Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: Summer vs. Winter Highlights
About Iceland’s Golden Circle
One of the most popular tours in Iceland is the Golden Circle. This iconic route features three must-see destinations: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall.
I’ve had the opportunity to experience the Golden Circle twice—once in August and again in January. Both tours were “big bus tours,” with a summer trip through Gray Line and a winter adventure with Bus Travel Iceland. This page shares my experiences visiting the Golden Circle during two very different seasons.
One of the biggest differences between a summer tour and a winter tour of the Golden Circle is the amount of daylight. During my summer visit, Iceland was experiencing over 20 hours of daylight. In contrast, Iceland barely had five hours of daylight during my winter visit.
Iceland’s Golden Circle: Summer vs. Winter Highlights - Table of Contents
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Iceland's Golden Circle - Stop #1 - þingvellir National Park
The first stop on the Golden Circle Tour is Þingvellir National Park, home to Iceland’s most famous rift valley. This is where the North American Tectonic Plate meets the Eurasian Tectonic Plate. From the main observation deck, visitors can see Þingvallavatn Lake, Iceland’s largest natural lake.
During a summer visit, the views are vibrant and clear, making it easy to take in the fault line and the lush surroundings. Walking down into the rift valley is a must for a closer look.
In winter, the experience is completely different. Heavy snow and ice reduce visibility and make the paths slippery. Although still accessible, the icy terrain makes exploring the valley more challenging.
Visiting Þingvellir National Park during both seasons offers contrasting perspectives, and I highly recommend seeing it in both summer and winter if you have the chance.
Iceland's Golden Circle - Stop #2 - Gullfoss
The Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
There are two main viewing areas—an upper and a lower path. I suggest starting on the lower path, which brings you closer to the cascading water via a rocky observation platform. Afterward, retrace your steps to the upper path for sweeping views of the falls.
In summer, Gullfoss is surrounded by greenery, and on clear days, you can even see the Langjökull Glacier in the distance.
In winter, the waterfall transforms into a frozen wonderland, with parts of the falls encased in ice. The lower path was partially closed due to snow and ice, and the glacier view was obscured by wintry conditions. Each season offers a unique and magical experience.
Iceland's Golden Circle - Stop #3 - Geysir
The final stop on the Golden Circle Tour is the Geysir Geothermal Area. The area is named after “Geysir,” Iceland’s first geyser. While Geysir is no longer active, its neighbor, the Strokkur Geyser, erupts every 6–8 minutes, reaching impressive heights.
In this section, I use the Icelandic spelling “Geysir” as it is the name of the the geothermal area. I use the English spelling geyser when mentioning any geyser other than the famous Icelandic geyser named “Geysir.” I hope that makes sense.
Be cautious while exploring, as the geothermal water temperatures can range from 176°F to 194°F. A sign warns of the dangers, noting that the nearest hospital is 62 km away.
In winter, the area is even more striking, with snow and ice contrasting against the steamy geothermal vents. The Strokkur Geyser eruptions are slightly less dramatic, with water turning to steam almost immediately in the colder air.
The Geysir Geothermal Area also features some of the best shopping and dining on the Golden Circle Tour, offering a cozy refuge during the winter months.
Summer vs. Winter: When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland's Golden Circle?
Summer
- Crowds: More crowded, as summer is peak tourist season.
- Path Access: All parts of the paths are open, offering full exploration opportunities.
- Weather: Warmer temperatures make for a more comfortable visit.
- Daylight Hours: Longer daylight hours allow for extended sightseeing.
- Visibility: Clear skies and minimal obstructions mean you can see further distances.
Winter
- Crowds: Fewer visitors make for a quieter, more serene experience.
- Path Access: Some parts of the paths may be closed due to snow and ice.
- Weather: Colder temperatures require warm clothing and extra preparation.
- Daylight Hours: Shorter daylight hours limit the amount of time for exploration.
- Visibility: Snow and ice can obscure views and make distant landmarks harder to see.
Each season offers its own unique charm—summer provides ease and accessibility, while winter offers a magical, snowy landscape with fewer crowds. Your preference depends on the type of experience you’re seeking!
Bonus Stops on the Golden Circle Tour
Each of my Golden Circle tours included a bonus stop, adding a unique twist to the experience. These stops seemed to be more about the tour company’s preferences than the season.
Summer Stop: Sunnumork Shopping Center
Interestingly, the Sunnomork Shopping Center was constructed directly over the fault line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This mistake has become a feature, allowing visitors to stand in both North America and Europe at the same time. The shopping center embraced this quirk with a viewing area enhanced by red LED lights resembling lava.
Our guide shared that this stop isn’t part of every tour but is one of his personal favorites. It also provided a chance to shop for groceries at lower prices than in Reykjavik, where a simple bottle of Coke can cost $3–$5. This stop was both fascinating and practical, as I stocked up on affordable snacks and drinks for the rest of my trip.
Winter Stop: Icelandic Horse Farm
In winter, the bonus stop was at a horse farm where we got to see the stunning Icelandic horses. These horses are smaller than most but don’t call them ponies—they take pride in their unique breed!
This stop was a safe and legal way to interact with the horses, as pulling over to see them along the side of the road is both illegal and dangerous. The horses’ thick winter coats and friendly demeanor made this a delightful and memorable experience.
Both bonus stops added something special to the tours, showcasing Iceland’s quirks and culture in different ways.
Golden Circle Video - Summer vs Winter
Join me as I explore Iceland’s Golden Circle during two unforgettable trips—one in the vibrant summer and another in the serene, snowy winter. This video showcases the contrasting beauty of Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area across two distinct seasons.
Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a winter adventure, this video highlights the unique experiences each season offers, from lush landscapes and endless daylight to quiet, snowy vistas and magical short days.
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Golden Circle Tours
Linked below are some different options for touring Iceland’s Golden Circle. I am an affiliate partner of Viator. If you book a tour using one of the links below, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I would greatly appreciate it if you would consider booking using one of my links as the commission helps support my travels.
 Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik Including Gullfoss and Geysir - $74.58 Join an expertly guided tour from Reykjavik to experience geysers, waterfalls and some of the most exciting natural phenomena Iceland has to offer. In just 6-7 hours you'll visit the country's best known historical sites and natural wonders - making this excursion a perfect opportunity to see as much as possible without spending too much time. |
 Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Full-Day Trip from Reykjavik - $120.00 See two of Iceland's highlights in one day. |
 Small-Group Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Tour Including Admission - $225.90 Experience the best of Iceland's natural wonders on this one day mini bus tour. Join us for this magnificent combination of of Iceland, we will take you to the Golden Circle pearls and finish the day off in the Blue Lagoon. Book now to begin your journey! |
 Private Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour from Reykjavik - $263.52 Head north to the Golden Circle on this private 10-hour tour. See the natural beauty of Thingvellir National Park before going to enjoying the relaxing pools of the hot springs in the Secret Lagoon. Get picked up from your hotel and transported between sites by private vehicle. |
 Small Group - Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with the Secret Lagoon Visit - $330.00 There is a good reason why the Golden Circle is a must-do when you visit Iceland. Where else in the world can you walk in a giant crack between two massive tectonic plates, stand right next to a spouting geyser and feel the gentle mist of one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls all within just a few kilometers of each other? Only here in amazing Iceland! On this small-group tour we want you to have the best possible experience and make the most of the day. |
 Golden Circle & Northern lights in Iceland - $130.49 The Golden Circle Tour is where we visit the country´s three iconic natural treasures: Þingvellir National Park, where the American and |
 Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik - $190.25 Want to meet the small but mighty Icelandic horse and get in the most popular tour in Iceland all in one day? If so, you won’t want to miss the Viking Horse and Golden Circle Tour. You’ll ride through the gorgeous Icelandic landscape on a horse descended from the first horses to set hoof on the island in the Viking-Age and then visit the most iconic sites in Iceland: Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir geothermal area. |
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