worth your time, the best ways to explore it, and where to go beyond the tourist path.

✨ Welcome to the Golden Circle – Iceland’s Greatest Hits (Almost)
Planning your first trip to Iceland? Then chances are you’ve come across the Golden Circle tour packages. Often dubbed the “greatest hits” of Iceland, this classic route is packed with natural beauty, cultural significance, and easy access from Reykjavík.

But is it all it’s cracked up to be?

Let’s explore what makes this loop such a tourist magnet—and whether it’s truly a must-do or just a heavily hyped detour.

📍 What Is the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a 300-kilometer loop starting and ending in Reykjavík, designed to hit Iceland’s most accessible geological wonders. The three main stops include:

🏞 Þingvellir National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland’s ancient parliament. It’s also where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

🌋 Geysir Geothermal Area
Meet Strokkur, Iceland’s most active geyser, erupting every few minutes. This is the original geysir—literally the place that gave the word “geyser” to the world.

💦 Gullfoss Waterfall
A jaw-dropping two-tiered waterfall roaring into a deep canyon. It’s the highlight for many visitors, especially on sunny days when rainbows often arc through the mist.

🎒 Should You Do a Tour or Drive It Yourself?
🚍 Guided Tours
Perfect for winter or short stays

Hassle-free with expert guides

Well-timed for weather and daylight

Often includes extras like the Secret Lagoon or tomato farm lunch

🚗 Self-Drive

Best in summer or if you love road trips

Total freedom to set your pace

Beat the crowds by starting early or visiting at dusk

Can combine with lesser-known detours

👉 Pro Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid tour bus crowds—especially in June when daylight lasts almost 24 hours!

🧳 Is It Overrated? The Honest Truth
Here’s the thing: the Golden Circle is undeniably beautiful, but if you’ve seen other parts of Iceland—especially the North and East—you might find it a bit… underwhelming.

Many seasoned travelers say:

“I did the Golden Circle first—and thought, ‘That’s it?’ But then I drove the Ring Road and was blown away.”

Here’s a quick rundown:

Thingvellir – Historically fascinating, geologically cool, but visually subtle

Geysir – Fun once, but less impressive if you’ve seen Yellowstone or similar

Gullfoss – Genuinely amazing, though Iceland has even more spectacular waterfalls like Dettifoss or Háifoss

So if you’re tight on time, it’s worth doing. But if you’re already circling the country, you’ll discover far more epic and less touristy landscapes elsewhere.

💡 Hidden Gems Near or Beyond the Golden Circle
If you’ve got more than a few days in Iceland, venture out to these jaw-dropping alternatives:

Dettifoss, Selfoss, Hafragilsfoss – Powerful waterfalls in Northeast Iceland, surrounded by surreal red rocks

Ásbyrgi Canyon – A massive horseshoe-shaped canyon said to be created by Odin’s horse

Hljóðaklettar – Echo rocks with haunting basalt formations in Vatnajökull National Park

These spots are less crowded and offer a more raw, cinematic version of Iceland.

🍅 Quirky Stops on the Golden Circle
Many tours add bonus stops to enrich the experience. Some are surprisingly delightful—others, not so much.

✅ Worth Trying:
Friðheimar Tomato Farm – A warm greenhouse with tomato-based dishes and fresh Icelandic bread

Secret Lagoon – A charming alternative to the Blue Lagoon with fewer crowds

❌ Optional or Overrated:
Snorkeling in Silfra – Cool if you’re into diving between tectonic plates, but pricey and very tourist-focused

Fontana Spa – Nice but can feel commercial compared to more natural hot springs

🛏 Tips for Choosing Golden Circle Tour Packages
Not all tour packages are created equal. When booking, make sure to check:

Hotel location – Some packages include accommodations far from the city center. Stay near downtown Reykjavík for easier access to nightlife, museums, and restaurants.

Group size – Smaller groups offer a more personal experience.

Extras included – Ask if your tour stops at hidden gems like Kerið Crater or includes spa time.

📸 Quick Tips for Your Visit
Bring a rain jacket—the weather changes fast

Wear layers and waterproof boots

Pack a power bank for your phone and camera

Don’t forget a swimsuit if you’re stopping at any lagoons

Use Google Maps offline if you’re driving

Final Verdict: Should You Do the Golden Circle?
✅ Yes, if you…

Are visiting Iceland for the first time

Have just a few days in Reykjavík

Want a well-rounded intro to Iceland’s nature and history

❌ Maybe skip, if you…

Have time for the full Ring Road

Prefer off-the-beaten-path travel

Are returning for a second (or third!) Iceland trip