Traveling solo can be one of the best ways to experience a new place. Thingvellir gives you space to move, think, and take in Iceland’s raw beauty without pressure.
The views are wide, the paths are clear, and the silence is part of the experience. Whether you’re walking through the rift valley or sitting by the lake, it’s a place that welcomes solo time.
Where Is Thingvellir National Park Located?
Thingvellir national park sits about 45 km northeast of Reykjavik. It’s part of the famous Golden Circle route. The park sits in a rift valley between two tectonic plates. That means you’re walking through land that is slowly pulling apart. It’s also the site of Iceland’s first parliament, founded over a thousand years ago.
How to Get to Thingvellir National Park
If you rent a car, getting there takes about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Roads are paved and clearly marked. Parking is available near the main visitor areas.
You can also take a guided Golden Circle tour, which includes stops at Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir. Public buses are limited and not always reliable for same-day returns.
Best Time to Visit Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is open year-round, and each season offers something different. Summer (June to August) brings long daylight hours, mild weather, dry trails, and larger crowds.
Autumn (September to October) is quieter, with fewer visitors and colorful scenery as the leaves change. Winter (November to February) transforms the park into a snow-covered landscape with icy paths and limited daylight, offering a peaceful, frozen setting and a possible view of the Northern Lights.
Spring (March to May) is a time of melting snow, blooming moss, and fewer tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when tour buses are less common.
What to Pack for Thingvellir for Solo Travelers
- The weather in Thingvellir can change without warning, so wear layers you can easily take off or add, and always bring a waterproof outer layer to stay dry and comfortable.
- Choose shoes with good grip and ankle support, as the terrain includes rocks, uneven ground, and wet paths, especially near waterfalls or during colder seasons.
- A lightweight backpack is essential for carrying your daily essentials like snacks, water, extra layers, and anything else you may need without slowing yourself down.
- Keep yourself fueled and your devices charged by packing enough food and water for the day, plus a power bank in case your phone battery runs low.
- A portable tripod makes it easy to take steady solo photos or videos, especially in wide-open landscapes where you won’t want to rush the shot.
- The long daylight hours and reflective surfaces like water and snow can be hard on your skin and eyes, so don’t forget basic sun protection.
Top Activities in Thingvellir National Park for Solo Travelers
Walk the Rift Valley
The Almannagjá Gorge is the most iconic trail in Thingvellir and runs between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It’s wide, mostly flat, and easy to follow, making it ideal for solo walkers.
The cliffs on either side create a dramatic setting that feels both ancient and peaceful. You can stop anywhere along the path for quiet photos or a moment to take in the scale of the land.
Visit the Parliament Site
Þingvellir is where Iceland’s parliament, Alþingi, was formed over a thousand years ago. The open plains and marked footpaths show where leaders once met to pass laws and settle disputes.
Informational signs along the way help you understand the site’s role in Icelandic history. Walking through it alone gives you time to reflect on the weight of that legacy without distraction.
Hike to Öxarárfoss
Öxarárfoss is a waterfall hidden just off the main path, with a short and easy hike leading to it. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach, and the trail is well-marked and scenic.
The waterfall is especially striking in winter when it partially freezes, but it’s a rewarding stop in every season. It’s a good spot to rest, take photos, or enjoy the sound of the water away from crowds.
Snorkel in Silfra Fissure
Silfra is a deep fissure filled with glacier water that allows you to float between two continents. The water is crystal clear, and visibility can reach over 100 meters.
You’ll need to join a guided tour for gear and safety, but these are small and solo-friendly. Many travelers say this is one of the most surreal and memorable parts of visiting Thingvellir.
Photography and Quiet Time
Thingvellir is one of the best places in Iceland for solo travelers who want space to think and shoot photos without being rushed. The park has still lakes, mossy lava fields, and dramatic skies that change quickly with the weather.
There are plenty of benches, hidden spots, and open views to enjoy in silence. You can set your own pace and focus on the details you’d miss in a group.
Where to Eat Near Thingvellir for Solo Travelers
1. Visitor Center Café at Thingvellir
This small café serves soups, sandwiches, and coffee right inside the park. It’s quiet and convenient for a quick solo meal without leaving the area.
2. Laugarvatn Fontana Café
Located 20 minutes away, Laugarvatn Fontana Café offers meals made with geothermal heat, including fresh-baked bread and hearty local dishes. The calm lakeside setting makes it ideal for eating alone.
3. Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Friðheimar Tomato Farm is about 35 minutes from Thingvellir, and this greenhouse restaurant specializes in tomato-based meals served among the vines. It’s casual, bright, and comfortable for solo visitors.
4. Skálholt Cathedral Café
Skálholt Cathedral café is roughly 30 minutes from the park, and this café near the cathedral offers simple dishes in a quiet, uncrowded space. It’s a peaceful stop for a slow lunch or coffee break.
5. Geysir Center Restaurant
Near the Geysir geothermal area, this spot offers a buffet and à la carte options with plenty of seating. It’s a good place to recharge after exploring nearby trails.
Where to Stay Near Thingvellir for Solo Travelers
1. Héraðsskólinn Historic Guesthouse (Laugarvatn)
Located in Laugarvatn, this former school-turned-guesthouse offers both private and shared rooms in a relaxed, social environment. It’s ideal for solo travelers looking to meet others or unwind in a cozy setting.
2. Galleri Laugarvatn (Laugarvatn)
This artsy guesthouse is quiet, small, and close to the Fontana spa. The peaceful vibe and welcoming hosts make it a great fit for solo guests who enjoy creative spaces.
3. Hotel Laugarvatn (Laugarvatn)
Offering simple private rooms and lake views, this hotel includes breakfast and easy access to nearby attractions. It's perfect if you want quiet comfort without being far from Thingvellir.
4. Hotel Laxnes (Mosfellsbær)
About 30 minutes from Thingvellir, Hotel Laxnes offers views of Mt. Esja and sits on the main road to Reykjavik. It’s a practical choice for solo travelers who want a mix of nature and town access.
5. Thingvellir Lakeview Lodges (Thingvellir Area)
These small cabins near the lake offer privacy and stunning views of Thingvellir. They are great for solo visitors who prefer solitude and scenic surroundings.
Top Nearby Attractions from Thingvellir for Solo Travelers
Gullfoss Waterfall
About 45 minutes from Thingvellir, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. It's two-tiered drop creates a massive spray and thunderous sound you can feel as much as you hear.
The walking paths are well-marked, with several viewing platforms perfect for photos. It’s easy to explore solo, and you’ll find plenty of space to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Just a short drive from Gullfoss, the Geysir geothermal field is home to bubbling mud pools and the famous Strokkur geyser. Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water high into the air while visitors watch from nearby paths.
The area is safe, easy to walk in, and full of geothermal activity that’s fascinating to see up close. As a solo traveler, you can move freely and take your time exploring without feeling rushed.
Laugarvatn Fontana
Located between Thingvellir and Gullfoss, Laugarvatn Fontana offers natural steam baths and warm geothermal pools by the lake. The spa is calm and clean and ideal for relaxing after hiking or sightseeing.
Many solo travelers find it peaceful, with quiet corners where you can soak and enjoy the views without crowds. You can also try their locally made rye bread, which is baked underground using geothermal heat.
Brúarfoss Waterfall
Brúarfoss is one of Iceland’s most photogenic waterfalls, known for its bright blue color. The 3-kilometer trail follows a river through forested terrain and is fairly easy to walk, though it can get muddy.
The route is less crowded than other Golden Circle stops, making it ideal for a quiet solo hike. At the end, the waterfall appears almost suddenly, with clear blue water rushing through a narrow gap in black rock.
Kerið Crater
Kerið is a volcanic crater filled with a deep blue lake, surrounded by red volcanic rock. The rim trail is short and easy, offering a full view of the crater in just 15 to 20 minutes.
You can also walk down to the water’s edge for a different perspective. It’s a peaceful place to reflect, take photos, or sit quietly without many distractions.
Safety Tips for Solo Travelers at Thingvellir
- Iceland's weather can shift quickly, especially in open areas like Thingvellir, and rain or wind can make trails slippery or hard to see.
- Depending on the season, paths may become muddy, icy, or washed out, so change your plans if the trail conditions seem unsafe.
- Wandering off marked trails is risky due to soft ground, cracks, and sudden drops, and harms the surrounding landscape.
- Keep your phone with you for maps, weather updates, and emergencies, and bring a power bank to avoid running out of battery.
- If you're hiking farther into the park, tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return.
- Take your time near cliffs and streams. Wet rocks and uneven ground can cause slips if you’re not paying attention.
Your Solo Adventure Starts at Thingvellir
Thingvellir is a great choice for solo travelers who want nature, history, and calm in one place. The trails are easy to follow, and the views give you plenty of reasons to pause.
You can take your time, explore quietly, and never feel rushed. Whether you hike, relax by the water, or try something new like snorkeling, the experience is yours to shape.
If you’d rather not worry about maps, road conditions, or tour timing, Golden Circle Day Tours makes visiting Thingvellir simple. They take care of the planning and driving so you can relax and enjoy every stop without stress.
