40km from Reykjavik, this landscape of lake, lava and rock is a geological wonder. It sits astride the divide between the North American and European tectonic plates, and in many places you’ll be able to see the geological stress at work in the form of steaming fissures, hot water spouts and cracks. If you feel up to it, you can even snorkel or dive down into the Silfra divide.
It also provided the backdrop for one of Iceland’s most important historical events. A thousand years ago, Icelanders gathered here to found the Althingi, the world’s first democratically elected parliament. You can still see the Logberg (Law Rock), where the parliament gathered and the lawspeaker recounted the agreed rules.
Thingvellir is about 40km east of Reykjavik. There’s no public transport, but most tour buses on the Golden Circle stop here. The easiest way to reach the park is to drive yourself: there is an informative visitor centre next to the main car park which gives background on the history of the site, including a bird’s–eye scale model of the entire park.
From here, various trails lead out across the park: the main one to the Althing and the Oxara waterfall is well signed and easy to follow. For the others, you can pick up trail maps from the visitor centre.
If you want to dive or snorkel in the Silfra rift, you need a permit, so it’s best to do this with an accredited operator.
When to do it
As elsewhere in Iceland, summer is busiest, and it’s the most practical time for diving and snorkelling in the Silfra Rift (most operators don’t offer tours in winter). Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, especially if you’re keen to avoid crowds.
Thingvellir remains open year-round, however, and winter can be a magical time to explore the craggy Althing amphitheatre – it looks like a set from Game of Thrones.
Who to go with: organised tours
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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Discover some of the best sites in Iceland on the the Golden Circle Tour, in the company of a professional guide who will tell you all you need to know about the area's history, culture and nature. Leave the city behind and get into the history of Iceland at Thingvellir National Park, witness the powerful beauty of a multi-tiered waterfall at Gullfoss and walk among bubbling geothermal pools at Geysir Geothermal Area.
The Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon are the two most popular sights to visit in Iceland. Book this small group day tour and enjoy visiting both the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon in a relaxing fun filled day. Admission to all sights, also the Blue Lagoon, is included in the tour price so as soon as you have booked you can relax and start looking forward to your adventure.
Your first stop is at the Thingvellir National Park, the UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. This is where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, which allows you the unique feeling of having one foot in each world. Next destination is the famous Geysir Hot Spring. Watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes up to 30 meters high. Here you can buy a lunch during the stop. Gullfoss the Golden Waterfall is next and will amaze you with its beauty and raw power. Adding even more, you will visit the Kerid Volcanic Crater before heading off the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing end to a great day.
This grand Golden Circle tour takes you to the most popular sights where you can experience the three highlights of the South West of Iceland: Geysir, Gulfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. Plus you will visit the volcanic crater lake Kerið.
Indulge in a tour of the Golden Circle - the relaxing way, and explore some of Iceland's most famous sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir hot spring. Plus, see the erupting geyser Strokkur in Haukadalur geothermal area and visit the Secret Lagoon hot spring bath.
Your tour begins with a mid-morning pickup. Board a climate-controlled minivan destined for the Golden Circle route.
Over the course of the morning, stop at Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geyser, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates collide.
On this tour, you will also spend free time soaking in the Secret Lagoon hot spring pool.
Embark on a unique one-day adventure to explore the beloved attractions of the Golden Circle in Iceland, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and the volcanic crater Kerid (entrance fee included).
After immersing yourself in the wonders of Icelandic nature, conclude your journey by indulging in a relaxing soak in your choice of hot springs, whether it be the iconic Blue Lagoon, the serene Sky Lagoon, or the enchanting Hvammsvík Hot Spring. The choice is yours to make, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.
From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.