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Capital: Reykjavík
System: Unitary parliamentary republic
Area: About 103,000 square kilometres (39,770 square miles)
Size comparison: Slightly larger than Ireland, but smaller than Portugal
Population: Approximately 380,000 people
Languages: Icelandic (official); English and Danish are also widely spoken
Religion: The predominant religion is Christianity, with the majority belonging to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland, followed by other Christian denominations and a small but growing number of people identifying as non-religious
Country Information
Iceland is a country that seems to exist on the edge of the world, shaped by fire and ice in equal measure. Its dramatic landscapes are the result of constant geological activity, where glaciers carve deep valleys and active volcanoes sculpt new ground. Travelling across the island, one is struck by the sheer contrasts of nature: black sand beaches lie beside vast ice caps, steaming geothermal fields erupt next to frozen rivers, and waterfalls cascade in thundering torrents from cliffs formed millions of years ago. The air feels unusually clean, and the silence in the countryside is profound, broken only by the sound of wind or distant water. For those who enjoy the natural world, Iceland offers not just scenery but an overwhelming sense of the earth in motion, raw and unrefined.
The people of Iceland, though relatively few in number, live in close connection with this dramatic environment. Most of the population is centred in and around the capital, Reykjavík, yet even here the presence of nature is never far away. The city is known for its colourful houses, lively arts scene, and a strong sense of community, shaped by centuries of life in isolation. Icelanders are also proud of their unique language, a form of Old Norse that has remained relatively unchanged for a thousand years. Their literature, folklore, and sagas are still an important part of daily life, connecting modern Iceland with its Viking past. Despite long winters and challenging weather, the nation has developed a culture that is welcoming, resilient, and quietly innovative, often leading the way in fields such as renewable energy and sustainable living.
Visitors to Iceland quickly discover that it is a place best experienced outdoors. The Northern Lights draw thousands in winter, their shifting colours dancing across the Arctic sky, while the long summer days offer endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and simply marvelling at the natural wonders. Geothermal hot springs provide warmth and relaxation, often in stunning surroundings where one can sit in steaming water while snow falls all around. Wildlife also plays its part, with whales, puffins, and seals common sights in different parts of the island. Whether one chooses to travel the well-known Ring Road, venturing from one wonder to another, or to wander more quietly into the highlands, the sense of discovery remains strong. Iceland is not merely a destination to be seen, but a place to be felt, where the land itself leaves a lasting impression on those who walk upon it.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
Currency
Official Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK), often abbreviated as “kr.”
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 krónur.
Banknotes: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 krónur are commonly used.
Currency Exchange
Currency can be exchanged at:
Banks
Currency exchange offices (mainly in Reykjavík and other large towns)
Hotels (usually less favourable rates)
Cash machines (ATMs) are widely available in towns and cities, typically offering competitive exchange rates.
Credit & Debit Cards
Widely accepted in: Hotels, restaurants, shops, petrol stations, and most services across the country.
Less common in: Remote or very small establishments, although cash is increasingly rare.
Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards. American Express and some other international cards are accepted in select places, particularly in Reykjavík and tourist-focused businesses.
Tipping
Restaurants: A tip of around 10% is customary if service isn’t already included.
Hotels: A gratuity of about 200–400 ISK is suitable for bellhops or housekeeping staff.
Taxis: Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up to the nearest hundred króna is appreciated.
Tour guides/drivers: Around 2,000–4,000 ISK per day, depending on service quality and group size.
Communications
📱 Mobile Phones & SIM Cards
If you’re planning to stay connected while travelling in Iceland, picking up a local SIM card is straightforward and affordable. It’s the best way to get reliable mobile data and local call rates without depending solely on hotel or café Wi-Fi.
Major Providers:
Síminn – the widest coverage, including rural and remote areas
Vodafone Iceland – good coverage and competitive data packages
Nova – strong in Reykjavík and larger towns, often with attractive deals
Where to buy: You can purchase a SIM at Keflavík International Airport, official provider shops, convenience stores, petrol stations, or shopping centres. Don’t forget your passport — it’s required for registration.
Cost: Expect to pay around 1,500–3,000 ISK for a SIM with data and local minutes included. Top-ups are easy to find in supermarkets, kiosks, and online via provider apps.
🌐 Internet & Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi hotspots: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, cafés, restaurants, and even many petrol stations across the country.
Connection quality: Speeds are generally excellent in Reykjavík and larger towns. In remote regions, especially the Westfjords and Highlands, coverage can be limited — so don’t count on constant connectivity.
💡 Tip: Download offline maps before heading into Iceland’s remote landscapes — especially useful when navigating the Highlands or driving the Ring Road where service may drop out.
Getting around
🚕 Taxis
Readily available in Reykjavík and other larger towns, though less common in rural areas.
Colours: Official taxis usually display a company logo and roof sign. Unmarked vehicles should be avoided for safety.
How to use them:
Always request the meter to be used — fares are regulated.
Taxis can be booked via phone, app, or hailed at designated ranks.
Rates: Short city trips typically start from around 1,000–1,500 ISK, with fares increasing by distance and time.
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up to the nearest 100 ISK is appreciated.
Apps: Services such as Hreyfill and Taxi Reykjavik allow pre-booking and clear pricing.
🚌 Buses & Coaches
Local buses: Operated by Strætó, covering Reykjavík and regional towns. Tickets can be purchased via app, online, or from bus stations (cash not accepted on board).
Long-distance coaches: Companies such as Reykjavik Excursions and SBA-Norðurleið connect Reykjavík with major tourist sites (e.g. Golden Circle, Akureyri). Expect modern coaches, Wi-Fi, and scenic routes.
Minibuses: Used mainly for day tours and transfers, particularly between the airport, hotels, and popular attractions.
🚗 Rental Cars
The most flexible way to explore, especially for rural areas like the Westfjords, the Highlands, or remote coastal villages.
Requirements:
A valid UK or EU licence is sufficient; an International Driving Permit may be useful.
Driving is on the right-hand side.
Roads: Main highways (including the Ring Road) are well maintained, but gravel roads and F-roads can be challenging and sometimes impassable.
Cost: From about 7,000–12,000 ISK per day for a small car.
Tip: Always check road conditions on safetravel.is and keep offline maps, as signal can be patchy outside towns.
🚙 Private Drivers & Tours
A convenient but pricier option, perfect for:
Day trips from Reykjavík to the Golden Circle or South Coast
Multi-day tours covering glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls
Tour operators can provide English-speaking drivers and guides, with all logistics handled.
✈️ Domestic Flights
Handy for quickly reaching distant regions, such as Reykjavík to Akureyri, Ísafjörður, or Egilsstaðir.
Airlines: Air Iceland Connect and Eagle Air operate regular services.
Flights cut journeys of 6+ hours by road down to less than an hour, though they can be more expensive than driving or buses.
🚶 Walking & 🚴 Biking
Walking: Ideal in compact areas like Reykjavík’s old harbour, downtown Akureyri, or small fishing villages.
Biking: Increasingly popular, particularly on guided tours of Reykjavík or around quieter regions. However, Iceland’s weather, winds, and limited cycle infrastructure make cycling more practical in summer and outside busy roads.
Health advice
The US Centres for Disease Control maintains an updated list of medical advice for those travelling to Iceland
💉 Vaccinations
No special vaccines are required for entry, but the following are recommended:
Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio)
Hepatitis A: Recommended for most travellers
Hepatitis B: For longer stays or close contact with locals
Rabies: Consider if you’ll be spending extended time outdoors or working with animals
💡 Tip: Check with your healthcare provider at least 4–6 weeks before travel.
🥤 Food & Water Safety
Tap water: Safe to drink – Iceland is renowned for some of the purest tap water in the world.
Bottled water: Unnecessary but widely available if preferred.
Food safety: Standards are high; eating out is generally safe.
Street food: Less common, but local stalls and food trucks are typically reliable.
Fruit & vegetables: Safe to eat without special precautions.
🤢 Traveller’s Diarrhoea
Uncommon in Iceland due to high food and water safety standards. Still, mild stomach upsets can occur when adjusting to local diet.
Pack:
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhoeal medication (e.g., loperamide or Imodium)
Any personal prescriptions you may need
💧 Stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoors.
🌞 Weather & Sun Protection
Iceland’s climate is cool and changeable – you can experience sunshine, wind, and rain in a single day.
Hydration: Drink water regularly, especially during hikes.
Sun protection: Use SPF 30+, as UV can be strong in summer and reflected from ice or snow.
Clothing: Layered, waterproof, and windproof clothing is essential.
🏔 Climate & Seasonal Considerations
Winter: Cold, snowy, and dark – dress warmly and be prepared for icy roads.
Summer: Mild temperatures, but the Midnight Sun means nearly 24-hour daylight in June.
Weather changes: Conditions can shift rapidly – always check forecasts before travelling.
💊 Pharmacies & Medical Facilities
Pharmacies: Found in towns and cities, with most basic medicines available over the counter.
Hospitals & Clinics: High-quality facilities in Reykjavík and regional centres.
Travel insurance: Strongly recommended to cover emergencies, private care, or unexpected illness.
Safety
1️⃣ General Safety
🛡 Low crime rate: Iceland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, though petty theft can occur in crowded places such as bus terminals or tourist hotspots in Reykjavík.
👮 Police presence: Police are approachable and professional, though there is no separate tourist police. English is widely spoken.
🚶♀️ Safe to travel solo: Travellers, including women, usually feel very safe. Take normal precautions at night in unfamiliar areas.
2️⃣ Political Stability & Regional Tensions
🏛 Political climate: Iceland is politically stable with very low risk of unrest.
📢 Avoid protests: Demonstrations are uncommon but, as anywhere, it is best to avoid large gatherings.
🗺 Stay informed: Check the UK Foreign Office website for any travel updates before and during your trip.
3️⃣ Tourist Areas
🏞 Very safe: Popular destinations such as the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and South Coast are all regarded as secure for visitors.
🛠 Good infrastructure: Signage, guided tours, and hospitality services are reliable, though facilities in remote areas can be limited.
4️⃣ Transportation Safety
🚗 Road conditions: Major roads are generally well maintained, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow, gravelled, or impassable in poor weather.
🚦 Driving caution: Conditions can change rapidly with ice, snow, and strong winds. Always check road.is and safetravel.is before setting out.
🚕 Taxis & apps: Taxis are safe and regulated. Rideshare apps are not common; book via official taxi firms.
5️⃣ Women Travellers
🤝 Respectful culture: Iceland has a strong culture of gender equality, and female travellers are generally welcomed.
👗 Dress code: No strict expectations, though warm, practical clothing is essential.
🌙 Night safety: Reykjavík nightlife is lively; exercise normal awareness but serious incidents are rare.
6️⃣ LGBTQ+ Travellers
🏳️🌈 Legal status: Iceland is one of the most progressive countries for LGBTQ+ rights, with legal same-sex marriage and strong social acceptance.
🤗 Open culture: Same-sex couples can feel comfortable showing affection in public.
7️⃣ Cultural Sensitivity
🧥 Practical dress: Dress warmly and in layers; modesty is not a strong concern.
🍷 Alcohol etiquette: Alcohol is available but expensive. Public drunkenness is discouraged, especially outside nightlife areas.
📸 Photography: Generally acceptable, but respect people’s privacy and avoid trespassing on private land.
📞 Emergency Contacts (Nationwide)
🚨 General Emergency: 112 (police, fire, ambulance – English spoken)
👮 Police (non-emergency): +354 444 1000
☎ Directory Assistance: 1818
Climate
Iceland’s Climate – From Icy Glaciers to Mild Coastal Breezes
Iceland’s climate is shaped by its northern latitude and the warming Gulf Stream. Expect crisp Arctic air ❄, windswept coastlines 🌊, and surprisingly mild summers 🌤 for a country so close to the Arctic Circle. Knowing what to expect helps you pack wisely and enjoy every season.
🌦 General Climate Overview
Iceland has a subarctic and oceanic climate, with two main seasons rather than four:
🌸 Summer (June–August)
Mild temperatures, generally 10–15°C, sometimes warmer in sheltered areas.
Long daylight hours — up to 24 hours of sunshine in the north (Midnight Sun).
Occasional rain and wind; lush green landscapes.
❄ Winter (November–March)
Cold, dark, and snowy, with average temperatures around -3 to 3°C.
Short daylight hours — as little as 4–5 hours mid-winter.
Ideal for Northern Lights viewing 🌌.
🗺 Regional Climate Differences
| Region | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Reykjavik (Southwest) | 10–15°C 🌤 mild/rainy | -2–3°C 🌧 chilly/windy |
| Akureyri (North) | 8–14°C 🌦 cool/bright | -5–2°C ❄ colder/snowier |
| Westfjords | 7–12°C 🌥 cool/misty | -5–1°C 🌨 heavy snow |
| Highlands | 5–10°C 🌬 windy/cool | -10 to -2°C ❄ harsh, remote |
💡 Note: Weather is famously changeable — sunshine can turn to rain or snow within minutes. Always be prepared.
☔ Rainfall & Weather Patterns
Rain and drizzle are common year-round, especially along the southern coast.
Snow is frequent in winter, particularly inland and in the north.
Winds can be strong, sometimes causing road closures 🚧.
Storms are more frequent from October to March.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Summer (Jun–Aug): Best for hiking, road trips, whale watching, and experiencing the Midnight Sun.
Winter (Nov–Mar): Ideal for Northern Lights, ice caves, and snow activities.
Shoulder Seasons (Apr–May & Sept–Oct): Fewer crowds, lower prices, mixed weather.
🎒 Packing Tips by Season
Summer:
🧥 Light waterproof jacket • 👟 Hiking boots • 🧢 Hat & sunglasses • ☀ Sunscreen (yes, even in Iceland!)
Winter:
🧥 Insulated coat • 🧤 Gloves & thermal layers • ❄ Snow boots • 🔦 Torch (for long nights)
All Year:
Layers for changeable weather • Waterproof trousers • Refillable water bottle • Power bank (for long journeys)
Visa information
🛂 Visa on Arrival
Not applicable – Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Visitors from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most non-EU countries can enter visa-free for short stays.
📍 Where to Get It
Entry is granted at Keflavík International Airport (near Reykjavík) and all official ports of entry. No land borders, as Iceland is an island nation.
💵 Cost
Visa-free entry for eligible nationalities.
For those requiring a Schengen visa, the fee is around €80 EUR.
📅 Validity
Visa-free stays: up to 90 days within a 180-day period across the Schengen zone.
💳 Payment
If applying for a Schengen visa (before arrival), payment is typically made online or at the consulate, usually by card.
🎫 Tourist Pass Equivalent
There is no nationwide “Iceland Pass”.
However, visitors can purchase regional or city passes such as the Reykjavík City Card, which offers access to museums, thermal pools, and public transport.
💡 Tip: Check local tourist offices for regional passes or bundled attraction tickets.
💻 E-Visa / Online Application
Nationals who require a visa for Iceland must apply for a Schengen visa through the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration or an Icelandic embassy/consulate.
⏱ Processing time: Usually 15 calendar days, but this may vary depending on nationality and season.
🌍 Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU/EEA, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others may enter Iceland visa-free.
🗓 Stay limit: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period within the Schengen zone.
🚪 Border Crossings
✈ Airports:
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) – main gateway for international flights.
Reykjavík Airport (RKV) – mostly domestic, with limited flights to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
🛳 Sea Ports:
Regular ferry connections (e.g. Smyril Line from Denmark via the Faroe Islands).
Cruise ship arrivals are common at Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Seyðisfjörður.
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Europe?
🔌 Power Plugs & Sockets in Iceland
In Iceland, the power plugs and sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
⚡ Type F (Schuko)
Also known as “Schuko”, this socket is compatible with plug C and plug E.
 |
| Type F: This socket also works with plug C and E |