While Iceland wasn’t exactly the destination I had in mind for a full week or two-week vacation, it was perfect for our three-day stopover. I had been captivated by stunning photos and the allure of its unique landscapes. So, to break up our flight from Prague to Los Angeles (since there are no direct flights anyway), we decided to make Iceland our pit stop. And of course, the less time you have, the more prepared you need to be. After some research, we opted to drive the Golden Circle, a route known for its breathtaking natural wonders.

What is the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in southern Iceland, stretching approximately 300 kilometers (about 190 miles) long. It typically includes three main stops:

1. Þingvellir National Park
2. Geysir Geothermal Area
3. Gullfoss Waterfall

Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s diverse geological features and rich cultural heritage.

Starting Point: Reykjavik

Like most travelers, we began our Golden Circle adventure in Reykjavik, the capital city. The drive itself takes about three hours without stops, but you’ll want to set aside a full day (which we did) to fully explore the attractions along the way. The route is well-marked, and from the moment you hit the road, stunning landscapes surround you.

Stop 1: Þingvellir National Park

Our first stop was Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with immense historical significance. It’s here that the Alþingi, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, was established in 930 AD. The park also sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating stunning rift valleys and clear blue lakes.

One of the park’s most famous features is the Silfra fissure, where you can actually dive between two continents. In some spots, the space is so narrow that you can literally touch North America and Europe at the same time! How cool is that?

Stop 2: Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, we headed to the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters (about 100 feet) into the air. Although the original Geysir is mostly inactive now, watching Strokkur is a thrilling sight and a must-see for any visitor.

The area features several walking paths and is well-equipped with visitor facilities, including a café where you can grab a bite to eat and recharge before the next adventure.

Stop 3: Gullfoss Waterfall

Just a short drive away, we found Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The name translates to “Golden Falls,” perfectly capturing the beauty of the water cascading down in two stages into a dramatic canyon.

The roar of the water and the mist in the air create a mesmerizing atmosphere. As you stand on the viewing platforms, you can feel the power of nature all around you. Just remember to check the weather conditions, as they can change rapidly!

Optional Stops Along the Way

While these three stops are the highlights of the Golden Circle, consider adding a few more stops to your itinerary:

• • Kerið Crater: This stunning volcanic crater lake is known for its vibrant blue water surrounded by red volcanic rock. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo op.

  • Faxi Waterfall: A lesser-known waterfall that’s less crowded but equally beautiful, located just a short detour from the main route.

  • Secret Lagoon: If you have time, relax in the natural hot springs at the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Blue Lagoon

On our second day, we decided to explore Reykjavik and treat ourselves to some relaxation at the famous Blue Lagoon. If you’re ever in Iceland, I definitely recommend splurging on this experience. The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa with warm, mineral-rich waters that are said to have healing properties. The setting is surreal, with milky-blue waters surrounded by rugged lava fields. Entry fees range from $87 to $160 per person, depending on the package and time slot you choose, and children under 14 are free. Booking ahead is highly recommended, as it fills up quickly.

We spent hours soaking in the hot water, with the chilly Icelandic air providing a perfect contrast. You can even enjoy a drink or two while the silica mud mask works wonders on your skin. It’s a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it for the unique experience. By the time we left, our skin felt refreshed, and we were completely relaxed—exactly what we needed to cap off our Icelandic adventure.

While Reykjavik is somewhat vegan-friendly, and we found some decent places to eat using the HappyCow app, I recommend coming prepared. First of all, Iceland is not cheap when it comes to food or drinks. For us, it was probably the most expensive country we’ve ever visited (back in 2018). Secondly, vegan options were somewhat limited, and you don’t want to spend your precious time chasing down meals. To save time and money, consider bringing some snacks or essentials with you, especially if you’re planning to explore more remote areas outside the city.

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