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Thingvellir National Park
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Thingvellir National Park (Icelandic: Þingvellir) is a site of outstanding historical, cultural, and geological importance for Iceland. It was here in 930 AD that the Althing was founded, one of the oldest surviving parliaments in the world, making the location the heart of the Icelandic nation. Geologically, the park lies in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, whose drifting apart is visible through massive fissures such as Almannagjá. The park also hosts Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, and the famous Silfra fissure, renowned for its crystal-clear water. Due to its unique universal value, Thingvellir was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2004. The landscape is characterized by birch forests, lava fields, and deep canyons that testify to the Earth's dynamic crust. For Icelanders, this site is a symbol of freedom and democratic tradition, and it was also here that the Republic of Iceland was proclaimed in 1944.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Laugarvatn (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -4 | -3 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 1 | -2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 160 | 148 | 141 | 111 | 87 | 77 | 92 | 101 | 155 | 123 | 129 | 159 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The highly historic and geological national park is located about forty kilometers from Reykjavík and is easily accessible via very well-maintained, fully paved roads.
Best season
The busy peak season spans the summer months, but the snow-covered tectonic rift valley also has its immense charm in winter, provided the access roads remain clear and passable.
Terrain & paths
Extremely well-maintained wooden boardwalks and neatly groomed gravel paths run through the wide rift, making the mostly flat terrain highly accessible and comfortable for most visitors.
What to bring
Reliable weatherproof clothing smartly layered for warmth and comfortable walking shoes are convenient here, as the weather conditions in the deep valley can change surprisingly quickly.
Parking
There are several large, paid parking lots located directly around the main attractions, with the clearly marked P1 at the visitor center offering the most comprehensive modern facilities.
Safety
The wooden boardwalks can become extremely slippery and hazardous in wet or freezing conditions, so appropriate caution and footwear with a strong, solid grip are always highly recommended.
Time needed
To fully explore the massive rift, the beautiful cascading waterfall, and the unique historical sites at a relaxed pace, you should typically plan to spend between two and four generous hours.
Geography
Facts
- The Althing parliament was established here in 930 AD.
- The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.
- The tectonic plates drift apart by about 2 centimeters every year.
- Lake Þingvallavatn reaches a maximum depth of 114 meters.
- It was Iceland's first national park, established in 1930.
- The Republic of Iceland was proclaimed here on June 17, 1944.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Þingvellir historically significant?
The Althing, one of the world's oldest parliaments, was founded here in 930.
Can you see the tectonic plates?
Yes, you can walk in the Almannagjá gorge between the plates.
Are there parking fees?
Yes, a daily parking fee is charged for passenger cars.
Is diving allowed in Silfra fissure?
Yes, with a permit and usually only as part of a guided tour.
Is there a visitor center?
Yes, the center provides information, restrooms, and an exhibition.
Thingvellir National Park: where is it located?
Thingvellir National Park is located in Iceland.
Thingvellir National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Thingvellir National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Thingvellir National Park (Icelandic: Þingvellir) is a site of outstanding historical, cultural, and geological importance for Iceland.
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Nearby cities
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Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
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A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
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Akranes
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Seltjarnarnes
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History & landmarks
Reykjavík City Hall
Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.
Hvolsvöllur
A historic town in South Iceland, famous as the heart of the Njál's Saga and a gateway to glaciers.
Almannagjá
Almannagjá is a prominent fissure in Þingvellir National Park.
Þingvellir
Iceland's historical heart and national park, where the world's oldest parliament was founded.
