The Best Golden Circle Hotels in Iceland

Hotel Geysir

Hotel Geysir is one of the best hotels in Iceland if you're looking for a luxury hotel experience near a geothermal area. The Geysir Geothermal Area is only about a five-minute walk away.

Hotel Geysir is a modern and chic 4-star hotel featuring over 70 rooms, five suites, and Wi-Fi throughout, providing comfortable accommodations for couples, solo travelers, and groups alike. Its building design features large glass windows offering panoramic views.

With three restaurants on-site, you always have options for great dining. You can find locally sourced traditional Icelandic food and international cuisine, including Mexican and Asian. A buffet breakfast is also served daily.

From here, it's easy to cover the 6-mile (10-kilometer) distance to Gullfoss Waterfall. Other nearby attractions include:

• Bruarhlod Canyon — 6 miles (10 kilometers). Hike and explore its beautiful cliffs and pillars, or join a river rafting tour on the Hvita River.

• Fludir — 16 miles (25 kilometers). Don't miss this charming small settlement in Iceland's countryside that's also home to the Secret Lagoon geothermal spa.

• Thingvellir National Park — 37 miles (60 kilometers)

Hotel Geysir is 62 miles (100 kilometers) away from Reykjavik. It has a 4.5/5-star rating from over 1,000 reviews.

Litli Geysir Hotel

The 3-star Litli Geysir Hotel derives its name from the mighty Geysir and offers practical accommodations, featuring cozy rooms and spacious shared spaces.

Litli Geysir Hotel offers a range of room options, including single, double, triple, and standard twin rooms, all of which feature complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. Communal spaces include a restaurant, bar, free parking, and a children's play area, making it ideal for traveling families.

The hotel has a shared fire pit area to keep you cozy during winter nights and several telescopes for guests to enjoy Iceland's majestic night sky and the northern lights.

Litli Geysir is an ideal location for a Golden Circle hotel:

• Geysir Geothermal Area — a three-minute walk from the hotel

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 6 miles (10 kilometers)

• Thingvellir National Park — 37 miles (60 kilometers)

The hotel is within a five-minute walk of the turquoise waters of Blesi Hot Spring. Golfing, hiking, and horseback riding activities are also nearby.

If you want to venture off the Golden Circle route, Litli Geysir is just 28 miles (45 kilometers) away from the Langjokull Glacier, where you can experience the thrill of a snowmobile tour, explore ice caves, and do some glacier hiking.

Litli Geysir Hotel is 65 miles (105 kilometers) from Reykjavik. It has a 4.3/5-star rating from over 96 reviews.

Efstidalur Farm Hotel

Efstidalur Farm Hotel is a luxurious accommodation option right in the middle of the Golden Circle. From double, triple, and family rooms with en suite bathrooms to more wallet-friendly room options with shared bathrooms, all equipped with TVs and Wi-Fi access, there is a lot of choice for a comfortable stay.

The Efstidalur Hotel is part of a family farm, whose friendly animals you may meet during your stay and whose produce you may sample at the on-site restaurant. Don't miss a chance to try their delicious skyr, cheese, and homemade ice cream.

The top Golden Circle attractions are easily accessible from Efstidalur:

• Geysir Geothermal Area — 11 miles (17 kilometers)

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 17 miles (27 kilometers)

• Thingvellir National Park — 19 miles (31 kilometers)

Efstidalur Farm Hotel is 57 miles (91 kilometers) away from Reykjavik. It has a 4.6/5-star rating from over 2,110 reviews.

Heradsskolinn Guesthouse

If you're looking for accommodation near a lake, look no further than Heradsskolinn Historic Guesthouse. This rural guesthouse, located in a renovated historic building in the village of Laugarvatn, offers a beautiful setting with modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Guðjón Samúelsson was a pioneer of Icelandic architecture and the designer of the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik. He led the project of Heradsskolinn Guesthouse, transforming a former school into the charming, memorable spot it is today.

This guesthouse in Iceland is equipped with Wi-Fi and is ideal for budget travelers visiting solo or in groups. Private and dormitory-style rooms are available, equipped with shared bathrooms. An on-site bar and restaurant serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so there's no need to worry about food.

It's easy to explore the Golden Circle from Heradsskollinn:

• Laugarvatn Lake — just outside the guesthouse

• Thingvellir National Park — 19 miles (30 kilometers)

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 22 miles (35 kilometers)

In the distance, you can spot Hekla Volcano and Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, famous for its 2010 eruption.

Relax and recharge at the Laugarvatn Fontana Spa, a short walk from the guesthouse. One of the top geothermal spas in Iceland, Fontana features mineral baths, a Finnish-style sauna, and even a geothermal bakery. Book your admission to Fontana Spa in advance and don't miss a chance to do a rye bread tour of their bakery.

Heradsskolinn Guesthouse is situated 48 miles (77 kilometers) from Reykjavik and boasts a 4.4/5-star rating based on over 520 reviews.

The Hill

The Hill, formerly known as Icelandair Hotel Fludir, is a 3-star hotel in Iceland located off the Golden Circle sightseeing route. It's a great choice for travelers looking for a quiet rural hotel experience.

Choose between king and twin rooms from the total of 30 cozy rooms, each featuring hypoallergenic bedding, a TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. Free parking and Wi-Fi are included in the stay. The Hill also features a bar and restaurant, an on-site laundry service, and open-air hot tubs, perfect for winter northern lights viewing in Iceland.

The hotel is part of the small and charming village of Fludir, with the Golden Circle sights easily accessible:

• Geysir Geothermal Area — 16 miles (26 kilometers)

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 19 miles (31 kilometers)

• Thingvellir National Park — 43 miles (70 kilometers)

The hotel is within a 15-minute walk of the Secret Lagoon, which has fewer crowds than other famous hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon. If you're looking for a truly down-to-earth bathing experience, check out the rugged Hrunalaug Hot Spring 3 miles (5 kilometers) to the east.

The Hill Hotel at Fludir is 68 miles (110 kilometers) away from Reykjavik. Over 50 reviewers have granted it a 4.2/5-star rating.

Hotel Grimsborgir

If you like to indulge in luxurious accommodations in Iceland, then Hotel Grimsborgir is a great option. This 4-star hotel in Iceland is situated just 21 miles (34 kilometers) south of Thingvellir National Park, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Icelandic countryside.

Hotel Grimsborgir is composed of 15 gorgeously designed buildings housing up to 240 guests. This luxury hotel in the Golden Circle combines old-world warmth with chic modern amenities, offering a range of rooms and suites that accommodate between two and 11 people. Most rooms come with private hot tubs and balconies.

Whether you're on a romantic getaway or a holiday with family or friends, Grimsborgir offers an ideal place for a single night or a long-term luxurious stay. Guests at the hotel have access to complimentary breakfast in the world-class Grimsborgir restaurant, as well as 24-hour desk service.

The hotel's proximity to the Golden Circle means you can easily spend all day at Thingvellir National Park, snorkeling in Silfra's crystal water, or enjoying geothermal bathing in the Secret Lagoon.

The hotel is located near the Kerid Crater, offering beautiful hiking trails. Kerid's crater lake, surrounded by crimson-red volcanic deposits and contrasting green vegetation, makes for a stunning view.

For a more adventurous activity, take a 31-mile (50-kilometer) scenic drive to Bruara River and hike up to Bruarfoss Waterfall. Fewer visitors frequent this off-the-beaten-path area on the Golden Circle sightseeing route.

Hotel Grimsborgir has a 4.4/5-star rating from over 460 reviewers and is 42 miles (38 kilometers) from Reykjavik.

Other Noteworthy Hotels

Check out these other hotels near the Golden Circle.

Greenhouse Hotel

The stylish and modern Greenhouse Hotel is a 3-star hotel in Iceland, located in the town of Hveragerdi in the same building as the fabulous Greenhouse Food Hall. If you're looking for a comfortable and convenient hotel with a swimming pool in Iceland, this is the place for you.

There are spacious double and twin rooms, as well as suites with kitchenettes, ideal for families with children. Notable amenities include a hot tub, a heated swimming pool, and a stylish bar. Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, free parking, and luggage storage are available before and after check-in, ensuring a comfortable stay.

If you're looking to explore closer to home, the Reykjadalur River is only 5 miles (7 kilometers) away from the hotel. Aside from bathing opportunities, Reykjadalur is a renowned hiking spot with numerous beautiful sights, making it a worthwhile visit. Take a hike to Reykjadalur Valley, complete with hot springs, on a guided tour.

The town of Hveragerdi is a top Icelandic location in its own right. With water boiling just under the ground's surface, the town benefits from natural heating and many hot springs in the area. Residents also utilize the natural heat from the ground to maintain their greenhouses throughout the year.

The hotel is just 28 miles (45 kilometers) outside of Reykjavik. Greenhouse Hotel boasts a 4.5/5-star rating based on over 300 reviews.

Frost & Fire Boutique Hotel

Frost & Fire Boutique Hotel is another option in Hveragerdi, with luxury amenities and geothermal bathing experiences. Complete with a range of rooms accommodating singles, couples, families, and groups, the Nordic design-inspired hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a boutique experience.

Your stay includes complimentary Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast. The hotel also has several saunas, riverside hot tubs, and outdoor geothermal pools for a truly Icelandic bathing experience.

Less than a mile away from the heart of Hveragerdi, with its parks, pubs, restaurants, and cafes, Frost & Fire Hotel sits on the banks of the Varma River, whose warm waters are naturally heated by the region's geothermal activity. The hotel is an ideal getaway, located especially close to the historic Thingvellir National Park, which is about 28 miles (46 kilometers) away.

Frost & Fire Boutique Hotel is 29 miles (47 kilometers) from Reykjavik. It has a 4.4/5-star rating based on over 450 reviews.

Hotel South Coast

Hotel South Coast is a 4-star hotel in Iceland, located in the southern part of the country, in the heart of the town of Selfoss and close to the Selfoss New Old Town center. Its location gives you easy access to the Golden Circle's top sights and popular attractions on Iceland's South Coast.

The rooms at Hotel South Coast are spacious, with modern design and thoughtful touches. Standard double, deluxe double, and triple room setups are available, all equipped with Wi-Fi. A Finnish sauna harnessing the region's geothermal energy and two hot tubs will help you relax after a day of South Coast exploration.

The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and a business center with a large meeting room that accommodates up to 25 people.

Hotel South Coast is 43 miles (70 kilometers) from Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, whose unique structure allows visitors to walk behind it and see it from a different perspective. Skogafoss Waterfall, 61 miles (98 kilometers) away, is another majestic landmark.

Hotel South Coast is 36 miles (58 kilometers) from Reykjavik. It has over 440 reviews and a 4.5/5-star rating.

South Central Guesthouse

South Central Guesthouse is an affordable, quiet hotel in Iceland located on the outskirts of Selfoss, allowing you to easily access the amenities of a nearby town without sacrificing the beautiful natural scenery.

Rustic and charming, South Central Guesthouse offers affordable double and twin rooms, a dormitory, and a whole house for rent. Bathrooms, sitting rooms, a kitchen, and a patio are all shared spaces that are well-equipped with Wi-Fi throughout. There is also an outdoor hot tub for communal use.

The guesthouse's location away from towns and villages gives you more sightseeing options. Hekla Volcano and its surrounding mountains are visible from the rooms, and numerous hiking trails are nearby. The nearest top Golden Circle attractions from the guesthouse are Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir Geothermal Area, both just 30 miles (50 kilometers) away.

For some nearby sites, Urridafoss Waterfall is only 8 miles (13 kilometers) south of the guesthouse. Located on the Thjorsa River, renowned for salmon fishing, Urridafoss isn't very tall but has a powerful water flow.

South Central Guesthouse is 50 miles (81 kilometers) from Reykjavik and has a 4.7/5-star rating with over 140 reviews.

Buubble Hotel Iceland - Olvisholt

Buubble Olvisholt is a unique glamping experience in South Iceland. Don't miss an opportunity to sleep under the northern lights in winter or the pastel-colored midnight sun in summer in a quirky, transparent bubble-shaped room.

Located in a forest 8 miles (14 kilometers) away from the town of Selfoss, Buubble Hotel offers glamping enthusiasts nine bubble rooms with private entrances, each accommodating up to two adults, and free parking.

Selfoss is the nearest town with cafes, restaurants, grocery stores, and a gas station.

Access the main attractions of the Golden Circle route within easy driving distance of Buubble Olvisholt:

• Thingvellir National Park — 30 miles (49 kilometers)

• Geysir Geothermal Area — 38 miles (62 kilometers)

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 42 miles (68 kilometers)

Buubble Olvisholt is only 44 miles (72 kilometers) from Reykjavik. It has a 4.7/5-star rating from over 50 reviews.

Hotel Ranga

Located in the town of Hella, Hotel Ranga embodies Iceland's history, folklore, and natural beauty in its unique design. The hotel features 52 tastefully appointed rustic rooms, luxurious private bathrooms, a hot tub, and complimentary breakfast, among its most notable amenities. The hotel also features a fine dining restaurant and spa.

Hotel Ranga is a prime viewing spot for the northern lights thanks to its secluded location and an on-site observatory. Guests appreciate the opportunity to admire the aurora borealis from the outdoor hot tub.

For those interested in Icelandic culture, the Skogar Museum is a must-visit attraction about 45 minutes from the hotel. Three of Iceland's most famous natural attractions on the Golden Circle are a bit farther away but still accessible from the hotel:

• Geysir Geothermal Area — 53 miles (85 kilometers)

• Gullfoss Waterfall — 57 miles (91 kilometers)

• Thingvellir National Park — 58 miles (93 kilometers)

Hotel Ranga is 63 miles (102 kilometers) from Reykjavik. It has a 4.7/5-star rating from over 630 reviews.

Golden Circle Hotels Iceland FAQ

Ready to book the hotel of your dreams? Some frequently asked questions will help you get the most out of your booking, no matter where you stay.

1. Is it better to stay at one hotel or move between places in the Golden Circle?

If you're exploring slowly, staying in different areas allows you to experience more scenery along the route. For short trips, one central base with day trips works well to minimize time spent moving from hotel to hotel.

2. How accessible are these hotels for travelers with mobility needs?

Some hotels offer accessible rooms and facilities, but not all. It’s important to check with the hotel directly for specific requirements. You can also contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is for help with finding the right accommodation for your needs.

3. Do Golden Circle hotels accommodate families with kids?

Several hotels offer family rooms, kid-friendly menus, and activities designed for children. Some even have farm animals or nature trails, which are attractions great for children.

4. Can I find vegan or gluten-free options at Golden Circle hotels?

Larger hotels and many guesthouses now offer dietary accommodations. It's best to notify them in advance to ensure availability.

5. Are hot tubs and geothermal pools common?

Many hotels in the area feature outdoor hot tubs or access to nearby geothermal baths. They're perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

6. What’s the best way to reach Golden Circle hotels without renting a car?

Joining a guided tour that includes overnight stays is the best way to reach Golden Circle hotels.

Finding Your Ideal Golden Circle Hotel Stay

With its diverse range of accommodations catering to every budget and preference, the Golden Circle is a perfect home base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders. Our list of the best Golden Circle hotels in Iceland is just the beginning—read more of our Golden Circle travel advice, choose the best things to do in Iceland, and start planning the trip of a lifetime for your next Iceland visit.

Have you decided to stay along the Golden Circle on your Icelandic adventure? Comment below to tell us which hotel you’re most excited to book.