Þingvellir National Park: Tectonic Plates, History and What to See

Þingvellir National Park (often written Thingvellir) is one of the few places in the world where you can walk through a rift valley created by two tectonic plates drifting apart. It is also the site of the Althing, the open-air assembly founded around the year 930 that is often described as one of the oldest parliaments in the world. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It lies roughly 50 km from Reykjavík, around 45 to 60 minutes by car, which makes it an easy first stop on the Golden Circle or a standalone half-day outing.

The rift: where two plates meet

Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian plates are slowly moving apart, by a couple of centimetres a year. At Þingvellir that movement is visible on land. The cliff of Almannagjá marks the edge of the North American plate, and the valley floor has dropped as the land pulls apart.

The rift also holds Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake. Water from the surrounding highlands filters through the lava and emerges very clear, which is why the fissure of Silfra is famous with divers and snorkellers. Those activities need a licensed operator, so book one in advance if they interest you.

The Althing and Iceland's history

From the tenth century, chieftains and their followers met here each summer to make laws and settle disputes. The assembly was held outdoors, near a spot called Lögberg, the Law Rock, where the Lawspeaker recited the law. It is a powerful place to stand if you know the story, and the visitor centre can help fill in the details.

Þingvellir also matters in more recent history, as the place where Icelanders gathered to mark key moments in the nation's story. Look for the flagpole near the cliff, which marks the old assembly area.

What to see and do

• Almannagjá walk: a path along the foot of the main rift wall, with the valley opening out ahead of you.
• Öxarárfoss: a waterfall that tumbles over the rift edge, reached by a short walk.
• Lögberg and the flagpole: the traditional assembly site.
• Þingvallakirkja: a small church in the valley, one of the best-known buildings in the park.
• Lake Þingvallavatn: views across the lake from several points.

Þingvellir through the seasons

In summer the valley is green, the days are long and the paths are at their busiest. In autumn the moss and low vegetation turn red and gold, which makes the lava landscape especially photogenic. In winter the park can be covered in snow and ice, with a stark beauty of its own, but the daylight is short and the paths can be slippery.

Because Þingvellir is a popular stop, going early or late in the day usually means a quieter walk. If you are visiting on a Golden Circle day, ask your driver to plan the order of the stops around the crowds and the light.

Walking, weather and safety

The main paths are well made and suitable for most visitors, but the ground can be wet or icy depending on the season. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip and dress in layers, because it can be windy on the rift edge.

• Stay on marked paths and respect fences and signs.
• Take care near cliff edges and in strong wind.
• Check the weather and any road or park notices on the morning of your visit.
• Check current opening hours, parking arrangements and any fees before you go.

Getting to Þingvellir from Reykjavík

You can drive yourself, take a scheduled tour, or travel with a private driver. In winter, a driver removes the stress of unfamiliar roads and short daylight. With a private tour you travel in your own car, stop where you like and linger at the viewpoints that appeal to you, without waiting for a coach timetable.

Our Golden Circle tour starts in Reykjavík with your own driver and covers Þingvellir along with the other classic stops. Economy (Tesla) takes 1 to 4 passengers and Van (Mercedes Vito) takes 5 to 7, with a minibus for 8 to 16 on request. For the full route, read our Golden Circle guide.

If you are only in Iceland briefly, see our ideas for a 24 to 48 hour stopover. To plan your clothing, see what to pack for Iceland.

7–8 hours · private

Golden Circle

Þingvellir · Geysir · Gullfoss

Car

1–4 people

90,000 kr

Van

5–7 people

113,000 kr

Book this tour

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