Golden Circle Directions: An Iceland Car Rental Guide

Magnús Jóhann Björnsson
14 Aug. 2025

The Golden Circle is more than just a scenic loop—it’s the perfect way to experience Iceland’s landscapes, history, and geothermal wonders in a single trip. In one day, you can stand between continents, watch geysers erupt, and feel the spray of a thundering waterfall. With a rental car, you set your own pace, avoid the crowds, and add detours to hidden gems.

Before you hit the road, you might find our Quick & Simple Guide to Car Rental in Iceland helpful. It walks through vehicle options, insurance, and rental strategies so you can choose with confidence.

What is the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route. This 230 km (140 mile) loop begins and ends in Reykjavík, making it an ideal day trip for travelers with a rental car. It covers three iconic attractions:

• Thingvellir National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart. It’s also the birthplace of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, founded in 930 AD.

• Geysir geothermal area – home to bubbling hot springs and Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes.

• Gullfoss waterfall – a spectacular double cascade dropping into a rugged canyon, often crowned with rainbows on sunny days.

While the route is open year-round, winter brings icy roads and reduced daylight, so extra care and a suitable vehicle are essential.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir (is. Þingvellir) is more than just a national park—it’s a place where geology and history meet. Visitors can stand on the boundary between two tectonic plates, walk along dramatic gorges, and explore the site where Iceland’s first parliament convened over a thousand years ago. Clear waters in the park’s fissures attract snorkelers and divers, and the surrounding landscapes offer hiking, photography, and peaceful lake views.

Thingvellir is a rare blend of natural beauty and deep cultural history. Here, you can:

• Walk along Almannagjá gorge where the continents meet.

• Visit the site of the first parliament.

• See crystal-clear waters in fissures like Silfra, popular with divers.

• Enjoy peaceful hiking trails and views over Þingvallavatn lake.

Also, if you’re curious about exploring off the beaten path between worlds (literally), our article on Almannagjá Canyon hikes is a great addition.

Geysir Geothermal Area

The Geysir geothermal area is a living display of Iceland’s volcanic heart. While the original Great Geysir is now mostly dormant, its neighbor Strokkur erupts reliably every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air. The area is dotted with steaming vents, bubbling pools, and mineral deposits in vivid colors, making it a fascinating stop for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The Geysir area is alive with geothermal energy:

• Watch Strokkur shoot boiling water up to 30 meters high.

• Explore colorful mineral deposits and steaming hot springs.

• Learn about Iceland’s volcanic forces at the visitor center.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. This two-tiered waterfall thunders into a deep canyon, creating mist that often forms rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can view it from above for a sweeping panorama or follow a path down for a closer, more immersive experience. In winter, icy formations add an entirely different beauty to the scene.

Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls:

• Two dramatic drops plunge into a canyon.

• Rainbows often appear in the mist on sunny days.

• Winter ice formations create a completely different scene.

• Multiple viewing platforms offer unique perspectives.

Step‑by‑Step Golden Circle Directions

1. Reykjavík → Þingvellir

• Take Route 1 north, then Route 36 via Mosfellsbær.

• Around 50 km / 45 minutes driving time, but plan more for sightseeing.

• Explore walking trails, Almannagjá gorge, and Þingvallavatn lake.

2. Þingvellir → Geysir

• Continue on Route 36 to 365, then merge onto Route 37.

• Roughly 60 km / 50 minutes.

• Watch Strokkur erupt and wander past steaming vents and mud pools.

3. Geysir → Gullfoss

• Follow Route 35 north.

• About 10 km / 10 minutes.

• Take in both upper and lower viewing platforms for different waterfall perspectives.

4. Gullfoss → Reykjavík

• Return via Route 35 south to Route 1.

• About 110 km / 1.5–2 hours.

• Optional detours to small villages or countryside cafes.

Parking on the Golden Circle

Most main sights along the Golden Circle have dedicated parking areas, often close to visitor facilities. Some charge a small fee, while others are free. Here’s a breakdown:

• Þingvellir National Park charges a daily fee of around 1,000 ISK, valid across all its parking lots. You can pay at on-site kiosks or conveniently online.

• Geysir geothermal area also requires paid parking, with payment stations located near the visitor center and attractions.

• Gullfoss waterfall offers completely free parking at two main lots—no fee required.

For modern and hassle-free parking, use apps like Parka or EasyPark, which let you pay, extend, or manage your parking session directly from your phone.

Need more guidance on parking rules and payment methods across Iceland? Check out our detailed Parking in Iceland Guide for more tips and insights.

Extra Stops Along the Way

Looking for more than the standard three? Our Golden Circle self-drive with extra stops guide includes Kerið crater, Fontana Spa, Friðheimar, and other local favorites worth the detour.

• Kerið Crater – This striking volcanic crater lake is known for its vivid red slopes contrasting with deep blue water. A short path lets you walk around the rim or down to the lake shore.

• Laugarvatn Fontana – A relaxing geothermal spa on the shores of Laugarvatn Lake. Soak in warm pools while taking in views of the surrounding hills, or sample traditional rye bread baked in the hot ground nearby.

• Skálholt – Once Iceland’s religious and cultural center, Skálholt is home to a historic church and archaeological remains. It’s a peaceful stop for history lovers and those seeking a quieter break from the road.

• Friðheimar – A family‑run greenhouse and restaurant famous for its tomato dishes. Step inside the warm, glass‑roofed space, learn about geothermal greenhouse farming, and enjoy fresh tomato soup with homemade bread.

Adding one or two of these stops can turn a quick drive into a richer, more memorable experience that blends Iceland’s landscapes with its culture and hospitality.

Why Choose Car Rental in Iceland — Especially Blue Car Rental

Why Choose Car Rental in Iceland — Especially Blue Car Rental

Choosing a rental car for your Golden Circle trip is about more than just getting from A to B — it’s about freedom. Driving yourself means you can set your own schedule, linger longer at sights you love, and add spontaneous stops along the way. Blue Car Rental makes that experience smooth and worry-free.

With Blue Car Rental you get:

• A wide fleet – from compact cars for solo travelers to SUVs, 4x4s for winter conditions, and EVs for eco-conscious drivers. You can match your vehicle to the season and your itinerary.

• Fast pick-up – collect your car quickly at KEF airport or downtown Reykjavík, so you can get on the road without delay.

• No deposit and clear insurance – transparent coverage options that let you choose the level of protection you want without surprise charges.

• 24/7 roadside help and a mobile app – instant access to safety alerts, road condition updates, and assistance anywhere in Iceland.

• Honest pricing – no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you’re paying.

Whether you’re tackling the Golden Circle in a single day or using it as the start of a longer journey, having the right rental car can make the difference between a rushed checklist and a relaxed, memorable adventure. For more on how Blue Car Rental brings value that goes beyond the ride—like local convenience, fast digital check-in, and transparent pricing—check out Why Blue Car Rental Tops the List.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Even though the Golden Circle is a straightforward drive, a few smart choices can make it much more enjoyable and stress-free.

• Start early to avoid crowds – The main sights get busy, especially in summer. An early departure means quieter paths and better photo opportunities.

• Check weather and road conditions – Iceland’s weather changes fast. Use local apps or websites for updates before you set out.

• Fill up on fuel before leaving the city – Fuel stations are limited on certain stretches, so start with a full tank.

• Choose a 4x4 in winter – Snow and ice can make driving challenging. A 4x4 offers more stability and traction.

• Download offline maps in case of poor signal – Rural areas can have patchy reception, so having navigation saved can be a trip-saver.

By preparing for these small but important details, you’ll spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time worrying about logistics. For a more peaceful experience off the beaten path, check out Avoid the Crowds in Iceland with a Rental Car. It’s full of tips on how to skip the rush and find quiet moments along the way.

Conclusion

The Golden Circle is the ideal Icelandic road trip for first-time visitors. With a rental car from Blue Car Rental, you can explore at your own pace, take detours to hidden gems, and enjoy the comfort of knowing you’re covered with full support. Whether you complete it in a single day or stretch it over two, this loop offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure.

Want to build a more relaxed, longer route—maybe with overnight stays? Our Ultimate Self-Drive Iceland Itinerary for First-Time Visitors offers a flexible 7-day plan that starts with the Golden Circle and expands into stunning road-trip territory.