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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 14 December, 2022
Expert travel writer: Oliver Berry

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.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
Frequency: monthly
When: All year around
Duration: 1 night

Getting there & doing it

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.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik

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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 n...

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Golden Circle Day Trip with Kerid Volcanic Crater from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Day Trip with Kerid Volcanic Crater from Reykjavik

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This grand Golden Circle tour takes you to the most popular sights where you can experience the three highlights of the South West of Icelan...

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Golden Circle Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

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Explore the unique volcanic and arctic nature of Iceland. This Golden Circle Afternoon tour is a later version of the Grand Golden Circle to...

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Golden Circle Tour Including Gullfoss and Geysir from Reykjavik

Golden Circle Tour Including Gullfoss and Geysir from Reykjavik

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Join an expertly guided tour from Reykjavik to experience geysers, waterfalls and some of the most exciting natural phenomena Iceland has to...

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Ion Adventure Hotel

Nesjavellir, Iceland[16.5 miles]

The ultimate Icelandic design hotel, combining industrial style with an incredible setting near a geothermal power station, on the edge of Thingvellir National Park.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Iceland

Iceland

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.

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