Iceland
Reykjavík
Cool
From $139 /day
Iceland
Iceland is a land of dramatic contrasts, where massive glaciers sit atop active volcanoes and the earth's crust pulls apart in plain sight. From the crashing waterfalls of the South Coast to the desolate beauty of the Highlands, every turn of the road reveals a landscape that feels otherworldly. You can witness the mesmerizing dance of the Aurora Borealis in winter or explore under the eerie glow of the Midnight Sun during the summer months. Whether you are soaking in a geothermal lagoon or hiking across a crystal-blue ice sheet, the raw power of nature is always at the forefront. This island nation offers an unparalleled escape for those seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection with the natural world.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
1 city
3 guides
$139 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Reykjavík
Languages
Icelandic
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
1 $ ≈ 123 kr
Plug Type
Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+354
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0)
Emergency
112 (Police/Fire/Ambulance)
Why Visit Iceland
The Golden Circle
This 300km loop from Reykjavík captures the most iconic geothermal and historical sites in a single day trip. You will stand beside the erupting Strokkur geyser and gaze into the mist of the massive Gullfoss waterfall.
Celestial Light Shows
Iceland offers two distinct seasonal spectacles: the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun. Between September and April, the sky glows with green and purple auroras, while summer provides nearly 24 hours of daylight for endless exploration.
Geothermal Wellness
The country's volcanic activity provides a natural bounty of hot springs and mineral-rich waters. Iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon offer a luxurious way to relax while surrounded by lava fields or ocean views.
Pristine Wilderness
Vast portions of the country remain untouched, offering hikers a canvas of black sand deserts and neon-green moss. It is one of the few places on Earth where you can experience true silence in a vast, uninhabited landscape.
Epic Road Trips
The Ring Road circles the entire island, providing 1,332km of spectacular scenery. It is the ultimate self-drive adventure, passing through fishing villages, fjords, and glacier tongues at your own pace.
Unique Wildlife
Iceland is a premier destination for whale watching and birding. You can see humpback whales breaching in the north or visit the Látrabjarg cliffs to see thousands of nesting Atlantic puffins up close.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Iceland
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Reykjavík and the Southwest
Home to the world's northernmost capital, this region serves as the cultural heart and primary entry point for travelers. It combines a vibrant arts scene and nightlife with proximity to the famous Blue Lagoon and the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark.
The South Coast
This stretch is famous for its accessible wonders, including the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach. It is also the gateway to Vatnajökull National Park, where you can explore the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
North Iceland
Characterized by rugged fjords and the Arctic Coast Way, this region is home to Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland and the biggest urban centre outside the Capital Region. Highlights include the volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn and the powerful Dettifoss waterfall.
The Westfjords
One of the most remote and sparsely populated areas, this region offers dramatic mountain scenery and deep, narrow fjords. It is a haven for those looking to escape the crowds and see the massive Dynjandi waterfall.
East Iceland
Known for its narrow fjords surrounded by towering mountains, the East is the best place to spot wild reindeer. It offers a slower pace of life with charming fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður tucked into steep valleys.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on whether you seek the midnight sun or the northern lights. Summer offers the mildest weather and most accessible roads, while winter provides a snowy landscape ideal for aurora viewing.
Peak Season
Jun, Jul, Aug
Summer features the midnight sun with nearly 24 hours of daylight and temperatures ranging from 10–15°C (50–59°F). This is the busiest period; most F-roads typically open in summer, but exact dates depend on conditions. Puffin-watching is at its height.
Shoulder Season
May, Sep, Oct
May and September offer a balance of manageable crowds and decent weather. September marks the return of the northern lights and autumn colors, while May is ideal for birdwatching as migratory species return.
Off-Peak
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Winter brings short days, snow, and temperatures between -1–4°C (30–39°F). It is the prime time for ice caving and northern lights, though many interior roads are closed and weather can cause travel delays.
Getting Around
Iceland has no rail network, making road travel and domestic flights the primary options. Infrastructure is excellent along the coast, but inland travel requires specialized vehicles and careful planning due to extreme weather.
Car
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the Ring Road. F-roads are mountain routes intended for 4WD vehicles; conditions vary and many routes require high clearance. Off-road driving is strictly illegal and carries heavy fines to protect the delicate volcanic terrain.
Bus
The Strætó public bus system serves the Capital Area and connects major regional towns, though frequency is lower in winter. Flybus transfers between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík are available from 3,999 ISK (prices vary).
Flight
Domestic flights operate from Reykjavík Airport (RKV) to regional hubs like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and the Westfjords. These are useful for skipping long drives, though they are highly dependent on favorable wind and visibility.
Food & Drink
Icelandic cuisine is defined by the country's isolation and harsh climate, focusing on incredibly fresh seafood and grass-fed lamb. Modern chefs also utilize geothermal energy to grow organic vegetables in greenhouses year-round, blending ancient preservation methods with contemporary flair.
Must Try
Pylsur
These Icelandic hot dogs are made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, typically served with crispy onions and a sweet brown mustard called pylsusinnep.
Plokkfiskur
A comforting fish stew made from flaked cod or haddock mashed together with potatoes and a thick white sauce, often served with dark rye bread.
Skyr
Technically a soft cheese, this high-protein, yogurt-like dairy product has been a staple for over 1,000 years and is usually served with cream and berries.
Hákarl
This fermented Greenland shark is a traditional delicacy known for its strong ammonia scent and chewy texture, typically followed by a shot of local schnapps.
Rúgbrauð
A dense, dark, and sweet rye bread that is traditionally baked in a container buried in the ground near a hot spring for up to 24 hours.
Íslensk Lambakjöt
Icelandic lamb is free-roaming and grass-fed, resulting in a lean, tender meat with a distinct flavor that is most famous when served in a hearty vegetable soup.
Brennivín
Known as the Black Death, this clear, unsweetened schnapps flavored with caraway seeds is the country's signature distilled beverage.
Money & Costs
Iceland is one of the world's most expensive destinations, with a typical daily budget of ~$139 / 17,075 kr. While prices are high, visitors receive excellent quality in food, safety, and infrastructure.
Tipping
Tipping isn't expected in Iceland. For exceptional service, rounding up or a small tip is optional.
Cards
Card and contactless payments are ubiquitous; you can pay for everything from public toilets to hot dog stands with a card. Cash is rarely needed and many businesses are entirely cashless.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in towns and at the airport, but fees can be high for international cards. It is best to pay in the local currency (ISK) when prompted by card terminals to get better exchange rates.
Culture & Etiquette
Icelanders are deeply connected to their folklore and have a profound respect for the natural environment. The social culture is egalitarian and informal, with a strong emphasis on community life centered around local geothermal swimming pools.
✓
Always shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering public geothermal pools to maintain strict hygiene standards.
✕
Never drive off marked roads as the delicate volcanic soil and moss can take decades to recover from tire tracks, and fines are extremely high.
✓
Carry a reusable water bottle and drink the tap water, which is some of the purest and best-tasting in the world, saving you money and reducing plastic waste.
✕
Tipping isn't expected in Iceland; for exceptional service, rounding up or leaving a small tip is optional.
✓
Pay close attention to weather alerts and road closures on sites like road.is, as conditions can change from sunny to a blizzard in mere minutes.
✕
Never turn your back on the ocean at Reynisfjara black sand beach, as powerful sneaker waves can pull unsuspecting tourists out to sea.
✓
Book popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon or high-end restaurants well in advance, as they frequently sell out weeks or months ahead.
✓
Respect 'no drone' signs at popular tourist sites to preserve the tranquility and privacy of other visitors and local wildlife.
Safety & Health
Iceland is exceptionally safe with very low crime rates, though petty theft has increased in crowded tourist areas. The primary risks are natural: volatile weather, sneaker waves at beaches like Reynisfjara, and volcanic activity.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required; however, standard boosters for Tetanus and Hepatitis A/B are generally recommended for all international travelers.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Overpriced bottled water: Retailers sell 'glacier water' that is identical to the high-quality tap water available for free everywhere.
- ⚠ Distraction theft at Golden Circle: Groups may distract tourists at busy sites like Gullfoss or Geysir to steal bags or wallets.
- ⚠ ATM bumping: Assailants crowd a target at an ATM to observe a PIN before attempting to pickpocket the card.
- ⚠ Unofficial airport taxis: Drivers in the terminal may offer fixed rates much higher than official metered taxis or bus transfers.
- ⚠ Fake Icelandic sweaters: Souvenir shops often sell mass-produced knitwear made abroad rather than authentic hand-knitted 'Lopapeysa' wool.
Healthcare is of a very high standard, though facilities are sparse in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential as non-EU/EEA citizens are charged in full for medical services.
Language
Icelandic is the national language and remains very close to Old Norse. However, English is spoken fluently by nearly the entire population, especially in the tourism and service sectors.
English Spoken: Widely spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Halló | ha-low |
| Thank you | Takk | tahk |
| Goodbye | Bless | blehss |
| Yes | Já | yow |
| No | Nei | nay |
| Where is...? | Hvar er...? | kvar er |
| Excuse me | Afsakið | av-sa-kith |
| Do you speak English? | Talar þú ensku? | ta-lar thu en-sku |
Visa & Entry
Iceland is in the Schengen Area (90 days in any 180-day period for visa-free short stays). The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is rolling out biometric border checks. ETIAS is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026 (not required yet until it starts). Entry requires proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket.
Max Stay
90 days in 180-day period
Passport Validity
Valid at least 3 months beyond departure (Schengen rule) and issued within the last 10 years
Visa-free for
United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Brazil
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iceland safe for solo travelers?
How expensive is a trip to Iceland?
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
Do I need a visa for Iceland?
Is English widely spoken in Iceland?
What food must I try in Iceland?
How do I get around Iceland without a car?
Can I see the Northern Lights in summer?
What is a sneaker wave and why are they dangerous?
Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon in advance?
Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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