Iceland, Iceland - Travel Guide

Iceland offers a unique landscape of glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and the Northern Lights. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers seeking stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days

Budget$70/day

Mid-range$300/day

Luxury$500/day

Known For

ArcticReykjavikNordicGreenlandScandinaviaVolcanoesGlaciersBlue Lagoon

🇮🇸 Country Information: Iceland

CapitalReykjavik

CurrencyIcelandic króna (ko)

Language Icelandic , English, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, German

Phone Code+354

Electricity230V (Type C, F)

Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Iceland as service charges are usually included
If service is exceptional, a small tip might be appreciated, but it's not expected

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available
Credit cards are widely accepted
Bringing a small amount of cash is advisable, but most transactions are cashless
No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home
Punctuality is appreciated
Always respect the environment and stick to marked trails
Public nudity is not common, and public displays of affection are generally discreet

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Iceland is highly progressive regarding LGBTQ+ rights, with legal same-sex marriage and adoption.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

The legal drinking age is 20
Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

Off
roading is strictly prohibited to protect the fragile environment
Wild camping is generally not allowed outside designated campsites
Respect nature and avoid littering
Do not disturb or feed wildlife

Common Phrases

NoNei (NAY) Nei

YesJá (YOW) Já

HelloHalló (HAH-loh) Halló

Thank youTakk (TAHK) Takk

Climate

General climate classification for the island nation of Iceland.

Climate Zone: Subarctic

Best Time to Visit

Super cold season: Nov
Mar
Super hot season: Not applicable (temperatures are generally mild in summer)
Natural disasters: Earthquakes can occur, but severe ones are rare
No hurricane or monsoon season
Floods can occur due to glacial melt or heavy rain, particularly in spring/early summer (May
Jun) and autumn (Sep
Oct)

Getting There

Fly to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) from major international cities (e
g
, London 3h, $150
300; New York 5
6h, $400
800)

Getting Around

Rental cars are the most common way to get around
Public buses available in Reykjavik
No ride
sharing apps widely used
Taxis are expensive

Health & Vaccinations

No specific vaccines required for most travelers
Routine vaccines recommended
No malaria or altitude sickness concerns
Consider bringing motion sickness remedies for boat tours

Staying Connected

eSIMs available
Major providers include Síminn, Vodafone, Nova
Airalo and Nomad eSIM work well

Local Cuisine

Skyr regional_speciality

A thick, cultured dairy product similar to yogurt, but technically a soft cheese. It's often enjoyed with fruit, jam, or a sprinkle of sugar, making i

Icelandic Hot Dog (Pylsa) street_food

Icelandic hot dogs are typically made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, giving them a distinct flavor. They are often served with a variety of top

Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð) snack

A dark, dense, and slightly sweet bread that is traditionally slow-baked in a pot buried near a geothermal vent. It is sometimes referred to as 'lava

Icelandic Lamb regional_speciality

Due to Iceland's remote location and the sheep being raised free-range, Icelandic lamb has a distinct, lean, and tender quality. It is a fundamental p

Viking Beer alcohol

One of Iceland's most popular domestically produced beers. It is a classic lager that is widely available and a common choice for those looking to try

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Blue Lagoon (timed entry) Attraction

Book 1–3 months in advance

The Blue Lagoon is extremely popular and uses timed entry slots that often sell out, especially during peak hours and seasons.

Parking Permit for Landmannalaugar (Summer) permit_or_pass

Book 1 week–2 months in advance

Advance parking reservations are required during peak summer hours to manage congestion and visitation at this popular hiking destination.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

High-demand Dining Reservations (e.g., Sjávarpakkhúsið) Dining

Book 2–8 weeks in advance

Popular or highly-rated restaurants, especially outside of Reykjavik, have limited seating and require advance reservations.

Golden Circle or South Coast Guided Day Tours tour_or_activity

Book 2–6 weeks in advance

Seats on popular day tours, particularly those with limited daily capacity or specializing in Northern Lights/winter activities, fill up quickly.

Fun Facts

1. Despite its name and location, Iceland is the only NATO country without a standing army, air force, or navy.
2. Beer was banned in Iceland for 74 years, from 1915 until the prohibition was finally lifted on March 1, 1989, a day still celebrated as Beer Day.
3. Over 60% of Iceland's population lives in its capital city, Reykjavík.
4. The country has a naming committee that must approve or decline names given to children to ensure they fit Icelandic language and tradition.

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