Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss is a huge spectacle of a waterfall and should not be missed. Its situated within the Golden Circle and sees a tremendous volume of tourists. There is a very large visitor center here with food , restrooms, and shopping opportunities. The restrooms were clean and the food was tasty. Parking is free at Gullfoss which is nice as the parking does add up when you are self driving the Ring. At Gullfoss there are multiple viewing areas. One from above and a lower viewing platform as well. You'll find that the lower viewpoint offers the best opportunities to get up close with the falls though my guess is this is not open in winter months as there is so much mist off the falls and ice is surely an issue. Each viewpoint is a 5-10 minute walk but each gives differing perspectives on the falls. I encourage you to see it from multiple angles. The paths and stairs are all well cultivated but you do have some elevation between the top and the bottom...mostly in the form of stairs. We spent over an hour at this waterfall and honestly, it deserves that. Its quite spectacular.

Goldfoss Waterfall is breathtaking. I first visited in June 2018 and again in October 2024, and both times it was absolutely stunning in completely different ways. In the summer, the lush green landscape and bright sunlight made the water shimmer, while in the fall, the golden tones and crisp air gave it a totally different beauty. It’s part of the famous Golden Circle and very close to the Geysir hot springs, so I definitely recommend visiting them together—along with Thingvellir National Park. It’s an unforgettable Icelandic adventure every time.!

Amazing spot! Free parking and many different spots to take pictures. You can also get pretty close to the falls as well. The waterfall is very unique and you can even see the path it takes after the falls. Easily the best part of the Golden Circle.

Stunning waterfall, one of the must-see places. That's why it can get really crowded. A good upper layer recommended (waterproof), especially if it's windy. A short walk downstairs from the main parking, which is still free (September 2025), which also hosts a building with free public toilets, souvenir shops and refreshments.

Just stunning! Largest waterfall, crowded, most visited, close to Reykjavik. Golden Circle tours are popular for visitors. You can walk around, climb up by taking quite a few steps or stairs, to get an awesome view. The rolling waters thundering into the canyon, spray you a bit, but not too much. Best views are up and close on the lower level. It’s the largest waterfall in Europe in terms of volume of water from the Hvita river. Gulfoss means Golden Falls in Icelandic. It takes only takes about 30 minutes to an hour here, depending on how long you want to soak in the view and take in sound of raging waters.

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most powerful and awe-inspiring waterfalls, and a highlight of the Golden Circle route. The name means “Golden Falls,” and it truly lives up to that title—especially when sunlight hits the mist and creates shimmering rainbows across the canyon. It’s not just beautiful; it’s immense, with water thundering down in two dramatic tiers into a deep, rugged gorge. The sheer force and volume of the water are mesmerizing. You can feel the ground tremble slightly as you approach the edge, and the roar of the falls is both humbling and exhilarating. There are multiple viewing platforms, each offering a unique perspective—some closer to the lower falls, and others giving a sweeping view of the entire cascade and canyon. Even on a misty or windy day, Gullfoss is spectacular. The paths are well maintained, and while you should dress for wet conditions, the short walk is absolutely worth it. In winter, the partially frozen falls are equally stunning in a different, almost surreal way. Gullfoss is a perfect example of Iceland’s raw, untamed beauty. Whether you’re visiting for five minutes or an hour, it’s impossible not to be moved by the power and grandeur of this natural wonder.

Absolutely stunning! The canyon it runs into is also magnificent. You really need to hike to the lower area- it feels like the waters going to come over the rocks and soak you. So powerful. Nice paths for walking. Again, photos do it no justice. A must visit.

Stunning, mesmerizing and true natural beauty. Stong and powerful cascade which forms awesome view. Can view the different angles at different platforms. It is amazing view whichever angles you view it. This is taken during summer in June. Catch the rainbow formed from the stong fall against the sunlight. A must visit when you are in Iceland. I am still thinking of the stunning experience after a good night sleep. Highly recommend!