Welcome to the Iceland Self-Guided Driving Tour

Take the Iceland self-guided tour through the most breathtaking landscapes the country offers. Start in Reykjavik and drive the famous Golden Circle, home to astonishing vistas, sparkling waterfalls, and historic structures dating back to the Viking age. As you drive, learn the history of this fascinating nation, including legends of Vikings, elves, and magic! If you want to experience Iceland truly, there’s no better place to start than here.

About the Tour

Your Iceland self-guided tour begins in the capital city of Reykjavik. As you leave the city and drive out into the island’s rural splendor, you’ll hear about the original inhabitants of Iceland… and what they did when they realized the Vikings were coming. You’ll also get familiar with the famous mythological figures of Odin, Thor, and Loki.

The first major landmark you’ll reach is Helgufoss, a brief hike leading to a lovely waterfall. Beyond that, you’ll get a crash course in Icelandic culture, from Nobel Prize winners to poetry and dancing! You’ll then arrive at Vinaskógur, one of the only forests remaining on the island after that is Thingvellir, which served as the home to the oldest parliament in the entire world.

Thingvellir National Park is up next, featuring gorgeous hikes, great fishing and snorkeling opportunities, and a huge waterfall called Oxararfoss! Continuing, you’ll learn about the Aurora Borealis, both the truth of it and the various legends and myths it has produced over the years. Then you’ll have the chance to check out the mysterious home of a mythical figure.

Looking for a relaxing break from driving? You’ll find that next, at the geothermal baths—a perfect place for a peaceful soak!

Once you’re done with that, you’ll be introduced to one of Iceland’s most famous sagas, a blend of fact and fiction loaded with adventure. Next, you’ll arrive at one of Iceland’s best attractions: a huge geyser that you’re almost guaranteed to see erupt! Then there’s Gullfoss, a towering waterfall reaching over 100 feet in height.

After that, you’ll come to the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest natural pool, followed by a unique restaurant based in a greenhouse!

Your route takes you next to Skálhol, an important religious center dating all the way back to the year 1106! Then you’ll pass the Sólheimar Ecovillage, which offers a unique look at how a town can operate. Finally, you’ll arrive at the Kerid Crater and learn about the wild volcanic history of Iceland. The Iceland self-guided tour concludes beyond this crater, just outside Reykjavik.

Starting point: Tourist Information and Booking Centre, Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland