Exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is one of the best ways to experience the country’s dramatic landscapes in a short time. With powerful waterfalls, bubbling geothermal areas, and historic sites all within a day’s drive from Reykjavík, it’s a must-do for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike. These Golden Circle travel tips will help you make the most of your journey—and show you how to combine it with a stay at Ourhotels.is properties in West Iceland for a richer, more relaxed Icelandic experience.
The classic Golden Circle route includes three main stops: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Many travelers rush through these highlights in a single day, but slowing down and planning ahead can transform a simple sightseeing loop into a memorable adventure. Start early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, especially in summer. If you’re driving yourself, check road and weather conditions before you set off, and always allow extra time—conditions in Iceland can change quickly, even on popular routes like the Golden Circle.
Þingvellir National Park is often the first stop, and it’s worth more than a quick photo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, creating dramatic fissures and cliffs. It’s also the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament, founded over a thousand years ago. Wear sturdy shoes, as the walking paths can be uneven, and bring layers—Þingvellir can be windy and cooler than Reykjavík. If you’re planning to snorkel in Silfra fissure, book in advance and be prepared for very cold water, even in summer.
Next, the Geysir geothermal area offers a classic Icelandic sight: steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the regularly erupting Strokkur geyser. To get the best photos, be patient and watch a few eruptions before you start shooting—you’ll quickly learn the timing. Stay on marked paths, as the ground can be fragile and dangerously hot just off the trails. This is also a good place for a snack or coffee break, as there are facilities on site.
Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” is the final major stop and one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. There are several viewing platforms, so take your time and explore different angles. A waterproof jacket is essential; the mist can be intense, especially on windy days. In winter, paths can be icy, so use caution and consider ice grips for your shoes. If you’re visiting in the darker months, timing your visit to catch the low winter sun over the falls can be magical—and if you’re lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights later that evening on your drive back.
One of the best Golden Circle travel tips is to think beyond the loop itself. Instead of returning straight to Reykjavík, consider combining your Golden Circle day with a stay in West Iceland. Ourhotels.is offers comfortable, well-located inns that make it easy to extend your trip and see more of the country without long driving days.
Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes, is an excellent base if you’re coming from the Golden Circle and heading west. After a full day of sightseeing, arriving at Hvítá Inn gives you a peaceful countryside atmosphere, with easy access to the beautiful Borgarfjörður region. From here, you can explore the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, soak in nearby hot springs, or simply relax and enjoy the quiet rural surroundings. Staying at Hvítá Inn lets you break up your journey and experience a different side of Iceland than the busy Golden Circle stops.
If you’re planning to continue your road trip around West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, The Stykkishólmur Inn is a natural next step. Located in the charming fishing town of Stykkishólmur, this Ourhotels.is property puts you close to boat tours on Breiðafjörður Bay, colorful harbor views, and excellent seafood restaurants. After the inland landscapes of the Golden Circle, the coastal scenery around Stykkishólmur feels like a refreshing contrast—think islands, birdlife, and views toward the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Staying here also positions you well for exploring the peninsula’s black beaches, lava fields, and dramatic cliffs the following day.
For travelers with more time, extending your journey all the way to the Westfjords is incredibly rewarding. Ísafjörður Inn, another Ourhotels.is property, offers a comfortable base in the heart of the region’s largest town. While the Golden Circle gives you a taste of Iceland’s most famous sights, the Westfjords deliver raw, remote beauty: towering fjords, quiet villages, and winding coastal roads. From Ísafjörður Inn, you can explore nearby hiking trails, visit small fishing communities, or take boat trips in the fjords. It’s a perfect way to turn a classic Golden Circle day trip into a multi-day Icelandic adventure that feels far from the crowds.
When planning your Golden Circle and West Iceland itinerary, consider the season. In summer, long daylight hours mean you can comfortably drive the Golden Circle and then continue to Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður the same day. In winter, shorter days and icy roads mean you should plan shorter driving distances and allow more time between stops. Booking your stays with Ourhotels.is in advance is especially important in peak seasons, as popular areas and small towns can fill up quickly.
Packing smart will also make your Golden Circle trip more enjoyable. Dress in layers, bring a waterproof outer shell, and don’t forget gloves and a hat—even in summer, it can be chilly at exposed viewpoints. Good walking shoes are essential, and a reusable water bottle is handy, as Iceland’s tap water is excellent. If you’re self-driving, keep snacks in the car; while there are services along the route, they can be spaced out, and it’s nice to have something on hand between stops.
Finally, remember that the Golden Circle is just the beginning of what Iceland has to offer. By pairing this classic route with stays at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, The Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you can turn a single day of sightseeing into a richer journey through West Iceland and the Westfjords. Ourhotels.is makes it easy to link these regions together, giving you comfortable, welcoming places to rest each night as you discover waterfalls, geysers, fjords, and fishing towns at your own pace.
