If you’re trying to decide between the Golden Circle vs South Coast, you’re definitely not alone!
Each route offers a very different experience depending on how you like to travel.
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most famous routes, packed with iconic stops like a national park, a geothermal area, and the famous Gullfoss waterfall.
On the other hand, the South Coast stretches much further and feels more varied, with towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and small coastal villages along the way.
Now, I’ve been living in Iceland for over 10 years, and have planned hundreds of trips for clients. Not only that, but I’ve also traveled these routes… A LOT.
So I’ll give you my honest opinion on each by breaking down exactly where each route wins, where they tie, and how to do both if you have the time.
Let’s get into it!
What is the Golden Circle, Iceland?
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s best-known driving routes.
Part of its appeal is that the first stop is only a 40-minute drive from Reykjavík, and the others aren’t much further! This makes it perfect for a day trip.
It’s also a popular choice because you can explore it both in the summer and winter months.
Located in southwest Iceland, this loop connects three main highlights:
Þingvellir (Thingvellir): This national park is packed with hiking trails, and it’s where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. You can take a tour and snorkel the Silfra fissure, it’s such an exhilarating experience!
Geysir: Known for its geothermal activity and hot springs, this area is filled with steam vents and bubbling mud pools. When you visit, you’ll be able to see various geysirs shoot up in the sky every few minutes, the most popular being Strokkur.
Gullfoss: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss, is known for its two-tiered cascade. It’s an impressive one to see, and there’s no need to hike because there’s a viewing platform where you can take it all in.
While these are the three main stops that most tours focus on, there’s SO much more to see along the Golden Circle! In the blog post below, I’ve linked some of my favorite stops along the route beyond the most popular ones.
➡️ READ: Golden Circle, Iceland: Everything You Need to Know for a Dream Trip
What is the South Coast of Iceland?
The South Coast is about 200 miles (300km) long, so there is plenty to see and do here. If however, you’re doing a South Coast day trip and hitting up the major spots, I’d say they’re arguably the following:
Seljalandsfoss: Now this is the dramatic towering waterfall that you can walk behind! Seljalandsfoss is extremely popular, but if you want to explore further, there’s a smaller waterfall inside a cave called Gljúfrabúi only 5 minutes walk away that a lot of people miss.
Skógafoss: Here’s another show-stopper! And if the light is right, you’ll even see a rainbow over it! Skógafoss has a spectacular 200 feet (60 meters) drop and was even featured in Game of Thrones.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Another famous stop in Iceland is Reynisfjara. Notorious for its rough waters and sneaker waves, you also get to see beautiful rock formations. And its proximity to Vík and Dyrhólaey also adds to its appeal.
Take a look at the best stops on the South Coast here. 👇
➡️ READ: South Coast Of Iceland Travel Guide: 8 Stops You Can’t Miss!
The Common Mistakes I See Travelers Make
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people choosing a route simply because everyone else is doing it.
Instead of asking, “Should I do the Golden Circle or the South Coast?” ask yourself, “What do I want my Iceland trip to look like?”
Do you want waterfalls? Glaciers? Hot springs? Wildlife? Hidden gems? Slower days with plenty of time to explore? Or are you happy ticking off the biggest attractions?
Another mistake is using Reykjavík as your base. Every. Single. Night.
I’ve seen people drive the Golden Circle, head all the way back to Reykjavík, then drive the South Coast the next day… back to Reykjavík again… then Snæfellsnes … and back again.
If you do this, you’ll miss out on the full Iceland experience. Staying overnight in different towns lets you experience a completely different, quieter side of the country.
Not to mention… that’s a lot of unnecessary driving!
‘Ain’t nobody got time for that!
Instead, stay overnight along your route whenever you can. You’ll have more flexibility if the weather changes, and enjoy a much more relaxed road trip.
Check out this post if you need some help planning out your itinerary. 👇
➡️ READ: 5 Important Questions To Ask Yourself When Planning Your Iceland Itinerary
Golden Circle vs South Coast: Here’s How They Compare
Okay, I’ve seen a lot of posts tiptoe around giving an answer on this. But you know you’re going to get my unfiltered opinion right? Here we go…
How Long Does it Take to Drive Each of These Routes?
Time for the “pure” stops: Same amount of time for both.
If you’re sticking to the main stops that I mentioned above, then the Golden Circle and South Coast will each take you about three hours to drive.
Which One Has the Most Crowds?
To be completely honest with you, both Golden Circle and South Coast get very crowded.
There are pretty much always crowds, seeing as they’re some of Iceland’s most popular stops and a lot of tour buses stop at them.
The only exception was visiting during COVID. It was one of the craziest experiences of my life, being at the country’s most famous sites with not a single tourist around and just a few locals.
Take a look if you’re curious. 👇
But now that everything is back to ‘normal’ you’ll notice Golden Circle tour buses start leaving Reykjavík at around 8 am and follow the route which means a lot of people are getting off at the same time at each of the stops.
Pro Tip: One way you can try to mitigate the crowds is by tackling the Golden Circle counter-clockwise. Starting at Selfoss up to Gullfoss.
Having your own rental car means you’re not tied to schedules and can plan a route that makes more sense to you.
That’s where choosing the right rental company makes a big difference.
For Iceland in particular, I always recommend going with a local company like Blue Car Rental because they know the roads and weather conditions better than anyone. And understand exactly what you’re dealing with out there.
They also include 24/7 roadside assistance if anything were to happen on your road trip. On top of that, the whole process is straightforward with online check-in and convenient key box pickup so you can get on the road quickly without any delays.
Get 5% off your rental price when you use this 👉 VIP link. No code needed!
Golden Circle vs South Coast’s Hidden Gems & Detours
Winner: South Coast
Oh, this is a tricky one. Because tourism has exploded in Iceland in the past few years, places that were considered true hidden gems are starting to get a lot more visitors.
The Golden Circle, especially, is very touristy, and because it’s so easily accessible from Reykjavík, it’s one of the first routes most visitors take.
I remember when places like Kerid Crater, Brúarfoss and Faxi Waterfall were true hidden gems, but now they’re showing up on more itineraries and becoming more well-known thanks to tour companies and influencers.
Personally, I think the South Coast has the edge here.
If you’re like me and love pulling over every now and then because you’ve seen something interesting, you’ll enjoy the South Coast more.
There are so many more chances to take a detour, whether that’s hopping on a Super Jeep into Thórsmörk or stopping at a glacier viewpoint.
If it’s dramatic scenery you’re looking for, then the South Coast is hard to beat.
Which One is Best Based on What You Want to See?
You all know that I’m a waterfall girl, so if there’s an amazing waterfall to be seen, I’m there! But let’s check out what you might want to visit.
Best Glaciers in Iceland
Winner: South Coast
From the Golden Circle, you have the option to access Langjökull glacier because it’s close to Gullfoss.
However, in my opinion, Langjökull isn’t as impressive as some of the other glaciers in Iceland. It’s kind of a big flat field, which is why some people take snowmobiling tours here.
But if you’ve got a picture in your mind of mountains, glacier tongues, and deep crevasses (scenery that’s so classically Icelandic), I’ll have to go with the South Coast.
This is where you’ll have ice cave tours like the Crystal Caves in Jökulsárlón or Katla Ice Cave.
Best Hot Springs in Iceland
Winner: Golden Circle
If someone asked me, “Where should I go for geothermal experiences?” I’d point them towards the Golden Circle.
There’s just so much geothermal activity in this part of Iceland. You can hike to the warm river at Reykjadalur, or soak in places like Laugaras Lagoon or Secret Lagoon. And of course, there’s Geysir itself!
While the South Coast has some great options as well, the Golden Circle takes the cake for the sheer amount of geothermal activity in one small, convenient area.
It’s one of those things you NEED to do when you’re here, so if you’ve been dreaming of relaxing in the hot springs in Iceland, check out this post. 👇
➡️ READ: Top 10 Free Hot Springs in Iceland: Unwind & Discover These Hidden Gems
Best Waterfalls in Iceland
Winner: South Coast
Gullfoss is beautiful, but you’re experiencing it all the way back on a viewing platform. I like the fact that with Seljalandsfoss, you can get up close and go behind the waterfall, and you can walk up to and above Skógafoss. It feels more interactive, which scores it a few more brownie points in my opinion!
Plus, if you take a look at this post, you’ll see just how many waterfalls there are on the South Coast worth exploring. 👇
➡️ READ: 21 Unforgettable Waterfalls in Iceland You Don’t Want to Miss
Wildlife
Winner: South Coast
You’ll be able to admire Icelandic horses… (and sheep 😊), everywhere in Iceland, but again, I’d say that the South Coast is better for wildlife, especially for bird watching.
One of the best places to spot puffins in Iceland is Dyrhólaey which is close to Vík.
Which One is Easier to Drive?
Winner: Both
In summer, both routes are easy to self-drive and you really don’t need a tour. Just make sure you’ve got a reliable car and you’re good to go.
In winter, both are generally manageable, especially compared to more remote regions. But if you decide to drive in Iceland in the winter (especially snowier months like January and February), I’d recommend you have experience driving in winter conditions.
Because even though the roads are usually okay, it’s still Iceland – and you never really know what the weather is going to decide to throw your way.
I remember one time when my sister-in-law and her husband came to visit us in the dead of winter, and we did the Golden Circle.
Geysir and Gullfoss had crazy weather. It wasn’t snowing but the rain, cold, and wind were something else!
Now, they’re from the Texas/Arizona area, so it’s safe to say they were definitely a little shell-shocked.
The next day, after staying in Vík, we were driving back to the airport when roads started closing because of an orange weather warning.
We had to keep changing our route as more roads shut down, driving through near whiteout conditions and hoping they’d make their flight.
Thankfully, they did, but it was so stressful!
Moral of the story: Don’t plan on a big driving day in Iceland on your last day if you’re traveling in the winter. The weather has a way of throwing your plans off when you least expect it.
Here are important weather warnings you need to know when you visit. 👇
➡️ READ: 3 Crucial Iceland Travel Warnings & Top Tips for a Safe Trip
Golden Circle vs South Coast: Best Route for the Type of Traveler
The better route really depends on who you’re traveling with and what kind of experience you’re after. Here’s which one I think is the better fit for different types of travelers, and why.
Best for Families
Winner: Golden Circle
The thing about kids is that they get bored… FAST!
While the waterfalls of the South Coast are gorgeous, there is a lot of waterfall after waterfall compared to the variety of the stops of the Golden Circle.
You get a waterfall, geothermal area and a historical national park – i.e. non-stop entertainment for the whole family.
You can also stop for lunch at Friðheimar’s tomato farm (with horses out front), there’s a petting zoo on the Golden Circle or you can visit Efstidalur for delicious ice cream. My kids always get SO excited about these stops.
The geothermal area is fascinating and provides the perfect opportunity for an impromptu science lesson!
Or you can take the kids for a soak at the Secret Lagoon, which has a very casual, swimming pool-like atmosphere.
Compare that to the South Coast’s more scenic but more repetitive lineup, it’s beautiful for adults, but a shorter attention span might not appreciate two waterfalls in a row the same way!
If you’re wondering what else you can do in Iceland with kids, here are a few ideas. 👇
➡️ READ: Iceland with Kids: 6 Things to Do with Your Kids for the Best Family Trip!
Best for First-Time Visitors
Winner: Both
You can really do either. It comes down to what you want to see and experience out of your trip. I’d say both work well for first-time visitors as they’re both very easy to navigate and give you a good introduction to the country without having to stray too far from the capital!
Best for Repeat Visitors
Winner: South Coast
If you’ve already done the Golden Circle once, there isn’t much left to add on a return visit.
But with the South Coast, even though you get the big name stops, there are a lot of hidden gems and detours you likely didn’t catch the first time round like glacier hikes or summer trips into the Highlands.
If you’re worried you won’t find them all, I’ve pinned all of the major sites and hidden gems on my Iceland Travel Map.
There are over 1500 pinned locations from where to dine to hot springs and waterfalls so you’ll always know what’s nearby. It opens directly in Google Maps, making it super easy to navigate.
Can You Combine the Golden Circle and South Coast?
Yes, you sure can! But my advice is to avoid doing it as a day trip. While you could, on paper, do all the stops in a day, it’s a recipe for travel burnout, and you won’t get the most out of your experience.
If you’re going to do both, I suggest at least two or three days. The Golden Circle still takes some time to drive, and when you consider stops for eating, taking pictures, and taking in the scenery, it’s a full day.
Now listen closely because I’m about to spill the beans…
This is What I’d Do
Day 1: Start in Reykjavík and drive the full Golden Circle route, but stay overnight in Selfoss.
Day 2/3: Drive from Selfoss down to Vík, then either stay overnight there or continue back to Reykjavík.
If you’ve had bad weather, you can make sure you cover some of the spots you missed on the way back. Or you can chase down a hidden gem you didn’t have time for on the way out.
If you like the idea of splitting the Golden Circle and South Coast into a few slower, more realistic days, that’s exactly what my Iceland itineraries are built for.
They map out the full trip day-by-day with proper driving times, overnight stops, and built-in flexibility so you’re not trying to figure it all out on the road.
The Verdict: Which One’s Better: Golden Circle vs South Coast
For me, the South Coast trumps the Golden Circle.
Every time I drive the South Coast, I’m reminded why I keep going back.
The landscapes are more interesting and scenic and there’s more room for hidden gems and off the beaten path opportunities. I never get tired of driving it!
That’s not to say the Golden Circle is a bad choice, I think everyone should experience it at least once, it’s just more of a first-timer route. It has its strengths, especially if you’re traveling with kids or you’re hoping to experience the hot springs.
But if you’re asking me for my personal favorite, it’s the South Coast. Hands down!
FAQs
If you’re still deciding: Golden Circle vs South Coast, then these questions might clear things up for you.
Can I Drive the Golden Circle and South Coast Routes with a 2WD?
Yes, in summer, you’ll be able to tackle the South Coast and Golden Circle with a 2WD. However, I highly recommend renting a 4WD vehicle if you plan on visiting in the winter. It’s the safest option, and you don’t want to be caught out in bad weather without the extra traction or stability.
Which is More Beautiful: the Golden Circle vs South Coast?
I’d have to say the South Coast of Iceland is more beautiful. There’s a lot more variety in scenery and landscapes and a lot more opportunities for detours. You can discover little villages like Vík or go into Skaftafell National Park and Jökulsárlón.
Do You Need to Take a Golden Circle or South Coast Tour?
No. You can absolutely drive these routes on your own without taking a tour. The exception being if you’re really nervous about driving in the winter in Iceland, then I’d recommend taking a tour instead.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Golden Circle?
If you’re looking at the pure stops, being Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss, it should take you about three hours to drive. But I suggest factoring in extra time for weather, stops for lunch, and if you want to explore more on the Golden Circle route.
Iceland Map & Guide
When it comes to deciding between Golden Circle vs South Coast, there isn’t really a wrong choice because ultimately, YOU need to decide what YOU want to get out of your trip.
In my experience, the South Coast offers more diversity, and that’s a real draw for me, but if you’re quite happy with the major stops of the Golden Circle, that’s perfectly fine too.
Whether you decide to just do the Golden Circle, or just the South Coast, or you combine them both into one trip, my Iceland Travel Map & Guide has the information you need.
The guidebook includes 200+ pages of region-specific breakdowns and planning tools, giving you a clear, in-depth understanding of Iceland’s different areas.
The digital map complements it with 1,500+ pinned locations, including major attractions, hidden gems, and practical stops like grocery stores and gas stations on the South Coast, Golden Circle, and the rest of the country.
Take a look at what Bruce J. had to say about them:
“The guidebook is a comprehensive, clear resource that provides good detail on planning for a trip to Iceland in any season.
Jeannie is honest in her assessments and advice (e.g., the weather, traveling around the country, costs, etc.) The interactive map is a great resource that is easy to use and contains a lot of detail not readily found on other maps.”
And that’s really the goal of the Iceland Travel Map & Guide: to take all the guesswork out of planning so you can focus on experiencing Iceland, not figuring it out as you go.
Happy planning!
