If you’re heading to Iceland, there’s a good chance someone has alreadytold you: “You can’t skip the Golden Circle.” And you know what? They’re not wrong. It’s iconic for a reason. But before you pack up the car, stuff your camera bag, and grab that Golden Circle Iceland map, let’s talk about what really matters—what to expect, where to eat, and how to make the most of it (especially if you’re doing the Golden Circle Iceland with kids).
Whether you’re booking a Reykjavik Golden Circle tour or road-tripping on your own, this route has a little something for everyone—even if your travel crew is a little cranky and carb-hungry halfway through.
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Table of Contents
First, What Exactly Is the Golden Circle?
Let me explain. The Golden Circle isn’t some mystical, ancient Viking path or anything dramatic like that (though Iceland makes everything feel that way). It’s a 230-ish km loop from Reykjavik into the southern uplands and back. But here’s the kicker: despite its short distance, it packs a punch. We’re talking geysers that huff and puff like an angry old man, waterfalls that crash like a rock concert, and a rift valley that literally pulls continents apart.
Most maps will highlight three main stops:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
But the real magic? It’s often in the detours.
Don’t Skip This: Kerid Crater Iceland
Okay, can we talk about Kerid Crater Iceland for a second? Because for some reason, it doesn’t get as much love as it should. It’s a volcanic caldera filled with deep turquoise water, surrounded by red rock and mossy green walls. Sounds dramatic? It is.
Unlike other Golden Circle stops that are free, Kerid charges a small entrance fee (about $3-4 USD). Worth it? 100%. If you’re visiting during summer, you might catch a concert held inside the crater—yes, really.
And if you’re traveling the Golden Circle Iceland with kids, this spot’s a hit. It feels like stepping into a real-life science experiment. Just keep an eye on the little ones; there are parts with steep drop-offs and very few railings.
And Oh! Those Churches…
Okay, can we talk about the ridiculously cute little churches along the Golden Circle? They pop up out of nowhere—tiny white buildings with bright red roofs, looking like they were plucked straight from a storybook. Some sit all alone in the middle of a field, others with sheep casually grazing nearby like it’s totally normal (because in Iceland, it is). They’re the kind of spots that make you slam on the brakes for a quick photo—totally worth it.
Golden Circle Iceland With Kids: Keep It Real
Speaking of which, traveling the Golden Circle Iceland with kids is… totally doable. But let’s be honest. Kids don’t always appreciate geological wonders the same way adults do. They want action. Movement. Snacks.
Here are a few sanity-saving tips:
- Bring layers: The weather changes faster than a toddler’s mood.
- Pack snacks: Not just granola bars. Real, satisfying ones.
- Stop often: Even random parking areas often have scenic views, Icelandic horses or curious sheep.
- Let them run: Open fields around Þingvellir are perfect for this.
Also, consider booking a Reykjavik Golden Circle tour that’s family-friendly. Some have Wi-Fi, activity books, or guides who know how to keep kids engaged without sounding like a textbook.
Some of my Must-Haves on my Iceland Packing List:
Where to Eat: Restaurants on the Golden Circle Iceland
You’ll burn through energy fast out there, and trust me—nothing kills a scenic vibe like hangriness. Luckily, restaurants on the Golden Circle Iceland route are surprisingly good.
A few favorites:
- Fridheimar: It’s a greenhouse restaurant where you literally eat among the tomato vines. The tomato soup buffet is famous, and yes, they make tomato beer. By far my favorite restaurant experience in Iceland.
- Efstidalur II: This working farm serves up some excellent homemade ice cream with views of the cows that made it.
- Lindin Restaurant in Laugarvatn: A little more upscale but not snobby. Great for local trout and wild game.
- Restaurant Mika: A cozy stop along the Golden Circle known for its handmade chocolates, wood-fired pizzas, and surprisingly amazing lobster soup.
- Þrastalundur: We’ve stopped here for pizza a couple times. Closer to Kerid Crater and serves wonderful Pizza.
You can also find food trucks and cafés near popular stops. But here’s the thing—they’re seasonal and close early, especially outside of summer.
Places like Gullfoss and Geysir have cafes that have surprisingly delicious cuisine to choose from.
To Tour or Not to Tour: The Reykjavik Golden Circle Tour Dilemma
Should you drive it yourself or book a Reykjavik Golden Circle tour? That depends.
- Self-driving: More freedom, better for spontaneous stops (like an unplanned detour to pet Icelandic horses). You’ll need a GPS, that trusty Golden Circle Iceland map, and a willingness to keep right and read road signs with very few vowels.
- Touring: Ideal if you’re tired, short on time, or want to sip coffee while someone else handles the logistics. Some tours even add in lesser-known spots, like the Secret Lagoon or local farms.
Both options work great—just depends on your vibe. Our preference is to rent a car and drive. Iceland roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
A Few Random-but-Crucial Tips
- Start early or go late: Beat the crowds by hitting the road by 7–8 am, or wait until late afternoon (especially in summer when the sun lingers).
- Gas up: There are long stretches with nothing but sheep.
- Bathrooms: Bring coins. Some restrooms charge. Also, don’t count on “going in nature” unless you enjoy gale-force winds.
- Phone signal: Patchy, but decent at main stops.
- Clockwise or counter clockwise? Truth is- it really doesn’t matter. Tour buses usually go clockwise, starting with Thingvellir National Park. We have done counter-clockwise a couple times, but this is because our starting point was Selfoss, where we stayed in a cabin rental.
Oh, and one more thing: bring a swimsuit. No, really. There are hot springs and geothermal pools tucked along the route.
How Long Should You Take?
Technically, you could do the whole Golden Circle in 5–6 hours. But honestly? That rushes it.
Give yourself a full day. Maybe even break it into two if you’re taking it slow with kids or love to photograph every mossy rock and waterfall spray.
If you have extra time, tack on:
- Secret Lagoon in Fludir: Super chill and way less crowded than the Blue Lagoon.
- Fontana Geothermal Baths in Laugarvatn: Steam rising off the lake, sourdough baked in the ground, and those lake dips? It’s quirky in the best way.
- Faxi Waterfall (often missed, but so peaceful): It’s like Gullfoss’s quieter, more introverted cousin—peaceful, pretty, and perfect for a picnic stop.
- Bruarfoss: That electric blue water? Total show-off. But fair warning: the hike in can be muddy—bring your waterproof boots and a sense of humor.
- Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike: A little uphill work for a wild hot river soak? Totally worth it—especially if you like your spa days with a side of sheep and mountain views.
Final Thoughts (or What I Wish I Knew Beforehand)
The Golden Circle isn’t just a bucket-list checkbox. It’s a window into Iceland’s personality: raw, powerful, a little quirky. That first time you watch Strokkur shoot hot water skyward, or you walk between tectonic plates at Þingvellir? It’s unforgettable.
So yeah, bring that Golden Circle Iceland map. Circle the stops. But leave space for detours, wrong turns, and surprising moments. Especially if you’re doing the Golden Circle Iceland with kids. Expect some whining, sure. But also wide eyes and muddy boots and stories they’ll tell for years.
And when you’re sitting at one of the restaurants on the Golden Circle Iceland route, sipping tomato beer or sharing skyr cake, you’ll realize this wasn’t just a scenic loop. It was a highlight of your trip.
One worth doing again.
